On The Mark Youth Theatre (OTMYT) is bringing Queen's award-winning musical We Will Rock You back to Storyhouse in Chester following last year's roaring success. With final rehearsals underway, more than 100 young local actors, singers, and dancers are preparing for an unmissable weekend from Friday, July 24 to Saturday, July 25, 2026.
Two Productions for Different Age Groups
OTMYT will present two separate productions. We Will Rock You: Young@Part will be performed by the Lower Seniors (ages 8 to 13) on Friday, July 24 at 2pm and 7pm. This specially adapted version runs for approximately one hour without an interval. We Will Rock You: School Edition will be performed by the Upper Seniors (ages 13 to 18) on Saturday, July 25 at 2pm and 7pm. This full version runs for approximately two and a half hours including an interval.
Iconic Queen Songs and Futuristic Story
The show features many of Queen's best-loved songs, including We Will Rock You, Bohemian Rhapsody, Radio Ga Ga, Somebody to Love and Don't Stop Me Now. It tells a futuristic story of rebellion, individuality and the power of music.
Professional Production Values
The production is directed and musically directed by Simon Phillips, artistic director of OTMYT, with choreography by Laura Morris. It combines a digital set, professional lighting and sound, bespoke costumes and large-scale ensemble work, making it one of OTMYT's most ambitious shows to date. The cast includes young performers from Chester, North Wales and surrounding areas.
Director's Excitement
Simon Phillips said: "Queen's music is legendary, and 'We Will Rock You' gives our members the chance to throw themselves into something bold, funny, powerful and completely full of energy. It is amazing to work on a show with such iconic songs and such a brilliant story, and to see our young performers bring it to life with so much passion, confidence and commitment. We want audiences to come ready to rock out, because this is going to be a proper rock-theatre experience and our cast are ready to raise the roof at Storyhouse."
Sponsorship and Group Information
The production is sponsored by Palmers Scaffolding, The Ice Cream Farm, Cheshire Farm Ice Cream, AIMS Accountants for Business, KCA People, and Partnership Design. OTMYT is a Chester-based youth theatre group run by Simon Phillips and Janice Craine, providing acting, singing, dance, musical theatre training, workshops and performance opportunities. Its tagline, "Learning by Doing," reflects the group's practical approach to training and confidence-building.
Tickets for both productions can be booked online at www.otmyt.co.uk. Audiences should ensure they select the correct version of the show when booking.
