Charles Court Opera Presents IOLANTHE October 14-October 25

By: Sep. 24, 2009
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Charles Court Opera Presents IOLANTHE By Gilbert & Sullivan At the Pleasance, Islington, N7 Wednesday 14 October to Sunday 25 October 2009

Press performances: Wednesday 14 & Thursday 15 October 7.30pm

Fresh from its success at the International G&S Festival, Buxton, Charles Court Opera's brand new production of Gilbert & Sullivan's IOLANTHE comes to the Pleasance, Islington from Wed 14 to Sun 25 Oct (Press performances Wed 14 & Thurs 15 Oct 7.30pm). Marking the North London venue's first opera programming, this fairy-filled and topical treat (thanks to the political theme) promises to re-invigorate a popular piece for a whole new audience as well as delight loyal G&S audiences.

The House of Lords and the realm of fairies collide in IOLANTHE - a sparkling and satirical look at love and loyalty across mortal and magical divides, the hypocrisies and bluster of those who inhabit the political landscape and the colourful chaos that comes with the involvement of winged wand-carriers!

Gauze panels galore make for a multicoloured and suitably magical backdrop in a stunning staging and design that sees the company of 15 talented young professionals joined by internationally renowned comic baritone Simon Butteriss as the Lord Chancellor. Simon recently sang in Patience at the G&S BBC Proms and is appearing in La Grande Macabre at ENO this autumn. His soloist appearances are numerous and global including La Scala, Milan and performances in the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand.

Music comes from the acclaimed Eaton-Young Piano Duo (well-known to audiences at Wigmore Hall, Purcell Room, St. Martin-in-the-fields) who have arranged the score for piano duet and accompany the action from on stage, with a touch as light as any fairy wing...

At a time when political behaviour is under greater than ever public and media scrutiny, this new production of IOLANTHE from Charles Court Opera is timely and yet timeless.

Directed by John Savournin. Musical Director David Eaton, set design by James Perkins, costume design by Mia Wallden and lighting design by Jason Kirk.



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