THE brilliant Opera della Luna are masters when it comes to Gilbert and Sullivan – and they are on their way to the New Wolsey Theatre in Ipswich.

They will be premiering a new production of the pair’s sparkling comic opera, the Gondoliers.

For this production, the company’s regular team of singers will be joined by a chorus of 24 talented young musical theatre performers, specially assembled from around Ipswich.

Packed full of toe-tapping tunes and dances galore, this witty reflection on the values of monarchy and Republicanism has proved one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most enduring successes.

Since its launch in 1994, Opera della Luna have established themselves as a highly original ensemble of versatile singers and comedians.

Led by artistic director Jeff Clarke, the company’s policy is to create new and innovative productions of musical theatre, comic opera and operetta, in English.

There forays into Gilbert and Sullivan began when a small production of the Pirates of Penzance – performed by an enthusiastic vicar and his parishioners – and entitled the Parson’s Pirates, was something of a cult hit.

Three other Gilbert and Sullivanproductions have since followed – the Ghosts of Ruddigore, the Mikado and HMS Pinafore.

The Gondoliers New Wolsey Theatre, Civic Drive, Ipswich.

Friday, May 9, until Sunday, May 11. 7.45pm (FrIday and Saturday), 2.30pm (Saturday) 7pm (Sunday).

£8.50 to £25 plus concessions.

01473 295900