Gilbert and Sullivan festival returns to Buxton

Published: 5 February 2025
Reporter: Steve Orme

Charles Court Opera’s 2023 production of The Mikado which will be staged as part of the 31st Gilbert and Sullivan Festival

The 31st International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival will celebrate “the timeless works” of W S Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan at Buxton Opera House in August 2025.

The festival will be headlined by the National Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company who will present three productions: Princess Ida, The Pirates of Penzance and Iolanthe. John Savournin will direct Iolanthe and The Pirates of Penzance, while Jeff Clarke will revisit his 2009 production of Princess Ida.

James Hendry will conduct Iolanthe and John Andrews will take up the baton for both The Pirates of Penzance and Princess Ida.

Charles Court Opera, known for its innovative, high-energy performances, will present its take on The Mikado.

The festival will also showcase some of the finest amateur Gilbert and Sullivan groups who will compete for the Champions Trophy.

There will also be a packed programme of events, with morning talks and lectures delving into the legacy of Gilbert and Sullivan’s works while lunchtime recitals and concerts will offer a diverse range of musical performances.

A special performance of Trial by Jury will be presented at 1PM on Tuesday 12 August to celebrate the work’s 150th anniversary.

The festival will run from Saturday 2 until Saturday 16th August. Further information is available at the Gilbert and Sullivan Festival web site.

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