REVIEW: The Gondoliers, Swindon Arts Centre

GILBERT and Sullivan is an acquired taste; in a genre all of its own.

But in the hands of Swindon Gilbert and Sullivan Society, under the direction of Derek Hill, you can be assured of an entertaining evening.

Richard Abrams had a huge task as MD. However, he managed to keep singers and orchestra in sync on this first night, although there were some lyrics that went astray or disappeared completely from some of the principle men. Nerves, I’m sure, played a part.

David Stephenson was superb as the Duke of Plaza-Toro, and Shaun Holly got over his initial nerves to deliver a sterling performance in the role of Don Alhambra. He was rather young for the role, but with the singing voice he has I forgave him almost all straight away.

All the principal ladies – Natalie Chequer, Stephanie Walsh, Polly Leech and Sandra Burchell – were a delight, with exceptional voices and stage presence. They also looked stunning in the splendid costumes.

The last time I reviewed G and S they were on a large stage at the Steam Museum with the orchestra tucked away behind them. I felt that some of the staging, due to sheer numbers in the cast, meant the chorus looked a little cramped.

This time out, on the comparatively small Arts Centre stage and with no pit for the orchestra, a couple of the musicians were very prominent in the eyeline. That aside, it didn’t stop the very tuneful singing and I heard every word.

I must just make one point; if certain members of the chorus don’t know the lyrics, they will be noticed. And you were, by me.

That said, I enjoyed this production for the sheer exuberance that is Gilbert and Sullivan.

The singing, costumes, lighting and the tremendous amount of hard work from all in this society certainly paid off.

ROS HOLLANDS