Iolanthe

Iolanthe or the Peer & the Peri  is one of the finest of Gilbert & Sullivan’s operas which having been written in 1882 was the inaugural show at the newly built Savoy Theatre.  The inimitable talent of W.S.Gilbert’s writing about pertinent issues of the day was so talented that the humour is still relevant today.  The obvious criticism of various establishment elements is couched in seemingly innocuous terms in an absurd manner well supported by the masterful music of Arthur Sullivan.   The story revolves around the future happiness of Phyllis a Ward in Chancery and Strephon, an Arcadian shepherd.  They are challenged in their happiness by the Lord Chancellor wishing to marry Phyllis to one of the Lords indeed himself.  Ultimately thwarted lovers are reunited and all is saved by the wave of the Fairy Queen’s wand - in this production her cigarette holder!.

From the opening scene to the finale this show moved at a good pace never once flagging.  The exceedingly well-cast principals had been directed extremely effectively with some really innovative touches.  The opening number with its delightful frog emerging from the stream truly set the scene and the use of the Lord Chancellor’s page, with all his ‘business’, really did add to the drama - the little extras made all the difference.  All the fairies wore flapper style costumes which enhanced the production,  the Peers wore traditional robes and coronets whilst the two lovers, Phyllis & Strephon, reflected the Arcadian theme in act one further in act two their more elaborate costume reflected the style of the House of Westminster.  Praise must go to all the cast for ensuring that every line of the libretto and every verse of the music was heard with great clarity.  The balance between the cast and the orchestra was well maintained throughout. 

The Savoy Singers created a show of a very high standard where the audience were able to engross themselves in the story - indeed from the very beginning there were many murmurs of appreciation from the audience.  The cast appeared to be enjoying themselves and were totally immersed in the progress of the story.  Congratulations to everyone involved.  The G&S Festival will be privileged to view this excellent production.

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