A LOWESTOFT high school will be rocking to the sounds of the swinging sixties next week.

More than 75 students will be taking to the stage at Benjamin Britten High for three performances of its end-of-year show, Twist and Shout, which is being billed as 'an entertainment extravaganza'.

Written by media and English teacher Scott Mullinger, the school's third annual summer production features singing, dancing and acting by a cast that includes students from years seven, eight, nine, and 10 and year 11 leavers. It also features a 12-piece band, overseen by music teacher Lee Chapman.

Audiences attending the show at the school in Blyford Road are being promised colourful costumes, bright lights and a host of popular songs that will take them on a journey back to the 1960s.

Preparations and rehearsals have been taking place for some time, and Corinne Breen, the school's head of arts, said she was delighted by the commitment and dedication of those involved.

'This is such an exciting show and the cast are amazing,' she said. 'For some of our performers this is their first production and I know that everybody will have great fun watching this show.

'I would also like to thank parents for their help with the costumes and the staff who are giving up their time.'

Mr Chapman, who also fronts the popular band The Austin Beats, has been helping the students to create 'an authentic sixties sound' and said the production offered the youngsters a great chance to put their talent on show: 'This is the third production and from having a small band last year it has escalated now to a 12-piece band, with a lot of GCSE music students involved,' he said.

Full dress rehearsals began this week, with performances taking place on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday (July 17, 18 and 19). Doors open at 6.30pm with the show starting at 7pm. Tickets cost �5 (�4.50 for concessions) and there will be refreshments available during the interval.

To book seats, ring the school reception on 01502-582312.