Ruddigore

Reset from the Cornish fishing village of Rederring to one in Scotland, "Ruddigore" follows the saga of the cursed Baronets of Ruddigore, compelled to commit a daily crime or face dire consequences. Yet, when the reluctant Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd inherits the title, he grapples with the dilemma of honouring his family's dark legacy while pursuing his true love, Rose Maybud. 

Some may know that I am not a fan of introducing stage action during the overture, however, in this case, bringing forward the Legend of Sir Rupert Murgatroyd to the latter section of the overture works well.

This afternoon we were treated to an entertaining production with exceptional singing from principals, ladies and gents chorus alike.   The love trio between Rose Maybud (Eliza Twaddle), Richard Dauntless, (Nick Temperley) and Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd (Michael McFarlane) was beautifully portrayed by these talented leading characters. In the role of Dame Hannah, Elaine Young acted and sang well and ‘There Grew A Little Flower’ in Act Two was delightful.  Mad Margaret is a wonderful character part, and Caroline Warburton certainly did it justice. She showed the vulnerability underneath the quite scary madness and gave a most convincing interpretation. The resetting of the production in Scotland gave Mad Margaret the opportunity to change her calming word to Pittenweem rather than Basingstoke! Her duet with the sinister Sir Despard (Tom Kelman) was excellent, as was “The Matter Trio” when joined by Sir Ruthven.  As Old Adam Goodheart, Stuart Brown gave a suitably deferential performance as Sir Ruthven’s faithful retainer.  As Sir Roderic Murgatroyd, Robin Ożóg gave – well what can I say. I’ve said it all before! – a splendid performance from the moment he stepped out of his picture frame, launching into “When the Night Wind Howls” and, later, tempering his sternness in his duet with Dame Hannah.  Last, but not least, the two leading professional bridesmaids Zorah (Louise Gibson) and Ruth (Melissa Gibson) acquitted themselves well and portrayed the two supporting roles with confidence.

Musical Direction by John Howden and Artistic Direction by Robin Ożóg were both of a high standard, showing obvious understanding of the mindsets of WS Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan.

Technically, Lighting, sound and sets were all delivered as required by the production – always adding to the action, never distracting.

Well done KGASS!  Looking forward to HMS Pinafore next year!

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