2019
Cast and Crew
Trial by Jury
Foreman of the Jury | Keith Shatwell |
The Learned Judge | Mike Nash |
The Plaintiff | Hannah Carolan |
The Defendant | David Griffiths |
Usher | Oliver Bird |
Counsel | Dave Seager |
HMS Pinafore
Cousin Hebe | Heather Molloy |
Mrs Cripps | Heather Nicholas |
Rt. Hon. Joseph Porter | Mike Nash |
Bill Bobstay | Andy Bent |
Ralph Rackstraw | Peter Bowden |
Captain Corcoran | Dave Seager |
Bob Becket | Mike Wickham |
Dick Deadeye | Ken Brook |
Josephine | Eleanor Molloy |
Reviews
New Rosemere’s production of ‘Trial by Jury’ and ‘HMS Pinafore’ had two different
directors so I am going to review them as two different shows. Both were superbly MD’d by
Christine Seager and her Orchestra.
‘Trial By Jury’ a one act Comic Opera was directed by Deb Lyons, set in front of the curtain
making the court scene intimate. With little room for movement, the cast worked well and
managed to negotiate the set and each other without making it look clumsy (genius!).
The costumes were set in the 1920’s, which I loved and everyone looked the part - the
entrance of the Bridesmaids really brought some colour to the scene. It was a true
ensemble piece and when the Usher said “Kneel!” . . . hilarious, as most of the Gentleman
of The Jury found it difficult to genuflect, with sound effects to boot!
Hannah Carolan playing the Plaintiff was perfect for the role, playing up to the men and
capturing their hearts (plus a small matter of her successfully nailing the singing helped!).
I wonder if Mike Nash playing The Learned Judge has been likened to Mr Bean before,
whether intentional or not - very funny!
The sound and lighting helped to make this a very polished and enjoyable first half.
‘HMS Pinafore’ Directed by Hannah Carolan had the full stage effect with grey wash and
white scenery complete with stairs and a huge dock scene on the back cloth, this set the
scene. With two acts to contend with this needed to zing along and it did.
The opening number with the Chorus of Sailors looked striking with the colour of blue and
white which contrasted so well against the scenery, although I am far from certain about
the accuracy of the uniform. The Sisters, Cousins and Aunts entrance also looked amazing in
their costumes - obviously well thought out. I have one tiny BUT: Peter Bowden’s last
costume as Captain Corcoran to me appeared too small.
Eleanor Molloy playing Josephine was a delight and her singing hit all the right notes and
ticked all the boxes for me, it is easy for a role like this to be wishy washy but she certainly
delivered and moved around the stage comfortable in her character
In “A British Tar” the singing was impressively splendid, sung by Ralph, Boatswain,
Carpenters Mate and Chorus. David Seager playing Captain Corcoran, looked to have so
much fun on stage swishing his cape and having his status stripped so he loses his
captainship. He worked well with Heather Nicholas playing Little Buttercup, who as an
actress gives her all and puts in a stellar performance. “Things Are Seldom What They
Seem” duet was great fun.
Lighting and sound again worked well with just one odd lighting change mid scene.
I really liked the idea of the sponsored Members Spotlight page, where we get to read
information on a member of society.
Two shows in one night - what a feat musically: staging and all the other elements that have
to be in place before opening night - well done! New Rosemere bringing G & S to life and
going from strength to strength with their productions - if you missed this one, be sure to
catch the next one!
Thank you for having my guest and I.