For two decades youngsters have been bitten by the acting bug thanks to the Musical Youth Company of Oxford (MYCO).

Children of all ages - and whole families - have been enchanted by the lure of the spotlight and the smell of greasepaint.

And many have even used the experience to build successful careers in the film and theatre industries.

This week, MYCO celebrates its 20th birthday with a typically polished performance of Thoroughly Modern Milllie at the Oxford Playhouse.

And the company is looking for former members, directors and backstage crew to join in toasting its success.

MYCO began in 1988 as the youth section of Oxford Operative Society.

But it soon outgrew its 'supporting cast' status and developed its own character.

Its aim was to offer youngsters aged 12-19 the chance to perform in a professional theatre - the Oxford Playhouse.

The group began under the watchful eye of Rod and Barbara Denton, with productions of The Arcadians and Trial by Jury and went on to stage popular hits such as Carousel, Annie Get Your Gun, Guys and Dolls and The Wizard of Oz.

Current chairman Ian Ritchie has been involved with MYCO for nearly 10 years.

He said: "I became involved initially when my son Andrew joined in 1999.

"They were rehearsing for Oliver and when I dropped him off for rehearsals I started just watching.

"I joined the committee for The Wizard of Oz the next year when the group was desperate for new committee members and basically it all went on from there, acting as Secretary - I'm a Chartered Secretary so minutes were easy for me - then doing the programme, designing posters and so on, until I finally ended up as chairman in 2006."

Mr Ritchie said: "Over the years the group has been so much more than just a performance group.

"I think it started with Rod Denton and, although I never met him, I understand he was a very kind and caring man and that kind of supportive environment has been very important ever since."

While many youth clubs and groups are struggling to retain members, membership of MYCO has been and remains strong - about 55 members rehearse after school at the United Reformed Church in Marston and Cherwell School.

And while some members just enjoy the group as a hobby, many go on to study drama.

Three have studied at Guildford School of Acting and two are currently studying at Liverpool Institute for Performing Arts.

Former member Ed Blagrove has gone into theatre directing, while Alan Brown is flexing his vocal chords on round the world cruise ships after beginning his career with just one line in a production of Oklahoma.