By W.S Gilbert & A. Sullivan

Our NODA Review written by Frank Wooles

There were fairies at the bottom of Duffryn Gardens in the Vale of Glamorgan, a perfect alfresco setting for the delights of Gilbert and Sullivan's Iolanthe. Strephon's career change from shepherd to Shakespearean actor was an idea which opened up the role to many opportunities which were not missed by Ralph Thomas in a fine, beautifully sung performance in his wooing of Phyllis, played with worldly-wise allure by Jo Herco, a Ward of Chancery and diary secretary to the Lord Chancellor. The blimpish, aristocratic Lord Chancellor of Paul Buckle was not fazed in the least by the matrimonial capers of the peers and fairies as background to his crisply delivered nightmare ordeal number and, bringing a touch of sanity to the evening, Lorna Welch was a delightfully poised and tranquil banished fairy, Iolanthe. Nigel Holloway and Sion Owens were impressive and complimentary as romantic rivals, the noble Lords Moutararat and Tolloller and, as a many of many parts, Steve Davies brought a new dimension to the role of a multi tasked Private Willis. And who was the peer who could actually see a fairy? This well balanced company were a joy to watch and hear, radiating energy and enthusiasm in Janet Holloway's imaginative and precise production which so well used the elegant open-air venue, enhanced by the effective and atmospheric lighting by Catherine Carey. As well as directing, Janet superbly played and sang an imperious Queen of the Fairies. Colourful and some quite zany costumes added to the fun and the evening was well backed by a light combo under Assistant Musical Director, Nicola Rose. A visit to Duffryn Gardens is always a special occasion and this was a delicious evening of midsummer madness.

Originally published Spring 2007

See the Western Mail's review here.

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