ALL-MALE HMS PINAFORE

Wilton’s Music Hall until April 9, wiltons.org.uk

Utter bliss. Sasha Regan’s inspired direction and a sensationally talented cast breathe glorious life into Gilbert and Sullivan’s nautical romp.

Sixteen chaps and a piano with minimal sets and costumes create theatrical magic with vivid characterisations, exceptional physical

comedy and Lizzi Gee’s joyous choreography. Their palpable love for the material is infectious.

Beautifully sung throughout, the sublime music and lyrics sparkle, pared back to their purest form, while Sam Kipling delivers an astonishing soprano as the Captain’s daughter Josephine. Amid all the hilarity, her forbidden romance with lowly sailor Ralph Rackstraw (a golden-voiced Danny Becker) is terrifically touching.

Give three cheers for this fabulous production of the Pinafore.