First seen on Broadway in 1977, Side by Side features a dazzling array of some of the Sondheim’s best known work (including collaborations with musical theatre giants Leonard Bernstein, Richard Rogers, Mary Rodgers and Jule Styne) from classic musicals such as West Side Story, Gypsy, A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, Company, Follies, Pacific Overtures and A Little Night Music. With original narration written by Ned Sherrin, this new production is directed by Hannah Chissick (former Artistic Director of Harrogate Theatre) and choreographed by Adam Cooper (most famous for his work with Matthew Bourne, The Royal Ballet and recently in the West End starring in the Donmar’s production of Guys and Dolls at the Piccadilly Theatre). The show is performed by three vocalists, two pianists and a narrator. Side by Side by Sondheim was conceived by singer Cleo Laine and husband John Dankworth, originally as a fundraiser, and became a huge hit in the UK before transferring to Broadway in 1977. It received five Tony award nominations and it is one of the few shows to have the distinction of its entire cast being nominated for a Tony award. The original cast comprised of Milicent Martin, Julie McKenzie, David Kernan and Ned Sherrin.
Watch a clip of Side by Side by Sondheim's first night performance