by Peryn E.A. Reeves-Darby
The HRG&SP’s production of H.M.S Pinafore successfully set sail and is now drifting off to the horizon as we set our sights–land ho!–on the town of Titipu.
The first weekend of shows went off without a hitch, as members from all around the community came to see Josephine (Olivia Miller ’16) and Ralph Rackstraw (Alex Raun ’17) sing their way to true love despite the barriers of social class and Josephine’s prearranged marriage to the brilliantly pitiful Sir Joseph (Kevin Hilgartner ’16). Ben Kelly ’17 dazzled as Captain Corcoran and eventually won his superb Buttercup, portrayed with charm and coy humor by the memorably excellent Laura A. Peterson ’16. Our superb chorus of sailors, sisters, cousins, and aunts was second to none and brought great depth to the musical joy of Pinafore.
On a wave of laughter, baby-farming, deadeyes, sisters, cousins, and aunts we were washed ashore to the second weekend where we were delighted to celebrate our 60th Anniversary as an organization. The weekend kicked off with an enthralling talk entitled “Pinafore in America” from the learned Russ Sype, who explored the Pinafore explosion that swept the US on the back of a copyright loophole that allowed pirated performances by the dozens. The HRG&SP alumni panel highlighted the accomplishments of our graduates and showed us how passion for G&S can shape professional paths and ambitions. A definite joy was the sing-through full of beloved classics and lesser known works sung by one and all. The always marvelous Victorian Ball was full of joy and rapture, where we rung in the merry bells of 60 years of HRG&SP with clinking glasses, dancing feet, and lots of delicious delights.
After nine wonderful performances with our two directors, Olivia Munk ’16 and Jacob Moscona ’16, at the helm and a 60th Anniversary Celebration that even Arthur and William would be proud of, we would personally like to thank you for coming to see H.M.S Pinafore and for all for your continued support and enjoyment of HRG&SP!
We hope to see you in the fall for The Mikado!
Harvard-Radcliffe Gilbert and Sullivan Players 