H.M.S.Pinafore

I see from past productions that HMS Pinafore was originally performed by the company both in 1985 and 1994, so this third production of the show is obvious from the audience’s enjoyment a very popular choice and remain a firm favoutite.

All credit to the society for a very well produced production with the cast in good voice and well balanced throughout the show.
I liked the semaphore sequence with the flags at the very start of the show which led into the opening chorus.
Both Mike Mitchell as the Rt.Hon Sir Joseph Porter KCB, and Martin Sparks playing Captain Corcoran were in command of their respective roles from their first entries on to the stage, and I felt both did justice to these wonderful characters with an exemplary understanding of the dialogue and songs within each role.
Natasha Bennett playing Josephine sung beautifully with a stunning upper range to her voice.Natasha also looked the part so well in some lovely costumes.
The costumes with all the cast were excellent and all looked very attractive.
Ralph Rackstraw the dashing Able Seaman played by Tim Glover did well in this role, with a very high tenor voice.Well sung also in the duets with Josephine
Fiona Morris as Little Buttercup again sung well and was a bright “bumboat “ woman with a well rehearsed “Things are Seldom as they Seem” duet with Captain Corcoran which was very entertaining.
I found Peter Bather as the villain Dick Deadeye very consistent in this great character, and his duet “Kind Captain I’ve Important Information”with Captain Corcoran sung particularly well with excellent timing.
The Gentlemen in assorted roles within the show all did a great job with some fine harmonies coming through, and well done on a strong feel to all the chorus numbers from the gentlemen.
The trio “A British Tar”with Ralph, Bill Bobstay played by John Forrest and Bob Becket played by Malcolm  Burren,had a slightly shaky start but was soon picked up into a very good number.Well done.
The ladies of the chorus, also Cameo roles of Hebe,Edith and Kate added to the enjoyment and all sung beautifully.
It was a very enjoyable production, superbly accompanied by Joe Richardson who totally gave such support and firm leads into songs throughout the performance.Joe is a great asset to the company and it is fascinating to watch him play with such understanding of each and every show he accompanies.
A well directed show from David who should be very proud of his production. And also Hilary as Musical Director with some splendid ensemble numbers which were very tuneful.Finally, as always the set painting and design in the capable hands of Jo Hunter and Sarah Smith was a masterpiece with the detail and attention on the huge wall which was first class and added so much to the standard of the show.
Well done to you all, we enjoyed it immensely and catching up with friends is always a pleasure at Wivenhoe.

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