G
ilbert and Sullivan's romantic tale
of monarchist pirates, a gentle
parody of grander opera, with
occasional touches of satire, never takes
itself too seriously, but a clumsy
interpretation could still fall
embarrassingly flat. Alastair Wood's
hilarious production was a triumph, and
this success is in large part a testament
to the cast and direction. There wasn't a
weak link in the vocal line-up, or in the
actors' overall professionalism; solo parts
were impressively tackled, and the details
really delighted.
There was the Pirate dusting the prow of
his wooden vessel like a car-proud Jag
owner; the certificate and photograph for
Frederick as he reaches his majority (or
so he thinks); the policemen's truncheons
rotated into trumpets; each touch lifted
the performance above the level of a
song-fest, and fitted perfectly into a slick
show planned to the smallest degree.
The scenery, for a start, with its arches
and walk-way, gave height and depth, and
better accommodated the huge number
on stage by the end. The nimble band,
led by Colin Albery, with a good number of
pupils involved, supported chorus and
soloists with energy. The costumes were
perfect, for a show that didn't take itself
too seriously; pyjama-striped pirates, and
a washing line's worth of pastel pinafore
dresses. The sound and lighting, again
pupil-operated to a great extent,
unobtrusively helped things along.
As for the story, suffice to say it involves
Pirates, a Major-General, his daughters,
and some policemen. The Pirates led the
way, with appropriate vocal gusto and
cheerful tomfoolery - this clearly wasn't
going to be a production that took itself
too seriously, and the audience relaxed to
enjoy it. Archie Watts was a lively First
Mate, sporting fine grey sideburns and a
proper Cornish burr. Mr Chris Mason,
stepping in to play the Pirate King, had
vocal and stage authority, but also a great
touch of mischief; it is a role to relish, and
the audience did so because he did.
Emily Albery, as Ruth, was a coquettish 47
years old, plaintive and heavily made-up to
look both her age and plain; her duets
with brother Greg, playing Frederick, had
a real zing about them, and convincing
anger. Hers is a silly role though, and
Emily was both compelling and funny.
The Pirates' attempt to set up the naïve
Frederick with Ruth was one great joke
against him, and Greg captured the
innocent sincerity of a Victorian pirate very
adroitly. His dulcet voice would have
58
The Pirates of
Penzance
by Toby Smith