The Gipsy Baron, Lowton Civic Hall. Runs until Saturday. THE Three Towns Operatic Society have changed their style this year, deviating from their usual offerings of Gilbert and Sullivan, to give a splendid performance of this colourful opera by the master of the waltz - Johann Strauss - directed here by Barbara Worrall, and adapted by Ronald Hanmer.

The story centres around a band of gipsies and their newly proclaimed leader the Gipsy Baron, Sandor (Derek Jones) and his love for their princess Saffi (Susan Bradley).

But it is not all serious and heavy-hearted. The scheming town mayor enthusiastically played by Colin Magenty injects humour at every possible opportunity.

All the songs are perfectly executed by both the large cast and the superb orchestra - under the skilful direction of Nigel Jay. The tunes however, are unmistakably Strauss. From start to finish this was a high quality performance with superb solos by members of the cast in particular Joan Ashcroft as the Queen of the Gipsies and soprano Susan Bradley.

If you don't quite know whether opera is for you go along and sample the delights at Lowton this week, you'll be pleasantly surprised.

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