Friday, May 13, 2011

Review of Opera Carolina's "HMS Pinafore"



Photo courtesy of Opera Carolina. "HMS Pinafore."


Last night Opera Carolina ended their beautiful season dedicated to love with a delightful rendition of Gilbert and Sullivan's "HMS Pinafore."

The show is a delicious delight and the perfect ending to a season that has been uniformly spectacular.

The story is simply about what happens when the one you love is not the one your parent would choose for you. And with the standard topsy turvy world of a Gilbert and Sullivan ending, all turns out right. BTW, seeing the show last night made me want to see the fabulous movie about Gilbert and Sullivan's partnership, "Topsy Turvy," available now on Netflix's instant viewing.

The whole cast was solid but among the standouts worthy to call out include Deborah Fields, who imbues a lot of sass in her rendition of Little Buttercup; Alicia Berneche's Josephine, the captain's daughter, who brought endearing qualities and sweetness; John Muriello as Captain Corcoron and a true send up and class clown, Gary Briggle playing Sir Joseph Porter. They make going to the opera one enchanting evening.

Before the curtain opened, maestro James Meena, executive director of Opera Carolina, took a moment to share the 2011-2012 season, which includes a mixture of opera classics, such as "Il Travatore" and "Madame Butterfly" and a new opera, the Russian classic "Eugene Onegin." It's going to be an amazing next season too, so get your subscriptions early! Learn more at http://www.operacarolina.org/.

The opera may be one of the best places to see such a mix of Charlotte lovers of arts. I loved seeing many friends and colleagues from years past.

Take the time out to enjoy a delightful night of arts that is truly entertaining! "HMS Pinafore" is in town until Sunday, May 15. Tickets and more info at the Opera Carolina website: www.operacarolina.org.