TALENTED North-East actors will join forces with West End stars this summer for a musical spectacular that celebrates the region’s mining heritage.

Spanning many generations, The Wind Road Boys explores the trials and tribulations of a family caught up in the ever-changing world of the Durham coalfields.

Aimed at connecting young people with their mining heritage, the musical is the culmination of a project by Enter CIC - a community interest company based in Ferryhill, County Durham that provides free and low-cost performing arts opportunities for children and young people.

The musical proved a big hit when it made its debut at the Sunderland Empire Theatre last August, with its cast of professional and aspiring actors receiving a seven-minute standing ovation.

And now, thanks to a £5,000 grant from Sir James Knott Trust and Big Lottery funding, Enter CIC is staging the show at Durham’s Gala Theatre on June10, 11 and 12.

“This is a professional production that features 14 huge musical numbers and truly speaks volumes to people from mining communities,” said Andrea Flynn, a director at Enter CIC.

“We had an audience of 1,000 on their feet at Sunderland and grown men moved to tears.”

Alongside a cast of young people from across County Durham, West End stars Glen Joseph, of Buddy, Laurie Scarth, of Hairspray, and Rob Eyles, of Dream Boats and Petticoats, will also take to the stage.

For tickets contact the Gala Box Office on 0191-332-4041.