The Pirates of Penzance

There is something very special about sitting in a school hall watching an operatic society perform with only the piano for accompaniment and with no amplification; it takes me straight back to my childhood and my early introduction to Gilbert and Sullivan. For a start, there is no crackling from the odd microphone or the band drowning out the cast, just pure honest and natural sound, perfect.

This was Kington and District’s 50th anniversary and they marked the occasion by performing ‘Pirates’ which was their first show all those years ago. It is heartening to think that amateur theatre can be so rewarding that some of the founding members are still involved, either on the stage or in production roles.

Well it was without doubt a production that had the audience entertained throughout. It had everything: great singing; dancing and genuinely funny characters which is what we expect in a good G&S show. The set was simple yet very effective and the grave yard scene (with good lighting) looked wonderful. The costumes too suited everyone and the truncheons made by a founding member were brought out again and put to great effect.

The male chorus were brilliant and so strong, so good to see when male choruses are diminishing. They certainly put their hearts and soul into every number and they were so balanced, and this was the opening night! The ladies chorus held their own and obviously enjoyed themselves, but on this occasion, the men had the edge.

The principals were all extremely good with Karen Spooner leading the way as Ruth. It’s such a great part and Karen was perfect for it, her voice is so clear and beautiful, plus she can pull the most amazing faces which had the audience in stiches.  Cliff Spooner as the Pirate King was very funny, and his physical presence was never out of character which, again, greatly amused the audience. This was a great role for Cliff to put his own interpretation on and his added asides were perfectly timed. Jim Smith was a great Major General and his patter song was first class, I heard every word. KADOS had the pleasure of having Russell Painter in the role of Frederick. Russell is a seasoned G&S actor with a beautiful voice and is so natural in the roles he performs. This was no exception. He was extremely supportive of Rachael Redfern who played Mabel. Rachael did very well, as did Dilys and Abigail Hollinghurst and I am sure we will see them again in other roles. 

The direction for the Policeman’s scene was hilarious and I loved their interpretation, it was so funny. Mark Beaton was very good as the Sergeant of Police and he too has a lovely voice. He and his fellow male chorus did a superb job of ‘When a felon’. 

I couldn’t believe how quickly this show flew by, which is usually a good indication of just how slick a performance was. It was, and such a joy too. Thank you KADOS.

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