The Mikado

This was my first visit to this delightful theatre and what a treat it was.  I was made to feel welcome and even met an old acquaintance in the foyer.  Ipswich Gilbert & Sullivan Society has a reputation for quality productions, and this was no exception.  The joy of G & S is that the production can be set in any period, and it will always work.  I have seen this show in several different iterations, and it never fails to hold my attention.

Director James Hayward chose to set this production in the ‘twenties’, a good choice as it gave plenty of opportunity for costume choice and the performances were somewhat ‘over the top; as befitted that period (and G & S) in particular.

This was a very strong cast of Principals and the ensemble worked very hard to produce good performances all round.  Paul Jennings (Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner) was excellent, a beautiful characterisation, full of comedy and a complete joy to watch.  Mark Ellis (Pooh-Bah, the Lord High Everything Else) brought a strong character into play; his facial expressions were terrific, and his performance was most enjoyable.  Philip Tattersall (Nanki-Poo) played the role with empathy, and he also displayed a variety of facial expressions.  Howard Brooks (Pish-Tush) completed the line-up of male principals, a good strong supporting role.

The ladies of the cast were equally impressive, the three Little Maids, Ruth Ellis (Yum-Yum) Becca Kirby (Pitti-Sing) and Caroline Ranson (Peep-Bo) were all excellent, three very accomplished singers who handled the G&S harmonies beautifully.   Lucy Pakes (Katisha) played the part well, suitably sneering, and haughty, although I would have liked to see her make up more prominent, perhaps bright red lipstick would have helped to accentuate her excellent expressions.

The members of the chorus were good, with plenty of individual characterisations, which contributed to the overall performance.  The facial expressions, from the entire cast, were a good part of the performance which made it even more enjoyable.  The singing, as one would expect from an experienced G & S company, was excellent, with all the expected harmonies.

I enjoyed the ‘silent movie’ style slides at the beginning setting the scene, although I suspect that much of the audience were very well versed in the story, it set the bar for the look and feel of the show.  The set was simple and perfectly in keeping with the traditions of G&S.

The costumes were lovely, especially the sequined costumes in the second half, everything was properly accessorised, a credit to the costume co-ordinators.  As a wardrobe person myself, I particularly appreciated that.

I did sometimes find it difficult to hear one or two of the principals’ singing when the orchestra played particularly loudly.  I fully appreciate that it is traditional for G & S not to be mic’d and I like it that way but, very occasionally the vocal projection could have been stronger.

Overall, a lovely evening’s entertainment, in a delightful environment.  My thanks to all concerned.

Tessa Davies, Regional Councillor, NODA East                            

On behalf of Catherine Dixey, NODA Representative, East District 12

 

 

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