DIRECTOR David Tatnall’s Gilbert and Sullivan productions never disappoint and the extended overture from Keziah Jacombs’ orchestra set a standard that never dropped.
The typically convoluted story sees young gondoliers Marco and Giuseppe, energetically played by Pocket first-timer Jack Shaw-Downie and Chris Evans, informed that one of them is actually King of Barantaria, married at birth to baby Casilda – well played by debutante Rebecca Woodhead.
To further confuse things, the boys marry ‘streetwise’ Gianetta and Tessa, convincingly-played by Katherine Evans and Cressida Bullough.
Tatnall makes an impressive Russell Brand-style Duke with Alison Vincent also debuting well as The Duchess. Quality runs deep in this company and Shaun Dodimead (Luiz), Mark Ponsford (Antonio), and David Putley (Francesco) never disappoint and are, like all the supporting cast, hilarious.
The recurring Monty Python Spanish Inquisition theme gives Adrian Hickford a brilliant cameo. Great costumes and a surprising array of props complete a faultless show.
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