This was certainly an enjoyable evening but one with many missed opportunities for a really convincing delivery of performance.
Much of this production was laboured with a static stage, poor diction from the chorus, uninteresting choreography and a general lack of enthusiasm.
In contrast to this we were treated to a fine performance from Amanda Stephenson as the Princess herself - a real breath of fresh air with her wonderful stage presence, fabulous and powerful soprano singing voice and well enunciated dialogue.
Also noteworthy was Linda Norris as the Vera Bennet styled Lady Blanche and the constantly exuberant Fiona Hale as Lady Psyche (I don't know what she's on, but I want some).
Damien Hall displayed a pleasant light tenor voice which is more enjoyable for it's lower register - the upper lacks control and reliability - something to continue working on. He also handled his characterisation as Prince Hilarion with competence.
Some clever political and locality updating in the song Gently Gently was unfortunately lost on many audience members, again due to poor diction and lacklustre singing from the chorus and some minor principles.
The orchestra, under the direction of Geoff Smith, generally provided good accompaniment, although a couple more rehearsals for the strings wouldn't have gone astray. Brass and percussion were particularly strong.
Originally published in Muse Magazine (Canberra), October 1996
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