Ruddigore

This is one of my favourite G & S Operettas and I was looking forward to my visit to this experienced company. The show began well with a rousing overture from a very good orchestra and the curtain opened to a well lit, colourful set. The ensemble looked good and on the whole moved well. As a frequent visitor to the Gilbert & Sullivan Operettas I have quite a good knowledge of the songs but I struggled to pick out the words when the ensemble sang. If I had been a first time visitor to this particular genre I would have been rather confused. Congratulations to the set designers and constructors. The Picture Gallery in Ruddigore Castle was very well built and workable. It was very dramatic with well painted portraits which drew applause from the audience. Costumes, particularly in the second act, were entirely appropriate especially when the ancestors appeared from behind their portraits.  There were many good performances from the principal characters, particularly Andrew Gardner as Robin Oakapple, Chris Dodd as Richard Dauntless and Robert W.A. Feeley as Sir Despard Murgatroyd  and a splendid interpretation from David Hughes as Old Adam Goodheart. Amy Hardy was delightful as the demure Rose Maybud and knew exactly what was required from the character. I have seen Angela Lea, Dame Hannah, in many good performances over the years and this role must rate as one of her best. The orchestra, obviously enjoyed playing this piece and M.D. Margot Wright had excellent control over her musicians and those on stage. Janet Dawson and Sue Hurrell, Co Directors have succeeded in providing the audience with a very entertaining evening. Thank you for your very warm welcome.

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