July 2004

Edinburgh G & S Society
"Orpheus in the Underworld"
16 - 20 March 2004

Director: Alan Borthwick          Musical Director: David Liston Lyle

From Arcadia to Hades this trip was nothing but exciting. An interesting introduction by Calliope, played by Elizabeth Hutchings and characterised as Anne Robinson, explained things to one and all. This Orpheus was not the usual depiction we normally see, but a version put together by the directors of this particular production. It took us back to the original version of the story and concentrated heavily on the story-line. The singing on this evening was excellent, with some very difficult pieces carried out by all the principals. Fiona Main (Eurydice), along with Graham Addison (Pluto/Aristeus), carried along this very difficult piece delightfully, and with strong performances from Neil French (Orpheus) and Simon Boothroyd (Jupiter), the show romped along at a fair pace. Max Smart (Styx) was a performance to be­hold. The settings and costumes were of a very high standard and complemented Alan Borthwick's di-rection admirably. Liked the gag about Olympus Airlines on the trip to hell. We've all been there. An ex­cellent evening enjoyed by all.

Edinburgh G & S Society
"lolanthe"
16 - 20 March 2004

Director: Alan Borthwick          Musical Director: David Liston Lyle

It was a pleasure to visit the G & S Society for the second time, to see the other part of their double bill presentation, lolanthe. It was a challenge to them all to present two full scale productions in one week. In this piece the company were on home territory and gave us a sparkling presentation, taking us from fairyland to hell (Oops!!! Sorry - the houses of parliament)! Darren Coutts (Strephon) sang and per­formed the part with gusto. The antics of Ian Lawson (Lord Chancellor) were in true G & S style, and were thoroughly enjoyed by Lord McKay, the former Lord Chancellor, who was in the audience. The Earls of Tolloller (Gary Gray) and Montararat (David Danson) also gave very strong performances. Jan Renton (Queen of the Fairies) ruled her kingdom with a rod of iron, whilst Liz Landsman (lolanthe) gave a light and pleasing performance. The costuming of the show added colour and sparkle to the settings. A very heavy week for the Society. The stamina required to perform two different shows is very de­manding and they carried it oft well.