USS Pinafore

The first production for Richmond Operatic Society was HMS Pinafore back in 1924. It felt like a very fitting moment to finish their centenary year celebrations by producing the same show one hundred years later.

Gilbert and Sullivans operettas have stood the test of time. The beautiful melodies, exquisite harmonies and moving score have captivated audiences for generations. As Richmond Operatic Society have developed over the years, so too has this show – into the 24th century! This reimaging sets to go where no G&S has gone before… to become part of the Gilbert and Sullivan Federation into the world of Star Trek. I must admit to being slightly nervous on how the two styles would merge, but director Kevin Murray enabled this with a sense of ease and charm. The re-writes and humorous references to Star Trek were clear – whether this was the show being set on the bridge of the star ship (excellent work from Gary Winn to create and build the set), references to intergalactic species, and an amusing ‘warp’ sequence to announce the arrival of High Council Joseph Porter. Kudos should be given to Kevin for this as the concept worked well. Whilst Keven led the cast, I will now look to who leads the crew.

Captain Corcoran was played by Brodey Laundon. Brodey played this part well. His singing was strong and had good tone, and this matched his physicality for the characterisation. I particularly enjoyed, “Fair Moon to Thee I Sing.” Brodey led the company well – bravo!

Playing his daughter and one side of the ‘oh so familiar’ G&S love tringle, was Victoria Bennett in the role of Josephine Corcoran. I have had the pleasure to see Victoria in many performances across the years, and this was a highlight for me. Victoria’s timbre to her voice was sublime. It was soft, yet powerful, with a tone that was warm and welcoming. Further to this, her acting chops was strong, as she displayed strength in both comedy and the love rotten character with great panache. It would be remiss of me to not say that Victoria absolutely receives the performance of the night – well done!

Benji Wilson played against Victoria as the lowly character Ralph Rackstraw. Benji had a confident voice and presented themself well on stage, especially with the gallant swoosh of the hair.

The third side to the love triangle was High Council Joseph Porter played by Jonathan Heitler. Jonathan maintained a strong character throughout his performance and provided great comedy for the audience. A highlight for me was when he was telling Captain Corcoran to say please after he shouted to his crew in a Basil Faulty type way.

Where would High Council Joseph Porter be without his sisters, and his cousins, and his aunts? This entertaining female ensemble played by Suanne Hutchins, Susan Ordish, Rhoda Fraser, Ameilia Woodward, and Helen Cain, whilst led by Tanya Robinson, provided a merry level of stage presence, with some excellent make-up and costuming. Tanya did an excellent job as Cousin Hebe with providing great comic timing – I laughed very much when she was in the way of Ralph and Josephine in their love duet.

The male ensemble portraying the crew of the US Pinafore included Kevin Murray, Amy Fudali, Gregan Davis, Geoff Sloan, Charlie Grumbley, Michael Stephenson, and Adrian Dixon. The male chorus has some strong moments including “We Fly the Systems New!” For me, the strength of any show lies in its ensemble and Amy Fudali and Gregan Davis led the male ensemble well. A standout moment was the during “A Starfleet Tar” when Amy, Gregan and Benji sang accapella in a rich 3-part harmony – well done.

The show culminated in the reveal from the character Buttercup, played by Freya Woodward, that Ralph was of high enough social standing to be able to marry Josephine. Freya did a wonderful job in the role. Her voice was good, and her stage presence was strong.

Well done to the cast and crew for this production. The concept worked well! I wonder how ROS will redo HMS Pinafore for their 2124 production?

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