Review of Trial by Jury by Charlotte Heath
“Chorus of Dissent and the Elastic Band excelled themselves with Trial by Jury, showing last week in St Matthias Halls. Their 21st century take on Gilbert & Sullivan’s short comic opera was hilarious, dynamic and so Stoke Newington. The frappucino’s, yummy mummys, yoga crèches and the pleasures of City Line, were all there.
It’s a crazy opera anyway and the Dissenters revelled in it – bringing 40 mins of high drama, laughter and ridiculousness to this parody of the legal system. Pure pleasure.
The stage was packed with a colourful Gallery, a non-plussed Jury, and a wildly camp Judge who somehow ends up marrying Angelina – who has just thrown her baby around the court! Suave Edwin is seduced by a young lady from the Gallery, and the Usher tries in vain to maintain control. Gloriously chaotic, tuneful and fun!
The joy and pride of the Dissenters (voices and Elastic Band orchestra) – under the inspired guidance of Ruth Whitehead (pictured conducting), Musical Director, and Cecilia Darker, Artistic Director – were palpable.”
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