Ruddigore

Synopsis

The Wicked Baronets of Ruddigore have been cursed to do one bad deed a day or die in agony. The current incumbent tries to avoid his duties by disguising himself as a farmer, but he is discovered and forced to resume his title. He does his best to do one "bad" deed a day (like forging his own will) until the family portraits come to life to advise him. With some of Sullivan's best tunes and a typically silly plot, including a corps of bridesmaids looking for a wedding. Ruddigore remains one of the most popular of the G&S operas.

Our Review:

16 November 2011

There was a time when there were regular doses of Gilbert and Sullivan in the provinces but sadly the productions became stale, the sets tacky and the lure of G&S waned. So it is to the credit of Opera North, a company never afraid of a challenge, to take on an operetta by the famous duo and even more praiseworthy in reviving one of the lesser performed shows.

This Ruddigore is stunningly designed by Richard Hudson and Gabrielle Dalton. Simple sets in sepia tones with costumes ranging from white through to rich browns with some clever touches of deep red make the stage a constantly pleasing picture.

The second act Gallery is as dramatic as you could wish with its tantalising optical illusions. Jo Davies the director has created an enjoyable entertainment which if a little slow to take off comes into its own in the seaside scene continuing to spread pleasure with mayhem and drama in the church reaching a satisfying end to...

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