THE enthusiasm, enjoyment and sheer hard work that went into this production by Bosbury Players was clear for all to see.

Gilbert and Sullivan's famous operetta was well-received by more than 100 people crammed into the village hall. An intimate atmosphere was fostered by the tiny stage and endearing set, cunningly transformed for Act II from an Arcadian landscape to the House of Lords.

Performances were generally of a high standard, with no noticeable stumbles. Emma Sproat was outstanding as Phyllis, complimented by Ian Gifford's Strephon. Alan Soper's Lord Chancellor's was very impressive and Robert Hood-Wright's delivery was excellent as the narrator.

Any cracks in technical aspects were generously papered over by the players' obvious love of their work. Gilbert and Sullivan's script has remained fresh in its themes and caricatures of the ruling classes and was freshened up by several asides to the modern political scene.

The to-ing and fro-ing between the fairies and lords was most entertaining and performed with great gusto, helping the atmosphere and providing unceasing entertainment throughout the two-and-a-quarter-hour show. Jon di Paolo