SWINDON singers are gearing up for their next opera following the success of their last production, The Mikado, which scooped them an award.

The Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society won the runners-up prize in the NODA Awards (National Operatic and Dramatic Association), a group for amateur performing societies including theatre.

The award was for Basic Programme for The Mikado, which was designed by Helen Selwood.

Julia Fryer, from the Swindon society, said: “We are all very proud of her and look forward to seeing what she is planning for our next production of Ruddigore.’’

Helen could not make it to the award ceremony on March 5, but the trophy was received by Roger and Rita Maisey, founder members, and John Williams the group’s chairman.

The singers are about to tread the boards again with Ruddigore at the Swindon Arts Centre from Tuesday, April 19, to Saturday, April 23, from 7.30pm.

Julia is an artist and has painted a series of portraits of the cast in costume ready to appear on stage in the Baronet's gallery.

Ruddigore is centred around a curse that was called down upon the first Baronet, who had persecuted witches back in the dark ages, and the consequences for his unfortunate descendants.

The opera was first performed at the Savoy Theatre in London in 1887, but it did not go down as well as its predecessor, The Mikado. But it was still profitable so it was kept as one of the Savoy operas.

Julia Fry, from the Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society, said: “It is a creepier show than The Mikado, but still a lot of fun with typical Gilbert and Sullivan silliness.”

Some of the principals are Stephanie Walsh taking the role of Mad Margaret, Dame Hannah is tackled by Jo Courage, Zorah is a last minute change with Anna Hull stepping into the breach, Ruth is played by Julia Fryer, taking on Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd/Robin Oakapple is Stuart Benjamin and Graham Davison-Smith is Sir Roderick Murgatroyd.

At the recent Swindon Music Festival, society members notched up some top prizes. Natalie Chequer (the leading lady of Ruddigore) winning the Olive Love Trophy for opera of any period and three trophies won by Caroline Pitt, a member of the chorus. Director for this production is Derek Hill and the musical director Richard Abrams.

The society are always looking out for new members and meet every Tuesday at 7.30pm in Workingmen’s Club, Wroughton. Visit swindongilbertandsullivan.weebly.com.

Tickets for Ruddigore are £10 to £12 for adults, £5 to £6 for children and students are £7.50 to £9 from 01793 524481 or www.swindontheatres.co.uk