FOR those searching for an admirable banquet of comic opera they don't come much better than those served by Kendal and District Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

This year's KADGASS offering is The Pirates of Penzance, running from Wednesday-Saturday, March 25-28 (7.30pm) at Kendal Town Hall.

One of the most popular shows in the G&S canon, the much-loved dazzling mix of sentimental pirates, blundering policeman, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes is a showcase of brilliant humour and razor-sharp wit and features a sparkling score packed with memorable melodies and catchy tunes.

Once again, the superb soprano voice of Emily Robinson will be centre stage, taking the part of Mabel with tenor Neil Hastings as innocent pirate-apprentice Frederick.

Emily and Neil head a powerful cast that also includes Simon Yaxley, in the celebrated guise of the very model of a modern Major General.

Ian Loi plays the Pirate King; Sue Richardson is Ruth; Bryan Johnson, Sergeant of Police; Matthew Armstrong, Samuel and Edith, Kate and Isabel will be played respectively by Emma Barker, Alice Fisher and Stella Coxon.

Steering the production for KADGASS will be Allan Sharples under the watchful eye and baton of distinguished musical director John Perrin.

For tickets telephone box office on 01539-821844 or call in at Kendal Picture Framers, Branthwaite Brow.