No 42 -- Summer 1994 Edited by Michael Walters
An enjoyable production, but not without flaws. The chorus of fairies performed with lots of action and gusto. Walter Paul's production was traditional, with the opening quite an eye-opener. A spotlight, hung from above, cast its light into the centre of the fairy ring, with dry ice bubbling around the sleeping fairies. The Peer's chorus was lacklustre, but impressive. Walter Paul's Lord Chancellor came up to his usual high standard, but I was disappointed, especially on the Saturday night performance, that he only did one encore for the trio. An opportunity for fun with the audience was lost. Mountararat and Tolloller (David Blackwood and Andrew Bryce), were accomplished performers. Queen of the Fairies was Jean Campbell, a wonderful and imposing contralto, but I was disappointed that there was no sign of Captain Shaw! Strephon was young; 17 year-old Stephen Penman in his first principal role showed a lot of promise. Phyllis (Honor Shelley) and Iolanthe (Chriss Mills) were enjoyable, if not memorable. Willis (John Shirreffs) was the main disappointment. Although vocally sound, he did not have the appearance or stance of a Guardsman. His uniform did not fit him. Celia, Leila & Fleta (Diane Veitch, Mairi Coyle and Susan Getty), brought individual characters to their roles. The Club's new MD, Douglas Rolland, controlled with ease.
LINDA WOOD
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