Iolanthe

A splendid overture, a delight to listen to, set the scene for Halifax Gilbert & Sullivan society's production of "Iolanthe".

One of the main articles of Fairy Law states that any Fairy who marries a mortal must die! But Iolanthe was the Fairy Queen's favourite, and therefore was banished for twenty five years instead of the usual death sentence.

A very different interpretation from the usual dainty Faries "Tripping hither and tripping thither" in floaty, flimsy dresses, we had Fairies dressed as hippies from the sixty's and they were stomping around instead. The Peers, appeared in various outfits carrying Picnic Baskets, Rugs, Bottles of Champagne and glasses.

The Director put a lot of thought into this production and exploited the humour to the full.

The Queen of Fairies, (Penny McGoverin) sang beautifully although dressed as Anne Heggerty from the television quiz show "The Chase".  A pretty sympathetic Iolanthe (Anna Trent) gave a good portrayal of her role.  The principals were all of a high standard, the trio in the second act with Tolloller, (Stephen Greenwood) Mountararat, (Leon Waksberg) and the Lord Chancellor (Roly Robertshaw) delighted the audience with their "If you go in you're sure to win".  Phyllis and Strephon (Rosey Robinson, Peter Skelton) were well matched.

The smaller character roles were well cast and all gave creditable performances.  One expects good singing from this chorus and they did not disappoint.

This was a society who thought they would not be able to put on a producction this year as funds were so low, but it just goes to show that when the cast provide their own costumes, and you have no scenery to speak of, it is amazing what can be acheived when everyone pulls togther.

A good evening's entertainment, well done.

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