Worcester Operatic and Dramatic Society's current production has all the ingredients of a first-class show.

Every character, without exception, sang well and acted their parts with conviction. Choreography by Julie Bedlow-Howard had been planned with imagination, with beautifully designed scenery and subtle lighting adding considerably to the ambiance.

An excellent small orchestra under John Griswold's direction had a touch of 'Joe Loss' sound about it at times, and was a distinctive advantage.

Costumes were stunning, dresses sewn in gorgeous materials and draping, floating fabrics worn by the agile dancers.

Jonathan Darby's outstanding characterisation of Fred Graham (Petrucio) was superb. Wendy Holloway, as Lilli Vanessi (Katherine), made Jonathan an ideal partner; her rendering of I Hate Men was quite vicious! Laura Synnuck as Lois Lane (Bianca) was sexy and provocative, while Martin Bourne and Mark Langston were extremely amusing, as they timed moves together in their version of Brush Up your Shakespeare.

A marvellous evening's entertainment which was directed by Philip Beeson. The show continues until tomorrow (Saturday).

Jill Hopkins