Quote of the Day: The stage is not merely the meeting place of all the arts, but is also the return of art to life. Oscar Wilde

The Gilbert & Sullivan Very Light Opera Company (GSVLOC) has mounted an ode to Spring with its production of Patience. Experiencing this show is like a breath of fresh Spring air. From the always glorious vocals and musicianship to the exquisite set design and painting it is the sweet escape that we so need right now. The set, designed by internationally-renowned designer and “dry pigment” painter Wendy Wasut-Barrett who hand-painted the entire set, looks like a late Spring day when everything is in bloom, lush green and pastel flowers. It’s absolutely gorgeous. 

Sam Vinitsky, Mallory Rabehl, and Joe Allen in GSVLOC’s Patience, thru 4/6/25. Photo: Stephen Hage

In the performance we saw, Laura LeVoir covered the role of Patience, usually performed by Mallory Rabehl. She was marvelous, her voice pure and sweet, and we understood every word she sang. She played the role perfectly, of a young woman seeking the love of her life, but with the humorous pitfalls and misdirecting that Gilbert & Sullivan are known for. Sam Vinitsky plays the heart-throb poet Reginald Bunthorne that all the girls swoon after, giving him a funny “oh, doesn’t everyone love me?” flair. Sam gives the character a playful and charming wit.

It’s Archibald Grosvenor, however, who wins young Patience’s heart.  Joe Allen, a regular on stage with GSVLOC, plays Archibald, “An idyllic Poet,” to perfection. According to the Director’s Note, Gilbert & Sullivan were influenced by the playwright and poet Oscar Wilde, who is credited for promoting the “Aesthetic Movement.” It seems like G & S might be poking a little fun at him with the character of Archibald. Both poets have a following, portraits painted and distributed, and easily woo the women. Joe Allen gives this character joy and energy, charm and wit. We absolutely loved watching him perform, from his exceptional vocal skills to his ultra expressive eyes and body. One of our favorite numbers was when Archibald and Reginald sing their duet, tossing canes, and kicking up their heels! We’ve long admired Joe Allen’s skills as a singer and actor, and he gives this character some extra magic, like he was born to play this role. 

Sam Vinitsky, Mallory Rabehl, and Joe Allen in GSVLOC’s Patience, thru 4/6/25. Photo: Stephen Hage

Lara Trujillo is back in the fun and funny role of Lady Jane. She always looks like she’s having the time of her life on stage, bewitching both the characters and the audience. Hannah Pantano is Lady Angela, Natalie Dulka is Lady Saphir, and Kelly Danger covered the role of Lady Ella in the performance we saw. They were all delightful. The ladies get such fun costumes and comedic songs! The entire ensemble was wonderful. 

Eric Sorum played Colonel Calverley with gusto. His deep voice resonated as he commanded the attention of the Dragoon Guards and audience alike. Adam Arnold is Major Murgatroyd (yep, that’s really the character’s name). He and Graham Remple are terrific as the other Dragoon Guards. The men’s chorus is delightful and energetic as always.

My sister Joy and I make it a “Sister Date” whenever we attend one of the GSVLOC’s shows. The musicianship is always tremendous, as they attract so many professional singers from the Twin Cities. G & S never fail to entertain and delight. The live orchestra, under the direction of Randal A. Buikema is always excellent. The costumes are lovely, designed by Barb Portinga. The ladies, especially, are gorgeously clad. Although, we would have liked to have seen their final number dresses longer (they reminded me just a bit of Mary Poppins). Gary Briggle directed this outstanding show. I already mentioned Wendy Waszut-Barrett’s exquisite set design and painting. Lighting by Carl Schoenborn (which really brought out the gorgeous colors and mood of this piece). And, choreography by Tinia Moulder.

You can see Patience by the GSVLOC at The Conn Theatre (inside the Plymouth Congregational Church) through April 6, 2025. 

Go. Create. Inspire!

Journaling Prompt: What are your favorite signs, or parts, of Spring?