THE show went on for Astwood Bank Operatic Society's production of The Mikado after a bout of flu sent cast members dropping like flies.

Society chairman Stephen Goddard said the flu-like bug hit many cast members but the biggest crisis came when the show's star David Steele, playing Nanki-Poo, was struck down.

He said: "The producer, Joy Vater, who would normally be relaxing and enjoying the week of the show, pulled out all the stops to find a replacement and with the help of Ian Walton, managed to secure the services of our friend Mike Faulkner.

Mr Goddard said Mr Faulkner was virtually word-perfect but by last Saturday, he too was ill.

Eventually the secured the help of Stratford Gilbert and Sullivan Society's Tim Johnson.

Mr Goddard said despite everything, last week's production at Kingsley Theatre in Woodrow went remarkably well and both replacements had performed as if they had been there all along.

"Others who battled through were Tony Jay as Pooh Bah and Ian Walton himself, and on one of the evenings there were no less than seven of the ladies chorus missing - but the show went on," he added.

"It was even suggested the last-night party should be held on the ear, nose and throat ward at the hospital."

Plans are in hand for the society's next production of Orpheus and the Underworld, set for March 2007.

For more details, see www.astwoodbankoperatic.co.uk