THERE cannot be many theatre companies that will go to the lengths that Worc-ester Gilbert and Sullivan Society have to ensure auth-enticity in its shows.

But when Malvern Festival Theatre plays host to the traditional productions of HMS Pinafore and Trial by Jury next month all female cast members will be wearing corsets to get that genuine Victorian look.

Despite their conventional performance, the society has decided to add a touch of originality to their showing of the famous operettas, by linking the two shows together.

The 49-strong cast will be interweaving the two story lines, with the trial taking place on board the Pinafore.

The principal cast members can be seen in both plays, with Trial by Jury's Edwin (Joe George) appearing as a sailor aboard Pinafore, and Sir Joseph Porter (Robert Hanna) acting as judge in the trial.

"The two shows are often done at the same time, but normally they are done as two completely separate shows," said spokesman Mary Hancock.

"It's going to be a terrific show. We've got a 21-piece orchestra and a superb men's chorus, they're really good, it sounds great."

The society started in 1974 and puts on one big show every year in Malvern, as well as a less grandiose performance in the summer.

The shows will run from Tuesday (January 22) to Saturday, January 26 at 7.30pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.30pm. Tickets start at £5 from the box office on 01684 892277.