The Pirates of Penzance

Gilbert and Sullivan operettas may be old-fashioned, but ENO hit all the laughs to please a modern audience while embracing the period charm. Alison Chitty’s bold, primary colour moving set focuses your attention to the action and sub-divides the vast stage effectively.

The orchestra, under conductor Natalie Murray Beale, gently lure us in to Sullivan’s melodies and she is very sympathetic to the singers’ selling the songs.

In this Mike Leigh-created production, revival director Sarah Tipple keeps the show moving deliciously. There is subtle but effective choreography, originally by Francesca Jaynes, especially for the police and the Pirate King. John Savournin hits just the right camp notes for this soft-hearted baddie.

Isabelle Peters adds a charming naughty aspect to Mabel, and is matched in performance by William Morgan as Frederic.

The performances are all strong and clear enunciation allows the audience to share the ridiculous jokes. James Cresswell steals the show as the Sergeant of Police bringing a ponderous physicality to match a glorious voice.

Derek Benfield