Directed by
Jude Colquhoun.
Musical
Direction by Michael Politi.
Choreography
by Christina Philipp.
Presented by
Queanbeyan Players.
The Q –
Queanbeyan Performing Arts Centre until 15th November.
Reviewed by
Bill Stephens.
Though written
in 1885, Gilbert and Sullivan’s quaint representation of Japan still contains
much to charm and entertain a contemporary audience. This new production by
Queanbeyan Players eschews flashy theatrical effects and innovative staging, in
favour of unobtrusive direction, careful attention to good diction and dialogue
delivery, and tuneful, accurate singing, to allow Gilbert’s deliciously
subversive libretto and Sullivan’s endlessly enchanting melodies to work their
magic.
Director
Judith Colquhoun has cast wisely and well. Her principals act with conviction,
and the large chorus disarmingly wear their affection for the material proudly
on their collective sleeves, as they earnestly execute Christina’s Philipp’s
choreographed movement and accurately negotiate Sullivan’s lovely harmonies.
Lachlan
McGinness and Alyssa Morse make an attractive pair as the young lovers,
Nanki-Poo and Yum-Yum, remaining steadfastly optimistic as they negotiate the
many ridiculous barriers to their relationship. Matt Greenwood gives an assured
comic performance as the ever-resourceful Ko-Ko, and Terry Johnson, perfectly
cast as the dour Pooh-Bah, nailed his laughs with impressive accuracy.
Janene
Broere actually makes the audience care about her formidable and funny,
Katisha, while Peter Smith as The Mikado, in one of his best performances to
date, dominates whenever he is on stage. Tristan Foon (Pish-Tush), Anna Greenwood
(Pitti-Sing) and Theresa Buetre
(Peep-Bo) all offer strong support.
Impressive
also was the excellent balance achieved between singers and orchestra, by
conductor, Michael Politi. However, while
the evocative, minimalist setting provided an agreeable environment for the
action, the curious lack of headwear for the male ensemble detracted from the
otherwise colourful, impressionistic costumes. Though not enough to spoil the
enjoyment of the first night audience who chortled and cheered throughout.
This review first published in the digital edition of CITY NEWS on 7th November, and in the print edition on 11th -17th November 2015.
