The Complete Works of Gilbert and Sullivan - Pruned! (Central Studio, Basingstoke, October 9).

THE audience at Central Studio was cheering, having just witnessed a truly memorable production depicting the works of Gilbert and Sullivan in only one evening's show.

Entitled The Complete Works of Gilbert and Sullivan - Pruned! two actors set about delighting their audience with songs, libretto and quips.

When Lord Whittle, played by Laurence Aldridge, accepts the challenge to present the entire Gilbert and Sullivan canon condensed into a single evening's entertainment to win a bet, he seems doomed to failure - until his butler agrees to save him.

So he sets about performing, in a condensed nature, all the works of Gilbert and Sullivan aided and very much abetted by his butler, Prune, portrayed by Mark Ponsford.

The asides, facial contortions, humour and expertise were a joy to behold and the audience were soon joining in with the familiar and well-loved melodies.

The rapidity of the piece was breath-taking and the diction flawless, all combining to making this a truly memorable piece of theatre.

Basingstoke has always been a hotbed of Gilbert and Sullivan productions and this added to the reputation of the revered duo.

For information on any future presentations at Central Studio, contact 01256 418318.