The Pirates of Penzance

Director Sarah Vandervelde created a clever transition between the past and the present, opening the show with a charming seaside holiday vignette, moving into the rocky, historical haunt of pirates and pretty ladies. The inter-weaving of characters past and present added interest and humour, while the youngsters brought extra vitality and freshness to a familiar plot.

In his under-stated interpretation, which worked well, Brian Oliver played a whimsical, pensive and very modern Major-General, whose diction in the tortuous tongue-twister song was clear. Edith and Kate, memorably played by Susy Davies and Katryn Burgess, notably maintained character throughout. The Chorus of Chaperones and Daughters kept busy, jostling and plotting, the quality of singing clear and light.

Musical Director Ieuan Davies brought a lightness of touch, the excellent orchestra full of energy, but never overwhelming the singers. The vocals were good throughout, but the most exceptional was surely Rachel Matthews (Mabel), who was not only very pretty in person and in voice, but who sustained the staccato and trilled her way to the Finale in a most lively and appealing manner.  Richard Moore as Frederic sang very well, although lacking passion and engagement with the audience and with Mabel. Focus on facial expression and warmth in the speaking voice in the future, and you will be an impressive performer.

Mark Ward is an actor who understands an audience: if he is on the stage, he is the centre of attention and clearly loves it! - a bombastic and joyous Pirate King.  Christine Eastwood’s Ruth was strong, humorous, evoked sympathy but was never maudlin: a perfect balance for this sometimes difficult character.

The Chorus of Pirates and Policemen were such fun, always entertaining. The Pirates were endlessly naughty, and the ‘clockwork’ march of the (occasionally fey) Policemen was up-staged only by the fluid, flexible physicality of Sergeant Richard Haynes, the india-rubber policeman.

What a treat!  A thoroughly enjoyable production.

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