The Yeomen of the Guard

Libretto by W.S.GILBERT
Music by ARTHUR SULLIVAN

Gilbert and Sullivan both thought this their best work. Gilbert supplied Sullivan with what he longer for: a libretto of real and bitter-sweet human emotions. Set in the time of Henry VII, the hero Colonel Fairfax is to be beheaded, on a trumped up charge of witchcraft. However, he is said by the bravery of the Meryll family, aided by the strolling players, Elsie Maynard and Jack Point. Jack Point is perhaps Gilbert’s finest character.

The closest Gilbert and Sullivan came to write a grand opera, this is arguably the most performed opera written in English. Sullivan wrote ravishing music, supplied to Gilbert’s intriguing and serious plot. With new sets and new costumes, recently imported from the UK, this will be a sumptuous musical and dramatic event, and one of the highlights of Melbourne’s opera year.

Director: RON PIDCOCK
Musical Direction: GREG HANNAN
Lighting Design: JASON BOVAIRD