Patrick Whitbread: Riffing on the west side

Handa Opera on Sydney Harbour returns with the smash-hit musical West Side Story. It's one of the most famous and loved pieces of musical theatre ever written, and this production promises dynamic dance numbers and stunning voices on an over-water stage, with the unique backdrop of the Sydney skyline and harbour.Playing Riff in this production is Patrick Whitbread. He has been touring Australia and New Zealand for almost a decade, appearing in some much-loved shows, including Mary Poppins, The Book of Morman, Priscilla, Queen of the Desert, Matilda the Musical and Cats. In this conversation, Patrick gives a preview of the joys and challenges of this scale of musical. He shares tales of his life in musical theatre which he became involved in from a very young age.West Side Story plays on Sydney Harbour at Mrs Macquaries Point until 21 April.