Pirates of Penzance - Broadway version
Information
- Date
- 29th November 2012
- Society
- Tunbridge Wells Operatic & Dramatic Society
- Venue
- Assembly Hall Theatre, Tunbridge Wells
- Type of Production
- Musical
- Director
- Helen Thorpe
- Musical Director
- David Grubb
- Choreographer
- Elizabeth Witt
This newer version of Pirates, as presented on Broadway by New York Shakespeare Festival was a thoroughly rehearsed and slick show. The opening was a good indication of what was to follow, and we were not disappointed. With an excellent Pirate ship, fine backcloths, and use made of the auditorium, this was a lively good romp. The costumes by Costume Workshop, Isle of White and Oasts Theatre, Tonbridge were superb for all the cast and settings, particularly those of the pirates to the demure outfits of the Major General’s daughters, and also the Major General in his kilt. No problems with the sound balance which ensured the talented and enthusiastic orchestra under the baton of David Grubb could be enjoyed to the full without the beautiful singing being lost. Elizabeth Witt’s excellent choreography ensured flow around the stage without any collisions. Fergus McKinlay impressed as the Pirate King with a fine voice and facial expressions, and was well supported by Tom Tapsfield as Samuel and the swashbuckling Pirates, all of whom were very skilful in the use of the rapiers which added to the excitement. Michael Jamieson Smith as Frederic was very convincing and had a pleasant light easy voice. Lelia Di Domenico as Mabel captivated us all with her beautiful clear soaring voice, particularly with Poor Wand’ring One; she was well supported by Julie Atkinson (Edith), Cheryl Storer (Kate) and Elspeth Collard (Isabel). Lorraine Fawcett as Ruth showed us the strong character with good delivery both spoken and sung. Neil Harris (General Stanley) captivated us with his precise diction and was master of his chatter song which really stole the show and was performed with great rapidity and then repeated faultlessly even faster, and with amusing interplay between him and the musical director. The police led by Lee Beaney as their Sergeant executed their roles well; the fact that the police constables were all female gave the production the twist at the end and probably a surprise to most of the audience. The Old Women of Penzance (Kate Organ and Anne McKinlay) and the Governesses to the Daughters (Sara Molyneux and Liz Harris) provided great amusement. Overall this was a well directed, first class production and sheer pleasure to watch
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