Zealous cast makes `Ruddigore’ a treat

It’s always a treat to see what surprises await the audience during a production by the Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Hancock County. Brought together by a certifiable devotion to the comic operas of G&S, this group of community actors is known and admired for its entertainingly zealous performances. This weekend’s production of “Ruddigore” at The Grand Auditorium in Ellsworth follows suit.

An energetic cast of talented singers and amusing actors present the story of the Murgatroyds, two baronets of Ruddigore who are trying to escape a family curse. It seems that one of the Murgatroyd ancestors burned a witch in ages past and incited the wrath of supernatural sympathizers. The curse, which requires each Lord of Ruddigore to commit a crime everyday or perish in agony, has ruled the family ever since.

The smooth passage of this inheritance gets sent off course when Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd flees the title, adopts the alias of Robin Oakapple, and leaves the legacy to his brother Despard. A love triangle including Robin, the town belle Rose Maybud, and a third foster brother Richard Dauntless stirs up a new storm. Richard reveals Robin’s true identity, and the title is passed back to him.

On the sidelines of this primary action, there’s a chorus a professional bridesmaids looking for a wedding to attend, a brooding madwoman mourning the fate of her true love Despard, and a housefull of haunted portraits that make sure the terms of the curse are carried out effectively.

Director Dede Johnson has done a fine job of moving the action along in a spritely fashion. Set designer Doug Anderson has constructed a clever and elegant set with a few unexpected tricks. Music director John Haskell keeps the beat sharp, although it is nearly impossible to hear the singers because they don’t project as effectively as they should for such a large hall.

But the great fun of this show is watching these G&S devotees perform with complete abandon and delight. Roland L. Dube as Ruthven animates his character with wiry movement and capably carries the lead role, both as a singer and as an actor. Scott Dyer, as Despard, is lively and, at times, quite hilarious as he stalks his next crime. Abraham Mills, who performed opening night but shares the role with Stephen W. Elliott, is endowed with undeniable charm and felicity, which you can’t help but admire.

Sandra Blanchette as Rose has a lovely voice, which is nicely juxtaposed to her cartoonish acting. Debra Hangge is bewitching as Mad Margaret, and Virginia S. Cunningham as Rose’s aunt upholds her reputation as an audience favorite. For all her power, however, Cunningham’s finest moment is during the pretty ballad “There Grew A Little Flower.”

Choreographer and actor Meredith Schaller deserves special mention for her astute organization of more than 50 performers. Schaller’s own performance as the leader of the bridesmaids is among the best of the show because she is thoroughly composed in her sweet-smiling and determined character.

“Ruddigore” will be performed 8 p.m. July 27 at The Grand in Ellsworth. For tickets, call 667-9500.