Just as the whole country stopped to witness the world darken while the sun was obscured by the moon on Wednesday, I settled in at Theatr y Werin for an evening of pure sunshine and delight in the form of this year's Aberystwyth Arts Centre summer show, writes Natalie Lawson.

The story of the Yorkshire WI who hit the headlines and raised millions for charity by baring (almost) all for a hit calendar is celebrated in this award-winning stage musical written by Gary Barlow and Tim Firth.

Aber theatre icon Richard Cheshire directs this stage version, and let me tell you, it is utterly joyful. Among the uplifting Jam, Jerusalem and sunflowers, the poignant scenes are delivered with a heart-breaking warmth and strength. The whole cast – from professional West End actors to local supporting cast - engaged the audience throughout this wonderfully British tale of friendship, love, loss and resilience through a festival of strong storytelling, singing and dancing.

The cast of female friends all shone, but for me Annie (Abigail Jaye) stole the show with her powerful but restrained emotion, and her relationship with best friend Chris (the brilliant Sian Polhill Thomas). Among the tragedy came comedy aplenty, especially from the wonderful Jessie (Sara Harris-Davies), young lads Danny and Tommo (Joey Cornish and Charlie Longman) and former air hostess with the impressive assets Celia (Elizabeth Marsh).

The green dales of Yorkshire are brought to life beautifully on stage, and another hilarious highlight is the audience being transported to the WI national conference in London, where the supporting actors really steal the scene.

Calendar Girls: The Musical continues at the arts centre until Saturday, 29 August. Don't miss this chance to brighten up your day.