Gilbert & Sullivan’s Iolanthe
Gilbert & Sullivan’s sharp satire of power, privilege, and parliamentary democracy.
Location
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds, Westgate Street, Bury St Edmunds, IP33 1QR
Telephone
01284 769505- Date
- 19th September 2026
- Time
- 7:30pm - 9:30pm
About this event
Charles Court Opera returns to Bury St Edmunds to present their enchanting production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s sharp satire of power, privilege, and parliamentary democracy.
This witty and magical operetta tells a tale of forbidden love causing an absurdist fusion of two worlds – the magical fairies of Fairyland and a bamboozled House of Peers. Featuring some of Sullivan’s most glorious music, including ‘Oh foolish fay’, ‘If you go in, you’re sure to win’ and what is popularly known as ‘The Nightmare Song’, audiences can expect an evening of first class entertainment and riotous fun suitable for all ages.
Audiences can expect first class performances from a terrific young cast which includes an array of CCO favourites. Leading the cast is CCO stalwart Matthew Kellett (Lord Chancellor), who returns after his critically acclaimed performance as Bunthorne in Patience, for which he was nominated for a Fringe Award. He is joined by another company regular Meriel Cunningham (Fairy Queen), David Menezes (Tolloller), and a CCO comedic favourite Catrine Kirkman as Lady Mountararat, who was also nominated for a Fringe Award for her role as Lady Jane in Patience. The rest of the excellent young casting is announced as follows: Llio Evans (Phyllis), Matthew Palmer (Strephon/Willis), Eleanor O’Driscoll (Iolanthe), Sarah Prestwidge (Celia) and Martha Jones (Leila).
The production is directed by CCO’s Artistic Director, and renowned operetta specialist, John Savournin, whose recent productions include CCO’s five-star production of Patience, and The Merry Widow and Trial by Jury for Scottish Opera, Opera Holland Park and D’Oyly Carte.
★★★★★ “A fabulous production” – London Unattached
★★★★★ “a genuine ray of theatrical light.” – Plays To See
★★★★★ “Sharp, elegant and gloriously entertaining” – London Living Large
£12.00 - £33.00
About the Venue
Theatre Royal presents a vibrant, year-round programme of drama, music, dance and comedy, featuring many of this country’s leading companies and performers.
It has built a reputation of producing quality dramas and productions including the ever popular annual pantomime. Browse what’s on at www.theatreroyal.org/upcoming.
Alongside our on-stage programme of shows, the theatre offers a wide-ranging educational and community-based programme of activities and opportunities to engage people from 5 – 105 years of age, see more about our community involvement work at www.theatreroyal.org/get-involved
Theatre Royal Bury St Edmunds was designed and built in 1819 by William Wilkins. With many of its original features still intact, it is a superb example of a Regency playhouse and one of the most beautiful, intimate and historic theatres in the world.
Guided Tours operate from 7 April to 27 August bookable through Theatre Royal’s Website or from the box office. If you have requests outside of these times do call us to discuss your requirements. www.theatreroyal.org/shows/theatre-tour-2022/
Theatre goers can now also enjoy pre-show dining provided by LÉA: a delicious new artisan food range from award-winning Maison Bleue.
We look forward to welcoming you to Bury St Edmunds and its Regency jewel.
