Langcliffe Singers,

Victoria Hall, Settle

IN what was a radical departure from their usual repertoire, Langcliffe Singers performed a concert version of HMS Pinafore.

The concert style presentation of opera and musicals is becoming a popular feature of the Proms and classical music festivals, enabling audiences to hear great songs without the need for expensive staging and production.

Under the baton of Nigel Waugh and accompanied by the nimble fingers of pianist Brian Heaton, the 36-strong group entertained a cabaret seated audience.

To lead the audience through the convoluted plot, Robin Knipe had written a witty and informative script which entailed him wearing two hats, first as the narrator and then as a soloist singing, with his usual aplomb, the part of the Rt Hon Sir Joseph Porter.

KCB hats were the important visual signifiers of the evening; the leading sailors looked fetching in their straw boaters, while the ladies’ bonnets provided an excellent lesson in social class distinction.

Nigel Waugh had, rather sportingly, selected two ladies to sing each female role, to extend the opportunity to sing a solo part.

The chorus numbers were a joy to listen to and the solos were sung with charm and distinction.

- Pat Harding