However, one of the highlights of the year is always Gawsworth Hall's G&S performance, and this year the Hall excelled itself with Silk Opera's performance of HMS Pinafore.
Gawsworth Hall is a stunning Elizabethan Manor located near Macclesfield. The original Norman house was rebuilt in 1480 and, following extensive remodelling in 1701, was the subject of the most famous duel in English history in 1712 Lord Mohun and the Duke of Hamilton fought over the estates and both duellists were killed. Another famous resident in the Sixteenth Century was Mary Fitton, Mary is possibly the Dark Lady of Shakespeare’s Sonnets.
The weather was fabulous - a warm and sunny evening. There wasn't a cloud in the sky as Bernie and I sat and enjoyed the music and an occasional glass of chilled wine.
I loved Silk Opera's interpretation of the opera. They brought it up to date, with modern costumes and a fresh interpretation. Sir Joseph Porter's sisters, cousins and aunts were amazing as the chorus, dancing and singing with amazing gusto, For me, they were the stars of the show.
