Introduction

An evening of light opera in the inimitable style that Gilbert & Sullivan made their own. In this Operetta Gilbert makes a satire upon Parliament and the Law. The Parliament angle (if not the legal one) is particularly relevant in the light of the present difficulties MPs face in relation to their claims for expenses. Indeed, many truths lie behind the satire. The music is generally regard as among Sullivan's most refined in their collaboration with references derived from both Mendelsohn and Wagner - two somewhat unlikely joint sources. Iolanthe originally may have had some somewhat heavier elements (invariable omitted nowadays) which interrupted the generally mellow and merry farce but as usual in the finale everyone ends up getting married.

Kentwell's Open Air location offers the Hall itself as an imposing and ready believable backdrop representation of the Houses of Parliament and the unlimited space for a stage will again enable the company to show off its large cast and huge chorus to best effect.

Gilbert & Sullivan

William Gilbert enjoyed a high reputation in mid-Victorian London theatre as writer of successful sketches, comedies, pantomimes, burlesques and musicals. He wrote some of the cleverest and wittiest lyrics ever. Arthur Sullivan was a musical prodigy who composed much else including Onward Christian Soldiers and was at that time the most popular musician in England, as a conductor and composer of oratorios, anthems and hymns. They were introduced by the impresario Richard D'Oyly Carte and began to work together. They wrote 14 comic operas between 1871 and 1896. Gilbert cast and directed the works; Sullivan directed the music.Iolanthe came when both were, and their collaboration was, at their artistic, and its peak.

Iolanthe

This was their 7th collaboration and opened in London in 1882, where it enjoyed a hugely successful opening run.

The tale is a collison between faries and peers in Parliament. Iolanthe, half human and half fairy returns to fairyland after being banished for 25 years for having married a human but because she is a fairy (in part) she appears not a day older. Her son by a human, Strephon, a shepherd wishes to marry the Lord Chancellor's ward, Phyllis. The Lord Chancellor considers a shepherd not a fiitng match for his ward. In fact the Lord Chancellor himself wishes to marry Phyllis as do many of the other peers involved. Phyllis spies Strephon being affectionate with his youthful looking mother which Phyllis misconstrues.

All this forms the basis for many of the entanglements that follow.

The most famous song from the opera is probably "Oh foolish fay"which many consider one of Sullivan's best. The most well known is the Lord Chacellor's patter song "I'm Lying Awake" one of the very best of this genre.

The South Anglia Savoy Players

As the name implies they are a group of local singers. Amateurs but distinguished by the high standards they maintain, their fine singing, huge casts, excellent choruses and wonderful costumes, acccompanied by a live Chamber Orchestra. We shall see the production shortly before the company takes it into competition at the Interntaional G&S Festival at Buxton. The Company won the first competition in 1994 (with their then production of The Yeomen of the Guard) have won twice since, as well as being runners-up six times and winning numerous individual prizes.

We look forward to another cracking evening. Don't miss it.

Where Performed

On the Cedar Lawn. There are bookable allocated Seats set on a raised platform which will be under cover. Between this platform and the stage area is an area of grass where Groundlings sit (only on rugs and cushions, please - no raised seats permitted there).

Tickets

On the night prices

Ticket	Price
Seated - Covered	£24.00
Seated - Part Covered	£19.00
Ground Adult	£18.00
Ground Child	£14.00

Book online below to enjoy discount prices. See below for today's discount prices which may vary from day to day.

Further group discounts for parties of 15 or more. For details call the Estate Office on 01787 310207

Weather

The performance will continue whatever the weather so bring suitable clothing for the likely conditions. However, DO NOT raise umbrellas during the performance. So warm or waterproof clothing and headgear(or suncream) may be necessary.

Finish Time

Approximately 11.00pm.

Picnicking

You may picnic anywhere in the Gardens except the stage and audience areas. You may begin your picnic before the show starts or during the one hour supper interval during which the Gardens will be floodlit.

Various sizes of Kentwell's solid picnic tables may be hired.

Kentwell Catering

Kentwell Theatre Buffet Suppers served in the Undercroft Restaurant may be booked in advance. The first part of the meal is served before the performance starts, with the remainder served during the interval.