A commuter train was the unlikely venue for a unique performance by Theatre Royal Stratford East.

More than 30 young performers staged Along these Lines, a programme of interactive theatre, dance and song which they had written based on everyday scenes and stories that are seen on public transport - while the train transported guests from Fenchurch Street to Leigh-on-Sea and back.

The show lasted ninety minutes for an invited audience of seventy people.

Train operator c2c and Theatre Royal Stratford East originally teamed up after the theatre was awarded two grants from the National Express Foundation, totalling £5,000.

The theatre has used the funding to run a programme of mentoring and performance skills for 20 young poets and provide an introduction to working in the arts for 30 budding artists.

Karlos Coleman from Theatre Royal Stratford East, who directed the show, said: “The young people found it incredibly inspirational to put on a performance in such a unique environment and they were buzzing afterwards. Thank you to c2c and the National Express Foundation for all your help in making this happen.”

James Donnan, general manager of the National Express Foundation, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to provide this unique platform for young people from Theatre Royal Stratford East to showcase their talent. I’m sure the audience will never forget their train ride with a difference!”