NODA Review
The BROADWAY PIRATES Crediton Operatic and Dramatic Society.
Queen Elizabeth School, Crediton.

Director: Joe McNulty
M.D. Nick Lawrence

This was a very lively and energetic production, which kept the audience captivated from start to finish. The experience started as you walked through a cave decorated the treasure chests and then entered the hall to a ship on a Cornish beach. The ship housed the band and formed a descending entrance for the cast. The show started off with a miniature galleon being carefully steered around the Cornish coast, (which had been painted on the floor) which caught our attention for the show to start.
The pirates made a loud and exciting entrance with a raucous opening chorus and confident singing from Chris Barlow who was playing Samuel. Mike Canning put all his energies into the part of the Pirate King and gave a very bold and assured performance. Sarah-Jo Nuthall was Ruth and her rich velvety voice was a joy to listen to. Ben Edgecombe made the part of The Sergeant of Police all his own. It was an amusing unique performance which the audience really enjoyed.
Penny Daw (Mabel) and John Burgoyne (Frederic) both gave excellent performances, they had a good rapport with each other and their singing was superb. Frederic’s solo “Oh, Is There Not One Maiden Breast” was the best rendition I have heard for a long time and to hear a Mabel who was capable of singing top notes that soared beautifully above the chorus was such a welcome change.
Anton Heal was an excellent Major General and the three girls, Edith, Kate and Isabel were highly amusing and had the most wonderful facial expressions.
All the cast understood the humour in this show and took part in it, making it very evident to the audience. It was one of the funniest Pirates I have seen. The set was worked very well and was lit most effectively. The band was kept tightly in control by Nick Lawrence and supported the singing without overpowering them.
It was a most entertaining evening which I enjoyed very much.

L. C. South West Noda representative.