Autumn productions can cause problems for amateur companies that have to work around the unavailability of cast members when rehearsing during the summer-holiday months of July and August.

Consequently, in order to utilise the time as best as they may, York Opera will be going almost straight from performing Music Fit For A Queen to holding music rehearsals and auditions for October’s production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s Ruddigore at York Theatre Royal.

Chorus rehearsals will begin on May 27 at Lidgett Grove Methodist Chapel, with solo auditions on the two preceding evenings at the same venue.

The company is keen to hear from prospective new members – especially young singers – in all voices. For details of auditions and rehearsals, phone York Opera on 01904 490303 or visit www.yorkopera.org