Valley Light Opera, Academy of Music, Northampton, MA
through November 16, 2014
By Mary Ann Dennis
Gilbert and Sullivan’s "The Yeomen of the Guard," is
a favorite of both author and composer, as well as the VLO family. Although the
darkest of the G&S operas, pointed satire and punning one-liners abound.
There are plenty of topsy-turvy plot complications and many believe that the
score is Sullivan's finest. The plot involves ever-changing emotional balance
of joy and despair, love and sacrifice.
It is said that the sign of a great director is in the casting.
The VLO's perfect cast gives an almost perfect rendition of this masterpiece,
giving full vocal and histrionic justice to both text and music. Jacqueline
Haney’s direction is spot on and musical director Aldo Fabrizi shapes the
decrescendos with great sensitivity including outstanding acapella pieces.
Phoebe, played by Kate Saik, opens the show with a solo and
literally sets the tone from the start. Saik embraces this character from head
to toe, moving about the stage through intentions, not just blocking. Jonathan
Klate as Jack Point, in one of the most difficult roles, does a wonderful job
as he plays a subtle account of this sad, lonely, self-mocking clown. Jonathan
Evans, who performs Fairfax, sings some of his moments with such a sweet
falsetto. He has a beautiful tone, especially in his wooing Elsie. Not only can
Elaine Crane, who plays Elsie, sing, but she brilliantly “takes on” the
emotions needed for this demanding role. The stunning contralto, Dame
Carruthers, played by Kathy Blaisdell, has all the right stuff; a rich voice
and a magnificent stage presence. Michael Budnick, who plays Wilfred the Jailer,
is hilarious in his conflict. Although he doesn’t have the pipes of the rest of
the cast, he makes it work.
The chorus is tight in their vocals and diction. The stunning
set and lights complement the show perfectly. Elaine Walkerk and Laurla Glenn's
set and costumes bring authentic early 1500’s to life. Seems like it would take
years to make just the costumes.
For G&S fans and for those who are not, this production
of "Yeomen" is a must see.
