The Pirates of Penzance

The Gilbert and Sullivan Society of WA celebrates its 70th Anniversary in 2021, and what better way to celebrate than by reviving what is Gilbert and Sullivan’s most well-known work. This sold out production is a very traditional incarnation, with excellent singing and great use of humour.

Musical director Michael Brett conducts an expert orchestra who play superbly, and choral work is superb, making this an audio treat. Lovely to look at too, with gorgeous costumes by Gail Reading, against a simple but elegant set by Barry Boyd and Roger Reading, with sensitive lighting by Rhys Pottinger.

The women in this show are especially strong. Belinda Cox gives us an outstanding Ruth, acted with great skill, sung with precision and timed to perfection.

Magda Lisek is a loveable Mabel (and perhaps the funniest since Marina Prior) in a beautiful performance. The daughters (or wards) of Major General Stanley are a wonderful team, with lovely camaraderie and a great sense of fun. They are very capably led by Catherine Archer as Edith, Liza Cobb as Kate and Charlotte Rollinson as Isabel - all delightful.

Chad Henderson lends his beautiful voice to Frederic, Ronald Macqueen patters nicely and bring lovely character to the Major General, and Stephen Hastings is an expressive Sergeant of Police. Theodore Murphy-Jelly is a dynamic Pirate King, while Tim Longley makes a welcome G & S debut, solid as right-hand-man Samuel. The male chorus are in fine form, sounding great and looking superb as pirates and police.

Director Alan Needham has found moments of humour that you probably haven’t seen before and has found some amazing voices. Casting has been “in the operatic style” and is age-blind, but once you suspend disbelief and just enjoy the performances, it is an easy-to-watch production.

A worthy production to kick off this very special anniversary year.

Kimberley Shaw