The original musical Bugsy Malone, released as a movie in 1976, is being adapted and performed by Saltus Grammar School's musical and dramatic students.

Set in the 1920s, the musical is based on two gangs, played by children, who think they are gangsters and living the hard gangster life in the underworld of Chicago. The two main gangs fight to the death, killing each others' 'hoods' with splurge guns, guns full of foam. At the end, the two gangs realise they are kids and that they aren't actually enemies and are friends and they've been playing a game.

Saltus Grammar School's new drama teacher, Mrs. Rebecca Dorrington, has boosted the drama life at Saltus. She has worked hard and spent her time doing rehearsals with the students and being patient. The wide range of ages in the play is phenomenal, with the main characters ranging from 12 to 17 years of age. The band plays on stage, and the dances and songs are sensational and funny, some even a little seductive.

The challenges have been rewarding. Cheresa Lemaire, now known fondly as Tallulah, stated, "Acting in character at the right level and time is hard, but it's a whole bunch of fun!"

The 60-people cast includes a band and all the back stage, lighting and sound crew. Students even painted the set. Everyone has worked very hard, and they all say that the outcome will be worth it. The play has slowly come together and will be a fantastic fun evening for everyone.

This is the second time Saltus has put on Bugsy Malone. Ten years ago the retiring headmaster, Mr. Nigel Kermode, directed the play. This year's play is going to be just as good, and Saltus will show how drama, music, art and other talents are just as good as they were ten years ago.

The show nights draw very close. There has been tons of help with the play from teachers helping backstage, making costumes, and just sitting in a room supervising the kids. The terrific people, parents, students and teachers have been a tremendous advantage to the play.

Anyone who comes to see Bugsy Malone at Saltus will be in for a treat of talent, energy and enthusiasm.

The musical is being presented on today, tomorrow and Saturday. With kids' tickets at $10 and adult tickets at $15. There will also be a gala night on the Saturday. For tickets: email Dan Dorrington at ddorrington@saltus.bm or call the Saltus Secondary Dept Office at 292-2235