The Grand Duke

This was the final operetta by Gilbert and Sullivan, their 14th, and it premiered at The Savoy Theatre in March 1896 where it ran for 123 performances. It could be considered the closest that Sullivan came to writing a successful opera. It is performed rarely and as a result the music is less familiar – the addition of better-known songs added to the overall
enjoyment of your production.

The principal line up was strong with good acting and singing and the smaller supporting roles added to the overall presentation but a little more volume would have been beneficial. George Priestly was animated and amusing, as Ludwig. He was a likeable character who found himself with four potential brides to consider. Thank goodness that Dr Tannhauser
was able to work out the legalities of the situation! In that role Karen Speight was very good indeed. Her diction was superb. Helen Clutterbuck played the haughty lead actress of the company, Julia Jellicoe, and moved beautifully on stage. Her singing was delightful. In complete contrast to the character Conville in ‘The Sorcerer’, Johanna Chambers
once again displayed her vocal ability and as Ludwig’s first intended bride she gave an accomplished performance. Taking the title role of Rudolf, the Grand Duke, Gordon Cowell gave a strong performance and the pairing with Rachel Jones as The Baroness von Krakenfeld worked really well. Rachel has great poise and moves like a dancer. Portraying the Princess of Montecarlo, Claire Brewster was charming. Andrew Few played her father, the Prince of Montecarlo, and was suitably regal in the role. Richard Gun Cunningham was absolutely brilliant as Ernest Dummkopf. His alternating hats on/hats off routine was quite a feat of speed and precision. He appears to be completely relaxed on stage. I particularly enjoyed the Quintet and Julia’s ’How would I play this part?’ 

Although not a ‘full-blown’ one, the ‘Can-Can’ choreographed by Melissa Timms, was a lively inclusion in the second act and very well danced. The Roulette Girl – Serenity Cherrie - danced beautifully. The orchestra volume was well controlled however the balance with the singers was less so in ‘Won’t it be a pretty wedding!’ Staging was simple and effective as was the use of the MGM projection. The second scene was striking, costumed in black and white with scenery in the same theme.

The second act set was also simple with the two thrones and the busts on plinths - creating the desired effect.

The costume budget must have been weighty but worth it as there was an amazing and interesting selection. Lighting and sound were good throughout.

It took a while to settle into the story and the second act was much more entertaining than the first. We loved the inclusion of other operettas as represented in the opening scene of the second act. It is easy to see why there are some G and S operettas that are rarely staged and although it maybe a challenge to take on one of them. The production team are to be
congratulated on their innovative skills and their interpretation of this Savoy Opera.

Thank you for inviting us to see ‘The Grand Duke’. It was an unusual choice and a challenge that everyone involved took on wholeheartedly.

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