A show that promises depth and originality is making its debut at Stratford Circus, Theatre Square, Stratford, on March 25.

Feelgood Academy is a quintessentially British musical exploring universal themes.

In an age where “shelf life” musicals are dominating the West End, the creative team wished to harness the timeless quality of classic Gothic shows, while producing something fresh.

Director Owen Smith said: “It is original. It is taking a chance. There are not enough original off-book musicals.

“In 40 years we need to think about what is going to be revived.”

The storyline follows a performing arts school and the main protagonist Amanda.

Against a backdrop of the school’s search for stars, she is faced with an important decision, reconciling her true passion and her relationship with her parents, the owners of the school.

Smith said that although the plot is complex, parents could feel comfortable taking children of any age.

He said: “It is nice, as it is a new musical very much aimed at the family.

“What we’ve tried to do is layer it with nice songs, big dance routines and lots of tricks for the younger ones.

“We tried to disperse the plot so people can have a whale of a time just watching the show, but if you want to find a deeper message to it you can.”

With 16 musical numbers and a host of dancing the show seems set to spellbind audiences.

Smith said: “I would like to think it will stand the test of time – the music certainly will.”

Performances start at 7.30pm on March 25. There is a matinee at 2pm and a later showing at 7.30pm on March 26.

Tickets are £12 to £18. Call 0844 357 2625 to book. More at stratford-circus.com