The Sorcerer

What a pleasant way to spend a Sunday afternoon - watching the Arts Barn’s latest production of The Sorcerer. The comic opera was the third collaboration of the well- known duo Gilbert and Sullivan and was first performed in 1877. The Sorcerer is set in the village of Poverleigh on the day of their 543rd Fete. It is a story of love and a magic potion – so beware of drinking the tea!

The production’s director, Carole Hanson has cleverly updated the opera whilst retaining its traditional flavour, with an extended playing area the actors were able to draw the audience into their story even more. There was some excellent casting and staging and the piece had a good pace throughout. Well done to the musical director, Leslie Crowson, the music both instrumental and vocal reached a high standard and the six-piece band interpreted the G&S style really well. Vivien Caldwell the chorus mistress has clearly worked very hard too, they were all very well-rehearsed and each one portrayed their own individual characters and the youngsters taking part were delightful to watch.

The nine principal actors were all very well-cast and there were some really memorable performances. Mike Gray as Sir Marmaduke Pointdextre had a fine voice and some great comic moments. Nicholas Caldwell playing his soppy son Alexis had a lovely voice too and I loved his duet with Aline. Adriane Taylor as Dr Daly gave a performance which I enjoyed very much, he had a wonderful voice, great comic timing and an excellent connection with the audience. Paul Skinner provided lots of humour too as The Notary. Peter Caldwell as John Wellington Wells gave another performance that I enjoyed very much, bringing lots of comedy and mischief to his role. Susan Drake was very funny as the lustful Lady Sangazure and I loved her scene with Sir Marmaduke. Jenny Rolt was perfect as Lady Sangazure’s daughter Aline, she had a beautiful voice and gave a confidant performance. Vicki Roberts as Mrs Partlet gave some very funny moments trying to marry her daughter off to Dr Daly. Sam McLaughlin as her daughter Constance gave an excellent portrayal of the gum chewing teenage rebel.

The production had an excellent and well-dressed set which was managed well. The props were well-made and appropriate as were the imaginative costumes. The lighting and sound quality was very good throughout the performance and there was good use of special effects.

Overall this was a very funny and highly entertaining production. Congratulations to the entire company both on and off the stage. I look forward to seeing you all again in the future.

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