Fabulous frocks and frivolity

THE GONDOLIERS: Gilbert & Sullivan Society of SA

Reviewed by Stephen House, Messenger Press

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GILBERT and Sullivan fans will be humming along with this colourfully dressed, very traditional presentation.

One of the most popular operettas in the G & S repertoire, the Venetian tale concerns young maidens, kings, secret loves and confused identities.

Gilbert's libretto packs a satirical punch without being heavy handed or overtly silly, while Sullivan's music is divine.

Musical director John Drake leads a superb orchestra while Max Rayner's workmanlike stage direction and choreography hold the show together and throw in a few surprises - such as the doll dance which is an absolute hoot.

Prue Hompas, who plays Gianetta, and Joshua Hillary (the duke's attendant Luiz) are in fine form, roping in the audience every time with their ever so sweet, never-miss-a-beat singing.

Mark McKenna and Daniel Goodburn are a quality double act as the gondolier brothers Marco and Giuseppe, and Barry Hill's a hit as the dandy Duke of Plaza-Tora delivering his lines with an overstated oomph.

There were flat spots on opening night but one or two of the ensemble numbers with pace hit the right spot and brought energy to the show.

And if for no other reason, The Gondoliers is worth seeing for the frocks. They're fabulous!