Entertainment

Theatre Review: The Gypsy Princess

One of the lesser known operettas, The Gypsy Princess has the usual plot of romance in trouble finding a solution

Presented by South Australian Light Opera Society (aka SALOS)
Reviewed 25 April 2019

One of the lesser known operettas, The Gypsy Princess has the usual plot of romance in trouble finding a solution, but as so many others of this era it is a little long winded in reaching a conclusion. Lots of pleasant melodies in Emmerich Kalmann’s score, but lots of opportunity to cut some choruses to make it more palatable for a present day audience.

That being said there is a lot to like about this production. Danielle Ruggerio-Prior shines in the title role, Sylva Varescu, and is well matched with Andrew Smith as Prince Peter. The ever-reliable David Roberts plays Peter’s father Prince Leopold and partners Kendall Geisler as his wife in the delightful number Noblesse Oblige, demonstrating her beautiful voice. Dione Baker is impeccable as Countess Anastasia; her solo How Could I Know was a highlight.

The very amusing Peter Potts lisped his way through Count Bonifaska brightening the mood whenever he was on stage. Greg Patterson as Count Ferencz with Maris Davis (Juliska) and Tom Fraser (Andrey) gave us the amusing song A Hundred Years From Now in the last act. Vinuri Gange and Justine Lewis showed us their dancing skills though hindered slightly by director Pam Tucker’s choreography. Potts, musically directing as well as performing, also did a fine job with the chorus, always strong with SALOS. There was some mistiming in a few songs, conductor Michelle Hassold seemed out of touch with the singers. The small orchestra managed well but sounded a little thin.

In all it was the usual offering of enthusiastic, colourful theatre that we have come to expect from SALOS.

Reviewed by Fran Edwards
Twitter: @franeds

Venue: Tower Arts Centre, Cnr Goodwood & Days Roads
Season:  25-28 April 2019
Duration: 3 hr
Tickets: $15 – $28

Bookings: Contact Pam 8294 6582 or see www.Facebook.com/SALightOpera for more details


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