 | Christchurch Gilbert and Sullivan Society | |
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| Away from his radar screen this week young air traffic controller Nigel Finch should be feeling like walking on air. In his off-screen role of director of this even younger society - he founded it six years ago - Nigel is bang on course for success. His once fledgling company now have a mature beat to their wings that sends them flying high with Ruddigore. Surprisingly perhaps because I was beginning to convince myself Ruddigore - originally spelt "Ruddygore" - could not possibly entertain like those favourites The Pirates of Penzance and The Mikado. I was wrong. There are precious few moments in this assured offering that, in the words of the period, fail to prove a delightful divertissement. Paul Morton has matured with the company to | take on the shy young hero Robin Oakapple in style. It's a role calling for changing moods as Robin's escape from his cruel past is cut off by nautical step-brother Dick Dauntless - a bouncing, chirpy performance from experienced Terrence Trickett. Vocal credits are beautifully balanced between the men - among other notables is Leonard Godfrey as Sir Despard Murgatroyd - and the women, led by Jane Bagley (Rose Maybud), Christine Eastwood (Mad Margaret) and Muriel Boniface (Dame Hannah). The bridesmaids' chorus is vivacious, the male chorus dependable, and the choreography on the cramped stage a work of art in itself, thanks to Jean Hayter's practised hand. The 20-strong orchestra, under Nigel's own baton, adds a most tuneful flourish. | |||||||||||||