JORVIK Gilbert and Sullivan Company return to the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York, on April 9 to present a concert version of H.M.S. Pinafore and a selection of G&S favourites.

Alex Schofield will take the role of Captain Corcoran, the Captain of the H.M.S Pinafore, who is delighted that his daughter, Josephine (Susan Blenkiron), is sought in marriage by Sir Joseph Porter KCB (Paul Blenkiron), Britain’s First Lord of the Admiralty, who in reality has never been to sea.

However, with Sir Joseph’s arrival aboard the H.M.S Pinafore imminent, Captain Corcoran is horrified to discover that Josephine is in love with Ralph Rackstraw (Stuart Roberts), a common sailor.

Will Josephine do her duty and obey her father’s wishes? Or will love level the social divide between her and Ralph? And what is Little Buttercup’s secret?

The cast will be completed by Keith Dunsire as Dick Deadeye, Samuel Valentine as Boatswain’s Mate, Karen Kitching as Hebe and Lois Cross as Mrs Cripps and Little Buttercup.

"To accompany H.M.S. Pinafore, in the first act we'll be performing a selection of some of Gilbert and Sullivan’s other fantastic music, in what will be a very enjoyable evening’s entertainment," says director Alex Schofield.

As well as preparing for their spring performance, Jorvik G&S are busy making plans for their next show. “We're performing our fully staged production of The Pirates Of Penzance at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre from September 22 to 24, and rehearsals will start on Monday, April 18, at Huntington Methodist Church,” says Alex.

“If you want to tread the boards, meet new people and have fun along the way, then why not join us? All are welcome and we don't hold auditions for chorus members, as we want to be fully inclusive and believe that anyone who wants to turn up and sing should be able to do so.”

For those wishing to be considered for principal roles, auditions will be held on Sunday, April 24. Please contact auditions@jorvikgsc.org.uk to request an audition slot and for a copy of the audition pieces.

The first principal rehearsal will be held on the evening of Sunday, May 1, with full company rehearsals continuing on Monday nights. "If you’re interested in joining, please either go along to the first rehearsal or contact us for more information," says Alex.

Tickets for April 9 cost £10, concessions £9, under 16s free, on 01904 623568, at yorktheatreroyal.co.uk or via email to tickets@jorvikgsc.org.uk