Iolanthe review- Surrey Mirror

16 December 2010

(Reviewed for the Surrey Mirror by Andrew Creegan)

Gilbert and Sullivan’s Savoy Operas are not so often performed nowadays so it was a
pleasure to see a packed audience at Betchworth Village Hall enjoying Iolanthe.

From the start of the performance, with the male chorus dressed in tweed surrounded
by a group of female fairies, the opera could not fail to please. The story revolves
around Strephon (Neil Williams) who is half mortal, half fairy, and falls in love with
Phyllis (Fiona Radford). The disapproval of the Lord Chancellor, who fancies her
himself, creates the main storyline.

The Producer, Virginia King, has not brought this production up to date but she has put
a few changes of lyrics realising that when the opera was written there were only two
parties in government – The Liberals and Conservatives – and now there is a coalition.

There were some fine performances at this performance, most noticeably by Neil
Williams with a superb singing voice and stage presence. The duets with Fiona Radford
were beautifully handled by both parties.

The main comedy part of The Lord Chancellor performed by David Longes featured the
normal patter songs and it was a delight to hear every word especially when the tempo
increased. His ‘Nightmare Song’ won great applause from the audience.

Brenda Judd playing The Queen of the Fairies with the female chorus sang a very
moving ‘Oh Foolish Fay’ in the second half.

Musical Director Roger Wilman brought a fine performance from the soloists and
chorus.

Ian Stone on the keyboard must be congratulated on bringing the instrument to life
with its various sounds.