YOUNG performers are touring with a stage play they helped inspire.

The youngsters, from Teesside, wrote rap lyrics as part of a creative project and their words were turned into a script by writer Dave Kelman, who lives in Australia.

The young people, aged 15 to 20, worked with the author via e-mail on the Union City project and will perform the play themselves.

Project manager Brian Wise said the play used a nightclub, as the backdrop to a story examining the tensions caused by racism and prejudice.

He said: "The performers present a unique story of love, hatred, prejudice and rivalry, with a strong message that change, especially in attitudes and outlook, is always possible."

Funded by the Arts Council England, Tees Valley Arts and the University of Teesside, Union City will have its premier at Middlesbrough Theatre on September 26.

Two days later it will be performed at The Arc, in Stockton, before going to The Sage, Gateshead, on October 11 and the Ralph Thoresby community College, Leeds, on October 13. Contact the venues for ticket information.