Now in its third year, the showcase will see 12 performers, selected from more than 50 drama schools, taking to the stage to perform both a Sondheim composition, and a song by a composer from Mercury Musical Developments, an organization comprising over 150 composers, lyricists and book writers working in musical theatre in Britain. There are prizes for best performer and song. The judging panel includes performer Kim Criswell, broadcaster and critic Edward Seckerson and musical director Richard Balcombe.

Produced by Richard Douglas Productions in association with the Stephen Sondheim Society and Mercury Musical Developments, the event is hosted by West End performer Rosemary Ashe (the original Carlotta in The Phantom of the Opera, who has also created roles in The Witches of Eastwick and Mary Poppins). The event is directed by Bill Deamer (currently represented by Shout!, which ends its run at the Arts May 31), with Nigel Lilley as musical director.

To book tickets, contact the box office at 0870 0606631.