Requesting a first-night review and swapping the intimate Annex for the larger Nuffield, directors Jon North and Ian Wainwright appeared to be taking a gamble.

Their confidence was entirely justified and they delivered an exceptional production of the Gilbert and Sullivan favourite.

We anticipated that the music would be to a high standard as Thomas Joy directed the orchestra through the overture, and we certainly weren’t disappointed.

Joseph Hand took to his first principal role as the Pirate King with ease, as did Alexander Conway as the gullible Frederick. Jenny Samuel performed well as Ruth, whose marital plans for Frederick were dashed on the rocks by The Daughters who quickly turned his head.

Roseanna Bowen, having caught the eye in Trial by Jury, again stole the show, vocally, as Mabel.

Also worthy of note were Richard Patience (Chief of Police), Samuel Williams (Major General) and Sarah Hemming for lively choreography.