H.M.S. Pinafore & Trial By Jury

This presentation of H.M.S. Pinafore was traditional but came over the footlights as fresh as ever. This was due in no small measure, to a very accomplished team of principles and chorus, all of whom obviously enjoyed themselves and this enjoyment communicated itself to the audience.

The curtains opened onto the quarterdeck of H.M.S. Pinafore to a delightful set, but I was very taken with the Semaphore flag system and what a good rendition of ‘We Sale the Ocean Blue’ a very rousing performance, well done sailors. A very polished performance came from Tony Hindle playing R.H. Sir Joseph Porter, K.C.B bringing out all the necessary humour, and Derek Bamber was a very convincing Captain Corcoran. The leading roles of Josephine and Ralph Rackstraw were both superbly played by Lorna Sherrin and Chris Hardman, their solos and duets were effortlessly and beautifully sung. Ron Eadington gave a good portrayal of Dick Deadeye the lugubrious able-seaman. Another vocally strong performance came from Helen Bullen as Little Buttercup, and Joanne Tolson was indeed a flirtatious Hebe, all were ably assisted by a very good chorus of First Lord’s, Sisters, his Cousins and his Aunts, Sailors and Marines. I could hear every word of this production and commend you for this as being confined to a small stage.

The costumes were lovely, well done everyone back stage, front of house and what can I say about the orchestra, except truly lovely, so well balanced. Thank you.

Trial By Jury

A very modern approach to this ‘Trial’ which has to be pacey, slick and fun and it certainly was. Ron Eadington as the Learned Judge, presided throughout and gave a first class performance. The plaintiff Angelina made a very dramatic entrance walking down the centre aisle through the audience and up onto the stage, looking very glamorous with heels to die for! She acted and sang beautifully and was well supported by the bridesmaids, well done Sue Richardson.

An indignant defendant and good counsel for the plaintiff added to the magic, well played and sung by Chris Hardman and Ann Wodeman. Graham Beevers was a strong Foreman of the Jury, although not a large part, he was very good. The jury all sang well but in the end it was the Judge that won the day.

The set was simple but effective. Thank you Hornby for a lovely evening’s entertainment.

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