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A hilarious, fast-paced comedy brought to life by local actors at 16th Ave Theatre next month will bolster audiences before the Christmas rush!

From November 20 to December 5, 16th Ave Theatre presents Ken Ludwig’s Lend Me a Soprano, a gender-swapped adaptation of his 1989 hit comedy Lend Me a Tenor.

Director Ali Young said she starred in Lend Me a Tenor about 20 years ago, which promoted her to discover Lend Me a Soprano and take it on.

“In Lend Me a Tenor males held the lead roles, whereas this is reversed.”

Set in America in 1934, the plot has Cleveland Grand Opera Company preparing for a high-stakes, one-night-only performance of Georges Bizet’s Carmen.

The door-slamming comedy follows Lucille Wiley, played by 16th Ave regular Sarah Bate, who is the opera company’s manager.

World‑renowned – and notoriously temperamental – soprano Elena Firenzi, played by Tauranga actress Eryl Raymond, arrives scandalously late with her wildly jealous husband, played by Alan Baker, and chaos explodes, triggering a domino effect of misunderstandings and mishaps!

Maisie O’Rafferty plays the lead role of Jo, Lucille Wiley’s capable yet underestimated assistant who steps up to save the day.

Young said audience-goers will have a hoot of a night out. “They can expect an absolute laugh-a minute show full of mistaken identities, misadventure and crisis.”

She said the set has six doors, which are constantly opening and closing with characters and hilarious antics. “People are hiding in cupboards, falling asleep, falling out on stage … With the set made, it’s just come to life! It will be a fantastic evening to brighten up your pre-summer festivities.”

Lend Me a Soprano runs November 20 to December 5 at 16th Ave Theatre, 164 Sixteenth Ave West, Tauranga.

Tickets are for sale from $20 each plus a booking fee at: www.iticket.co.nz.

Thanks to 16th Ave Theatre, The Weekend Sun has four double passes to give away to the November 20 night opening of Lend Me a Soprano.

To enter, visit: sunlive.co.nz and click on the “competitions” tab and tell us who plays the lead role of Jo? Entries must be in by Tuesday, November 3.