Ruddigore

Ruddigore is rarely performed anymore, but I don't know why because it's a lot of fun. A spoof on Gothic melodramas, it also contains some wonderful music by Sir Arthur Sullivan.

The story (in case you didn't already know) is about the Bad Baronets of Ruddigore, who because of a witch's curse must commit a crime a day or else perish in agony themselves. To avoid the curse, the current Baronet faked his own death and has lived in hiding for 10 years. Now he wants to marry, but on his wedding-day the truth comes out.

His younger brother (the character played so delightfully by Vincent Price) was left holding the title, so to speak. He has been bad for the past decade, and is relieved to be able to give up his wicked ways and live respectably, while the hitherto blameless Robin must now assume the handlebar mustache and opera cape of the Victorian stage villain.

I thoroughly enjoyed this production--very energetic and lively performances. Vincent Price was a hoot as Sir Despard Murgatroyd, and his performance alone was enough to make this a keeper. The whole cast was great, including Keith Mitchell as Robin/Sir Ruthven, Sandra Dugdale was a charming Rose Maybud, and Donald Adams was terrific, as usual.