 |
|
| |
| | |
|
|
|
“A stirring, polished performance… G&S at its comic best.”
“Well crafted from start to finish, exceptional co, exceptional costumes and setting, stirring stuff from an upbeat orchestra, and topical additions to the libretto – “even Governments fail to answer clearly” – this is a top of the class, jolly production of Pinafore, and like the audience, I can’t wait for the Pirates of Penzance to climb on board next week.”
"Colin Baker’s Sir Joseph Porter KCB is “one of the best portrayals seen on stage for many a year”.
|
|
|
|
|
“The opening night in Malvern of Carl Rosa’s touring production of HMS Pinafore played to
a packed audience and was as good as one is likely to see.
Characterisation and singing by each of the actors was exemplary and the fine chorus of
sailors and female relations was supportive, and added considerable humour. Clear
enunciation ensured that Gilbert’s satiric libretto was enjoyed to its maximum, vital
especially when Colin Baker, as the lordly Sir Joseph Porter sang his patter song When I
was a lad and when he was joined by Anne Bourne as love-sick Josephine, and Steven Page as
popular Captain Corcoran, in Never mind the why and wherefore.
|
|
The question is what 101 years after Sullivan’s death now counts as a good production.
Well depending on your priorities, this one does. It recognises that
The Pirates of Penzance is a masterpiece of its kind, respects charm and humour of the music, and
presents the story absolutely straight. But the main point is that it is so well done, with what
seems like real belief in the piece.
|
|
|
|
|
“Lovers of Gilbert & Sullivan will be delighted with this production, directed by
Timothy West, which received its world premiere last night at Malvern Theatres.
Presented in true opera fashion the production was blessed with remarkable voices such
as Anne Bourne (Joesphine) and Peter Grant as Dick Deadeye.
It presents the operetta in all its glory…”
|
|
|
|
