A WARNING to those expecting to see a version of the successful film on stage: this production is very different. It’s a stage musical, written after the film’s success, with original music and songs.

Also the Sheffield steel workers have all shuffled off to Buffalo, New York, and speak with that peculiarly heavy accent, and the subtle humour that so endeared the original characters to audiences is missing.

Darlington Operatic Society is fortunate to have enough young men to fill the leads, and it’s the right decision to give them something more to do than the male roles in Oklahoma! and Carousel. The Full Monty is a bold undertaking, however; the music is challenging to say the least, with everyone’s range stretched to the limit and melody lines not coming over very clearly.

Julian Cound is excellent in the lead role of Jerry, founder member of exotic male dance troupe Hot Metal. There’s pathos from Nicholas Holmes as Malcolm, who shyly discovers love with Ethan, whose sole talent is being exceptionally well endowed.

Chris Horn, as Ethan, combines a fine singing voice with a nice line in comedy.

Lynne Kerr’s tough old showbiz cookie Jeannette brings a much-needed light touch to the troupe’s rehearsals, and Winstan Robinson’s moonwalk as Horse earned him a round of applause. It’s a brave choice of production, and the lads especially are to be congratulated.

■ Until Saturday, November 7.

Tickets from £10, on 01325-486555.

Sue Heath