FAMILY ties remain strong at Haworth West Lane Baptist Amateurs this week as the amateur theatre group present The Gondoliers.

A husband and wife duo are amongst the principal performers, continuing a tradition dating back to the group’s origins with the Baptist Church’s choir.

In their fictional roles the couple are not together at the end of the show – and in the real world their daughter will the downstairs clearing up after serving refreshments.

The Amateurs have several other couples amongst the cast and backstage team, and the rehearsal pianist is playing in the orchestra while her daughters do make-up.

Pirates of Penzance was the chapel choir’s first Gilbert and Sullivan performance in 1948, and since its official transformation into West Lane Baptist Amateur Operatic Society in 1964 the group has performed G&S each year since.

Publicity officer Ian Dobson said: “Established as a traditional ‘chapel group’ the society has seen many family members involved in the productions over the years.

“Brothers Michael and Terry Lofthouse took the roles of Production Director and Musical Director for many years.

“Whilst not everyone involved now is a member of the Baptist Church a wide variety of Christian denominations are represented amongst the current membership.

“We have another family with two generations on stage and the society secretary will be working tirelessly in the box office and refreshments while her husband – who has produced the programme and posters – will be on stage too.

“It is true to say that this hard-working bunch of friends are one happy family in themselves!”

This year’s show, Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera The Gondoliers, is being performed nightly at the Baptist Church until Saturday, November 18.

Mr Dobson said: “The show itself will transport you from sunny Spanish shores to the piazzas of Venice and on to the mythical island of Barataria!

“There is a complicated plot to untangle involving gondoliers, contadine, a ducal party and a Grand Inquisitor, but in true Gilbert and Sullivan style everyone lives happily ever after!

“Sparkling and tuneful music plus singing and dancing ensure a lively show that will be fun and brighten up a cold, winter’s evening.”

Over the years the West Lane society has raised many thousands of pounds for charity with raffles at the performances.

This year’s beneficiary is Haworth Riding for the Disabled.

The Gondoliers is performed at 7.30pm with a Saturday matinee at 2.15pm. Call 01535 643425 to book tickets.