

Gilbert & Sullivan is simply pure joy. It’s innocent merriment that always puts a smile on your face and is sure to lighten the spirit.
The International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival opens in Buxton Opera House from Saturday 30 July to Saturday 6 August and includes a feast of fabulous, unmissable productions.
The must-see show of the week is Utopia Limited performed by the acclaimed National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company, directed by Jeff Clarke. Said Jeff, “Visitors can look forward to seeing a freshly though-out production, a slightly streamlined production. I’m resetting it in a vague South Sea setting and am interested in creating something visually stunning and less about far away places.”
It will be a lavish, no-holds-barred production, and we urge everyone to come along and see it.
The much-loved The Pirates of Penzance will be directed by Sarah Helsby Hughes and stars James Cleverton as the dashing Pirate King.
John Savournin directs a new production of Iolanthe starring Matthew Kellett as the Lord Chancellor and a cast of favourite festival performers.
Jeff Clarke also brings his much celebrated production of Opera della Luna’s HMS Pinafore – what a delight! John Savournin brings Charles Court Opera’s Patience and their acclaimed Express G&S – “When Agatha Christie meets Gilbert and Sullivan” parlour production. Forbear! Theatre will perform a sparkling production of The Gondoliers and Peak Opera bring all-time favourite The Mikado
Running alongside the Festival is a jam-packed fringe programme, with morning talks and matinee concerts.
The Gilbert & Sullivan Festival is finally back to full strength this summer. It’s fun, it’s friendly, and it’s just what everyone needs right now!
Buxton Opera Box Office: 01298 72190 or www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
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