Great Yarmouth Gilbert and Sullivan Society at St George’s Theatre, Yarmouth

The audience is transported to the piazzas of Venice in the Yarmouth Gilbert & Sullivan Society's spirited production of The Gondoliers.

This operetta, with its many tuneful songs and beautiful music, is an ideal choice for the 50th anniversary celebrations of the society.

The opening scene, with the charming young dancers and Venetians, enchants the audience while the orchestra plays the sparkling overture. The ravishing vocal beauty of Hannah Long (Gianetta) and Helen Steed (Tessa) is complemented by the fine singing of the two Gondoliers, Marco and Guiseppe, played by Christopher Speake and Anthony King.

Other characters are skilfully portrayed – the Duke of Plaza-Toro is acted with skill by Keith Wheadon; the role of the Duchess is portrayed by Suzanne Long; while Gillian Whiley portrays her daughter, Casilda. Paul Gooch plays the role of the Grand Inquisitor.

In this wonderful production, the costumes are excellent and the sets imaginative. The orchestra, conducted by David Kett, deserves warm congratulation, as do producers Linzi Richards and Trevor Thurston.