Ruddigore or The Witch's Curse

Stepping into the captivating realm of Gilbert and Sullivan's "Ruddigore or The Witch’s Curse," as brought to life by the Kington and District Operatic Society, I found myself immediately enchanted by its whimsical melodies and delightfully absurd plot twists. Despite being overshadowed by more renowned works like "The Mikado" or "H.M.S. Pinafore," this comic operetta revealed itself as a hidden gem, brimming with wit, charm, and a hint of the macabre. Set in the picturesque village of Rederring, "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.

This was a highly entertaining performance, featuring exceptional characterisations and strong vocals throughout, effectively weaving together the intricate storytelling of this complex operetta.The period costumes were a highlight of the production, immersing the audience in the quaint ambiance of a Cornish town. With elaborate dresses and smart attire for the gentlemen, the costumes exuded authenticity and style, enriching the visual experience of the show.

Under the expert direction of producer Lynne Owens and set designer Linda Ellams, the detailed backdrop of the Cornish town provided a stunning backdrop for the unfolding drama. The intricate set design created an immersive atmosphere, transporting audiences into the heart of the story.

The love trio between Rose Maybud, Richard Dauntless, and Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd (disguised as Robin Oakapple) was beautifully portrayed by the talented leads. Tim Hollinghurst's portrayal of Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd was commanding, with his strong stage presence and powerful singing voice capturing the essence of the conflicted (cursed!) hero.

Russell Painter's portrayal of Richard Dauntless was a sheer delight, brimming with exceptional comic timing and unforgettable one-liners that had the audience in stitches. His duet with Sir Despard, brought to life with great panache by Cliff Spooner, was a standout moment, highlighting their strong vocal abilities and impressive footwork. Richard's authentic Cornish accent added an extra layer of charm to his performance, enhancing the overall authenticity of the production.

Jess Squire's portrayal of Rose Maybud was utterly charming, with her sweet demeanour and lovely tone of voice bringing the character to life. Her performance in the trio "In Sailing O'er Life’s Ocean Wide" showcased her vocal range beautifully, earning applause from the audience.

Cliff Spooner's portrayal of Despard, alongside Dilys Hollinghurst's Mad Margaret, was a perfect pairing, with their strong characterisations adding depth to their roles. Dilys Hollinghurst's rendition of "Cheerily Carols the Lark" was sung with great feeling, showcasing her impressive vocal abilities and emotive performance. Another standout moment was the impressive speed at which the infamous patter song "My Eyes are Fully Open" was performed. Mad Margaret, Robin, and Despard flawlessly executed the rapid-fire lyrics, captivating the audience with their impeccable delivery.

Steve Hollinghurst's portrayal of Sir Roderic Murgatroyd was hauntingly captivating, particularly during his first entrance, which was enhanced by clever staging and atmospheric lighting. Linda Ellams' lifelike drawings of the ancestors added a distinctive visual dimension to the show, seamlessly complementing the action on stage. The Murgatroyd ancestors delivered a strong performance during 'Painted Emblems of a Race', seamlessly leading into the evocative 'When the Night Wind Howls', further immersing the audience in the eerie ambiance of the production.

Mark Beaton's portrayal of Old Adam Goodheart, the loyal servant to Robin, was a charming addition to the production. Similarly, Karen Spooner's performance as Dame Hannah was commendable, characterised by strong vocals and an engaging stage presence. The kidnap scene was particularly entertaining, and Karen's duet with Sir Roderic "There Grew A Little Flower" was a highlight of the performance.

Abigail Hollinghurst and Eloise King delivered delightful cameo performances as Zorah and Ruth, respectively, infusing the vibrant and lively Bridesmaids ensemble with their infectious energy and charisma. Each member of the ensemble portrayed unique characters, contributing to the productions quirky dynamics. Their choral singing was strong, showcasing a seamless blend of voices that enhanced the musical numbers. Notable highlights included their "Fair is Rose" and "From the Briny Sea," leading into the lively Hornpipe, accompanied by a fun and entertaining dance routine. The Finale was truly a tour de force, featuring stellar vocals from both principals and ensemble members, and served as a fitting conclusion to a memorable performance.

Kington and District Operatic Society's production of "Ruddigore" showcased the hard work and dedication of the cast and crew. Under the guidance of producer Lynne Owens, Conductor and Musical Director Lorna Firth, and Accompanist Kath Ainsworth, the production presented Gilbert and Sullivan's classic operetta in a memorable and engaging manner.

A heartfelt thank you to Frank and the front of house team for their warm welcome. It was a pleasure to meet you all after the show, and I extend my best wishes to everyone for your upcoming productions in 2024.

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