A LITTLE piece of Scotland is firmly ensconced in Wimborne this week, and if you can get along there before it disappears back into the mist for another hundred years, you’d be well advised to do so.
WMTS chose Brigadoon to celebrate its name change from Wimborne Light Operatic Society, and they couldn’t have made a better choice. Roy Joseph, as ever, has directed the company with style and plenty of tender loving care, and new musical director David East, who also plays keyboard and violin – with his baton between his teeth – has done wonders for the standard of singing.
Best of all, the entire cast seem to be thoroughly enjoying themselves, and that enthusiasm spills over into the auditorium. The chorus work is splendid, as is the contribution made by the Wessex Highland Dancers and Bournemouth Caledonian Scottish Country Dance Team, and there is a strong line-up of principals.
There is a real chemistry between the American, Tommy (a superb Philip Redgrave) and Fiona (an excellent Sharron Pearcy), the girl he meets in Brigadoon. Mike Stephenson is a good contrast as Tommy’s friend, Jeff, pursued by man-mad Meg (a lovely performance from Trish Ruff), and there are also fine performances from Colin Pile (Harry), Kelly Knight (Jean), Phil Evans (Charlie) and Mike Lofthouse (Mr Murdock).