Welcome to GAOS Musical Theatre’s 2026/27 season! We are thrilled to celebrate a major milestone with our 120th production: the iconic, electrifying West Side Story. Join us as we bring this legendary musical to life and share the excitement with both new faces and long-standing members of our theatre family.
Rehearsing for West Side Story? Head over to the Rehearsal Hub for materials, cast info, and more.
Production Team
We are pleased to confirm that the production team for West Side Story will be:
· Producer and Musical Director: Jeff Thomson
· Choreographer: Marie McCullough
· Rehearsal Assistant: Lorraine Kemp
Meet and Greet
An open meeting will take place at 7.00pm on 19th August at Tweedbank Primary School. This is an opportunity for new and returning members to meet the production team and GAOS Musical Theatre committee, find out what is involved in staging West Side Story, and consider how they may wish to take part.
Auditions
Anyone interested in a principal role will be given information about the songs associated with each part, as well as a section of script to read at individual auditions. These auditions will take place during the week beginning 7 September.
A separate dance audition will also take place. A short section of choreography will be taught and then performed. The date for this will be confirmed.
Audition songs and script extracts do not need to be memorised. However, listening to the music in advance and researching the role will help performers feel more confident and prepared.
Rehearsals
A full calendar of dates will be shared from 19 August through to 6 March and will be available on the GAOS website. A more detailed rehearsal schedule will be issued after auditions have taken place.
Monday evenings, 7.00 pm–9.30 pm: Principal rehearsals will take place at the Producer’s house. Cast members will be called to these rehearsals when they are involved in the acting or singing scenes being blocked. Rehearsal materials will be provided in advance.
Wednesday evenings, 7.00 pm–9.30 pm: Up until mid-October, rehearsals will focus on learning the music, including solo songs and chorus parts, led by Jeff Thomson with rehearsal assistant Lorraine Kemp.
From mid-October, choreographer Marie McCullough will lead much of the rehearsal schedule, focusing on the company dance numbers. Members will be told in advance which numbers are being rehearsed so they know when they are required. Please note that there are four acting roles, so singing and dancing are not essential for every part.
Weekend Rehearsals
There will be one Sunday rehearsal for principals, as called, at the Producer’s house on 25 October. Sunday rehearsals will begin after Christmas, as shown in the rehearsal calendar, and will take place at Tweedbank Community Centre.
Age Requirement
Participants must be at least 14 years old by show week. Show week will take place from 1–6 March 2027 at Galashiels Volunteer Hall. Unfortunately, anyone who will not be 14 by show week cannot be involved due to insurance requirements.
About the Production
West Side Story is an iconic musical known for its high-energy choreography, emotional power, and enduring relevance. The production explores themes of love, conflict, prejudice, and community, inspired by Shakespeare’s story of star-crossed lovers, Romeo and Juliet.
We would particularly welcome additional men who may be interested in taking part, as the show centres on the rival groups, the Sharks and the Jets.
We hope you will join us, whether as a society member, performer, backstage volunteer, or audience member, as we bring this landmark production to life for GAOS Musical Theatre’s 120th year.
Further Information
If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact GAOS Musical Theatre.
GAOS Musical Theatre 