Romero the Musical

The London premier of a musical on the life of Archbishop Oscar Romero takes place on 27 September, at the Jerwood Vanbrugh Theatre in Malet Street, W1.

Written by Liam Bauress and George Daly, with orchestral arrangements by Richard Benbow, and choreography by Lynette Driver, the show tells the story of the Archbishop who was shot for daring to speak out for human rights.

Romero was assassinated while celebrating Mass on 24 March 1980. In his three years as Archbishop in El Savador, he had become the Voice of the Voiceless, a tireless defender of the poor, and upholder of human rights while a cruel civil war was boiling up. Hailed by millions as 'San Romero of the Americas', Romero continues to inspire the wider world. Streets and buildings, schools and trade unions, have been named after him and his statue stands over Westminster Abbey's west door.

Pope Benedict has said that Romero 'merits beatification'. His legacy lives on through this passionate musical tribute.

The show has already been performed in four schools. When the writers asked director Audrey Tang from Click theatre to produce the show in London, to coincide with the anniversary of Romero's death, Audrey said: "We were so moved by the strength of Romero's work we were delighted to oblige.

After this performance, the musical score, stage directions and other resources will be made available on-line to enable schools to stage their own productions. Proceeds from shows will go to support CAFOD's development projects in El Salvador. The resources may also be used by schools as part of a Year 8 music and RE course.

For tickets at £20 and £15, call the Box Office on 020 7908 4800.

For more information see: www.romerothemusical.com and clickproductions.co.uk/Romero.html