One of Brighton's most-loved musicals returns to the city this week.

La Cage Aux Folles is based on a French play by Jean Poiret and set in St. Tropez.

Albin and Georges are middle-aged homosexual lovers who run a transvestite nightclub where they star in the drag-queen show Les Cagelles.

Problems arise when Georges' 25-year-old son, Jean-Michel, the result of a heterosexual encounter, announces he is engaged to Anne Dindon, the daughter of a well-known homophobic politician and moral crusader.

Anne's parents want to meet Jean-Michel's mother and father - putting the cat firmly among the pigeons. The comedy sparkles as Albin and Georges attempt to conceal the truth.

Although this is the first time Brighton Theatre Group has presented this show, it is the fourth or fifth time it has come to Brighton, according to director Michael Burnie.

"Brighton and Hove Operatic Society has put it on three times and Allan Cardew, who plays Albin, has performed the part at least once before.

"BTG is putting it on again as it is Brighton's favourite show and a sure-fire winner."

Burnie is a professional director and actor who teaches at three local theatre schools. He has also toured in Europe and the USA.

Although a seasoned pro, he did face a few obstacles when casting the show.

"I was looking for men who could walk naturally in high heels and who were willing to shave their body hair. The girl friend of one of the straight boys rang me up to express her concern he was spending a lot of time combing his blonde wig."

Costumes play an important part in the show. "Allan has a particularly demanding part with numerous quick changes so we had to get two dressers."

Brighton Theatre Group was formed 34 years ago by Mavis Ward, after she broke with the Brighton and Hove Operatic Society, and has a long list of productions to its credit.

Although now quite elderly, Mavis continues to take a great interest in the group.

The BTG also performs at The Old Market, the Pavilion Theatre, the Gardner Arts Centre and the Barn Theatre in Southwick. As well as the main company, there is a successful youth company for the seven to 16-year-olds.

The BTG performs La Cage Aux Folles with set and costumes based on the original Broadway and London productions.

The costumes for the show were designed and created by Masquerade, Preston Road, Brighton.

Tickets cost between £8 and £17.50. Call 01273 328488.