Gilbert and Sullivan's The Gondoliers is the next production to be staged by the Bosbury Players.

The operetta, which originally opened at the Savoy Theatre in London in 1889, was one of the last to be written by the duo and is bursting with melody, dance and song.

Gondoliers and local heart-throbs Marco and Giuseppe Palmieri are republicans who hate royalty, detest rank and wealth and hold all men as equals.

However, when a shocking revelation provides them with the chance to behave like kings, morals and principles are undoubtedly compromised.

The two-act opera will be the Bosbury Player's fourth Gilbert and Sullivan production, following the group's performances of the Pirates of Penzance, The Mikaido and Iolanthe, but is proving to be the most challenging, as it features nine principal roles.

Linda Sinker, who has adapted the production, said: "The performance is extremely lively and colourful, as most Gilbert and Sullivan works are.

"There are more than 45 people involved in the entire production, including people of all ages, and it has been great fun to prepare.

"My adaptation includes a few added extras, but people will have to come on the night to find out what they are."

The performance will run from December 3-6 at 7.30pm in Bosbury Village Hall.

Tickets are available from Gaynans in Ledbury, Bosbury Post Office or by phoning 01531 640234.