Pirates of Penzance

The Opera was first premiered at the Fifth Avenue Theatre in New York on 31st December 1879. Director Heather Legat brought out the best in her cast of Pirates, Policemen and the very lively Ladies principals and chorus.   The opening number at the scene of the Pirate ship was very well staged, enhanced by  Nick Lang  (Samuel) who was in good voice ably backed by a colourful Pirate chorus.  Rachel Davison (Ruth) her acting and singing portrayed the part well.  Dave Sillett (The Pirate King) was quite masterful and commanded attention.  Kevin Sampson (Frederic) feels Ruth has deceived him when along comes  Mary Heath (Edith) and the chorus of pretty girls all eager for his attention.   Hazel Burrows (Mabel) arrives and Frederick is immediately smitten with her beauty.  He sang  Stay We Must Not Lose Our Senses accompanied by the Ladies and Pirates. Enter  Nigel Morley (Major-General Stanley) in his bathing suit gave a performance was well suited to the part. The Policemen’s musical numbers were well ‘directed’ by Tony Ostime (Sergeant of Police) whose singing and acting were right for the part.   Diana Vivian conducted the orchestra in a very professional manner giving excellent support to the cast. Chorus Manager Steven Bean drilled the cast well.  The Stage Set designed by David Tropman, Emma Morley, and Annette Savill. was very effective and Stage Manager Tony Legat with his crew managed the scene changes well.   A very entertaining evening. 

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