H.M.S. Pinafore was Gilbert and Sullivan’s first big success and tells a story of class distinction and thwarted love. It gently satirises class distinctions in Britain at the time, and is a humorous look at the customs of the Royal Navy.
The plot is centred on Ralph Rackstraw, a sailor who is hopelessly in love with his Captain’s daughter, Josephine Corcoran, whom he does not believe returns his feelings. Captain Corcoran is determined that Josephine will marry Sir Joseph Porter, the First Lord of the Admiralty. Josephine, however, is reluctant to marry Sir Joseph as she is secretly in love with Ralph. The plot develops through twists and turns of concealment and discovery towards a happy ending all round.
The chorus works well together, singing both in time and in tune (rarer than you might think!). They have a feel for the music and for each other. All those on stage remain focussed and in character even during the big solo numbers. The cast ranges from first to fourth years, and includes first-timers as well as die-hard regulars of the society.
Robert Hazle is strong as Captain Corcoran, competently handling the tonal changes and emotion involved in many of his pieces. He is also careful not to over-act, which can often hinder operettas.
Christopher Milton is excellent as Sir Joseph Porter, convincingly portraying the smarmy arrogance of the character and really making you believe Sir Joseph’s high opinion of himself.
Anna Sideris as Josephine does justice to the score and is clearly a very talented singer. Unfortunately, her acting hinders the expressive potential of the music – she too static, and the music sometimes overpowers the lyrics.
Whilst the concert performance style may make this production less accessible to those who aren’t already Gilbert and Sullivan fans, the church provides a perfect setting for the soaring music. Acoustically superb, the rafters ring with beautiful melodies. The chorus numbers are particularly effective.
Overall, this is another addition to the OUGSS’s tradition of strong productions. It is a must-see for any Gilbert and Sullivan fan and is an amusing and enjoyable evening for anyone else.
(3 stars)
The Oxford University Gilbert and Sullivan Society’s production of HMS Pinafore: Wed-Sat 2nd Week – 7.30 (and 2.30 Sat) – St Michael’s Church
