Orpheus In The Underworld

This is Jacques Offenbach’s farcical twist on the Greek myth - Orpheus’ and Eurydice’s story concerning Gods, Heroes and of course love. This operetta is a parody and The Three Towns certainly went to town on it!

The singing from main cast and chorus was of a high standard and led by Musical Director, Rod Dakin and orchestra was really beautiful, including the rousing Galop.

The main cast worked really well together and the director David Kay certainly added some great touches and some lovely comic moments including some witty modern references. Just my preference (and did not detract) but I would have liked to see the Chorus moved about the stage more.

Eurydice (Wife of Orpheus) Played by Victoria Goulden certainly knew what she wanted and it wasn’t her husband! Her character was believable and definitely a modern woman. I am sure she had the upper hand with both men – she portrayed this very well.

Orpheus played by Tony Meehan and Pluto (King of Hades) played by David Griffiths husband and lover respectively completed the love triangle, both playing out their own agendas effectively.

Juno (Jupiter’s wife) played by Barbara Mayers was hilarious and I am still laughing at certain bits! Playing the long suffering wife certainly gave scope for lots of pathos & I especially loved the ode to Les Dawson – overall a stunning performance!

Mercury (The messenger) played by David Kay - the most unlikely Mercury ever, but it worked! I would have milked that zimmer idea even more, with one or more extra appearances – inspired!

I could mention all of the cast, as everyone portrayed their character well.

Lighting by Steven Cheetham and sound by Lea Royse and Elodie Perrier worked well to support the show.

I was a little confused with the costumes for the shepherds and shepherdesses in Act 1, but loved the sheep. Costumes for Olympus and Hades were lovely and apt.

The Three Towns Operatic Society: thank you for invitation, and making my guest and I feel so welcome. I loved the show and had a really good belly laugh (you probably heard me)!

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