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Bournemouth Gilbert & Sullivan Operatic Society Lighthouse Poole October 2004 No matter. In this spirited and thoroughly enjoyable production director Roberta Morrell has kept her tongue firmly in her cheek to give audiences the spoof on Victorian melodrama that W S Gilbert intended. The inhabitants of Rederring, the Cornish village where the opera is set, are a rum lot and everyone, whether principal or chorus, brings their character to sparkling, vibrant life. John Gerken impresses as Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd, disguised as farmer Robin Oakapple to avoid inheriting his rightful title, while Bruce Vyner is every inch the sex-starved sailor as his foster brother Richard Dauntless. And Cherrill Ashford shines as the object of their affections, Rose Maybud. Robin Lavies is evil personified as Sir Despard Murgatroyd, Cathy Murray a delight as Mad Margaret – her facial expressions are a joy – and Ian Metcalfe gives a memorable characterisation as Old Adam Goodheart. There are fine performances too from Mike Griffiths (Sir Roderic) and Monica Yarrow (Dame Hannah), while young newcomers Jemma Truss and Sophie Barker make impressive debuts as chief bridesmaids Zorah and Ruth. And, as ever, musical director Jean Holt ensures that singing and orchestra are first-rate. Linda Kirkman Courtesy of the Bournemouth Daily Echo 
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