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Posted by Editor on 3rd March 2010 at 11:12 AM
Review: Grant Doyle, Opera North
by Martin Baxter

SalfordOnline were given the opportunity to interview Grant Doyle, one of the exciting cast members for Ruddigore, a Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera that graced the stage last week at the Lowry, Salford Quays.

Theatre-goers were treated to the new production which has been described as ‘a witty, Victorian, burlesque melodrama'.

It was presented with a distinct Opera North freshness, whilst fully respecting the spirit of Gilbert and Sullivan’s topsy-turvy invention.

The comic opera itself is a parody of disguises, curses and an on-off romance between Robin Oakapple, later revealed as Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd and the faultlessly virtuous Rose Maybud. The reluctant bad Baron, Robin, inherits a family curse which obliges him to commit a crime a day. However, his troubles begin when he proves spectacularly unequal to the task. As for Rose, will she ever learn to love a bad boy?

Grant, an Austrailian baritone, sings the roles of Robin Oakapple and Sir Ruthven Murgatroyd has a rather unconventional background for an opera singer.

Grant originally studied music at Adelaide University, whilst continuing to play in bands.

On leaving university he joined a small touring company called Co-Opera. The company of 12 singers and orchestra members spent five weeks at a time on the road, taking opera to small towns in the outback with a set which would fit in any town hall.

Far from the majestic platform of the Sydney Opera House, they performed in a circus tent, a winery where barrels were stored and a barn.

Thanks to Grant and Opera North for the interview.

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