Uneducated peasant, Nemorino, is driven by his love for the beautiful but mocking landowner Adina, to purchase a love potion from a quack doctor.

Being only wine its placebo effect gives him confidence to pursue her. After several skirmishes Adina realises that she is in love with him and a happy ending is achieved.

This Opera Buffa, full of infectious music, is presented to good effect within the confines of the small stage. A large chorus, tightly packed at times, produce a glorious sound especially effective in the overture and entre act.

Veronica Brooks brings great shading to the part of Adina – teasing scorn melting into a softer, loving nature - as she sensitively sings “Prendi, per me sei libero”.

As the lovesick Nemorino, Gavin Sayers is in fine voice and excels in the well known aria “Una furtive lagrima”. There is also strong singing and comedy from Chris Parkes as the swaggering army sergeant, Belcore.

The work occasionally borders on operetta. This is most apparent when Richard Bacon, as Dr Dulcamara, launches into his aria listing the merits of his potions – a patter song in true Gilbert & Sullivan style.

Simon Gray earns plaudits as Director & Musical Director.

Three Stars