HMS Pinafore

Batley Gilbert and Sullivan Society set sail once more with their lively and well-executed production of HMS Pinafore, playing to a busy auditorium brimming with eager anticipation. The energy in the room before curtain-up spoke volumes about the society’s dedicated following and the enduring popularity of this much-loved comic opera.

It was particularly great to see so many men on stage, creating a full, rounded, and harmonious sound in the opening number, We Sail the Ocean Blue. The ensemble delivered a rich vocal performance that set the tone for the evening.

Philippa Johnstone brought warmth and charm to the role of Little Buttercup, with lovely characterisation and a gentle, expressive tone to her vocals throughout. Her developing relationship with Captain Corcoran, played by Stephen Mohun, was a delight to watch. Stephen was assured in his performance, with strong, confident vocals and an excellent sense of comic timing, especially in his scenes with other principal characters.

Leon Waksberg, as Ralph Rackstraw, conveyed the emotional struggle of a common sailor in love with the captain’s daughter, Josephine. His powerful tenor voice filled the theatre, although at times the vibrato made some lyrics harder to follow. Opposite him, Heather Watson gave a standout performance as Josephine. Classically trained, she delivered her arias with emotional depth and vocal finesse, capturing the character’s conflict and romantic longing with apparent ease.

The archetypal pompous First Lord of the Admiralty, the Rt Hon Sir Joseph Porter K.C.B., was portrayed with great satirical flair by Malcolm Parkinson. His performance was both timely and timeless, poking fun at social and political structures with humour that still resonates today. The physical comedy in Never Mind the Why and Wherefore was particularly well-executed, showcasing the quintessential G&S style.

Edwin Kirkwood impressed as the cynical and sharp-tongued Dick Deadeye. The only character in the opera who consistently speaks the truth, his portrayal leaned into the villainous with a performance that at times was reminiscent of a Bond villain—an inspired interpretation that added an extra layer of intrigue.

Supporting principals Bill Bobstay (Simon Bray), Bob Beckett (Phil Haley), and Hebe (Tanya Parsons) brought depth and energy to their roles, especially in the poignant Farewell My Own. The chorus of sailors, sisters, cousins, and aunts provided strong support throughout, both vocally and dramatically, enhancing the visual and musical richness of the production.

Musically, the 15-piece orchestra conducted by Richard Buxton offered a dynamic and well-paced accompaniment, complementing the singers beautifully and enhancing the overall ambience of the show. Visually, the production was anchored by an elaborately painted harbour set, designed by Howard Goalby and brought to life through the whimsical artistry of Chris Hall. The staging struck a perfect balance between traditional G&S style and creative flair. Produced and directed by David Hall, this production delivered all the beloved performance conventions audiences expect from a Gilbert and Sullivan opera—clever wordplay, satirical bite, and a healthy dose of nautical nonsense

Congratulations to everyone involved in what was another superb and memorable production by the Batley Gilbert and Sullivan Society.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.