Classical Preview: Youth gets its chance with Gilbert & Sullivan

"Young people are the future for Gilbert & Sullivan," says Smith. "Let's get them on board to share the joy and sense of achievement that can be gained from taking part in such an exciting venture."

The response has been quite amazing, five applicants having been chosen from Kent, Liverpool, West Yorkshire, East Midlands and Northern Ireland, all competing for the 'John Reed Trophy', an award named after one of Gilbert & Sullivan's greatest-ever stars.

"It never ceases to amaze me how much youngsters love the words and music of Gilbert & Sullivan when they take part in our many youth initiatives," he continues.

"That's why we are also encouraging them to come and see the main festival over the following three weeks by giving away at least 25 per cent of the Opera House seats free of charge to schools and youth groups. Once introduced, we believe they will be hooked for the future."

Twelve-to-18-year-old students have the opportunity to take part in a three-day G&S Summer School that will look at acting skills, dance movement and singing techniques.

The Seventeenth International G&S Festival follows immediately afterwards (Jul 31-Aug 21). Also taking place in Buxton's Opera House, each year, it attracts around 20,000 visitors.

G&S Festival of Youth, Jul 26-Jul 30, Buxton Opera House, 0845 127 2190.