ONE of the most famous and best-loved of Gilbert and Sullivan's operettas, The Mikado will be performed next week.

The Three Towns will stage the musical four nights, opening next Tuesday at St Joseph's Hall, Leigh.

Set in the Land of the Rising Sun, the show tells the story of Nanki-Poo, son of the Mikado, the Emperor of Japan , has fled from his father’s court to escape the attentions of Katisha a distinctly unattractive, elderly lady who is determined to marry him.

He falls in love with the beautiful Yum-Yum but she is engaged to Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner. Suddenly, Katisha arrives demanding her lover!

The Mikado is played by David Reeves, Nanki-Poo, son of the Mikado, by David Griffiths, Ko-Ko, Lord High Executioner, by David Kay, Pooh-Bah, Lord High Everything Else by Ken Rees, Katisha by Sue Bradley, Pish-Tush by Bruce Deakin, Yum-Yum by Victoria Goulden, Pitti-Sing by Jennie Heywood, Peep-Bo by Lauren Smith and Go To by Mel Bailey.

There will be an added guest performance from the Kathleen Atherton Academy of Dance.

Catherine Kay from The Three Towns said: "Although set in Japan, the plot has nothing whatever to do with Japan or the Japanese.

"It pokes fun at English people’s attitudes and perceptions.

"It is as relevant today as it was in 1885 when first performed ­— the corrupt government official, the inept leader, and the young lady who considers herself to be the most beautiful girl in the world!"

She added: "In today’s era of 'political correctness', it is amusing to consider that in 1907, the British Government banned all performances of The Mikado, and its music, for six weeks for fear of offending Crown Prince Fushimi of Japan during his official visit to this country!

"This is a must see colourful comedy - wonderful twists and turns, sparkling gems of wit, outstanding musical score and catchy foot-tapping music!"

The musical opens on Tuesday, May 14 until Saturday, May 18

For tickets ring 01942 605369 or 676594. Tickets are also available online at www.thethreetowns.net