(Regan De Wynter Williams Productions)
Sasha Regan’s, all male, production of Gilbert and
Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore is docked at Malvern Festival Theatre this week. Set in
the hold of a Second World War battleship, a cast of sixteen seamen tell the
tale of forbidden love across the social classes.
This production strips away the usual opulence of a G&S
show, simply relying on the actors to share the story through creative,
theatrical means. Even the orchestra is reduced to one, with the gifted Richard
Bates accompanying the entire performance on piano. Ryan Dawson Laight’s set
consists of just three metal-framed bunks, a collection of boxes and
industrial wall lights hanging from the ceiling. Atmosphere is amply provided
by Tim Deiling’s lighting design, while the gender reversals are cleverly
invented with life jackets added to basic work and gym attire. The focus rests
solely on the physical and vocal aspects of the performers, which is as
refreshing as it is delightful.
This is truly an ensemble piece, with a finely drilled team
presenting wonderful, choral harmonies and sharp, synchronised choreography,
courtesy of Liza Gee. Tom Senior provides the steely looks of the lovelorn
lead, Ralph, and although poor diction hampers his deliver at times, the
chemistry between him and his sweetheart, Josephine, is enchanting. Ben Irish
shines in his role as said Captain’s daughter, with the most beautiful, pure
falsetto voice to rival any of the great operatic sopranos. Her father is
brilliantly played by the very expressive Neil Moors who creates the most likeable,
endearing character of all. David McKechnie’s performance of Buttercup is
reassuringly strong and articulate, as is Michael Burgen in the part of the
pompous Sir Joseph. James Waud is perfectly dastardly as Dick Deadeye, which, as a
character, never quite lives up to the expectations of the name and Richard
Russell Edwards makes a comedic silk purse out of the sow’s ear that is Hebe.
The only thing against this show is the material. Gilbert
and Sullivan musicals are definitely of its time and don’t fare as well as
Shakespeare, for example. The stories are generally thin, the music predictable
and the dialogue noticeably dated. Fans of G&S are evident but dwindling
and the small audience in attendance were hugely appreciative. This is certainly
an innovative take on a dated show, superbly directed, exquisitely performed
and a theatrical event definitely worth seeing.
4 stars
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