QUITE simply, this is a high-water mark in Bolton's musical theatre. In more than 20 years of viewing, I have never seen such life and style breathed into Gilbert and Sullivan's Japanese tale.

Producer Rita Whitelaw has demonstrated stunning breadth of vision, giving us a first-class production on a set that takes the breath away and was applauded in its own right.

Clive Green is sensational as Nanki-Poo, as is Derek Jackson as the sneering Pooh-Bah. Tim Henshaw's Ko-Ko is a comic delight, and there is wonderful support from Tom Leyland as Pish-Tush and a splendid, dynamic cameo from Rob Peace as The Mikado.

Lisa Murphy (Yum Yum), Eleanor Molloy (Pitti-Sing) and Hannah Gent (Peep-Bo) are superb as the 'little maids', and Pat Killeen is a powerful Katisha, domineering yet sympathetic.

Every principal is immaculate, delivering both dialogue and songs with energy, skill and perfect timing. Some numbers, notably 'Some day It May Happen' and 'Here's A How-de-do' are slightly updated - a gamble that pays off handsomely, and hysterically.

They are backed by a marvellous chorus in clever, attractive costumes.

This show pays homage to a great theatrical tradition, while planting its wit firmly in the 21st century. It is a feast for the ear and the eye. An all-too-rare triumph of style AND substance. Quite, quite magnificent.

The Mikado, New Rosemere AOS

Albert Halls, Bolton, until Saturday.