A hard-hitting musical called Swapping Lives is to be taken to the capital in a bid to inspire people to quit smoking.

It has been put together by Genesis Theatre School and Agency, which holds classes in Kettering and Corby. It also features youngsters from Lodge Park Technology College and Brooke Weston City technology College in Corby.

But before the musical will be exposed to the bright lights of London, the world premiere will be held at the Willows Arts Centre, Corby.

All the music for the production was written by joint principal of Genesis Sara Charles, while the script was written in collaboration with a writer from London.

Joint principal at Genesis Howard Charles said: "The musical is mainly about looking at smoking cessation and it is very hard hitting.

"It includes a rap and a very catchy anthem. Everyone has been working really hard."

He said the group was very pleased to hear it has been invited to perform at a London theatre next spring.

The musical will incorporate multi-media elements and a large video screen will be put up in the background giving facts about the dangers of smoking.

It was written after the group was approached by Corby Council as part of its SWAP initiative, which is aimed at helping people stopping smoking and losing weight, as well as giving tips on being active and living healthily.

The musical features three ghostly figures, Sir Walter Raleigh, Sir Francis Drake and John Hawkins, who are all extremely regretful they introduced us to tobacco.

The villain is a character called Nick O'Tinsky who visits the hospital and relishes the fact some people are dying from smoke-related diseases.

Mr Charles said: "Hopefully the message will get across to those who plan to have a crafty cigarette in the interval!"

Corby Council lead member for environment Cllr David Harley said: "Genesis Theatre School has done a fantastic job putting this play together and worked hard to tackle a very real issue.

"Through our health improvement team we have made great strides in helping people stop smoking and I think this play will be very beneficial for the young smokers.

"They will be able to watch SWAP Your Lifestyle, The Play, and relate to the people performing, which is very important. Well done to everyone involved and break a leg!"

The musical will be showcased at 2pm at the Willows on Saturday, December 13, and then will be performed at 7pm on Sunday, December 14, at the Lighthouse Theatre in Kettering.

For tickets call The Willows Arts Centre on 01536 402233 or The Lighthouse Theatre on 01536 414141.