FROM the humble shelter of a school hall to the Wyvern Theatre, Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society has come a long way since the early 1960s.

Performances might be grander and farther reaching but the group’s overarching goal – to stage the composer and lyricist’s best know operettas - has remained unchanged.

“We aim to perform operas by Gilbert and Sullivan - one per year- and support the local community by performing charity concerts at times when not rehearsing for a upcoming show,” said member Julia Fryer.

“We also hope to enrol young people into the historic G&S Comic opera so that we can continue to perform these comic operas in years to come.”

The Society was founded in 1969 out of a small youth group performing Gilbert and Sullivan at St Joseph's School. When members moved to the Mechanics Institute, they officially formed the Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

Since then the group has produced an array of shows at the Wyvern Theatre and Steam Museum. It has now taken up residency at the Arts Centre in Old Town.

While the group holds auditions, performers are given between three and four weeks to familiarise themselves with the music before their casting call.

The troupe meets on Tuesdays at the Wroughton's Working man's club.

It is currently deep in rehearsals for its upcoming production of The Mikado, which will receive a week-long run at the Arts Centre from April 28 to May 2.

The opera follows a deliciously convoluted plot: Ko-Ko is in love with his lovely young ward Yum-Yum, who is herself enamoured of wandering minstrel Nanki-Poo. He, in turn, is being pursued by the aged Katisha. Ko-Ko strikes a bargain, agreeing to let Yum-Yum marry Nanki-Poo if he accepts to be beheaded after one month, after which Ko-Ko's position will be secure and his own plan to wed Yum-Yum will resume.

“It may be a little late to join this year, but if you're willing to join now, feel free," added Julia. "We'll be doing Ruddigore next year and rehearsals should start in September."

To join the society, call 01793 337906 for more information, or visit www.swindongilbertandsullivan.weebly.com

The Mikado will run every night at the Arts Centre at 7.30pm. There will be a matinee on Saturday at 2.30pm.

Tickets are between £10 and £12 for adults, and cost between £5 and £6 for children. This year, the group is introducing a student rate, starting at £7.50.

To book visit swindontheatres.co.uk or call the Wyvern Box Office on 01793 524481. Alternatively contact the society on 01793 337906.