Yeoman of the Guard

ALISON CROOSE

King's Lynn Corn Exchange

West Norfolk Gilbert and Sullivan Operatic Society maintained the traditions of the well-loved operettas with some splendid performances.

With characterisations such as John Torr's portrayal of Jack Point, G and S is in very safe hands in West Norfolk. He stole the show as the strolling jester with his quips and tongue-twisting songs whose comedy turns to tragedy.

Torr teamed up well with Denise Bridge as Elsie Maynard, the strolling singer.

Their duet “I Have a Song to Sing, O” set the standard for ensuing duets, trios and quartets which also featured very good performances by Stuart Bull as Colonel Fairfax, Alex Saunders as Phoebe and Jim Inwood as Shadbolt, the head jailer. All ensured the special G and S humour could be fully appreciated.

The smaller parts were well-cast and the chorus added strength to a well-costumed production enacted against an impressive backdrop and enhanced by a good orchestra.

Individual microphones would have added to the audience's enjoyment. The opening night would have benefited from extra pace in the first act but as the story of intrigue and impersonation unravelled the production gained much more energy.