No 45 Autumn 1997 Edited by Michael Walters
For the first time in many years, the Orpheus Club moved their annual production from the King's to the Royal to counteract rising costs, though for the first night show the theatre was far from filled. There were, however, no first-night nerves from this most accomplished amateur company. It was colourfully costumed and brightly lit throughout. My only minor quibble would have been with the scenery, which looked a little on the economic side of lavish! Producer Walter Paul also played the Duke of Plaza Toro. He gave the role a gentle sense of comedy mixed with Victorian elegance, as he and his entourage were dressed in Victorian clothes similar to those used for the D'Oyly Carte's production in the late 70s/early 80s. Spaghetti was consumed with gusto. Particularly outstanding was David Blackwood's Don Alhambra. A powerful characterisation gave the Don a lascivious, leering personality with a predilection for goosing the girls! David's operatic voice improves amd matures every year. His two costumes (the same as those worn by Kenneth Sandford) were quite stunning. J. Campbell Kerr, a guest singer for the Club, portraying Giuseppe, was outstanding. Tall and handsome, he had a powerful stage presence, matched by his powerful voice which he had to restrain from overpowering the other singers. He did not, however, overpower Stuart Tait's Marco. The two were perfectly matched, vocally and visually. Also perfectly matched were Honor Shelley's Gianetta and Chriss Mills' Tessa. They too, sing to a professional standard with strong, clear voices, and excellent diction. Mairi Coyle's Duchess was less than visually ideal, although her performance was excellent. She and Carol Whitelaw (Casilda) could have been interchangeable! MD Iain Campbell conducted a talented orchestra.
LINDA C. WOOD
Web page created 25 July 1998