HMS Pinafore

Gilbert and Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore may have been written in 1878 but it’s comical lampooning of love between different social classes, politics and unqualified people in authority still resonates today. Maidenhead Operatic Society’s production in modern dress delivers a very good version of the story sung in the very best tradition of the Savoyards comic opera style.

The Bourne End Community Hall may be a very basic stage with limited facilities but the strong vocals without the aid of personal microphones and a very good seven-piece orchestra under a stand in MD produced a clear well-balanced sound. The large Ensemble of twenty-nine playing the Sailors, Sisters, Cousins, and Aunts backed the strong principals well.

The leading characters of  Ralph and Josephine were exceptionally well sung and acted although the cameo role of Hebe almost stole the limelight when she was on with her amazing audience engagement with eyes and yellow gloved hands! The result was a strong reminder that Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic operettas still has a place in our Theatres today and the full house on the opening night certainly agreed.

This was a highly enjoyable production with several standout performances from the talented and experienced principals. G & S is alive and well in Berkshire!

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