FOLLOWING a sell-out success with Disney's High School Musical two years ago, Regency Productions are back with the long-awaited sequel - High School Musical 2.

Rehearsals are well under way, with many original cast members taking time out from their busy schedules to join the company for the second instalment.

The original production enjoyed nightly sell-out crowds and the popular cast were in such demand that they stayed behind for up to an hour to sign autographs.

This year's show will cost more than £15,000 to stage, with specially designed sets and 50 handmade costumes.

Sophia Tarjomani, director and producer, said: "I wanted to retain the main characters from the previous production. The audience responded really well and I wanted to give the second show the same feel as we had with the first.

"Many of the characters are now at university or involved with other projects but they're returning to Kent from as far away as Bristol and Scotland to be part of High School Musical 2."

One cast member added: "I'm delighted to be rejoining the team for High School Musical 2. It's a fantastic musical with such a professional company and I wouldn't miss it for the world!"

High School Musical 2 will be showing daily at 2.30pm and 7.30pm from Wednesday, July 29, until Saturday, August 1, at the Performing Arts Theatre, Canterbury High School. Tickets from £10.

To book or for more information, telephone 01843 292795 or 296111.