One of the favourites in the G&S canon, Iolanthe has long charmed audiences with its ridiculous yet comically enchanting tale of crafty fairies pitting their wits against a band of cerebrally challenged peers.

Director, Trish Lewis created a fresh and innovative show with the action being set north of the border. With its topically astute political references, glittering costumes and a chorus with bags of energy and spirit, the show could well have been terrific. Unfortunately, not all of the principal line-up were able to raise their game in order to do justice to this potentially outstanding production. While suspect singing and mundane characterisations created some forgettable performances, there were glimmers of hope with some star turns.

As the deliciously Over-the-top Fairy Queen, Melanie Roberts looked resplendent. With a terrific sense of fun, a saucy gleam in her eye and quality vocals, her antics ensured she stayed in the memory long after the curtain came down. Strong support was supplied by Isobel Nash (Celia) and Helen Marshall (Leila) who led the fairy chorus with cheeky charm while Bill Penketh impressed with his particularly knowing portrayal of Private Willis. Despite a wayward Scottish accent which strayed far from the glens on more than one occasion, Philip Lawford was vocally solid as lovesick gamekeeper, Strephon.

After expending masses of energy during act one, the company struggled to maintain their early momentum. After a hearty beginning, act two sagged in the middle as the performers appeared to run out of steam. Thankfully the reappearance of the fairies and peers strongly revived proceedings, treating the audience to a sparkly and vivacious finale.

Vincent Peters