THE YEOMAN OF THE GUARD

Good to see PBGS back on stage, with a mostly energetic and fun version of Yeoman of the Guard, it was well-directed, musically secure, and I got the ‘glad to be back on stage’ vibe from the cast and supporters.

I liked the set, it was very appropriate, nicely lit, and enabled the cast to traverse the stage well.  The set created the perfect backdrop for the on stage action, and it was great to see a show that travelled seamlessly through the scenes.

Sound was excellent, considering no-one was mic’d and the band had to temper itself, but the balance, for me, was good.  I heard every word.  The men’s ensemble was a perhaps a little too stern at times, however the ladies ensemble were very animated at all times, which lifted the overall feel of the production.

The band created some nice sounds, and costumes were once again amazing.  Colourful, correct in related detail, bright and well-designed, always a pleasure to see costumes that are of such quality, it enhances an already good production.

Choreography was kept to an acceptable level, with all abilities catered for, and good to see that PBGS embraced diversity within their cast.

Phoebe (Emma Crew) created a light, but beautifully sung and acted character, so much understanding and depth in her performance, very well done. 

Wilfred Shadbolt (Paul Kerswill), delightfully rough and ready, but good comedy, doing what Paul does so well, creating the slightly disreputable character with enthusiasm!  The relationships between Shadbolt and the rest of the cast was nicely studied.

Dame Carruthers (Sue Wookey), a stern character, nicely portrayed, and always well sung, showing her unbending and rather coy nature when confronted with Sergeant Meryl!

Sergeant Meryl (David Crew), a slightly different portrayal for David, but one which I enjoyed very much, his lovely voice and presence onstage adding much to the proceedings, A very good pairing with Dame Carruthers.

Leonard (Toby Wheatley) in his first outing with PBGS, performed well, sang excellently, and also covered the 1st Yeoman with aplomb, his good musical knowledge shone.

2nd Yeoman (Clive Wheeler), good to see Clive taking on a small but essential role, acquitting himself well.

Colonel Fairfax (Shayn Dickens) allowed Shayn to showcase his experience in G&S, nicely sung, a good portrayal.  ‘Free from his fetters grim’ seemed particularly poignant.

Jack Point (Stephen Hoath), an excellent comic performance, loads of energy and expression, I enjoyed his antics very much, Stephen created a different dimension to the production, and showed the highs and distinct lows of his relationship with Elsie very well.

Elsie (Claire Moore), a charming portrayal, so cleverly achieved.  Claire brought a slightly calmer feel to Elsie, which contrasted well.

Kate (Paula Fraser), although a small part, Paula lent her wealth of experience and strong voice to enhance the production.

The Lieutenant (Peter Davies), kept the Yeoman and cast in control, adding the figure of authority to the production.

All in all a fine evening’s entertainment, excellent portrayals, and a real feel good production, with plenty of humour, angst and good singing – very well done to all concerned.

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