A cast of over 30 singing and dancing students will take the stage at Warwick Academy tomorrow night for Joe Masteroff and Fred Ebb's ‘Cabaret'.

The Broadway musical, which was so popular that it was also made into a film, has three lead charters who will not only be showcasing their acting prowess, but also their vocal and dance expertise.

Set in Germany, before the start of the Third Reich, Cabaret tells the story of a young American writer Clifford Bradshaw, portrayed by Jache Adams, who falls in love with both a vibrant, bohemian, English cabaret dancer Sally Bowles, played by Rhiannan Moore, in the wild and decadent city of Berlin.

The Kit Kat Club, presided over by its wickedly ambivalent master of ceremonies depicted by sixth form student Kendia Gill, encapsulates this world. The love story which begins so excitingly, becomes tainted as Clifford realises the truth behind the superficial world they are living in. The rise of the Nazi party, racism and violence overshadow and ultimately destroy, the relationships in the play.

Christine Leusch, development officer at Warwick Academy said that from the time the it was announced that the musical would be staged, interest has grown with the student body.

Auditions were held back in December and cast members chosen at that time. But rehearsals did not start until January.

“They have been rehearsing since January, after school and on Sundays and in the last few weeks also on their lunch break,” she said.

But the production is not limited to the cast of over 30. There is also a technical crew of about six students and a small group of musicians who will provide live music.

“There will not be a full orchestra but a small group of players, including a pianist, someone on drums and a bassist,” Ms Leusch said.

A dress rehearsal will be staged tonight for teachers some students and a few parents. Opening night is tomorrow at 7.30 p.m. and the show will also run on Friday and Saturday nights.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for students.