Review: The Gondoliers (English Touring Opera)

Review by Annabel Johnson

Gilbert and Sullivan's The Gondoliers is one of the duo's most vibrant and playful operettas, and in the hands of ETO at Norwich Theatre Royal, it proves to be something of a triumph. As part of its current tour, this production is an impressive balancing act - musical excellence alongside genuine theatrical flair - and there is, frankly, very little to criticise.

Operetta can feel like a daunting prospect if you have never seen one before, but think of The Gondoliers less as opera and more as the posher cousin of pantomime - grand costumes, larger-than-life characters, and plenty of physical comedy to boot.

The choreography is consistently slick and full of energy, and ensemble numbers executed with real precision. Running throughout it all is an unmistakable sense of joyous, camp frivolity that the company fully embrace.

The first half opens on a Venetian canal scene, complete with moving bridges and gondoliers arriving by boat. It’s a really effective opening that immediately sets the tone. The bridges themselves cleverly double up as a larger vessel at the end of the first half, transformed seamlessly by the ensemble during the choreography - a neat piece of stagecraft that is all the more impressive for feeling so effortless.

The second half, now set inside the palace, is where the production really comes into its own visually. Set and costumes give a delightfully opulent aesthetic - extravagant without becoming overwhelming. Rich colours and intricate details evoke a sense of indulgence that suits the light-hearted nature of the piece perfectly, and it's clear that every visual element has been carefully considered.

Robin Bailey and Samuel Pantcheff as Marco and Giuseppe - image credit Richard Hubert Smith

In a Contemplative Fashion is undoubtedly the highlight of the evening, performed here by Robin Bailey and Phoebe Smith as Marco and Gianetta, and Samuel Pantcheff and Beth Moxon as Giuseppe and Tessa. The vocal arrangement is exquisite, allowing each voice to shine while contributing to a beautifully cohesive whole.

What makes it truly memorable, however, is its understated comedy. Rather than playing for obvious laughs, the performers lean into subtlety, and the result is as charming as it is musically impressive.

In contrast to the subtle comedy; a special mention must go to Phil Wilcox as the Duke of Plaza-Toro, whose flamboyant performance brings some of the most comedic moments of the evening. Wilcox is an absolute joy to watch, commanding every scene he is in with comic precision.

Whether you are a long-time admirer of Gilbert and Sullivan or coming to the work for the first time, this is an evening of theatre that delivers on every level. Wit, melody, spectacle, and an irresistible sense of fun - all presented with a freshness that feels entirely contemporary. A resounding success.

The Gondoliers continues its UK tour and heads back to East Anglia to play at the Cambridge Arts Theatre on the 7th and 9th May.