SALE and Altrincham Musical Theatre is looking to raise the temperature with its production of Hot Mikado, which gives us a different take on a well performed Gilbert and Sullivan favourite.

The plot may be the same as the original operetta, but this is an evening that's sure to go with a 'swing' according to SAMT chairman Paul Rendel.

He said the show appeals to performers in a number of challenging ways, from the dance routines, which incorporate everything from tap to jitterbug to the vocal challenge of 'singing in four part harmonies.'

Paul said: "While the plot is the same as the original, there are major differences which make Hot Mikado stand on its own two feet. The score has been completely re-written for different instruments. The music has a big band and swing feel to it which was all the rage in the 1940’s/50’s. Think Sinatra/Buble and you get a flavour of the style it’s written in. There are no fans, kimonos which are in The Mikado. Visually, its zoot suits, spats, polka dot skirts etc. The whole idea is that it’s a ‘cool’ looking show in the same vein of Guys and Dolls."

Gilbert and Sullivan have a devoted following - how does he think the Hot Mikado will be received by the purists?

Paul said: "We are not sure if the ‘purists’ will take to it or not but seeing as Hamlet was recently played by a woman (Maxine Peake) to great acclaim, we are optimistic that Hot Mikado will appeal to those who love the traditional show as the shows strength is in the portrayal of the characters. When you turn an operetta into a musical, you will always find those interested in the different interpretations it manifests. We hope to attract both purists and those coming to see a musical for the first time."

* Sale and Altrincham Musical Theatre presents Hot Mikado at the Waterside Arts Centre in Sale from November 11-15 at 7.30pm, with a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm. Tickets are available from 0161 912 5616 or watersideartscentre.co.uk.