* Notes *
A run of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Sorcerer (ovation pictured, {photograph} by the writer) from Lamplighters Music Theatre opened final night time on the Presidio Theatre Performing Arts Middle in San Francisco. Delightfully foolish, the solid featured many gifted singing actors.
The piece entails Alexis, a son of a baronet, who needs to degree class distinctions by utilizing a love potion from one John Wellington Wells (the sorcerer of the title) to convey all types of individuals collectively. Antics ensue and the plot goes awry when his betrothed Aline drinks the potion at his insistence, solely to fall in love with one other.
The music is bubbly and cheerful. Maestra Lynne Morrow had the small orchestra sounding appropriately jaunty, there have been only a few noticeable points in intonation or synchronization.
The manufacturing, from director Nicolas A. Garcia (who additionally heads Pocket Opera), is creative and many enjoyable. Video projection is used for the backdrops and Garcia was capable of make use of this very effectively, particularly in a scene when Dr. Daly, the Vicar of Ploverleigh, rides a bicycle by the city. There are many sight gags and it’s all fairly charming. Although the opera is from 1877, it’s positioned right here in 1920, which works completely effectively.
The consummate performers have been amusing to observe in motion. The physicality of all of them was spot on. Mezzo-soprano Cary Ann Rosko and baritone Josh Black have been significantly hilarious as Woman Sangazure, Aline’s mom and Sir Marmaduke Pointdextre. Their duet “Welcome, pleasure!” garnered a lot laughter.
Tenor Eric Mellum did effectively with the position of Dr. Daly, the lovelorn vicar, his plaintive sound and bodily presence have been fully convincing. Constance, a younger girl in love with the vicar, was sung by Jayne Diliberto, who has an apparently dark-toned soprano. Mezzo-soprano Carly Ozard was humorous as Constance’s mom Mrs. Partlet.
Tenor Max Ary has a strong sound as Alexis, and soprano Syona Ayyankeril sounded beautiful as his love Aline. Ayyankeril’s “My kindly mates” and “Pleased younger coronary heart” in Act I have been the highlights of the present for me.
* Tattling *
The opening night time viewers was enthusiastic to say the least. Many patrons have been wearing Roaring Twenties fashion. Earlier than the efficiency, viewers members have been invited to solid spells on the stage utilizing wands and the video projector within the background.
There was various speaking, however it was all in response to what was occurring on stage.
