The Gondoliers

“The Gondoliers” is one of my favourite Gilbert and Sullivan Operettas and I was delighted to be invited this evening. The splendid orchestra under the accomplished baton of Margaret Wright started the evening with a rousing overture and the curtains opened to a very well constructed and decorated set. The opening number, although well sung, was spoilt by a lack of diction by the members of the chorus. Anyone seeing G & S for the first time must have been puzzled. The principals, with the odd exception, were not at fault in this respect. I particularly enjoyed the scene where Marco and Guiseppe changed from their night attire to full blown evening dress. Andrew Gardner and Robert W.A. Feeley as the Gondoliers brought out the humour in their roles, with some excellent facial expressions and enthusiastic movement to accompany their well balanced vocals.  Costumes were colourful but I cannot believe Luiz, Lewis Hampson had been measured for his ill fitting uniform. I have seen this young man improve over the last few years and I think he did very well in his first role in a G & S production. I am a traditionalist and I am not sure about the modernisation of the piece.  Where have “pizzas” been mentioned before? I enjoyed many aspects of tonight’s performance and any criticism is only meant to point out areas where I believe improvements can be made. Thank you for your very warm welcome and hospitality,

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.