THE GONDOLIERS – Operetta by Gilbert and Sullivan (Jerusalem Theatre – April 15). Director: Tamar Vardin-Mutal; Producer: Sharona Tel-Oren; Musical Director: Eri Doron. Nancy Naggan (Gianetta), Mary-Hannah Klontz (Tessa); Adi Adar (Marco), Ed Spitz (Guiseppe), Harvey Narrol (Duke of Plaza-Toro), Maxine Ray (the Duchess), Ronit Yalon-Downs (Casilda), Arnold Gross (Luiz), Amiel Schotz (Don Alhambra del Bolero), Sarah Fishman (Inez). Chorus, dancers, orchestra.

SPACE does not allow us to give credit to all those wh participated in this labour of love -those who took part in the preparation, the scenery, the props, coaching, lighting, stage managing, and the hundred-and-one anonymous jobs until the

culminate in the actual performance.

For the fourth time in as many years, the Light Opera Group of the Negev (Logon) presented a Gilbert and Sullivan evergreen. Each time the productions get better, smoother, more sophisticated; but until now they have retained their amateur character, in the true sense of the term. May Logon never become too professional, too slick. As it is, the enjoyment on stage is carried over the (non-existent) footlights, and infects the audience.

The fun is shared by all, and G & S provide another evening of vivacious farce, taking our minds off more serious matters.

Back-drops, colourful costumes, lively acting (even of minor roles), and a surprising amount of good singing by obviously trained vocalists made this production most enjoyable. Asides with local political references brought the play up to date with good humour.

Eri Doron kept all his forces together - the 16-piece orchestra,

a remarkably good chorus and the sentimental or tongue-twisting soloists. We noticed some "stars" from previous productions, as good as ever, and some new, very positive talent. As a show it was entertaining and absorbing; as a tour de force of tenacious endeavours by dedicated volunteers, and as a community effort, it was exemplary, and worthy of the highest recommendation and the fullest support.