FORBIDDEN love is the order of the day at Thwaites Empire Theatre when Blackburn Gilbert & Sullivan Society turns its attentions to the story of The Gipsy Baron for its annual show.

Set in Hungary in the 18th century, it tells the colourful story of the marriage of landowner Sandor Barinkay, returned from exile, and gipsy girl Saffi who is revealed as the daughter of a Turkish Pasha, and the rightful owner of hidden treasure.

It involves a fortune-telling Romany Queen, an absurdly self-important mayor, a military governor, a band of gipsies and a troop of hussars.

The show is theatrically very effective and musically superb - see for yourself at Thwaites Empire Theatre until March 3.

Call box office on 01254 680137 for tickets, £12.