External of Buxton Opera House, image © Dave King
Buxton Opera House, Buxton 27 July – 10 August, 2024.
The International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival is back in the picturesque Buxton Opera House in 2024 to celebrate thirty years of glorious Gilbert & Sullivan. This renowned and much-loved festival attracts performers and visitors worldwide and promises an unforgettable experience filled with the magic of these enduring, joyous operas.
The professional National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company bring four new productions of all-time favourites: The Gondoliers (directed by Simon Butteriss), HMS Pinafore (directed by Bradley Travis), The Pirates of Penzance (directed by Simon Butteriss) and Trial by Jury (directed by Bruce Graham). Professional Opera company Charles Court Opera will also bring their brand new production of The Sorcerer.
A festival highlight is the International Gilbert and Sullivan Competition, where societies from around the world vie for the prestigious title of Festival Champions. This year’s lineup boasts a wide array of performances, including The Savoy Company travelling from Philadelphia, USA, with their production of The Grand Duke, Grosvenor Light Opera Company and The Yeomen of the Guard, Edinburgh G&S with The Gondoliers, SavoyNet Performing Group with The Mikado and Peak Opera with Iolanthe. Bus Pass Opera, a particular favourite with audiences with all performers over sixty, will bring Patience. The National Festival Orchestra accompanies all performances in the Opera House.
In addition to the performances, the festival offers a variety of workshops, talks, concerts, and a nightly Festival Club.
“We are delighted to welcome fans and performers back to Buxton to celebrate thirty years of the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival,” said Janet Smith, festival director. “This year’s festival is a testament to the enduring appeal of G&S and the fantastic, friendly atmosphere that we always enjoy in Buxton. We invite everyone to come along and enjoy the magic of Gilbert & Sullivan and simply excellent entertainment”.
International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival tickets are now available at the Buxton Opera House Box Office. Telephone: 01298 72190 or online www.buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
