La Belle Helene

It is quite a long time since I last saw "La Belle Helene" and what a breath of fresh air this production brought to Offenbach's three act Operetta.  This comic opera or operetta was first produced in December 1864 causing a bit of scandal at the time with the nudge-nudge, wink-wink innuendos and suggestive lyrics.

This is the story of Paris the Trojan Prince and Helen's abduction/elopement that caused the Trojan War.

There was an absolutely brilliant line up of principals with extremeley strong singing from the whole cast.  Helen Queen of Sparta, (Amy Ellison) really was a beauty with a voice to match, her much deceived husband Menelaus King of Sparta, (Ian Moorhouse) was in fine voice and brought the comedy in the role.  Paris Prince of Troy, (Brian Harrison) his portrayal was equally as commendable.  Calchas Chief Augur of the Temple, (Paul Holroyd) once again the singing was outstanding as he played his wily character.

They were well supported by Nesta, Helen's personal maid, and the two bubbly "young moderns" of Sparta Leona and Cressida.  A good delivery of "Two Mighty Men-at-Arms" by Ajax and Achillies.

Excellent scenery, I loved the ingenious way the bed puilled out already made up and disappeared just as easily.  Lovely bright costumes, especiallty in the third act at the seaside, it all added to the success of the show.

Ther musical accompaniment with just two grand pianos was as usual delightful, and we could hear every word that was sung plus everyone listened to the Overture and the Entr'acte in silence.

A supberb evening's entertainment, I do hope the audience's improve as the week progresses, the public do not know what they are missing.  Sincere congratulations.

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