The Yeomen of the Guard

Billed as “Passion, intrigue and fabulous moustaches”, The Yeomen of the Guard is a fun and vibrant directorial debut for Michael Brett. A 16th century romp that rivals Shakespeare plots for confused identities, it proves fun for both the performers and audience.

Barry Boyd has designed a set that nicely conjures the Tower of London, and we are transported back to the early 1500s by the costumes provided by Veronica Hudson and her team, with the “title” costumes adding lovely flair.

Colonel Fairfax, a good looking man with a stiff upper lip, unfairly sentenced to die is played with dashing charm by Chad Henderson. Travelling player Elsie. who marries the condemned man, is played with very sweet voice by Emily Schinkel, with Liam Auhl delighting the audience with good humour and lovely patter as her unfortunate fiancé, jester Jack Point.

Marli van der Bilj is outstanding as forthright and loveable Phoebe Meryl, with Glenn Rowan very capable as her father, Sergeant Merryl. with Cam East making the most of the small, but pivotal role of her brother Leonard.

Ross Bryant brings a good sense of comedy to unlikely suitor Wilfred Shadbolt, Avalon Rector plays up the role of Dame Carruthers, with highly competent support from Paris Ceglinski as her niece and companion Kate. Max Page brings gravitas and strength to the role of real-life historical figure, Lieutenant of the Tower Sir Richard Cholmondeley.

A solid ensemble provide support throughout, and while the chorus of Yeomen don’t always move with a great deal of grace, the cast are obviously well drilled.

Georg Corall leads a 23 piece orchestra who play beautifully. At times it can be a little difficult to hear the excellent vocals, as working over a large "unpitted" orchestra is a challenge for even the most well-trained singers.

This is a nicely executed production (despite the lack of any actual executions).

Kimberley Shaw

Photography by Michael Page and Felicity Zimmerman