H.M.S. Pinafore

Report on

Clevedon Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s

Production of 

“H.M.S. Pinafore”

Director & Choreographer – Karen Mullholland,

Musical Director – Richard Lennox.

 

As seen by Bob Allen, NODA SW District 14 Representative 

( on behalf of Mike Purnell -local NODA contact)

on Friday, 16th, May, 2025

at Prince’s Hall, Clevedon, Somerset.

PLEASE NOTE: 

Any observation made by the reviewer can only be based on what he sees at the performance in question.  The reviewer may have received information in advance of the performance, and it is inevitable that his assessment will be effected by that knowledge.

The N.O.D.A. Representative’s intention is to give an objective critique of the overall production and in particular the performance viewed.  It should be remembered that any review of this nature can only be objective as far as the techniques used during the performance observed.  Any criticisms expressed may not have been valid at other performances, and are only made to encourage higher standards in Amateur Theatre.

It is hoped that the audience’s appreciation of your efforts will have given everyone a lift and encouraged you to greater achievements in the future and that the observations made by the reviewer will prove helpful in improving future productions.

How fortunate is this Society to be able to perform in such a good local venue. This was my first visit to Princes Hall, Clevedon and it was a real surprise being tucked away in the back streets of the town. There is a well presented large stage, plenty of seating including a rear raised area and an adjacent bar with seating area. I was already expecting good things to follow and was not to be disappointed. 

The stage was simply decorated with some scattered small barrels and had a small staircase, which was well used, at rear stage right. The scene was completed with a projected shot of period ships on the rear stage wall and this just completed the simple effective staging. There were fixed microphones across the stage front edge as well as two ariel mics. These combined with cast individual microphones to ensure an even sound balance being produced. 

I’m going mention the Musical Director Richard Lennox next. Not only did he direct the musical side of the show but he also played the keyboard for the entire show. Played with a lot of love and care towards the cast I’ll add and must have been really looking forward to a night cap! It is a pity that in these days of rising costs this super group could not have afforded more musical support. However Richard seemed to enjoy his task greatly and had a strong connection with the cast.

The Director and Choreographer, Karen Hullholland achieved wonders in moving all those bodies around the stage and making the play flow. Act One moved from one song to the next smoothly and all had a spring in their step. The musical numbers were well controlled and seamless and those stairs rear stage came into good use. The second act is always a problem in that it is quite static and makes movement less with most of the cast present on stage. I felt that, at this time, a rear walkway, perhaps of just a few inches, butting up to the side of the ship may have been useful and could have given another level for the audience to view. The addition of the ladies singing for the crew was a great success. I wasn’t sure if it would work for me but I did enjoy it as it included some of my favourite G&S songs. It didn’t seem out of place at all. Also working for me were the updated verses about food and supermarkets in one of Josephine’s songs in the second act. Wonderful! It was what would have happened in Queen Victoria’s day and was one of the reasons she liked G&S so much. 

My congratulations are also sent to all the folks who worked so hard on supplying the Glossary and Synopsis in the programme. This attention to detail helps so much in adding to the enjoyment the audience achieves from the show. Most people would not know the history of the G&S collaboration these days nor of all the items mentioned in the songs. 

I’m always looking at the background actors when watching a show like this. It is easy to let your attention wander while the main cast act in front of you. But you were all very good at staying in role so well done, especially as I visited on the last night! I admired the age range in your cast and was very pleased to see how much the older generation can still add to a show. Your costumes and props were very good, colourful and in keeping with the play. I wished that there had been a spot check before the show – were the Captain’s legging could have been pinned up or a wristwatch or two could have been removed!

I mention the following cast members but am sorry I cannot list you all. This was a very tight, solid production and everyone did their part to make it a good ensemble show. I hope you will all remember your time in this show.

Josephine played by Fiona. A spirited performance and loads of energy. That lovely voice was meant to play G&S. I personally would have preferred her dressed in a lighter colour to match her nature. Well done Fiona.

Ralph played by Dan. I thought Dan was slightly shy for the role at first appearance with being so slim and tall and being visible all the time. But much to my delight he warmed to the part. He had the voice and appearance for the role and was a good contrast to Josephine. Congratulations Dan.

Chris playing Sir Joseph. Exactly how I would have expected him to look and a very good voice to give edge to the role. Enjoyed his performance.

Francesca playing Buttercup. That’s the way to own the stage! Good stage presence. Great singing voice that contrasted well to your speaking voice which sounded to me as though Pam Ayers was on stage. Made that part your own!

I’ve enjoyed this show so Thank You to all involved. The standard was high and the energy even more. Shows like this keep the life going in G&S. You were also very kind in the warm welcome afforded to my guest and I (Special Thank You Dave!) 

I’ll be very happy to step in again to visit anytime. 

Congratulations Clevedon Gilbert & Sullivan Society on a good show!

 

Kind regards

Bob Allen. NODA SW district 14 Representative

N.B. The comments above are solely the view of the representative attending and only reflects the performance seen.

 

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