HMS Pinafore

HMS Pinafore   

Christchurch G & S    Regent Centre

I came to review this show on behalf of Brian due to the fact he was performing in the show, and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

The show opened on the deck of the Pinafore which got a clap from the audience which is always a great start and it was a great set with the men’s chorus looking splendid in their sailor suits singing well under the musical direction of Ieuan Davies, whose orchestra makes an impressive sound.

The ladies costumes had been updated to the 1920 flappers which worked well and were very colourful and there was some humour which came across well, lots of G&S productions although written 100 yrs ago seem to fit so well with what’s going on in today’s world, however the girls using mobile phones to take selfies, and text and the mention of Wayne Rooney, was not in the right period.  I did like the way the cabin boy (Steven Hughes) had to keep cleaning up after Ralph Rackstraw with his mop and bucket that was funny.

The chorus came across very well and had a lovely sound and it was nice to see that there was no body mics. Ralph Rackstraw (Peter Burdon) in his first-ever G&S role came across very well and seemed to be enjoying his role and was very confident in his part. When Josephine, (Rachel Matthews) arrived on stage and started singing her beautiful soprano voice made everyone take note, and they had a good chemistry between them as the not to be couple due to his lower station in life, she too was making an impressive debut with the company.

Sir Joseph Porter (Brian Oliver) played his part very well and sang beautifully, his extra strong Yorkshire accent added to the larger than life Sir Joseph and he was dressed to impress as the suitor for Josephine. I also liked her father Captain Corcoran (Brian Morgan) who also had a fun part to play in the tale and sang well, I enjoyed their trio Never mind the why and wherefore,   and there are some great funny moments with Dick Deadeye (Mark Ward).

The ladies, Cousin Hebe (Janet French) has her eye on Sir Joseph, and Buttercup (Jane Sykes) both played the parts well, and their act 2 costumes were great, Buttercup as in all G&S has the hidden secret that she tells in the end so everyone one ends up happy ever after. All in all I enjoyed the show as did the rest of the audience well done to one and all.

Marie Coltman. NODA Regional Rep SE 13

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.