 | Christchurch Gilbert and Sullivan Society | |
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| A superb line-up of principals, a great set, unusual costumes and a fine orchestra almost make Nigel Finch's production first class, but it is let down by a male chorus who for the most part look as if they are preparing to go to a funeral, rather than enjoying the delights of Venice and Barataria. Gripes aside, the chorus makes an excellent sound and the principal performers would be the envy of many a society. John Ponting and especially Stephen Adams are extremely well cast as gondolier brothers Marco and Giuseppe, with strong support from Christine Eastwood and Judy Broom as their | girlfriends/wives Gianetta and Tessa. However, the real revelation comes with the ducal party. Zachary and Sue Higgins are absolutely splendid, if a little too well-dressed, as the impoverished, social climbing Duke and Duchess of Plaza Toro, and Penelope Paige Clarke's fine voiced Casilda is delightfully imperious, with Robert Eshelby suitably love-lorn as her suitor, Luiz. Leonard Godfrey is a kindly, but somewhat reticent, Don Alhambra del Bolero, and Sheila Godfrey makes an impression as Inez. | |||