The Gondoliers

The evening started in fine style with the exquisitely played overture conducted by Richard Furstenheim. The 13piece orchestra were a joy to listen to throughout the show. One negative point  I would make is that because personal mikes are not used in your productions, it was on occasion difficult to hear some of the underscored dialogue from those members of the cast not able to project strongly enough. Unfortunately that included most of the libretto in the Duchess’ song.

I haven’t seen ‘The Gondoliers’ for a few years and had forgotten just how much of it is sung; it must certainly be the longest opening chorus number and the singing of it was excellent. The colourful costumes, the scenery and the business on stage perfectly created the atmosphere of a busy little piazza in Italy. The gondola loaded with luggage looked realistic and its approach was smooth.

Malcolm Wellard’s experience was evident in his elegant portrayal of the Duke of Plaza Toro and his dapper costumes were quite splendid. He looked every inch the Duke and I enjoyed his soft shoe shuffle in the second act.

Benjy Clarke as his attendant Luiz sang and acted well, and his duet with Casilda (‘There was a time’) was beautifully performed.

Playing Casilda Helen Clutterbuck was excellent. She was haughty and yet vulnerable, and her singing voice was superb.

As her mother The Duchess, Rachel Jones played the part well but it was sometimes difficult to hear her dialogue.

Both Lee Power and Alan Everett gave first class performances as the eligible and much admired Guiseppe and Marco Palmieri. Their characters contrasted nicely, their acting and singing ability was high and they made much of the comedy within the piece, especially in act two when they are sharing the throne of Barataria whilst awaiting the news as to which one of them is the true King.

The chosen brides of the two men, (albeit short-term!) were confidently played by Jenny Clubbe and Sam Johnson. Tessa was the more mischievous one of the pair and Sam Johnson brought out the humour pointedly. Gianetta’s ‘Kind sir, you cannot have the heart was beautifully sung and Jenny Clubbe’s top notes were perfect.

In the role of Don Alhambra del Bolero, Andrew Few was imposing and his vocal ability strong.

Sarah Wenban made the most of the small but important part of Inez and the other named members of the cast, male and female, all contributed to the entertaining story, as did the addition of the young drummer boys played by Harvey and Robert.

The scenery was very good, the little café added interest in the piazza, and the throne room with its chaises longue looked suitably grand.

Choreography was attractive and performed with grace and confidence by the ladies. I enjoyed the energetic ‘Cachucha’ and the fun that the four lovers had in the number   ‘In a contemplative fashion’, but in the latter the men could be heard much more easily than the women.

I loved ‘I am a courtier’ and thought the vocal ability of the company was the usual high standard that I have noted for all of your previous productions.

Margaret’s stage direction was sound and the stage groupings were attractive. It was a lively, bright production and was dressed magnificently.

The ladies hairstyles were fitting for the era; make up was a little mixed and Luiz had red lips!

Ann has put together another well thought out programme and the cover with the Italian flag colours carrying through the inside pages is most effective. I’m sure you will be entering it in the poster/programme competition.

Thank you for inviting me to see ‘The Gondoliers’ which I enjoyed very much. Thank you also for your hospitality on the evening. I am already looking forward to your next show ‘Fiddler on the Roof’ which is my all-time favourite musical!

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