Chesterfield Gilber and Sullivan Society

Reviewed by: Joyce Handbury on Wednesday 5 October 2011
Venue: Pomegranate Theatre, Chesterfield
Type of Production: Gilbert & Sullivan
Producer/Director: Nic Wilson
Musical Director: Andrew Marples
Choreographer: Roseanna Sanderson

Show Report

Celebrating their 40th. anniversary Chesterfield G&S decided to perform an updated version of The Mikado. It was set in 1950’s London at the centre of English Government thus moving from rural Japan in the nineteenth century to The Institute to Impoverish Public Utilities (TITIPU). The excellently played overture under the direction of Musical Director, Andrew Marples, really set the scene for what was to be a fun-filled musical extravaganza. The opening number introduced us to the elegantly dressed men of the city complete with bowlers and umbrellas which were used to great effect throughout the show.
Andrew Lockwood’s fine tenor voice was well suited to the role of Nanki-Poo his many numbers were all superb. Phil Aldred was terrific, his comedic timing was perfect for the role of KoKo and his renditions of ‘On a Tree by a River a little Tom-Tit’ and ‘As someday it may happen, I have a little list’ were delightful. Phil Bradley was arrogantly condescending as Pooh-Bah, Lord High Everything Else and David Stokes gave good support as Pish-Tush. Jo Howland was deliciously coquettish as Yum Yum her beautiful soprano voice is just outstanding. She was extremely well supported by her sisters Pitti-Sing played by Julie Currey who did infact ‘sing’ very well and Heather Spink as Peep-Bo. They were a lovely giggly threesome and their interpretation of ‘Three little maids’ was a definite highlight. Another highlight was the imposing portrayal of Katisha, the PA to the Mikado, by Judith Cocking who has such a magnificent singing voice and The Mikado was strikingly characterized by Max Taylor. There were many lyrical changes reflecting contemporary issues, but sadly I didn’t manage to catch them all! The harmonious singing of the chorus, the effective set designed and built by Phil Aldred, great costumes, subtle lighting and a superb orchestra together with wonderful principals all made for a most innovative and enjoyable production.