National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company bring four productions to The 32nd International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival
One of Buxton’s most cherished summer traditions returns this August as The 32nd International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival brings a spectacular programme of professional productions to the beautiful Buxton Opera House.
Audiences are in for a real treat as the acclaimed National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company (NGSOC) takes centre stage with four outstanding productions, showcasing the wit, charm and musical brilliance that have delighted audiences for generations.
Whether you’re a lifelong Gilbert & Sullivan enthusiast or discovering these timeless comic operas for the very first time, this year’s festival promises laughter, unforgettable melodies and world-class performances in one of the country’s most beautiful theatres.
A Celebration of Gilbert & Sullivan’s Greatest Works
This season, the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company presents three of the most beloved works in the Gilbert & Sullivan repertoire: The Pirates of Penzance, HMS Pinafore and The Mikado.
Packed with memorable characters, witty dialogue, clever satire and some of the most recognisable music in British theatre, these productions continue to captivate audiences more than a century after they were first performed.
Established in 1995, NGSOC is widely regarded as one of the UK’s leading professional opera companies and remains at the heart of the International Gilbert & Sullivan Festival. Renowned for its exceptional casts, magnificent orchestral performances and meticulous productions, the company has built a reputation for bringing Gilbert and Sullivan’s masterpieces vividly to life for modern audiences.
With tickets already selling quickly, these performances are expected to be among the highlights of Buxton’s summer cultural calendar.
Join the Fun with The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan Concert
As an added highlight, company principals will also appear in two special performances of The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan Concert, accompanied by the National Festival Orchestra.
Taking place on Tuesday 4th August and Friday 14th August, these entertaining concerts offer the perfect introduction to the world of Gilbert & Sullivan or a delightful celebration for devoted fans.
Hosted by the inimitable Kevin Gauntlett, Master of Ceremonies, and conducted by John Andrews, the concerts feature outstanding soloists from the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company performing a sparkling selection of audience favourites.
Expect stirring choruses, hilarious patter songs, beloved melodies and plenty of the topsy-turvy humour that has made Gilbert & Sullivan famous around the world.
And because no evening in the Savoy tradition would be complete without a little audience participation, you’ll even have the chance to join in the singing. Words will be provided, allowing audiences to help raise the roof of Buxton Opera House with some of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most famous choruses.
Performance Schedule
HMS Pinafore
- Saturday 1st August – 2.30pm & 7.30pm
- Sunday 9th August – 7.30pm
- Wednesday 12th August – 2.30pm
- Friday 14th August – 7.30pm
The Pirates of Penzance
- Sunday 2nd August – 2.30pm & 7.30pm
- Saturday 8th August – 2.30pm
- Wednesday 12th August – 7.30pm
- Saturday 15th August – 2.30pm
The Mikado
- Wednesday 5th August – 2.30pm & 7.30pm
- Saturday 8th August – 7.30pm
- Sunday 9th August – 2.30pm
- Saturday 15th August – 7.30pm
The Best of Gilbert & Sullivan Concert
- Tuesday 4th August – 7.30pm
- Friday 14th August – 2.30pm
The Perfect Setting
Few venues are better suited to Gilbert & Sullivan than Buxton Opera House itself. With its magnificent Edwardian architecture, intimate atmosphere and rich theatrical heritage, the opera house provides a stunning backdrop for this internationally renowned festival.
Visitors can enjoy an evening of exceptional entertainment while experiencing one of the UK’s finest historic theatres, right in the heart of Buxton.
A Festival That Will Leave You Smiling
From swashbuckling pirates and comic sailors to unforgettable choruses and laugh-out-loud humour, the Gilbert & Sullivan Festival offers something for everyone.
Whether you’re a dedicated Savoyard or simply looking for a memorable night out during your visit to Buxton, these professional productions by the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company promise an unforgettable experience filled with laughter, melody and outstanding performances.
There’s no doubt the Gilbert & Sullivan Festival will put a smile on your face and leave you humming these fabulous tunes all the way home.
How to Book
Buxton Opera House Box Office – 01298 72190
Book Online: buxtonoperahouse.org.uk
For more information, go to: gsfestivals.org
With demand high and some events already nearing limited capacity – booking is recommended as soon as you can to secure the best seats for one of the highlights of Buxton’s summer season.
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