The Pirates of Penzance

With a good rousing opening chorus, the society achieved the important objective - to grab the audience`s attention from the word go.  Along with a most experienced G & S principal line up, this production truly benefitted with a cast that lived the parts.  So it was no surprise that there was good acting and excellent rendition of songs in this well-loved G & S favourite.
Jean Mason-Edwards  as Mable,  was vocally outstanding, a joy to listen to, particularly `Poor wand`ring one`. She was well matched by Melvyn Edwards as Frederic, the two  blending  beautifully in their duets. I liked Mike McGhee as the Major- General, leading his troops with the  required touch of uncertainty.  James Davis as a barnstorming and fearsome Pirate King,  provided the comedy highlights and delighted the audience with his performance, as did Rhia Fingerhut,  Margaret Blackmore, and Jenny Smith as Major-General Stanley`s daughters.  Helen Blatch was most convincing as Ruth, and  her singing was first-class,  highlighted by `When Fred`ric was a little lad`.   Paul Blackmore was an efficient Sergeant of Police, performing to great effect, especially with a Chorus of Police with female Constables in the line-up.
Gary Askam directed a most lively production with lots of effective choral movement that enhanced the performance. With colourful  costumes ,and a set that was well designed for the purpose, and of course a first-class orchestra, this was a classy production
 

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