I made the trek down to the Alexander Theatre at Monash University in Clayton to check out the Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria’s performance of the classic The Mikado. The theatre is beautiful and newly refurbished so it was refreshing to be in a new venue. Director Andrew McGrail (assisted by Emma-Louise Wilson) has put together a fun production with simple yet effective ensemble numbers and staging.
The act on set was simple with just a train station platform at the back of the stage. It was a good laugh every time the crossing guard (played by ensemble member, Sarah Berry) and the train pulled up at the start of the first few scenes.
To the lead cast, Yum-Yum was played by Cindy Lui and she put in a beautiful performance showcasing her stunning soprano voice and comic over the top acting. I particularly enjoyed her rendition of “The Sun Whose Rays Are All Ablaze”. Lachlan McIntyre plays Nanki-Poo with great charisma, innocence and masculinity, his voice is smooth and suits the role as he glides through the tunes. Ko-Ko is played by John Parncutt who brings the comedy and stoicism to the role. Lynlee Williams as Katisha is both wicked and funny all at the same time and often brings the laughs with her timing. As Pooh-Bah, Peter Hanway is heroic as he lights up the stage with is performance. Probably my favourite of all the leads is Phil Ephistone in the title role of The Mikado. His singing voice is strong highly audible and his presence is awesome. Though a small role, he really stood out and definitely made his mark.
In the secondary roles, Pitti-Sing played by Katherine Stewart is chirpy and bubbly, Nick Sharman as Pish Tush brings the comedy and Hayley Jobson as Peep-Bo is pretty and sweet.
The company is rounded out by a very tight ensemble who sing with confidence throughout the whole show. They were one of the standouts for me as a whole, I think in a Gilbert and Sullivan production the ensemble plays an integral role.
A shoutout must also go to the costume design by Susan Marshall. The Costumes, particularly the kimonos in Act 2 were very detailed and perfected. I particularly liked Nanki-poo’s music dressing gown.
Well done to all at GSOV.
