Society resurrects Mikado at Gaiety
TALE OF TIPITU: Above and below, the cast of the Manx Gilbert & Sullivan Societys The Mikado
THINGS are really heating up as The Manx Gilbert & Sullivan Society (The G&S) prepares for its production of The Mikado, which starts in the Gaiety Theatre on Tuesday evening (October 23).
According to award-winning director Val Cowley, who has directed three previous G&S shows, things are shaping up ‘very well indeed’.
‘We’ve got over the usual few pre-show hiccups,’ she said, ‘and this show now has the potential to be one of our very best. We have a great cast of principals and a very strong chorus, so the musical sound will be terrific.’
This sentiment is echoed by musical director John Elliott who, 23 years ago, trod the boards himself in The Mikado’s leading role of Ko-Ko, in the society’s very first production. ‘And I can still remember every word,’ he laughed. ‘I just love G&S: the sheer combination of Gilbert’s brilliant words – just as relevant today as ever – with Sullivan’s damn good tunes.’
G&S newcomer John Rimmer agreed. ‘They are a very friendly group,’ he explained. ‘I discovered that immediately. I just came along to show my interest and straight away was given a really warm welcome. And I’ve not looked back. It’s just such a great sing, and enormous fun. And of all the shows, The Mikado stands out because the music is universally good – it’s not just the odd memorable tune, but hit after hit.’
He added: ‘I remember Eric Idle playing Ko-Ko in a London production several years ago, and our Simon Fletcher is equally brilliant in the role.’
At 16, Sam Martin is one of the society’s youngest members. ‘Three years ago my mum saw an advert in the paper saying Pirates Wanted,’ he explained. ‘So I joined the cast for Pirates and have loved it ever since. But my favourite is The Mikado. And now mum’s become the props lady.’
Finally, Gemma Varnom, who will play Peep-Bo in her first G&S role, said: ‘My singing teacher recommended joining the G&S. At first, rehearsals were a little daunting but as time has gone on I’ve grown in confidence and now I’m really enjoying it. They’ve made me so welcome and I feel so much a part of the team.’
The Mikado runs until next Saturday (October 27). The shows start at 7.30pm nightly. Tickets, costing £18 with concessions available, are available from the box office on 600555, at the Sea Terminal Welcome Centre or at the Villa Marina reception.The society is providing coaches to its shows from the north, south and west – for details call 676227 or 424683.
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Weather for Isle of Man
Sunday 19 May 2013
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