A bittersweet ballad meets 17th-century true crime and debauchery in a new action-packed musical in Norwich.

The Highwayman is inspired by both Alfred Noyes' poem and the true tales of the French highwayman, Claude Duval, a stagecoach-robbing rogue.

Turning the Norwich Theatre Playhouse into a buzzing London boozer, writer, musician and lyricist Kitty Morgan brings a fierce performance to the stage.

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Romantics and renegades become tragically entangled within longing's devastating snare and the inescapable crime-ridden filth of the 1600s.

The Highway Man is inspired by both Alfred Noyes' poem and the true tales of the French highwayman, Claude Duval The Highway Man is inspired by both Alfred Noyes' poem and the true tales of the French highwayman, Claude Duval (Image: Andi Sapey/Norwich Theatre)

An outstanding musical arrangement by Adam Morris threads hearty pub chants and melodic folk together, at the cue of a violin string. 

Romantics and renegades become tragically entangled in the crime-ridden world of the 1600sRomantics and renegades become tragically entangled in the crime-ridden world of the 1600s (Image: Andi Sapey/Norwich Theatre)

A standout performance was given by leading lady Bess during her solo 'Forget-Me-Not'.

 A musical arrangement from Adam Morris interweaved hearty pub chants with melodic folk songA musical arrangement from Adam Morris interweaved hearty pub chants with melodic folk song (Image: Andi Sapey/Norwich Theatre)

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However, a promising plotline became disjointed and overcomplicated as the cast quickened across the stage amid a lengthy performance.

Meanwhile, some of the costumes and the set fell short.

Pulled in different directions, but nonetheless captivating audiences, The Highwayman promises a wild ride through times gone by.