The new musical by composer and lyricist Brett Kahr was originally conceived as a short musical piece inspired by the young people of a children's charity and was first performed in the presence of the Prince of Wales in 1999.

When it was first announced as part of the King's Head's debut season as a producing theatre, it was previously titled Street Magic. It has been developed by Kahr in collaboration with Lisa Forrell, who wrote the book and will also direct.

Based on true stories, Rue Magique explores the complex relationship between Desdemona, a South London prostitute (played by Melanie LaBarrie, whose West End credits include Les Misérables, Mary Poppins and Daddy Cool), and her 13-year-old daughter Sugar (newcomer Nadia Di Mambro).

Also in the cast are Terel Nugent (Mary Poppins, Hairspray) as Rem, Gavin Ashbarry, Adam Bayjou, Julian Forsyth, Amanda Minihan, Amanda Posener and Anna Stolli.

Desribed in press materials as "a moving rite of passage story," it portrays a world that exists beneath the radar of police and social services, where people struggle to survive by any means possible. But can there be any hope, any redemption, when a mother forces her own daughter into prostitution? The show is choreographed by Damian Jackson with set design by Polly Sullivan, costume design by Natasha Ward and lighting by Tim Mascall. Musical supervision and orchestrations are by David White, with musical direction by Andy Massey. It is produced at the King's Head Theatre by Sean Sweeney for Street Magic Productions Ltd and Annijaz Ltd by special arrangement with the King's Head Theatre.

To book tickets call the box office at 0870 890 0149 or visit www.seetickets.com.