REHEARSALS are well under way for the annual summer concert by Astwood Bank Operatic Society – Mutiny on the Pinafore.
Later this month they will be performing Fraser Charlton’s engaging ‘sequel’ to Gilbert and Sullivan’s HMS Pinafore, telling the story of what happens next to Captain Corcoran and Little Buttercup, Rackstraw and Josephine, and Sir Joseph and Hebe.
It promises more nautical mayhem all set to Sullivan’s music – both well-known and less well-known.
This will be the third year running that, in association with the Astwood Bank Carnival and St Matthias and St George Church, ABOS will be staging an entertainment on ‘home turf’.
This time it’s a novelty ‘mash-up’ comedy, based on the music from Gilbert and Sullivan shows, semi-staged and costumed and performed at the parish church. With full chorus and home-grown as well as guest principal players, a very strong line-up will be directed by Eleanor Peberdy – known to followers as Katisha/Fairy Queen/Lady Sophie – with musical direction by guest conductor Simon Peberdy.
“Not familiar with this kind of thing? Please give it a try and you may be surprised how much fun these shows can be,” said ABOS chair, Steve Skinner.
“This ever-popular music still provides high quality entertainment, and the new storyline and updated lyrics are very clever.
“We’re very much enjoying preparing the piece.”
Mutiny on the Pinafore is on Friday and Saturday, June 21-22, both starting at 7.30pm.
Tickets will be available on the door, or in advance from Jean Chalk on 01527 63319.
Also, in the lead-up to the Carnival ABOS will be trying some flower arranging with a ‘nautical’ flower arrangement added to the displays in the church on Saturday June 8.
For more information visit Astwood Bank Operatic Society on Facebook.
