AN OTLEY-BASED chartered surveyor is preparing for a major change of 'scenery'.

Graeme Lister will perform in front of audiences in Leeds next week when he stars in an adaptation of Cole Porter's Kiss Me, Kate.

Mr Lister, a partner in F M Lister & Son, will be taking on the role of US Vice President General Harrison Howell for the Leeds Gilbert and Sullivan Society production.

The show, a musical set in 1948, follows a struggling theatre company's attempts to put on a Shakespeare play while coping with gangsters and a love triangle.

It will begin a five-day run at The Carriageworks Theatre on Tuesday, March 21.

Mr Lister said: "The title of the show is very apt because my wife Katie is also in it - playing the role of stage manager.

"Being involved in amateur theatre is like being part of a huge family, with all the fun and support that that brings.

"For the same cost as a cinema ticket you can get to see live theatre performed by your friends in the heart of your community – what’s not to love?"

He added: "Kiss Me, Kate is a scorcher of a show.

"We are having huge fun rehearsing it - the songs are wonderful, the dialogue is funny and the energy the cast are bringing to it is fantastic."

The shows - tickets cost £8 and are available from (0113) 376 0318 - will start at 7.30pm Tuesday to Friday, and there will also be a 4.30pm Saturday matinee.