(Definitely) Not Mikado

                                                   

I was warmly welcomed at front of house and had the opportunity to read the synopsis of this updated plot before the performance. This is a modern version of the romantic comedy based on the original music by Arthur Sullivan with an updated libretto written by society member Tim Glover.

The set was well designed by Peter Cook and Phil Stephens. It was uncomplicated, attractive and effective with a white, black and red backdrop depicting a typical Japanese market scene with temples and the obligatory cherry blossom. A few props were used to change the set to the inside of the Shinto temple.

This was a very colourful and impressive production by the society. There was a wealth of talent on display making excellent use of the small stage with an additional small ensemble of singers placed to one side. All the cast had magnificent voices and played their characters to the full. Nancy Hughes, as gangster Kenji, had enormous stage presence and great depth and range to her voice. I enjoyed her solo slots very much. The three young graduates (three maids) , Eleanor Reader-Moore as Aika, Fiona Morris as Kaida and Sara Nice as Atsuko were extravagant in style and performance with fabulous costumes. I thought that they all acted and sang really well together with their voices complementing each others and each of their solos brought out the differing strengths of their voices and their respective roles. Eleanor had a really strong voice which was wonderfully evident in her solos, whilst Fiona and Sara had more gentle and sensitive voices.

The Shinto priest, Chika was well played by Clare Allmond who had some attractive solo spots which I enjoyed.

Hai Ku, a street food seller engaged to Aika was played in an engaging manner by Tim Glover whose solos were emotional and from the heart. His love rival, Kai Lung, a wandering storyteller, played by Des Newell coped enthusiastically with this part .

Ian Gray, as Itachi the town official had a challenging role with split loyalties both to the citizens and also the gangsters, a role he performed well. Peter Bather, as the Mikado, a ruthless gang master was wonderfully menacing and determined as he exerted his influence on the citizens. There was a superb song featuring Kenji, Mikado and Itachi which was so well performed by them.

A large chorus were often on stage with plenty of action and movement. Most of the musical numbers had some chorus involvement which created good volume and this was bolstered by the group of singers to the side of the stage. These numbers were really lively and well performed. There were some good comedy moments throughout which were much appreciated by the audience.

The costumes on stage were very colourful and in the Japanese traditional style. The lighting and sound were both relevant and contributed to the overall quality of the production.

Musical accompaniment was superbly provided by pianist Joe Richardson, with Dan Edwards on percussion. Musical Director, Hilary Brunning ,whom I met in the interval, had worked hard to showcase all the individual strengths in the cast with excellent results.

Finally, many congratulations to the Artistic Director, Tim Glover and the Director, David Wiggins, both of whom I met afterwards, for their imagination and innovation in bringing this production to stage. Well done.

The audience enjoyed the evening very much as did I.

 

 

 

 

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