Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society Youth Section (WODYS) is celebrating its 25th anniversary in style with a party at which past members will take a trip down memory lane, singing numbers from musicals in which they have played.

Songs from hit shows such as Guys And Dolls, Les Misérables, Return To The Forbidden Planet, Annie Get Your Gun and Carousel will entertain the Swan Theatre partygoers on Sunday, June 17. The party is open to all.

WODYS, formed in 1982 with a handful of youngsters, has become the leading youth amateur drama group in the area, constantly producing high standards of musical theatre and attracting audiences of all ages.

The group boasts a membership of 75 youngsters aged between eight and 18, has a waiting list of 63 and has another 50 youngsters in the newly formed WODYS Academy.

Over the years the group has raised more than £12,000 for various organisations such as Noah's Art Trust, the Worcstershire-based charity supporting bereaved children; the National Meningitis Trust and Acorns Children's Hospice Trust.

David Humphries, the co-founder and chairman, said: "When we started we did not realise that 25 years down the line we would have such a thriving theatre group.

"It is testament to all the hard work put in by those who have helped over the years, whether on the committee, backstage at the shows, or with music and choreography.

"The most important thing is that the youngsters enjoy it while learning stage craft. Many go on to careers in drama. For others, WODYS helps to build their confidence and talents. Many former members will attend our 25th anniversary party, either to entertain or watch and join in the fun. We are looking forward to a good evening and, hopefully, to another 25 years."

Everyone - old members, new members and all who love a good evening's entertainment with songs from the shows - are invited to join in the party. There will be refreshments and the bar will be open. Tickets cost £5 from the Huntingdon Hall box office on 01905 611427.

And, while all this is going on, WODYS' members are well into rehearsals for their summer show which this year is sizzling musical Hot Mikado.

Hot Mikado, with its catchy jives, sassy songs, gospel, and rhythm and blues, swings into the Swan Theatre, Worcester, from Tuesday, July 31, to Saturday, August 4, for six performances, including a Saturday matinee.

This colourful extravaganza will provide the ideal evening out for the whole family. People should book in advance. WODYS' recent productions have sold out and people have been turned away. Tickets from Huntingdon Hall box office on 01905 611427.