KENDAL Amateur Operatic Society delivered the goods yet again, staging a spirited spectacle in true western style.

No teetering tightrope antics this time as down-to-earth Oklahoma was played by a colourful cast, decked out in a kaleidoscope of checked shirts and 'purrdy' frocks.

Aunt Eller (Meril Bull) 'sorta' grabbed the bull by the horns and steered the way, in thigh-slapping, uplifting, and cleverly choreography production, based on the love triangle of the lovely Laurey (Alison Hine), cowman Curly (Mark Jeffreys) and fearsome hired hand Jud Fry (Denis Bland).

Steve Hall's timing as Persian peddler Ali Hakim was a treat, not to mention his facial expressions.

And his relationship with the dizzy and loveable Ado Annie, was one of the highlights of the night.

Probably the best performance I've seen from Melanie Duff, who really threw herself into the role.

Oh What a Beautiful Mornin, and The Surrey with a Fringe on Top entranced the audience in a first half that occasionally lost its flow.

Although, Pore Jud is Daid brought the best out of Mark Jeffreys and Denis Bland in their ongoing battle of wits for the affections of Alison's excellent Laurey.

The second half was as slick as you could get, opening with a yee-ha and foot-stomping feast in The Farmer and the Cowman.

As sharp as ever was Simon Kay as Will Parker, Sandy Lofthouse was in fine form as Andrew Carnes, Annie's shotgun wielding dad, and young Amy Forrest played the hyena-laughing Gertie with a performance beyond her years.

As Curly finally gets his girl and rejected Jud seeks revenge, Jud comes to a sticky end.

But back at the ranch - they all did producer Ann-Marie Coulston proud ...even playing on when the power went off.

Oklahoma continues tonight (Friday) and Saturday 7.15pm.

Box office 01539-725133.