WITTY music and lyrics, aided by enthusiastic performances on all sides, add up to a night of fun, in a Seaham production of Sigmund Romberg's "The New Moon."
The audience at last night's opening performance, by Vane Tempest Amateur Operatic Society, left the hall still singing the familiar songs, including the stirring "Stout Hearted Men" and the tender "One Kiss."
Mark McAndrew's glittering production owes much to the breathtaking costumes of the 18th century aristocrats and also to the atmospheric sets of Graham Chaytor.
As well as meticulous scenery, Mr Chaytor has produced "props" including an accurate spinette piano, and a ship's cannon — basing it on one which stands at North Shields Priory.
The society is augmented by principals Janet Dodds, David Fiddleman and Charles Laing, all of whom prove impressive in their roles.
Among the other principals, youngsters Gillian Wilson (16), and Ann Hall (21) give strong, versatile performances as rivals for the affections of the incorrigible Alexander (Derek Cook).
He shows himself as a natural comic, with a fine voice to match, in scenes including an hilarious episode in which he and Robert (David Fiddleman) sabotage an attempt by Bill McAndrew to serenade Janet Dodds.
The plot concerns the attempts of a French detective, Ribaud, to track down and deport aboard ship the aristocrat Robert Misson, who has escaped to America. Hector Gray carries off the character of Ribaud with a sterling performance, and Ken Lynn makes a thoroughly believable boatswain.
The production also includes a band of surely the shapliest — and youngest — pirates ever to set sail.
Included in the chorus are 14 teenagers an encouraging sign for the future, and the chorus singing was notable for its strength. The Society's skillful dancers, under Susan Casey's imaginative choreography, complement George Scott's musical direction to bring a touch of glamour to the production.
The show, in the Vane Tempest Welfare Hall, runs until Saturday, when chorus singer Isobel Tait and secretary Sheila Milter will be presented with 25 year awards by the National Operatic and Dramatic Association.
