The Pirates Of Penzance – Haworth West Lane Amateurs.

THIS WEEK sees the sixth production of this G&S favourite since the society was founded in 1964, and it must have been as good as any of them.

The usual full house thoroughly enjoyed themselves.

The Pirates Of Penzance is certainly one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s finest creations, a challenge and a joy to all involved.

The 19-strong chorus filled the stage with endless activity on a set of considerable interest with the luxury of five exits and entrances and a variety of heights.

The 16-strong orchestra were neatly accommodated and, under Pam Dimbleby, repaid the position with some excellent sounds.

So did the five principal owls who were very nicely into their lines and music.

Poor old Frederick (Robert Driver) had a rather hard time, fed up with being so young, but in the end was bolstered by the skipping vocal delights from Mabel (Charissa Hutchins).

Ian Dobson was the very essence of a put-upon Sergeant of Police, having nearly as much to get over as Major-General Stanley (David Robinson), but winning in the end.

Paul Cross was a very model of the Pirate King; he never missed a trick, a natural.

Christine Ingham made a jolly good job of her debut as director. Congratulations all round.

• Until Saturday, call 01535 643425 to check ticket availability.

John Pettitt