Reviews

One of the two new musical companies established in our region recently is SQUIDS Musical Theatre. This enthusiastic group is also determined to raise funds for the Queensland Institute of Medical Research.

Their first full production is Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Mikado directed by Sandra Hines and I was looking forward to a fun night out with this great classic.
It was obvious from the overture that the orchestra was completely under-rehearsed.
Now this fact makes a fair review probably the most difficult I’ve ever had to write, because from then on, it was the cast versus the orchestra. I am thrilled to say that, overall the cast won.

From the opening scenes, the cast were thrown, either by first night nerves or their opposition, but once they regained that confidence they were brilliant. Frankly, if the expense of having an orchestra was too much for the company to pay for rehearsals, they should have opted for just two keyboards as has been done successfully in other shows.
Okay that’s the major gripe. With that aside, this is a bright, enthusiastic, fun production. The costumes, particularly those of the Mikado and Katisha, were outstanding. The set is simple but functional and effective. The sound was particularly good when the chorus sang out joyously.

Director Sandra Hines has melded this group into a fun and bright ensemble.
James Riley as Nanki Poo was particularly thrown in the opening scenes but soon regained his confidence and showed what a wonderful voice he had. Yum Yum, Stephanie Horan had a beautiful voice, as did her two sisters, Alexandra Volling and Stephanie Lish as Peep Bo and Pitti Sing. Their rendition of Three Little Maids from School was a delight.

I have never seen such an impish interpretation of the Great High Executioner, Koko, as was delivered by Pierre Nicol. Colin Simpson relished his role of Pooh Bah. Of course, the most colourful characters in this production are The Mikado, played by Gordon Ball and Katisha, played by Julie Jones. They are both consummate performers and brought the production to a wonderful climax.

As with all G & S, there were plenty of topical references. The ones chosen in this production were particularly funny.

Do go and see this show and give this young company the encouragement it deserves.

Ray Swenson

Redcliffe Cultural Centre
– Saturday Sept 25th 2pm and 7.30pm.
Bookings phone 3283 0407
Adults $28, Concessions $23, Groups (10+) $22