FOR the first time since Lydney Grammar School days a Gilbert and Sullivan operetta will be performed in Lydney this month.

Members of the Forest Musical Society are to stage the famous and popular Pirates of Penzance at the Town Hall on October 20, 21 and 22.

The comic operetta will feature a cast of almost 40 singers, plus musicians. They will perform all the favourites including 'With a catlike tread', 'A Policeman's Lot' and' 'I Am the Model of a Modern Major-General'.

Society chairman Peter Silsby said: "I am delighted we have been able to bring together such a talented group of singers and musicians under the leadership of stage director Jane Rodgers and musical director Ian Russell.

"Together, they have been able to bring out the best of Sullivan's harmonies and melo­dies, and Gilbert's humorous libretto."

Performances will take place at 7.30pm on Thursday and Friday and at 2.30pm on Saturday. Tickets will cost £7 for adults and £5 for children and concessions. They are available from various outlets throughout the Forest and at the door.

Further information is available from the society's website: http://www.forestmusicalsociety.co.uk">www.forestmusicalsociety.co.uk