The Sorcerer

Rarely does one go to an amateur production and find perfection but this production of "The Sorcerer" was well nigh flawless. A superb orchestra silenced the audience who listened intently to the overture and then the curtain opened on a charming, colourful set depicting the rural village of Ploverleigh where its inhabitants were waiting to celebrate the wedding of Alexis and Aline. The bustling chorus were constantly on the move and their singing throughout the evening was full bodied with harmonies coming through strongly. This vocally strong chorus supported a first class principal cast with no weak links.

Ian Lawson was in fine form as the sorcerer John Wellington Wells delivering his patter song "My Name is John Wellington Wells" with vocal and physical agility. Summoned to add a love philter to the teapot so that unsuspecting villagers could find love again, his scene adding the philter to the tea pot was technically magical with it's flames and flashes. Simon Boothroyd gave a polished performance as the pompous, upper crust Sir Marmaduke in love with the lower class Mrs Partlet ably played by Jan Renton. Both she and her somewhat love sick duaghter Constance (Sarh Kim) maintained their "Somerset" accents throughout and were a good duo. The love sick Constance is suffering from unrequited love from Dr.Daly the vicar of Ploverleigh and it was so good to see Alan Borthwick back on stage in this part with his fine singing, perfect diction and strong stage presence. Fiona Main was an elegant yet fiesty Aline and was in good voice particularly in her solo 'Oh Happy Young Heart'. The honours of the evening in my opinion went to Darren Coutts as Alexis. Looking dapper in his Grenadier Guards uniform he sang beautifully. This part suited him so well vocally and both of his solo numbers were a joy to listen to. All of the other principal characters were well cast and gave convincing performances.

There were too some wonderful ensemble numbers where the blend of voices was quite superb.'Tis Twelve I Think' and 'I Rejoice that it's Decided' were quite memorable.

'The Sorcerer' may not be one of G&S's most well known or loved operettas but it is full of fun and lovely music and this company delivered a first class production in every way. Those on stage were supported by a very good technical team providing effective lighting and visual effects. Good costumes also enhanced the production.

This was thoroughly enjoyable production. Congratulations to all on stage, the orchestra, production and technical team for delivering such a professional show.

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