After attending my first performance of Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Yeomen of the Guard or The Merryman and His Maid, I found myself asking, what took me so long?
Light Opera of Portland is currently celebrating its 10th season and their production of Yeomen at the Brunish Theatre, which runs through October 26, is a testament to why this company is considered a Portland treasure.
The performance on October 11 captivated the audience with an engaging blend of music, motion, costumes, and comedy, culminating in a heartfelt emotional moment at the end.
As outlined in an excellent preview by Daryl Browne in ArtsWatch, the plot centers around young Phoebe who is desperately in love with Colonel Fairfax, a prisoner at the Tower, sentenced to death for sorcery. This love triangle is complicated by Wilfred, the head jailor, who also harbors feelings for Phoebe. Additionally, Phoebe’s father, Sergeant Meryll, is determined to save Fairfax, who once saved him in battle, while Phoebe’s brother Leopold supports their plan to break Fairfax out of prison.
Despite the seemingly complex storyline, the production’s talented team, including director Laurence Cox and music director Josh Pounders, skillfully navigates these twists and turns, making the plot engaging and easily digestible.
Sullivan’s vibrant music propels the story forward, while Gilbert’s witty lyrics add a layer of entertainment with their playful references to the cruel punishments associated with the Tower of London.
One of the most delightful aspects of this production is the intimacy of the Brunish Theatre.
Every seat offers a close-up view of the action, allowing the audience to fully appreciate the performances of the talented cast, all of whom shine as both actors and singers.
Phoebe Gildea’s portrayal of Phoebe is particularly noteworthy, as she elicits laughter with her comedic facial expressions.
Her character transforms with the story: she beams at the thought of Fairfax’s handsomeness, frowns when his execution is mentioned, and rolls her eyes at Wilfred’s proclamations of love. Tom Harper, as her father, adds depth to the performance with his humorous portrayal of a proud parent.
Sara Rivara, who also serves as the producer, brings a darkly delicious energy to her role as Dame Carruthers, the Tower housekeeper.
Dressed in a heavy purple gown, she delivers a memorable performance during the song “When Our Gallant Norman Foes,” which personifies the menacing nature of the Tower while capturing the audience’s attention.
Meanwhile, Alex Hemsath, portraying the 2nd Yeoman, adds further intrigue to the piece, singing the same song as if it were a heartfelt love ballad, enriched by animated gestures from the chorus that enhance both the story and the musical experience.
Jack Point, played by Cox, serves as the walking jester bridging the production’s comic and tragic elements.
Unlike some of Shakespeare’s fools, Jack’s endearing qualities shine through, and his humor resonates with modern audiences without needing any academic interpretation.
Cox’s performance uniquely captures the dual nature of his character, especially through his rendition of the song “I Have a Song to Sing, O!” In this number, Jack’s playful demeanor transforms into something more poignant during its reprise, demonstrating the complexity of his emotions while keeping the audience engaged.
Visually, Yeomen enhances the overall experience.
The design of the stage includes a platform with a bloodstained chopping block, offering a striking contrast to the vivid display of scarlet-clad guards in their historically inspired attire, which adds depth to the performance.
Costume designer Nan Dahlqist’s choices, such as Phoebe’s blue dress, provide a visually appealing contrast to the guard’s red uniforms, while Wilfred’s drab clothing humorously encapsulates his character’s personality.
The program even includes an audience survey inviting feedback on how Light Opera of Portland could improve.
To that, I would simply respond: keep the wonderful entertainment coming.
With this captivating production of The Yeomen of the Guard, it’s clear that Light Opera of Portland has yet again solidified its place as a cherished part of the Portland arts scene.
image source from：orartswatch
