Pirates of Penzance

Spennymoor Stage and Song never seems to fail with their productions and their latest interpretation of “The Pirates of Penzance”, a Gilbert and Sullivan masterpiece in my opinion, was a really super production.  It had pace, humour and a wealth of experience and professionalism from an enthusiastic cast.

The set was excellent, designed and constructed by Eric Hickson, it was colourful and enabled the cast to create interest.  A special mention must go to Joe Wailes and Astrolec Electrical for the lighting and sound. It certainly supported the mood for the show and overall effect of the set. The orchestra was in the capable hands of Martyn Jones and I particularly enjoyed the way they interacted during the show. The attention to detail was obvious, and the costumes excellent.  Every ounce of fun and humour was drawn from the script, as produced and directed by Karen Butler.

This impressive and well crafted production was filled with comical interludes throughout the performance, and its well chosen cast of principals headed a good strong chorus who were well focused, sang confidently and never let their energy levels drop. Richard Butler played the dashing swash-buckling Pirate King who led the band of infamous pirates. He gave a sterling performance and his whole persona was totally what you would have expected giving strength and meaning to his musical numbers.  He was well supported by his side-kick Samuel, played by Brian Sneath.  

Ian Patterson, as Federic, gave a strong performance delivering his musical numbers well and, complemented Karen Butler (Ruth), who gave us a great performance, desperately trying to convince Frederic that she was the woman he needed.  Karen has an excellent singing voice and stage presence and it was nice to see her back on stage. Paul Rodgerson gave a rousing performance as the Sergeant of Police. He danced and sang showing his versatility and humour, while leading a bunch of cowardly policeman, much to the audience’s enjoyment.  I enjoyed Eric Hickson’s interpretation of Major General Stanley, his enthusiasm being overwhelming as he threw himself into his role - his rendition of “A Modern Major General” had the audience rocking with laughter in their seats.  The major’s 'daughters', played by Claire Warren, Natalie Wile and Claire Smith, were everything one could ask for as they supplied us with oodles of laughter, flirtatiousness, and over-the-top antics, and were a joy to watch. They all could certainly sing their musical numbers.

Mabel was played by Beverley Fishburn, who gave a sterling and confident performance in her role. She had excellent stage presence, and delivered all her musical numbers with clear diction, the music showing off her style of voice well. The motley crew of pirates were all very different and superbly schooled in the art of skulduggery. They were well choreographed, and their presence throughout the show added to the performance.

The whole production was light-hearted, bright and played with pace. Karen Butler certainly knows how to get the best out of her cast which translated to the audience, providing an excellent evening’s entertainment.  A special mention must also go to the front of house staff who were all dressed in keeping in their pirates costumes. Every time I visit a performance by Spennymoor Stage and Song I am overwhelmed by the attention to detail this society takes to make it an enjoyable experience for the audience. Well Done.

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