Winterbourne Operatic Society

"PATIENCE"

Community Centre March 1999

Producer Mavis Campbell

Musical Director Jonathon Hollier

Patience or Bunthorne's Bride has arguably the silliest or least probable plot in all the Savoy operas.That said, Gilbert contributed some of his wittiest lines and the opera is blessed with some of Sullivan's finest music.

Winterbourne brought out the best in both with some strong,even bravura performances from the principals.Making her debut in the lead,Pauline March gave a strong rustic portrayal of the Dairy Maid, hitting her high notes effortlessly. As the aesthete Bunthorne,Steve Bedell walked off with the honours with his fine interpretation of the role in true G & S tradition. Rowena Ayres as Lady Jane completed this fine trio of stars who were fully supported by the remainder of the cast.

Despite the interruption of a fire bell,when we all had to vacate the hall, the cast were not fazed and resumed to the great appreciation of everyone. An attractively simple set, built by the society with raised US area, ensured the quite large cast were always visible. Lovely dresses with floating draperies and attractive wigs were by Mary Edbrooke of Weston-super-Mare with Homburgs of Leeds supplying the striking Dragoons'uniforms.

A sixteen-piece orchestra accompanied, producing beautiful tone and balance and never once masking important solos. The overall sound was very good as was this stylish production.

Congratulations!