Tees Valley Gilbert & Sullivan Society

I was pleased to be able to stand in for Andrew Taylor, whos society this is, to report on this wonderful show. Rosedale is justly renowned for the quality of its shows, and this was no exception. There were many outstanding performances, in particular Stephen Burns as the Pirate King, and David Beall, who was hardly ever off the stage, as Frederic.

Jeanette Martin was an excellent Ruth, and Maria Jackson a very convincing Mabel. Jane Robson and Stacey Dobson were delightful as the daughters of the Major General, delightfully portrayed by Alistair Bolton, whos rendering of the famous patter song was the very model of clear diction and speed.

The audience was waiting for Walter Adam and the chorus of policemen and was not disappointed. Although augmented by ladies, it was indeed a very impressive performance. The chorus was very strong throughout this very polished production, and you have to say "there is nothing like G&S". I am sure that Margaret jones would be very pleased with the evening.

-PETER PARLOUR

PIRATES IN ROLLICKING GOOD FORM

The Rosedale Gilbert & Sulivan society believes in the old adage that says "if it works, don't change it!" , and few seeing this "Pirates" would disagree. The amateur company's tried and tested formula worked its magic once again to an enthusiastic if not 100pc full house.

Their rollicking approach to this daftest-plotwise piece in the G&S repertoire had the audience tapping their collective feet. Not that it is all truly historic. When was the last time you saw a policeman's lot like this - ladies in the chorus line with high-heeled footwear and frilly-covered handcuffs?

As always, Rosedale features a strong cast, with David Beall as Frederic, and Anna Maria Jackson as Mabel, leading from the front. Support comes from Stephen Burns as the Pirate King and there is an interesting performance from Bill Lewis as Sammuel, the kings henchman. Alistair Bolton as Major-General Stanley delights as ever - let us hope he does not become unstuck as his handlebar moustache threatened to do on several occasions.

In the main, Margaret Jones' production is geared up to raise a laugh while the splendid ten-piece orchestra provides a welcom change from some musical ensembles these days.

There was the odd splutter on opening night, but if there is an adjustment to the orchestral volume and Major-General Stanley's whikers stay firmly in place, Pirates should be in full flow by the end of the week.

What a joyous producrion! Margaret and Arthur produced a lovely evening's entertainment. She moved principals and chorus with unerring accuracy, and he drew lovely sounds from Sullivan's charming score.

The male chorus, not large in numbers, but huge in enthusiasm, got the show off to a convincing start, and Graham Morris, who has a beautiful voice, charmed the ear with long-breathed phrases, as the Duke. Stephen Burns was suitably bluff and sang well, as the Colonel.

The ladies chorus moved beautifully and sang most tunefully. Jeanette Martin, Mikhaila Crosby, and her sister Natasha were outstandingly graceful. Sue Taylor (Lady Ellen) sang really well, with lovely tone, and Stacey Dobson (Patience) was charmingly naive scheming at the same time. Gillian Sild was a very good Lady Jane, crushing Bunthorne with relish.

Alistair Bolton gave his best performance to date. Crushed or not, his diction and singing was exemplary. David Beall was a consummate Governor, understanding how to deliver his lines and point his performance. Bill Lewis added his beautiful baritone to the very funny trio. It was indeed a funny show. Well done all of you.

There is only one way to experience Gilbert and Sullivan - live on stage, with an orchestra and without microphones or loudspeakers.

Rosedale G&S society present Patience at Middlesbrough Theatre and, once the cast had warmed to the task, they gave us anevening to remember.

Patience is Gilbert at his satirical peak. his target wsa Oscar Wilde and his cohorts and their promotion of aestheticism.

The male chorus of Dragoon Guards was stirring and their Lieutenant, Graham Morris, as the Duke of Dunstable impressed in his solos once he decided to let it go.

Stacey Dobson, however, in the title role, was the star of the evening. She combined comedy in her characterisation of the plain Dairy Maid with singing that is worthy of any stage in the land.