A salute to baritone John Reed, eminent Gilbert and Sullivan specialist
Somehow, even in the age of the instant message and 24-hour news cycle, I failed to notice reports of John Reed's death on Feb. 13, the English singer/actor's 94th birthday, in Halifax, Yorkshire.
For any fan of Gilbert and Sullivan operettas, this comic baritone means a great deal. He was a major presence for decades on the G&S scene, from the early 1950s, when he made his debut with the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company in London, on into more recent decades as a performer and director in the U.S. and England. He was featured in numerous recordings of the operettas, invariably shining. He just seemed to have the G&S style in his DNA.
After retiring from the stage, he directed the West Yorkshire Savoyards, doing his bit, as long as health permitted, to keep the great tradition alive. He's survived by his partner of 52 years, Nicholas Kerri.
(Mr. Reed's passing reminds me that the G&S operettas have been energetically preserved in Baltimore, where the Young Victorian Theatre Company will celebrate its 40th anniversary season this summer with "Iolanthe.")
I know some people are resistant to the charms of the G&S canon. They are
to be pitied, poor dears. The rest of us are fortunate that we can get a continued kick out Gilbert's wordplay (if not necessarily all of his plots) and Sullivan's invariably sparkling, elegant music.
We can also consider ourselves fortunate to have recordings and films that document Mr. Reed's extraordinary contribution to the preservation of the G&S legacy. In memory of this endearing artist, here's a sample of his craft:
Comments
This is very sad news indeed, especially for those like me who love G&S and grew up eager to see as many performances as possible. The ultimate for me was the period in the late 60's when the D'Oyly Carte toured the U.S. I saw them in Washington while I was a UM student. John Reed was at his peak in those days and a marvel to watch and listen to.
In 2001 I visited London and saw the "new" D'Oyly Carte at the Savoy in its last season before closing for good. Ironically, the show was Iolanthe, which you mention is coming this summer to Young Vic. That trip reminded me of Mr. Reed's live performances that I saw and the various recordings and videos of him that I have or have seen.
There are those who like to rank the actors in what is referred to as "the Koko roles", which Mr. Reed excelled at. Many say Martyn Green or George Grossmith, but it is undeniable that Mr. Reed belongs in that esteemed company, if not at the top by himself. His passing will be mourned by Gilbert and Sullivan fans worldwide.
Thanks for bringing this sad news to my attention. It will color my thoughts at the Young Vic this summer.
And thank you for taking the time to share your eloquent thoughts. TIM
Posted by: Ray Malczewski | February 24, 2010 11:17 AM
Tim: I saw John Reed in Iolanthe and (I think) Ruddigore just before the demise of Doyle Carte back in the 70's when they were performing at the Sadler Wells theatre. Had a great time at the Harlequin pub around the corner where I met the violist in the orchestra who introduced me to some of his mates.
Bob G
Posted by: Bob Greenfield | February 26, 2010 5:13 PM