Summer Savoyards launch solid ‘Pirates’ production

Reviewed by George Basler

Back in the 1940s, there was a New York Yankee baseball player, Tommy Heinrich, who was called “old reliable” because of his consistency on the ball field.

While it may be stretching the comparison, the Summer Savoyards have become one of “the old reliables” of the local theater scene over the past half century. The company, which annually stages a Gilbert & Sullivan comic opera with a cast, crew and administration of volunteers, opened its 52nd season Thursday  (July 12) and didn’t disappoint. The  mostly-youthful cast turned in a solid and enjoyable peformance of The Pirates of Penzance, which stands as one of G&S’s best-known works, along with The Mikado and HMS Pinafore.

What did you do in the arts this week?

As a loyal vintage Summer Savoyard, I, of course, attended opening night of the local Gilbert & Sullivan troupe’s delightful production of “Patience” and brought the junior art lover with me. He, in turn, was glad for companionship at the final Harry Potter flick, which we loved. How about you? What did you do in the arts this past week?

Summer Savoyards have a hit

Reviewed by Tony Villecco

While W.S. Gilbert and Sir Arthur Sullivan’s operetta ‘Ruddigore’ may not have as many familiar “hits” as some of their other collaborations, the Summer Savoyards’ opening night performance on July 8 proved both a delight visually and aurally.

Now in its 50th season, the local troupe proved once again why it has lasted so long and continues to produce exceptional community theater. The Savoyards traditionally present the fas- paced, comedic and melodious shows with community residents, almost all amateur performers, but very strong actors and singers to boot.