IT is every producer’s nightmare to hear that a leading performer in a show has fallen ill just before the opening night.

New Rosemere AOS’s producer Hannah Carolan faced this problem when society stalwart David Seager reported that he was suffering from sciatica, just days before its production of The Gondoliers was due to open.

Fortunately Tony Noden, who appeared in Rosemere’s 2016 production of Iolanthe, was willing to act as understudy for the Gilbert and Sullivan musical.

Ms Carolan said: “Tony knows the part of Don Alhambra very well and has performed the role on several occasions and we’re really grateful for his help.

“He’s an absolute star.”

However, lion-hearted Mr Seager proved to be a real trooper and battled his way through the dress rehearsal with his character’s gout somewhat enhanced by his own personal mobility difficulties.

He now hopes to make it through the full week of the show which starts tonight at the Parish Hall Theatre in Egerton

The comic opera runs until Saturday and marks 90 years of the society entertaining audiences in Bolton.

Founded in Chorley Old Road by local couple the Whitefield’s and their friend ‘Pern’ James, the amateur group was devoted to the works of Gilbert & Sullivan.

This week is the 11th time the society has performed The Gondoliers, and will make it its third most often performed production alongside other Gilbert and Sullivan favourites, The Mikado and Iolanthe.

Shows start at 7.30pm from tonight, Tuesday March 21 to Saturday, March 25.

For tickets call 01204 300666.