NEW Rosemere continue to go from strength to strength and have staged another stunning production with The Pirates of Penzance.

As I left the auditorium, I heard the adjectives "brilliant" and "excellent" used and I don't quarrel with either of those words.

Bernard Killeen is a marvellous Major-General, enunciating the words of I Am The Very Model of a Modern Major-General to the manner born.

In Patrick Unsworth we have a swashbuckling Pirate King with a superb voice and clever comic timing.

Daren Marriott making his debut with New Rosemere is outstanding as Frederic, and Lisa Murphy matches him beautifully as Mabel.

The talented Ann Smith is both funny and moving as Ruth, and Derek Jackson is first-rate as the Sergeant of Police.

All the principals were in fine voice last night and were backed up by a well-rehearsed and effective chorus.

Producer Rita Whitelaw has brought out the best in all the performers and the humour in this popular Gilbert and Sullivan opera.

Musical Director John Balshaw adds his touch of class to the production which benefits from a fine orchestra.

Sets are simple, but effective and clever use of lighting enhances the show.

I don't know how far you would have to go to see a G and S opera of such a high standard as this. But I suspect it would be a very long way.

Put this on your "not to be missed" list. Doreen Crowther

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