The Mikado

Director Pat O’Connell brought the Mikado to life delighting the audience with the many clever and amusing words of Gilbert and the enchanting music of Sullivan which made for a formidable performance.  Richard Hales (Nanki-Poo), his lovely tenor voice and engaging persona was a delight throughout and especially while perusing his love for Alexandra Lawrence (Yum-Yum) one of the three sisters, who  performed the role extremely well, her singing of The Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze was magnificent. Richard Gun-Cuninghame (Pish-Tush) a fine baritone both in solos and harmony gave the audience a pleasant surprise with his mastery of Japanese. Richard Arthur (Pooh-Bah) with a splendid range of expressions gave a truly magnificent interpretation of the character.   Zoe Avern’s singing and acting played Pitti-Sing well in keeping with the role.  Simon Cakerbread (Ko-Ko) brought out the humour and character in the role, his rendering of the ballad Tit Willow was a joy to listen to Rebecca Lucas (Peep-Bo) the third of Ko-Ko’s wards was beguilling in the part fitting in perfectly with her sisters.  Alec Evans displayed his mastery and experience of the Mikado belying his youth. Nora Price (Katisha) once again magnificent as the old battle-axe was very amusing displaying her range of talents. Paul Tickner (Go-To) made a positive contribution.  A delightful Chorus of Ladies, and a strong Chorus of Gentlemen were a pleasure to watch. Notable were the clear harmonies of both choruses.  Musical Director Robin Wells’ conducting of the orchestra was superb, enhancing the performance in a very professional way.  Stage Manager .Jill O’Regan ably assisted by a large back stage crew did an excellent job.  Scenery Paul Lazell.  Lighting Design Alexander Lyon, Asst John Pibworth.  Wardrobe Elizabeth Atkinson ,Gerry Melhuish.

Very well done to all concerned.

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