Jerome Robbins’ gangland take on Romeo and Juliet, involving rival white and Puerto Rican gangs, was first seen in 1957.

But the famous opening scene, with the Polish-American Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks prowling New York could have been contemporary, as the clash between locals and new immigrants is sadly as relevant to Britain today.

Katie Hall as leading lady Maria is outshone when beside Djalenga Scott’s feisty and sensual Anita. But when Hall sings she really sparkles, and with Tony (Louis Maskell) their chemistry and combined voices melt your heart, especially the way he slides down from her balcony with such grace.

It is particularly heartwarming against the backdrop of strutting machismo and street fighting to hear Maria protest to the outraged Sharks after embracing Tony, ‘But I didn’t see he was one of them, I just saw him.’ Seeing the performers’ muscles being put to use in a blend of ballet and urban dance moves is a refreshing change from the gory violence of modern American films.

And after all the impressive side-kicks, leaps and pirouettes they still have the breath to sing, and sing well.

This is a dark story of hatred and prejudice, but relief comes from interspersed humour, such as Anita’s wickedly fun impersonations of the macho Bernardo, played convincingly by Javier Cid.

West Side Story was well-received at the packed Hippodrome and plays until February 8.