THE STUDENT PRINCE
THE OPERETTA COMPANY
Trinity Church, Market Street, Farnworth
Until Saturday

AN experienced cast captures the youthfulness and exuberance of Sigmund Romberg’s operetta The Student Prince.

One of the best known works by the Austro-Hungarian composer, it is set in the mythical kingdom of Karlsberg in 1860.

Performed semi-staged by The Operetta Company, at Trinity Church, Market Street, Farnworth, it tells the story of Prince Karl Franz, heir to the throne, who is bored with royal life in his native land.

With his tutor, Doctor Engel, he plans a visit to the old German University town of Heidelberg where he meets Kathie, the lovely young daughter of the innkeeper.

But the path of true love never runs smooth, especially with an ill king and a betrothal ceremony to Princess Margaret looming. Will Karl and Kathie live happily ever after?

Most of the cast may be a number of years past the typical student age but encapsulate the carefree joy of youth.

Eileen Reeves displays a strong and consistent operatic voice as Kathie and is particularly impressive in her renditions of To the Inn We’re Marching and Deep in my heart, dear.

Tony Meehan is enjoyable to watch as Detlef, one of a trio of enthusiastic student pals who can be found raising a tankard of beer in the Three Gold Apples, along with Edward Magenty, as Lucas, and Steve Brennan, as Von Asterberg.

Victoria Goulden looks and sounds the part as Princess Margaret, decked out in a regal-style gown and jewels. 

The four act operetta consists of just one act of about an hour before the interval followed by the other three shorter ones after. At two and a quarter hours, including the interval, it moves along at a nice pace.

With jolly musical accompaniment, under the direction of Robert Aston, and narration throughout, the light opera is easy to follow and enjoyable.