STAGE stars in Selkirk have set the bar as high as can be remembered with the opening show of this year’s Borders spring productions.

With amateur companies across the region currently preparing Evita, 9-to-5, ‘Allo ‘Allo, Spamalot, Guys and Dolls and The Wiz, all eyes are on the Victoria Hall for the opening night of Thoroughly Modern Millie.

And the word that will be heading back to the other rehearsal rooms this week is that Selkirk Opera have come up with a cracker.

The stunning stage presence of leading lady Rachel Inglis, the comedy genius of Stuart Mitchell and a surprising depth of talented supporting cast members lifts this all-singing, all-dancing romp through the Big Apple to new heights.

Throw in the stunning scenery, high-octane choreography, great costumes and a sensational score, and you know you’re onto a winner.

Derek Calder, who has doubled up as director and musical director, is rightly proud of his performers. He told us: “There are a lot of great shows being staged in the Borders this year and it is always a little daunting when you are first.

“I am delighted with what we have achieved. We decided back in October that if we were going to do this to the best of our ability then we’d have to put in the work.

“The whole company has worked exceptionally hard – and the result is a show that we are all extremely proud of.”

For the past five months the cast, which includes 10 new members for 2017, has rehearsed on three evenings each week as well as a double session on Sundays.

The songs are memorable, the dancing is sublime and the acting is compelling – a thoroughly memorable Millie.

Don't miss this week's Border Telegraph for a full review.