Win tickets to the Opera House

New Lyric Operatic Company previously performed The Pirates of Penzance in 2001, after which they won seven awards at the coveted AIMS Awards. This included Michelle's Baird award for 'Best Female Singer' as leading role Mabel. Michelle will return to the Grand Opera House once more to recapture the magic.

Michelle explained: "Every year, operatic companies from all over the world are invited to participate in this highly prestigious International Festival Competition. As New Lyric is the only company in Ireland asked to compete this year, it's a great honour for us.

"The common theme in 'Pirates' is comedy, backed up by some rousing chorus numbers and choreography. Amongst the swashbuckling pirates, the somewhat tentative policemen, the bumbling Major General and the not so light footed ladies, there's definitely something for everyone."

This exciting production has vast chorus ensemble numbers, cleverly choreographed dance routines and hilarious comic acting! The score boasts some wonderful toe-tapping melodies which are beautifully accompanied by New Lyric Operatic Company's twenty piece orchestra. It appears Gilbert and Sullivan fans from beyond Belfast are equally excited about the production as New Lyric has been specially selected to represent Ireland at the international Gilbert & Sullivan Festival in Buxton in August.

Tickets can be booked via the Grand Opera House Box Office on 9024 1919, in person at the Box Office in the theatre foyer or online at www.goh.co.uk.

The Star has two pairs of tickets to give away for the opening night of the show, Tuesday May 4. To be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets, answer this question: 'Which duo co-wrote the Pirates of Penzance?' Send your answer, together with name, address and daytime telephone number to Pirates of Penzance Competition, Ulster Star, 12A Bow Street, Lisburn, BT28 1BN. Alternatively, email you answer and contact details to [email protected] The closing date for entries is Wednesday April 28.