The Gondoliers

The performance of  The Gondoliers was played at two venues three nights at The Market Theatre Ledbury and two nights and a matinee at The Norbury Theatre, Droitwich. As if this travelling was not difficult enough leading lady Rebecca Fearnley lost her singing voice and the role of Gianetta was sung from the orchestra pit by Lynsey Squair which worked splendidly. This ever popular Operetta would have pleased G & S devotees, of which I’m one. New faces (to me) on stage were part of a strong cast with tenor Marco (Nigel Smith) and baritone Giuseppe (Jason Ford) humorously and exuberantly played and sang the delightful music and lyrics. They were partnered by voiceless Gianetta (Rebecca Fearnley) and Tessa (Rachel Trimm) who made the most of  the comedy in their roles and sang well. The Duke and Duchess of Plaza Toro (Mark Tooby and Mary Donhau) were well matched and I enjoyed their banter and performances. Their daughter Casilda (Meriel Ford) and suite, drummer boy Luiz, (Paul Allsop) was an impressive Don Alhambra. All the smaller roles were well performed and it was nice to see young Mike Faulkner playing Antonio with such enthusiasm and in fine voice. The machinations of the plot ensured that in the end Luiz is the rightful King of Barataria and happily claims Casilda as his bride. Backstage crew, lighting and sound were excellent and in keeping with whole performance. 

© NODA CIO. All rights reserved.