The Bartered Bride, Surrey Opera, The Harlequin Theatre, Redhill. Reviewed by Simon Ames

Bedrich Smetana composed The Bartered Bride in 1866 as a response to critics who judged his earlier works as too Wagnerian. It was a success from the start because of the flowing melodies, piquant characters and bright pictures of Bohemian life.

Joanna Weeks was perfect as Marenka the bride who is bartered by a determined marriage broker, played with stridency by Tim Baldwin. Her preferred suitor, Janik, was convincingly portrayed by tenor Greg Tassell. All three principals were well cast and brought a wealth of professional experience to their respective roles.

The stuttering, stooping Vasek was brilliantly delivered by Rhys Bowden who, at 25 years of age, shows great promise for a fine career in musical theatre.

The chorus brought professional levels of skill to each ensemble opportunity, so plentiful in this work. In particular, they were hugely successful in bringing to life the signature Dance of the Comedians in the circus scene. Richard Jeffery's depiction as Ringmaster was well suited while a nimble and alluring characterisation of Esmerelda came from Rebecca Moon.

Surrey Opera are always good at what they do and this was no exception. The set was suitably Bohemian, director James Hurley created excellent character sketches and the costumes were superb.

Jonathan Butcher conducted the large orchestra with his usual aplomb and the cast provided splendid entertainment for a smaller-than–usual but highly appreciative audience.

For the Wednesday and Friday performances Rebecca Hodgetts appeared with Stephen Anthony Brown as Marenka and Janik.