The Pirates of Penzance

From hearty sea faring pirates to police officers and SWAT teams with squeaky truncheons. This production of ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ had it all.

Brought to us by the Tees Valley Gilbert and Sullivan Society, the very appreciative audience and myself had a great night out at Middlesbrough Theatre.

Director Margaret Jones’ vision well thought out and well executed by her cast. Modern day costumes and speciality costumes worked really well considering it is a period piece. The ladies looked very comfy in their pyjamas and dressing gowns haha!

Frederic (played superbly well by Jamie Benson – what an excellent tenor voice this young man has), has spent his formative years as a junior pirate. He plans to mark his 21st birthday by breaking free from the evil Pirate King (played by a very funny Adam Hegarty) to begin his courtship of a lady. This lady being Mabel (played by Stacey Dobson – fabulous voice!). She is one on of the many daughters of Major General Stanley who in this production was brought to life by a very funny, very audience pleasing David Beall, who not only had the added job of Chorus Mater for the show, but also had what is arguably one of the top 10 hardest songs in Musical Theatre to sing. For he is, “the very model of a modern major general”!

As Frederic starts his courtship of Mabel, he is made aware by the Pirate King and his confidant, Ruth (played very sweetly by Anna-Maria Jackson) that he was in fact born on a leap year. February 29th is a date that only ever comes round once in every four years making Frederic realise he is in fact, only five years old! Making the Pirate King his Master once more. Does Frederic abide by the rules or does he create some sabotage…..if you’ve seen the show, then you know!

Other notable mentions must go to Alan Phelps (Samuel), Gillian Sild (Edith), David Cadman (Seargent of Police), Debbie Hodgson (Kate) and Megan Caisley (Isobel).

Each and everyone of you acted and sang your parts with passion and fortitude. Well done!

The astonishing thing for me was the number of Ensemble members this society has. It was lovely to see a full stage of people, including (I think, if my adding up is correct, thirteen men!) Again, every member had their own characterisations which shone through to the audience.

A lovely, simple set designed by stage manager Jean Scarlett-Carr added to by a subtle lighting plot by Holly Scarlett-Carr, enhanced the production greatly.

Finally, I must mention Mr Stephen Sild (Musical Director) and his merry band (oops, I mean Orchestra) of thirteen members. Live musicians for any show is always a big hit for me. It was so nice to hear the ‘non electric’ tones of the Orchestra and they blended really well together.

A great night of Theatre where everything blended superbly well I thought.

Thank you to you all and I look forward to seeing what you have to offer next year.

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