The musical element to the show was fantastic and the cast could certainly belt out a tune, but the acting occasionally left much to be desired and the lack of props or a detailed set took something away from the show.

But for a debut production, they did incredibly well and not one line was forgotten. The audience was enthusiastic and the cast wasn't short of rounds of applause.

The story is based on Gilbert and Sullivan's The Mikado and follows Nanki-Poo, the son of powerful leader The Mikado, who has run away from home in search of the love of his life, Yum-Yum, only to discover she is due to marry Lord High Executioner Ko-Ko.

A number of twists to the tale ensue, allowing the group to chop and change from melodic gospel tunes to all-dancing, upbeat jazz numbers.

The cast was accompanied by a seven-piece band which certainly got my feet tapping away.

The musical element to the show was fantastic. I was initially a little wary of the mix of jazz and gospel styles, but I soon saw that the two complemented each other perfectly in carrying the story along.

Jamie Appleyard played the lead character of Nanki-Poo, and his enthusiasm, energy and ability to belt out a tune was admirable.

The chemistry between Jamie and leading lady Hannah Coleman, who played Yum-Yum and had a beautiful singing voice, was electric. They bounced off each other well and were very believable as two people in love.

Ko-Ko, the baddie with a soft side, was played by Bill Davies, whose his hilarious one-liners were well placed and had the audience chuckling away.

All-in-all, the show was a jolly musical romp.

Hot Mikado will be performed at the grantham College Refectory tonight (Friday) and tomorrow night, from 7.30pm. Doors open at 7pm.

Tickets cost £6 (£5). To book, call 01476 406158.

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