Cox and Box

It was good to finally catch up with this elusive Arthur Sullivan piece in 2007 and I must admit it turned out to be much more enjoyable than I anticipated, thanks chiefly to the excellent acting and singing of the three principals, but also in no small measure to the excellent direction and production values of this surprisingly expansive, made-for-television production.

F.C. Burnand's far-fetched stage farce has its share of wonderful moments and although he nowhere approaches Gilbert's skill and wit (his lyrics rely heavily on repetition), the vocal talents of opera stars Russell Smythe, John Fryatt and Tom Lawlor make the many songs seem remarkably clever and melodic.

Sir Arthur Sullivan's music of course is a joy!

I find the D'Oyly Carte Gilbert and Sullivan productions to be hit and miss. I was disappointed in Yeomen, Pirates of Penzanze and especially HMS Pinafore, however along with Iolanthe, Princess Ida and Patience, Cox and Box(a lot of fun but not one of my favourites of G&S) is one of the better ones. My only real complaint is that while the dialogue and lyrics are still funny, they can be heavily repetitive and are not as witty or as clever. However, Cox and Box has very handsome costumes and sets, and the video directing, picture and sound quality are some of the best of this particular series. The music is wonderful, and the orchestra play stylishly and the conducting is always assured. The three leads I can't fault, Thomas Lawlor especially is a very funny Sergeant Bouncer, and sings with style and resonance in Rataplan in particular. Russell Smythe and John Fryatt are just as impressive vocally, Smythe with a sonorous baritone and Fryatt with a ringing tenor voice, and also characterise their roles of Cox and Box splendidly. Overall, if you love Gilbert and Sullivan, you'll love this. 9/10 Bethany Cox