<<<  <<  -- 5 --  Robert Hugill    STYLISH AND ENJOYABLE

Under Richard Balcombe the musical side of things was in excellent shape. All the cast, both soloists and the hard-working chorus, contributed fine musical performances of Offenbach's music. This contributed greatly to the performance, so that we could sit back, enjoy the show and take the musical side of things for granted.

In the pit was the English Chamber Orchestra, this combined with an increase in the size of the chorus has meant that musically things were on a more even keel than has been the case other years at Grange Park. The orchestra contributed a sparkling account of the overture and accompanied the cast deftly and stylishly. Balcombe's speeds were generally apposite and the whole thing was done with love.

Ultimately Bluebeard is a rather fun but crazy show. Stephen Langridge, Richard Balcombe and their cast created that very rare thing, a stylish and enjoyable performance of an Offenbach operetta.