Pirates of Penzance

This traditional production of Pirates was under the direction of Anne Hughes who also took on the role of Ruth plus heading the wardrobe team – no mean task.  MD Robert Connelly made his debut with the society and led the twelve members of the orchestra, but I’m afraid their singing was not quite in time with the rest of the chorus! The longish overture was most enjoyable. I was disappointed with the small male policemen chorus led by Tim Gordon as the Sergeant.  The ladies chorus had some additional voices which boosted the sound. This was the first night and the performance was tentative and I’m sure as the performances progressed, pace would quicken.  There was some excellent costuming, particularly for Ruth and the Pirate King and finishing touches and boots were very good.  The scenery in the opening, with the deck on the ship certainly looked good but the mast was somewhat shaky – again something that probably was improved upon. The lighting throughout was most effective.  Imogen Willetts, hot foot from performing HMS Pinafore in Battle sang again with confidence playing Mabel and Paul Goring gave an accomplished performance of ‘A Modern Major General’.  Julius Brady played Frederik, Tim Wormley-Healing The Pirate King, with Alistair Wilson making a pleasing debut as Samuel.

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