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HMS
Pinafore Opera
Della Luna Grand
Theatre, Wolverhampton **** THERE'S a refreshing new style
about Opera Della Luna's presentation of this Gilbert and Sullivan tale
about the pretty daughter of a brave sea captain and her love for a
common sailor. A small company, yes, but they
deliver a big performance with fine singing, smart acting and an ability
to squeeze every drop of humour from the operetta. The talented cast of eight -
who manage to act as principals, crew and chorus - begin by building
their ship during the overture....hoisting flags, ropes, rigging and
sails, and the audience immediately feel at ease. Graham Hoadly, for instance,
manages to play Able Seaman Dick Deadeye and the stout Aunt of Sir
Joseph Porter, First Lord of the Admiralty, with equal conviction. Fiona Hammacott sings
beautifully as Josephine, daughter of Captain Corcoran (Wyn Pencarreg),
and Trevor Jary impresses in the role Ralph Rackstraw, the lowly 'Tar'
she falls for despite the gulf in their social standing. Super performances, too, from
Louise Crane (Little Buttercup) and Philip Cox (Sir Joseph). The six-strong band, led by
director Jeff Clarke, performed on stage in this one-nighter. Paul Marston
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