WEST Side Story is one of the most unforgettable musicals of all time.

Based on Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet it creates a modern versaion of the tragic conflicts in Shakespeare’s love story.

Talented Louis Maskell landed the role of Tony, the modern-day Romeo who is currently on tour in Manchester at the Palace Theatre until January.

The performer’s career could have had a different outcome, as Louis was equally as good at football as he was at dancing when he was a youngster, being signed for the Crystal Palace youth side.

“When I was younger I was mad on football. I had to chose between dance school and football club, I was passionate about both, but I have not looked back since and I do feel that I have made the right decision,” said Louis, who is no stranger to theatre, having been nominated for an Offie for Best Male Performance 2012.

“I have sacrificed a lot, but now I am in a position that I have only been able to dream of. I don’t play much now but when I am at my local club, I do have the urge to run on to the pitch and join in.”

With ground-breaking choreography, the book by Arthur Laurents, and unforgettable score by Leonard Bernstein, West Side Story changed the face of musical theatre for ever.

“I managed to get the part and I was absolutely thrilled,” said Louis. “ In terms of everyday I am trying to keep the performance fresh and it is intense.

“The show is amazing and I am essentially beyond dying, using the emotions that you wouldn’t come by using every day.”

West Side Story is packed with songs, including Maria, Tonight, Somewhere, America and I Feel Pretty. With international sell-out success, it is on tour in the UK until June.

The 1961 film version of West Side Story is among the movies that have received the most awards in the entire history of Hollywood.

For those unaware of this classic tale, the show transports Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet to the turbulent streets of the Upper West Side in 1950s New York City as two star-crossed lovers.

Tony and Maria, find themselves caught between the rival street gangs of different ethnic backgrounds, the Jets and the Sharks.

“I am relaxed and I have done it so many times now that I don’t get nervous,” said Louis. “I will still get those butterflies but that’s excitement. The tension in the story is unbelievable. For those who haven’t seen it, it is a must. It is a complete classic and will stimulate every bone in your body.”

West Side Story, Manchester Palace Theatre, until January 4. Box Office: 0844 871 7660