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HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 1992-07-15, Page 21THE CITIZEN, WEDNESDAY, JULY 15,1992. PAGE 21. Theatre review Avon’s ‘Pinafore’ a boatload of surprises A boatful of surprises Michael Brian as Ralph Rackstraw and Joanne Hounsell as Josephine elope in the Avon Theatre's H.M.S. Pinafore. The play is a colourful production, full of surprises. BY BONNIE GROPP Stratford Avon Theatre's produc­ tion of Gilbert and Sullivan's renowned H.M.S. Pinafore, appear­ ing now through October 18, is about as much fun as you are going to see anywhere. From start to fin­ ish it is a whirlwind of colourful exuberance and lively entertain­ ment. The story of Gilbert and Sulli­ van's Pinafore is a familiar one to many, but the Stratford production goes beyond expectations. Directed by Brian Macdonald, the Pinafore is a boatload full of surprises. As quickly as a top man climbs the rig­ ging, the action switches from quarterdeck to gangplank to the crow's nest. From the minute the curtain goes up the stage is alive with the visual vibrancy of Susan Benson's set and costume design and the physical vibrancy of the performers. The story begins with the crew of the H.M.S. Pinafore, energetically preparing for the arrival of Sir Joseph Porter, First Lord of the Admiralty. Not everyone is merry, however. Little Buttercup, a bum­ boat woman, is suffering from unrequited love for Captain Corco­ ran, the commander of the Pinafore, as is the dashing sailor Ralph Rackstraw, who pines for Josephine, his Captain's daughter. Class distinction keeps them from openly pursuing the objects of their desire, while class pride has the Corcorans ignoring their obvious devotion. Captain Corcoran has instead been attempting to arrange a match between his daughter Josephine and Sir Joseph, who is a rung higher on the social ladder than are even the Corcorans. During his inspection Sir Joseph, a blustery, blubbery man, encour­ ages the crew to remember that they are the equal of any man, a statement that gives Ralph the courage to openly declare his feel­ ings to Josephine, who at first rejects them, but eventually agrees to elope after Ralph threatens sui­ cide. The misanthropic Dick Dead­ eye warns that their attempt will be thwarted, because society rules say it can not happen. When they remind him of Sir Joseph's remark he points out the reality. "When people have to obey orders equality is out of the question." For his part, Sir Joseph can not understand why Josephine is reject­ ing his suit (she finds him insuffer­ able). The Captain persuades him that it is because of the difference in their social status. Sir Joseph argues that love levels all classes, which ironically steers Josephine on a clear course with Ralph. After much mayhem prevails, Little Buttercup tells a dark secret and the amusing consequences, bet­ ter than anything, illustrate the often ludicrous attitudes society has about the classes. Since May of 1878, when H.M.S. Pinafore opened, audiences have responded to the magic of Sulli­ van's memorable music and the amusing caricatures created by Gilbert. The surprises of the Strat­ ford production echo the surprising twists in Gilbert's plot. Mr. Mac­ donald has amplified the choreog­ raphy and rigorously developed the chorus so they are all major participants in the action. In a production as ambitious as Pinafore it is not enough for an actor to be good. The production requires highly trained musical the­ atre people Michael Brian, who portrays Ralph, possesses a won­ derful resonant tenor so mature it seems converse to his boyish hand­ someness. Douglas Chamberlain's Sir Joseph is a wonderful comic carica­ ture. His surprise poke at the incompetence in Ottawa was received with great applause. Joanne Hounsell as Josephine and Marsha Bagwell as Little But­ tercup have voices that can lull you to sleep or raise the rafters. Their range extends as well to their able comedic acting abilities, particular­ ly Little Buttercup, whose impish smile gave away more than words ever could. David Dunbar, does an excellent Lucky duck winner Bonnie Gropp of Brussels receives a cheque of $1000 from the Brussels FunFest chairman of the duck race, John McKercher after her lucky duck won the race. 1500 ducks participated with tickets sold on over 1200. job with the role of Captain Corco­ ran and Thomas Gocrz is a wonder­ fully detestable Deadeye. The Pinafore boasts a cast of 29 people who not only act well, but sing and dance with the high spirit­ ed stamina required by this produc­ tion. With all the energy involved it should come as no surprise that the curtain call is not of the ordinary either, but a rousing choreographed number. / At a time when things seem to be predictable, when it Lakes an effort to pul one fool in front of another, H.M.S. Pinafore is a must sec. Il's lively entertainment that puts some of the wonder and fun back into life. ELECTRICAL__________ _________CONTRACTOR Home - Farm - Industrial - Commercial Over 40 years of complete electric service ★ Window, central air conditioning if Heat Pumps ic Central vacuum systems if Energy saving program & systems \Registered En erm ark Contractor •FREE ESTIMATES WITH NO OBLIGATION •QUALITY WORKMANSHIP •REASONABLE RATES •FREE PICK-UP & DELIVERY \BRUSSELS 887-6453/ WINGHAM 357-2450/ <CAL LTD. BURKE Electric ^Brian McKnight' Upholstery ( NORTH HURON FLEA & > FARMER'S MARKET Turnberry “B” Line UJest of Hwy. 4 (Bauarian Deli-Packers) EVERY SATURDAY 8 A.M. TO 3 P.M. 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