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Edinburgh G & S Society
"The Grand Duke"
14 - 18 March 2006
Director:
Alan Borthwick
Musical Director: David Lyle
Assistant Director: Liz Landsman
It is seldom that we
see a production of the last of the thirteen Savoy Operas, The Grand Duke,
performed by societies. But it was a pleasure to visit and view this new
adaptation by Alan Borthwick and see a splendid, well drilled and beautifully
sung production. The picture on curtain rise on both Acts gave us a quite
stunning setting, well appreciated by the sparse but appreciative audience.
Ian
Lawson as the dithering Grand Duke, pranced, danced and performed his patter
songs with agility. Neil French (Dummkopf) performed well alongside
Scott
Thomson (Ludwig) and Fiona Main (Julia Jellico). Together they made up the three
main characters from the travelling opera company. The powerful singing from the
chorus made the rafters ring on occasions. Sterling performances were given by
Richard Bourjo as the Prince of Monte Carlo, and
Pat McKerrow as his daughter.
Not the best of the G & S operas, but a splendid production by the society, well
enjoyed by the audience.
Gordon
Blackburn
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