Iolanthe

I cannot believe that it was the 8th of May 2015 that I first saw ‘Iolanthe’ at The Devonshire Park Theatre! Fairies have certainly changed their appearance since then and the idea of Steam Punk with such wonderful costumes, colour and antics was an exciting new conception. The return to the Hippodrome was nostalgic too for it was 36 years ago that The Eastbourne G & S Society performed their first opera ‘The Pirates of Penzance’. This was a first too for Director Helen who added sparkle to the production, well balanced action, and some nifty foot work. The swirling cloaks of the mortal peers of the realm was certainly in keeping with the opulence of the theatre itself, and together with Russell’s musical leadership and fine singing the audience were enjoying the results.

An original colourful A4 programme containing full readable information was produced. The usual G & S complex story line was once again full of intrigue, forbidden liaisons, complications but of course a happy conclusion.

Steve Walter was responsible for the scenery which was professionally presented with a combination of back projection devised by Megan Stanfield. She was combining her skills as design and lighting operative, creating the fairies’ domain - a magical scene of fast flowing waterfall surrounded by sumptuous greenery to images of Big Ben in London, and a huge waving Union Jack. Static pieces included a single sentry box which reversed neatly into foliage and tree stumps which opposite was a raised area used for exits and entry with attractive fencing and bench in front. Dressing stage right was a cloth tree looking quite realistic until a peer of the realm whisked his cloak too closely! The set gave a good working stage space for movement. Props were incredibly good, and special mention must go to Fiona Craven for wings and wands and Helen Morbey for assisting with wardrobe including  the mauve and black costume with amazing long staff of The Queen of the Fairies, Rebecca Hughes.

With a reduced sized orchestra but still well balanced, the wonderful music flowed, opening with the Acadian Landscape Overture with so many notable musical numbers all worthy of mention. ‘Tripping hither’ with the chorus of mischievous fairies was a fun opening approach with a powerful performance from Melody Westcott as Leila, Rowan as Celia who was multi-tasking with all the ‘p’s – props, publicity, photos, and projection! A rich performance from Rebecca looking and sounding stunning as the Queen of the Fairies with ‘Fare thee well, attractive stranger’ and ‘Oh, foolish fay.’ Duetting with Phyllis, played by versatile Lucy Sarsfield playing a different role in this Iolanthe was newcomer Benjamin Craven as an imposing, confident Strephon – a huge G & S fan and who was a lead singer in a rock band. Paul Eccles, expert in his craft again performed an agile Lord Chancellor and surprise! Father of Strephon and husband of Iolanthe. Great patter pieces with words beautifully enunciated.

Wendy Dovey excelled as peer of the realm Lord Tolloller with fun trios and quartets with good characterisation.  Alison King costumed in an attractive green gown and cloak played the banished Mother who presented  particularly enjoyable opening scene returning from exile together with the Queen and her fairies. I must also commend Private Willis – Ian Charlesworth who made a splendid guardsman performing  ‘When all night long a chap remains’ so very well as was the quartet ‘Your Blame’ which added amusement showing his little set of wings. Balanced, word perfect and fine audible ensemble work throughout.

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.