"We've a first class assortment of magic"
E-Mail "Reviews" of The Sorcerer
Here are the e-mail "reviews" of the 2005 show, "The Sorcerer."
Jonathan Strong, a supporter of this company
for a long time, and very well-versed in G&S, has viewed the video
of the 2005 production of The Sorcerer, and in an e-mail to director Bob Cumming, the following is what he had to say:
"I was delighted by "The
Sorcerer." The production is quite sparkling. The set was
handsome and the lighting effects (those flashes in the sky and the
revolving shapes!) were splendid. Ahrimanes, especially, was
startlingly effective. I'm so glad you did the scene as a ghostly
dialogue. The only other time I've seen it done was with newly
composed...music, and it was merely confusing. In your version,
the verse (wisely cutting the chorus interjections) is actually
impressive! And it certainly makes a good deal more sense of the
plot. My greatest praise definitely goes to Bill Sorensen.
Each time I hear him he gets better! He is a true operatic tenor,
solid as a rock and lovely in tone (I swear I'd recognize his voice in
the dark, a mark of distinction in a singer). Your Aline was
equally big-voiced and lovely, and if she was on prednisone she
certainly did herself proud. The two of them carried the show, as
they should, but usually don't. Wells was just right and,
properly enough, the lesser presence up against A&A--but entirely
quaint and appealing. Lady Sangazure did a super job smothering
him.
It was nice to see Michael Reynolds as a man (I
remember his Duchess) and I enjoyed his diffidence till struck with the
philtre. And Laurie Weissbrot is truly your stalwart baritone
(and I remember him as a mere Tipseion in "Thespis"). I think
your Constance will come along nicely; she has a sweet presence, and
her mum and the notary rounded out a nice trio. Whirling Hercules
was also a nice touch. I liked the seated tea party; made more
sense than the usual standing about. In fact, the villagers were
droll in their variety, as should be. It's a tricky show to pull
off; it starts with that string of ballads that could bog down unless
given with well-drawn character, as yours were. And the
sulpernatural element (nice demons!) mixes so oddly with the village
comedy. It's really so unlike the operas that follow; you get a
sense of G&S finding their footing after the flukey perfection of
"Trial" (and, for all we know, the Offenbachian pastiche of
"Thespis"). But "Sorcerer" is truly necessary to get to
"Pinafore," and for all its restrained comedy has lots of charm.
People seem to get sentimental about it, more than the others. I
have a high school friend who still considers it her very
favorite. Maybe it's the village aspect of it. One might
wish to live in a perpetual Ploverleigh. And John Dreslin's orchestra
is always remarkable! It makes all he difference in a community
production. May you continue to attract those fine musicians and
singers!"
--Jonathan Strong (1/19/06)
The following are 3 e-mail "reviews" sent from friends of the director's.
"I'm really not terribly good at reviews. However, I will say that I enjoyed the show immensely!
Those of you who know me, know how I feel about "Sorcerer." Those who
don't know me might venture a guess based upon my nom de plume.
(“Sangazure” – ed.)
I've been in two productions in the past three years - this past Spring
for Troupers Light Opera Company, and the 2002 SavoyNet production in
Buxton. I've also seen quite a few "Sorcerers" recently. I never tire
of it, and I sing along silently, wishing I could be onstage.
I'm so glad that more and more groups are performing it. People seeing
it for the first time often remark that they're surprised it isn't done
more often.
As far as the Connecticut G&S Society production last night - the
talent was first-rate. Laurie, of course, whom I've seen in about eight
roles, gave his usual superb performance as Sir Marmaduke. Lady
Sangazure stood out - a beautiful, rich, warm contralto - one of the
best I've ever seen. Alexis gave not only a delightful rendition, he
also was the designer for the lovely set. And, for once, you didn't
dislike him - his character was very lovable, although somewhat dense.
JWW was a charming little cockney man, and his characterization was
"spot on." The others, including the large chorus, played their parts
well.
The special effects were unique - at the first thunderclap, I almost
landed in the lap of the gentleman sitting next to me (fortunately,
he's a friend).
I really find it interesting to see the different versions that various
performing groups can contrive. This one was well worth the trip of
about 1 1/2 hours.
Kudos to Bob Cumming, the CG&SS Artistic Director."
- From Bobbie Herman
"We really enjoyed "The Sorcerer" yesterday. The lead singers had beautiful voices and did an excellent
job! Glad Bill finally ended up with the girl! Alan was great. One of
the cast wearing a top hat constantly reminded me of Gerry! The electronic sets were amazing! How could you get the thunder and
lightning so loud without blowing the speakers? WOW! G&S's
usual fine performance.
Say hello to the professor - didn't get a chance to see
either of you with the crowds and friends we had with us - but will
make a point to stop around sometime!"
- From H.F. Loveland
"Ann, (Sortland - ed.) Please pass this message on to Robert & the company of players. Our party of 4 truly enjoyed our afternoon with "The Sorcerer". My
95-years old Aunt and her 85-year old friend were knocked out by the
great singing and the clever use of the of "special effects." Naomi and
I both know how much work goes into one of your shows, how hard the
singers work to learn their lines and dance steps and how the costume
person works from day One to make sure everyone has the proper dress or
suit to wear.
I don't wish to single out anyone person so let's just say
everyone did a great job. In my opinion, the second half of the show
was among the best CG&SS I've seen of the 6 shows I've attended.
Keep up the good--no, no, the great work. Consider this note a
reservation for 4 for
the next production."
- From Richard B. Kamins