Ruddigore

Before I start, I would like to say a big thank you for inviting me to this performance of Ruddigore. I haven’t seen much G&S as a performance previously and this was my first experience of it as a NODA rep so to see a full performance was a treat for me.

The story involves the Baronet of Ruddigore, a spell cast on the family, the appearance of ghosts and in true G and S style, it all gets sorted out happily in the end. In this production, the whole audience were treated to beautiful vocals from the whole cast, chorus as well as principals

Rose Maybud, a beautiful village maiden albeit a little indecisive was beautifully portrayed by Heather Watson. From the moment Heather walked onto the stage, her presence spoke to the whole audience. From the incredible singing to the fabulous acting, it was a wonderful performance. Her articulacy set the pace for the whole performance and was a part of the reason why, as a G&S newbie, I was able to keep up with the plot. Her training clearly enabled her to develop a character that was comedic, naïve, determined yet tender faultlessly.

Throughout the show, Rose becomes engaged to various men, the first of which is Robin Oakapple (otherwise known as Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd in disguise?  hiding away to avoid his fate of becoming the cursed baronet Ruddigore. Robin / Ruthven was brilliantly played by Oliver McGreevy. Oliver managed to convey the two very different characters and sing the challenging songs well. I particularly liked the scene when the ancestors emerged from their portraits and then ‘tortured’ poor reluctant Sir Ruthven (Robin) into realising that he really did have to carry out one crime per day. It was a delight, as it showed both characters at once, something that is not an easy thing to achieve, well done Oliver.

Returning from sea, just in time to help his foster brother Robin win the heart of Rose was Richard Dauntless, played by Leon Waksberg. Leon played it with obvious enjoyment and demonstrated his nimbleness as he danced the hornpipe. His singing performances were strong, although sometimes I did struggle to understand all of the words but I think this was more down to the pace of the songs rather than his technique.

Stephanie Roe as Dame Hannah opened the show, and from the off I was brought into the world we were about to be immersed in. Stephanie, gave a performance that showed her experience and complete understanding of the role and nuance of G&S. A particularly tender moment for me was the partnership she had with Sir Roderick Murgatroyd played by David Parker. Together, they sang the penultimate song with such emotion that the blend of their voices made me feel very relaxed.

Sir Despard Murgatroyd, who, since his brother’s disappearance has been the cursed Baron was played by Steve Mohun, who commanded attention with powerful singing and acting. His long-lost thwarted love (Mad Margaret) was expertly played by Kathryn Buxton. I loved the energy and dynamism she brought to this character and felt it was a cross between Kathy (of Heathcliffe notoriety) and moaning Myrtle from Harry Potter.

 

To everybody else involved in the chorus the way that you presented on stage really made the performance what it was. Which was amazing. Amdram wouldn’t be possible without the chorus members who give the leads and supporting characters the interactions they need to bring out the best performance possible. Please let me into your secret though…where on earth did you get so many men from that could all sing? Batley G&S really is truly blessed to have such an abundance of talent, both male and female.

The well-built scenery and props used for the two acts in this show were relevant and well thought out and along with good technical input, excellent colourful costumes made a very good platform for the cast to work on and also contributed to the success of the show.

Finally, may I praise the orchestra, what a joy it was to listen to such accomplished musicians.

My congratulations to all the creative team on such a successful production.

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