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KISS ME KATE
Swanage Choral & Operatic Society
Mowlem Theatre
Swanage
May 2004

WHEN you merge the wicked wit of Shakespeare with the sparkling music and lyrics of Cole Porter you almost certainly have a recipe for success, and SCOS did themselves proud with this production, which was directed by Brenda Ridout.
From the moment that she made her first entrance it was obvious that Pearl Nash’s Lilli/Kate was a shrew down to her fingertips, and the vocal challenges of the role also suited her down to the ground.
While Eddie Noades as Fred/Petruchio was a little less convincing vocally, there was no doubting his acting ability and this perpetually warring couple made the sparks fly at every opportunity. And as the flirtatious Lois/Bianca, the occasional object of Fred’s attentions, an excellent Karen Woolley simply lit up the stage.
In smaller roles too there were some lovely characterisations, in particular from Mike Hill (Harry/Baptista), Darren Jalland (Paul) and Brian Travers (Harrison Howell), while Peter Gutteridge and Stewart Jones brought plenty of light relief as the gangsters.
The orchestra, under musical director Isabelle Butler, made a fine sound and the lively chorus looked as though they were enjoying every moment, while those vital finishing touches were provided by excellent costumes and a first-class orchestra.

Linda Kirkman
Courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo


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