The Yeomen of the Guard

Both Gilbert and Sullivan considered "The Yoemen of the Guard" to be their best work and it is certainly high up on my list of G&S favourites. EDGAS is so fortunate in having such a strong male and female chorus who produced a wonderful, harmonius sound especially in the opening chorus number "Tower Warders Under Orders" and the first act finale where the contrapuntal singing was clear and rousing. The principal cast all performed to a very high standard. Gillian Robertson has a beautiful soprano voice which soared throughout the theatre and captivated the audience especially in her number "Tis Done! I am a bride". Chris Cotter also has an excellent voice and this, combined with his fine acting and good stage presence made him a splendid Colonel Fairfax. The doltish jailer Wilfrid Shadbolt was expertly played by Simon Boothroyd who extracted the comedy from the role and revelled in the part. Taunting him playfully, Fiona Main was the vivacious soubrette Phoebe and together they gave accomplished, relaxed performances.This operetta is not a happy ever after for everyone and Geoff Lee who had clear diction in his patter song successfully developed his character from the agile, carefree jester Jack Point through the turmoil of his love for Elsie to his pathetic, tragic end. Sullivan writes some wonderful ensemble pieces. "Strange Adventure" and "When a Wooer Goes a Wooing" were memorable numbers with the balance of voices just right. All of the other principal roles were well cast and it was so refreshing to hear clear singing and dialogue which was projected naturally without the use of radio mics.

A superb orchestra, striking set, subtle lighting effects and a slick, lively production resulted in a first class performance which I enjoyed immensely.

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