A BITTERSWEET romantic tale of two very different love stories is the latest offering from Astwood Bank Operatic Society (ABOS).

Carousel is the second musical by the team of Richard Rodgers (music) and Oscar Hammerstein II (book and lyrics).

The story revolves around carousel barker Billy Bigelow, whose romance with millworker Julie Jordan comes at the price of both their jobs.

A secondary plot line deals with millworker Carrie Pipperidge and her romance with ambitious fisherman Enoch Snow.

In this production, newcomer Michael Treagust plays Mr Snow.

Michael was lured to ABOS to what he thought was a minor walk-on role last year in Gilbert & Sullivan's Utopia Ltd.

He then discovered that he actually needed to sing, dance and act, and found he loved the experience, with the result that this year he takes his first big principal role.

Astwood Bank Operatic Society acting chairman Steve Skinner said: "We're very glad to have Michael - we discovered a considerable acting talent and lovely voice last year - he'll make a great Mr Snow.

"And he makes a great pairing with Jo Hargreaves, who has performed roles with us several times before with great success."

The show, at the Palace Theatre, runs from March 14 to 17 nightly at 7.30pm, with a 2.30pm matinee on Saturday, March 17.

Tickets (priced £15/£16, with children half price) are available from 01527 63319, or tickets@astwoodbankoperatic.co.uk or direct from the Palace Theatre.