Bartered Bride

Travelling to Sevenoaks Stag Theatre to see Kentish Opera’s  “The Bartered Bride” I knew I was in for a splendid evening. They always have a stupendous Set, Costumes, and Orchestra.

Sally Langford as director pulls it all together once again, this lady never fails for Kentish Opera, it is always a pleasure to watch the way she directs her principles, and a huge chorus of about 50 around the stage, her direction of any Opera is always first class.

A fantastic set this time by Enid Stutt, so solid and very workable right down to the cooing pigeons and nesting swan. Stupendous.

Costume Designer Carol Stevenson and her team provided the “wow factor” they were perfect, just perfect and so so colourful.

Lighting once again by Colin Martin was at the right level, although, I would have liked a little more personal lighting on principles at times.

Terrific choreography from Terry John Bates and executed by his dancers and acrobats to a very high standard.

Robyn Sevastos once again gave us the orchestra we always expect from her, and a level of professionalism that gives us that wonderful sound…. thank you Robyn. 

Sally’s choice of principals was impeccable once again and they all did you proud Sally. I enjoyed all their characterizations especially the young stuttering Patrick Ashcroft, as Vasek he was a joy to watch, in a very difficult part, perfect characterization!

I cannot fault any of the principles which included, David Hansford as Krusina Natasha Dobie as Ludmila,Cheryl Enever as Marenka,Richard Broadley as Micha,Katy Bingham-Best as Hata,Gareth Dafydd Morris as Jenik,Graham Stone as Kecal,Jeremy Vinogradov as the Ringmaster,Iza Kopec as Esmeralda,and Stewart Silcox as the Indian.

Along with a large chorus that sang, moved and gave us a feeling that we were up there with them.

Thank you “Kentish Opera” for inviting me and my Guest we enjoyed your ‘Bartered Bride’ it was of a very high standard indeed.

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