The Gondoliers

The Gondoliers is a Gilbert & Sullivan Production staged and performed by members of Crosby Gilbert & Sullivan Society at Southport Little Theatre, Hoghton Street, Southport onFriday, 27th March 2026

With its colourful costumes and irresistibly catchy tunes, this production of The Gondoliers was exactly what the doctor ordered on a cold, dark, and rather miserable March evening. A firm Gilbert and Sullivan favourite since its premiere in 1889, The Gondoliers—their twelfth collaboration—remains a sparkling blend of wit, romance, and topsy‑turvy storytelling.

The plot follows two charming Venetian Gondoliers, Giuseppe and Marco, who discover that due to a mix‑up in infancy, one of them is the rightful heir to the throne of Barataria. Delighted, they agree to share the responsibilities of ruling until the true king can be identified. Complications arise when the Duke and Duchess of Plaza‑Toro arrive to reveal that their daughter, Casilda, was married in infancy to the future king. We have a problem? Giuseppe and Marco have both recently married their sweethearts, Tessa and Gianetta and Casilda herself is in love with her father’s attendant, Luiz. So, what happens next…?

Production Team... Guiding us through the twists and turns of Venetian canals were Bruce Graham (Director) and David Goulden (Musical Director... on the Thursday evening, David not only passed the baton to Ian Dunning, but he also stepped into Ian’s role as Antonio—an impressive display of versatility and professionalism, not often seen I would suggest. A well‑rehearsed and confident cast took to the stage, and from the very first note to the final bows it was clear that everyone, both on and off stage, were enjoying every moment. Their energy, commitment, and sheer joy in performing made for a delightful evening of theatre.

The Cast...
Jonathon Taylor played ‘The Duke of Plaza-Torro’, James Fleming – ‘Luiz’ (Dukes Attendant)
Simon Killeen – ‘Don Alhambra Del Bolero’ (Grand Inquisitor), Paul Bailey – ‘Marco Palmieri’;
David Seagar – ‘Giuseppe Palmieri’; Ian Dunning – ‘Antonio’; Nick Cooper – ‘Francesco’
Rick Walker – ‘Giorgio’; David Sidey – ‘Annibale’; Elaine Williams – ‘Duchess of Plaza-Toro’;
Susie Grubert – ‘Casilda’ (Duchess Daughter); Eleanor Molloy – ‘Gianette’;
Heather Boguslawska-Taylor – ‘Tess’; Jennifer Bloomfield – ‘Fiametta’;
Emma Williams – ‘Vittoria’; Izabela Madejek-Jaszczuk - Giulia;
Joan Ashcroft – ‘Inez’ (Kings foster mother)
Ladies of the Chorus: (If not already named above)... Irene Baker, Helen Bennett, Toni Buxton, Julie Gill, Susanne Denner, Josie Hardman, Viki Patterson.
Gentlemen of the Chorus: (If not already named above)... Dennis Catterall, Richard Woodley.

This is where I “stick my neck out” and highlight MY favourites. While there may not have been a ‘show‑stealer’, there were certainly some wonderfully crafted characters and memorable performances, that I would like to give ‘shout outs’ to.... We had three outstanding pairings, if I can call them that... Elaine Williams & Jonathon Taylor – The Duke & The Duchess of Plaza-Torro (respectively) Eleanor Molloy & Paul Bailey - Gianette and Marco Palmieri (respectively) Heather Boguslawska-Taylor & David Seagar – Tess and Giuseppe Palmieri (respectively)  Each pair worked beautifully together, creating believable and engaging partnerships. Their chemistry, stage presence, movement, vocal ability and quality were excellent, and it was clear that they were all having a great time.

Another great character created was ‘Casilda’ played by Susie Gruber ... the daughter of the Duke & Duchess... who was married during infancy to the future King, but who’s in love with Luiz (Her father’s attendant)! Susie gave us a poised, confident performance with strong stage presence and had a lovely interaction with all fellow cast members. Final shout out goes to Simon Killeen who took on the role of ‘Don Alhambra Del Bolero’ (Grand Inquisitor of Spain). Simon offered us a wonderfully pompous and authoritative Grand Inquisitor—confident, colourful and very entertaining. Before I move on, can I just say that every principal and chorus member contributed to this wonderful ensemble. Solos, duets, trios, quartets and full‑company numbers all performed with enthusiasm and musicality. The sense of cast togetherness was, in my view, a major reason for the production’s success. Can I make ‘special mention’ about the musical item “Small Titles and Orders”—just loved the humour and lyrics to this song, which were delivered brilliantly and brought the house down.

The Orchestra... was again led impressively, by David Goulden (Musical Director). His Orchestra included Janet Hitchen (Leader) (1st Violin); Paul Witkiewicz (2nd Violin); Alistair Ligertwood (Cello); Tom Goulding (Double Bass); Helen Cooke (Flute), Becky Stevens (Oboe); Pamala Lyon/Jacqueline Thomas (Clarinet); Carole Lormor (Bassoon) Ian Cull (Trumpet); Paul Stanley (Trombone) and Jonathan Rowland (Percussion). From the first note of the overture, I think we all knew we were in for a musical treat. The playing was lively, well‑balanced, and supportive of the singers without ever overpowering them. Excellent
work David —be proud!
  
Staging/Tech... staging was simple but effective, providing everything needed for the production to flow smoothly. Lighting was well executed—nothing overly elaborate, but appropriate and atmospheric. Sound, likely via overhead microphones, was clear and well balanced.  In charge of all things stage wise was P.J. Green (Stage Manager), Jamie Boland (Assistant Stage Manager), Andrew Langley & Finlay Casserley (Stage Crew).  Lighting: Abbie Goate; Sound: Ewan Harris (All part of PJGS Productions Ltd.)

Costumes... overseen by Elaine William and provided by The Costume Shop, were bright and colourful just as they needed to be.  Everyone looked comfortable and ‘at home’ wearing them, there was little doubt that they enhanced the production ever so much!
Props... were of the era, used well and again enhanced the production. Looked after by Helen Bennett and the SDC Props Department.

It was wonderful to see an almost full house at the Little Theatre for this performance, although I was told the early performances were a little thin on the ground. Thank you for
the invitation, for your warm hospitality and for allowing me to visit you all on stage after the show. Your enthusiasm, camaraderie, and dedication are infectious... congratulations to everyone involved.

Stay Safe, Keep well ....
“Stronger Together”

Jim Briscoe,
NODA NW
District 6 Rep

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