Liverpool born Suzanne O’Keeffe spent five years in the D’Oyly Carte Opera Company in the late 1970’s and combined her role of Soprano Chorister with playing a number of the ‘smaller’ principal parts such as Kate (Yeomen), Fiametta (Gondoliers) and Celia (Iolanthe).

As our January ‘Celebrity’ guest Suzanne certainly brightened what outside was a miserable and wet mid-winter afternoon. Not surprisingly she had many interesting and witty stories to tell of Company life and the many great Gilbert and Sullivan stars she shared the stage with; and tell them she did with an affecting and personable, true Liverpudlian charm.

For four very enjoyable musical interludes amidst all the storytelling we were well entertained by two of Suzanne’s students (she now teaches singing and acting). Particularly memorable for me personally was a lovely rendition of ‘When a Merry Maiden Marries’ by the young lady of the girl/boy twosome Suzanne brought along.

A pleasingly large attendance, by their general reactions throughout the afternoon, suggested that an excellent time was had by all.

John Coates.