New Earswick Musical Society applies a French polish to its spring show next week at the Joseph Rowntree Theatre, York.

Gigi is set in Paris in the early 1900s, at the height of the era that not only the French called La Belle Epoque: a time of beautiful clothes and the peak of luxury living for a select few. Nicola Pittman takes her second leading role with the society, playing Gigi, whose development from naive teenager to desirable young woman has demanded plenty of study by the drama and singing student.

"Gigi is very different from my last appearance with the society as Dorothy in The Wizard Of Oz," says Nicola. "The writing is very different. There's more depth to Gigi and the transition from teenage spirit to society elegance is a stimulating challenge."

Stephen Kenwright plays opposite her as Gaston, having performed major roles with the society in My Fair Lady and Kiss Me Kate (as the rumbustuous Petruchio).

Producer Ann McCreadie can call upon experienced hands aplenty in her cast. Beryl Long reprises the role of Mamita, having played her for York Light Opera Company, and will be singing the romantic duet I Remember It Well with John Fryer, whose dapper little Irishman lit up Finian's Rainbow last April.

Ann herself is in the cast, playing Aunt Alicia, the woman who intends to prepare Gigi for a career as a courtesan. "I've worked with the society over seven productions and it's always stimulating," she says.

Another stalwart of the York amateur stage, Robert Readman, has designed a new set for the April 6 to 8 run. Performances: 7.30pm. Tickets: £8.50, £8 or £4, available from Mrs S Waft on 01904 768182.

Updated: 16:45 Thursday, March 31, 2005