by Lorraine Gibson
Musical theatre fans are in for a treat with a new local production, Kipps: The New Half A Sixpence, a classic tale of rags to riches, showcasing much-loved show numbers such as Pick Out A Simple Tune; Flash, Bang, Wallop; and of course Half A Sixpence.

Performed by the Milton Musical Society, who know their way around a good musical after previously performing Chess, Dirty Rotten Scoundrels, Oklahoma and a sell-out My Fair Lady, it’s based on HG Wells’ 1905 novel, Kipps, and the original 1963 musical, with music by George Stiles and Anthony Drewe and lyrics also by Drewe and David Heneker.

It’s the turn of the last century and orphan, Arthur Kipps, is an overworked draper’s assistant. He’s a charming, but rather ordinary young chap who, with his fellow apprentices, dreams of a better and more fulfilling world.

When he unexpectedly inherits a fortune that thrusts him into high society, he suddenly has to reassess everything he thought he knew about life.

Watching him wrestle with his new identity, is childhood pal and not-quite girlfriend, Ann Pornick, who’s dismayed at how Arthur’s being manipulated into a new persona by the beautiful and classy Helen Walsingham. Helen’s always there, doling out hints on improvements Arthur could make to his life.

Both young women love him, however which one should he listen to? Will Arthur learn that to live the right life, you must make the right choices?

All these answers and more can be found in this feel-good show for all the family.

Wednesday to Saturday April 26-29. Tickets and performance times at theregent.co.uk or 01202 499199.