Iolanthe

There was much to like in this production by Gini King.    On the positive side were sparkling performances from Tessa Lawn as a splendid Phyllis, the feisty ward of court of the Lord Chancellor, played with polish and assurance by Andy Strivens.    Worthy of praise also were Jo Silcox with her commanding stage presence as Fairy Queen and Gill Eve as Celia, whose lightness of touch was noteworthy.

Peter Leith as Private Willis was believable and stolidly wooden as the role demanded.   Lloyd Walsh as Strephon showed much promise and his mother, Iolanthe, was given a tender and touching portrayal by Dreen Legg.   Not so polished were the two Earls who both lacked presence.

The fairy troupe acquitted themselves well, though long sleeves would have flattered one or two not so young ones.

The music, sadly due to finance these days, was provided by a lone piano, but played sensitively by David Mortimer under the sure guidance of Musical Director Selena Hegarty.   The tempi were accurate throughout, which is not always the case in amateur G&S.

Unfortunately, the cramped stage rather spoiled the effect in the opening scene with the Peers' chorus engaged in country pursuits, not seeing the fairies who flitted (or rather squeezed) in and out of them.    A good idea this, but better suited to a large stage.

The chorus singing, whilst not completely wonderful was well up to standard.  Also done well was the act one finale, a difficult scene for any company, which was skilfully handled by both stage and musical directors.

I liked the unfussy set by Brian Legg and Ian McFarlane and lighting effects by Tony Bowdery.

All in all,  "Iolanthe" was a good effort with a few areas needing improvement.   My thanks to BLOS for inviting me and the warm welcome my guest and I were given.

Jon Fox

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