Die Fledermaus was Johann Strauss' response to Offenbach in Paris - he even used Offenbach's librettist as a source for his operetta.

It was a success from the start and has now become traditional fare in Vienna, especially at New Year.

Why is it such a success? Well, it is a light, frothy concoction packed full of waltzes and polkas from the man who is known as the Waltz King and who reigned supreme in the musical world of Vienna in the 1870s.

Its very fluffiness and plethora of memorable tunes has obscured its dark side, which takes a sharp poke at the cream of society for its hypocrisy, adulterous goings-on, obsession with luxury and champagne-fuelled excesses.

This English Touring Opera (ETO) production very much plays the operetta for laughs and includes a lot of pantomime funny business along with the witty, slangy and topical new translation into English by director Bill Bankes-Jones.

ETO is probably the best of the mid-scale touring companies and has assembled an excellent ensemble company.

It is taut and tight and through all the disguises, mistaken identities and flirtations, the accent is on fun.

Bankes-Jones sets the show firmly in period, using a simple set with knock-out lighting.

Die Fledermaus can be seen again on Thursday and Friday evening at 7.30pm. Tonight and Saturday, ETO presents Richard Strauss'

Ariadne Auf Naxos, also at 7.30pm. For tickets call 01273 709709 or 01273 328488.

Presented in association with the Theatre Royal.