The Pirates of Penzance

PRODUCER: Sandra Bamber
MUSICAL DIRECTOR: Richard Bromley

Major General Stanley: Sandy Lofthouse
The Pirate King: Derek Bamber
Frederic: Carys Sinclair
Ruth: Ann Wodeman
Mabel: Lorna Sherrin
Edith: Helen Bullen
Samuel: Ken Pitchers
Sergeant of Police: Paul Heywood
Kate: Christine Turner
Isabella: Ginny Clarvis

This traditional production, with some homourous touches was my first visit to Hornby Occasionals, and I was very warmly welcomed.

I particularly enjoyed Sandy Lofthouse as the Major-General, he has excellent stage presence and his singing of the tongue-twister Model Major General was superb.

The men’s trio of David Bamber (Pirate King), Paul Heywood (Sergeant of Police) and Ken Pitchers (Samuel), all gave good strong performances, complimented by the ladies. Ann Wodeman was a solid Ruth and brought out all the humour of the part. Edith, Kate and Isabel were all well cast. Mabel’s (Lorna Sherrin) singing was lovely and I really enjoyed Poor Wandering One with the chorus. The ladies chorus sang well and I very much enjoyed Climbing Over Rocky Mountains, also enjoyable was the Policemen’s number. Good use was made of the limited stage area and the MD led a very competent orchestra. The audience’s reception showed that they had enjoyed their night out at the theatre.

Katharine Carradus, NODA