Victorian Opera - Iolanthe at Palais Theatre

Approximate Running Times: Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes, including interval. Our Palais Summer Season opens with Iolanthe, a work that reminds us why Gilbert & Sullivan endure. It has often been said that somewhere in the English-speaking world one of their pieces is always being performed and in 2027, following last years successful Pirates of Penzance, it is Melbourne's turn again. This fantastical blend of Victorian pantomime and satire takes aim at hereditary power and the class system, while showcasing Sullivan at his most inspired. Full of spirit, wit and lyrical beauty, with a whiff of Mendelssohn and Wagner, Iolanthe is beloved as their most romantic collaboration. Not seen in Melbourne since 2002, this 'fairy, fairy delightful' piece features a spanking new, colourful and vibrant design by Simone Romaniuk. James Pratt will conduct. Pure enchantment. .