WHAT a difference a year makes. Twelve months ago Yorkbased Theatre Mill made its debut with a production of Oscar Wilde’s, comedy The Importance Of Being Earnest at the Lord Mayor’s residence.

Since then productions of Sherlock Holmes And The Speckled Band in the Treasurer’s House and, most impressively, Agatha Christie’s courtroom drama Witness For The Prosecution in the Guildhall council chamber have shown this is a professional theatre company that’s here to stay.

But why return to the scene of its first production with the very same play? Because, it emerges, this is a very different show indeed. Director Samuel Wood has moved the action forward to the 1920s which allows for musical interludes – and some amusing interaction – with the mighty fine After Hours Rauchestra.

After playing Holmes and Watson, Liam Tims and Adam Elms pair up as friends and occasional enemies John Worthing and Algernon Moncrieff (do try the special cocktail named after him before the performance if you get the chance). They’re a pair of liars who’ve been leading double lives thanks to a spot of Bunburying, producing false characters so they can enjoy double lives in town and country.

Stephanie De Whalley’s 1920’s flapper Gwendolen and Isobel Hughes’ wide-eyed innocent Cecily are the objects of their romantic attention – if only they can get Prue Gillett’s imperious Lady Bracknell on their side.

  • Runs until August 17. Performances Wednesday to Sunday, 2pm (with afternoon tea) and 7.30pm (summer cake selection). Box office 01904-623568 and online yorktheatreroyal.co.uk