The Pirates of Penzance

 The Pirates of Penzance, or The Slave of Duty is probably (outside G and S aficionado`s)  the most popular Of Gilbert and Sullivan`s Comic Operas, or at least the best box office piece penned by the two, and I must admit, is my favourite of all of the G and S`s. Maybe it`s the more accessible story and humour, or maybe it`s the ruffled shirts that take me back to my fashion faux-pas of the eighties- who knows? Following the story of an orphan boy, mistakenly apprenticed to a pirate instead of  a ships pilot, we are taken on a ride meeting soft hearted Pirates, a bevy of young (ahem) beauties, a Major General and bumbling policepersons along the way through the usual Gilbert and Sullivan shenanigans steering towards a happy ending-who could ask for anything more?

Rachel Mercer played The Major General`s youngest ward, Mabel.  Rachel`s Mabel was charming and innocent, yet with a bit of a feisty side. Vocally at ease with the score, Rachel`s beautiful singing shone through. Matt Bradley as Frederic on the whole came over well. The conflict between Frederic`s duty and his love for Mabel became evident and Matt was getting the laughs where necessary. I did feel that on the odd occasion, he was a little tentative going for the higher notes, but that`s understandable- it`s not an easy sing.

John Sutherland obviously loved playing the Pirate King-swashing his buckles and brandishing his weapon at every opportunity, singing well, and delivering the asides with great comic timing, well supported by Samuel, played by Ken Pitchers.

Tom Beck, as Major General Stanley gave a great performance, singing and acting his socks off- maybe that`s why he kept bobbing and lifting his knee throughout his “Modern Major General”- he was trying to keep them on. The knee lift, seems to be a staple of Gilbert and Sullivan productions, as Samuel would say, “I`m sure I don`t know why”, but they just do. I thought that the orphan/often dialogue with the Pirate King was delivered well by both, and worked well when repeated throughout the production.

Sue Richardson gave a sterling performance as the devoted Ruth. With her natural flair for comedy, facial expressions and great diction, she savoured every moment of being on stage.

George Leathard played a highly officious Sergeant of Police. The police chorus, though few in number, made themselves heard, giving full support to George`s Sergeant. Special mention must go to Dylan Roberts,whose detached (on purpose) movement, comic timing and facial expressions had the audience-myself included, in stitches. Many adults, given this type of role, would be tempted to overplay it. Not-so with Dylan, this was a perfect example of how to play something for laughs, without over-egging it, well done!

The three Daughter's -Edith, Kate and Isabel (Laura Bradley, Angela Lee Kennedy and Christine Turner) ably supported Mabel, leading the ladies chorus with confidence.

Chorus numbers throughout, whether daughter, pirate or policeperson were great, creating a sound which belied their numbers. I particularly enjoyed the way the mobile phone announcement was presented, although one member of the audience obviously wasn`t listening.

Watching the show, the time flew by- I think this was due to the fact that the producer didn`t succumb to temptation of providing us with endless refrains, as so many Gilbert And Sullivan companies seem to enjoy doing. A wise decision, as young and old alike were engaged throughout.  

Staging, scenery and lighting were good, and relevant to the piece- as per, a different setting for each act with a few props.

Orchestra as ever sounded great under the baton of Richard Bromley.

David Towers once again showed his flair for producing Gilbert and Sullivan`s works, ensuring cast and audience alike enjoyed his “Pirates”.

Thank you, Hornby Occasionals, for your invitation and hospitality.

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