sentimental pirates, bungling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, dewy-eyed daughters and an eccentric Major General all conspire to make the next EODS production one of the best.

Gilbert and Sullivan's Pirates of Penzance is coming to Evesham Arts Centre from March 19-24.

Evesham Operatic and Dramatic Society director Julie Tew said: "We chose Pirates because it has a great cast of hilariously funny and unique characters and music is spectacular.

"We only hope that we can attract a sizeable audience from Evesham and beyond, so that they can share with us the comic mastery and musical splendour of this Gilbert and Sullivan piece."

Popular numbers such as I am the Very Model Of A Modern Major General, A Policeman's Lot is Not a Happy One and Poor Wandering One feature.

The story centres around Frederic, who has mistakenly been apprenticed to a band of pirates instead of to a pilot. Expecting release from his apprenticeship on his 21st birthday, Frederick is surprised to learn that, as he was born on February 29, his 21st birthday is much delayed.

Being a slave of duty Frederic vows to complete his pirate duties even though this means being parted from his beloved Mabel, daughter of Major General Stanley, who hunts the pirate band.

Tickets for the show, including a Saturday matinee, are available the Almonry Heritage and Tourist Information Centre, Abbey Road, Evesham 01386 442348.