Next Production
The Pirates of Penzance
After two years in production, we finally performed The Pirates of Penzance at the Devonshire Park Theatre in November 2020, to great acclaim:
"...this production is Eastbourne Gilbert and Sullivan Society at its absolute best. It is a bright, bold evening of musical nonsense, expertly delivered in all departments. G&S addicts will love it, and sceptics – if any - will swiftly be converted. If this be escapism, give us excess of it."
Kevin Anderson, Eastbourne Herald
About The Pirates of Penzance
Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera in two acts is packed full of outwardly swashbuckling, but sentimental, pirates, blundering policemen, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes.
Frederic, a pirate apprentice, falls head-over-heels in love with Mabel, the daughter of Major-General Stanley. Frederic is due to be released from his apprenticeship on his 21st birthday, but there’s a snag. Born on 29th February, Frederic discovers that he is technically still a youngster. Although very much in love, his dedication to duty is unshakeable. Can he find a way to live happily-ever-after with Mabel?
This opera is truly great entertainment. Each character in this satire on Victorian melodrama is drawn with true Gilbertian wit, and the situations in which they are placed is brimful of comedy.
Some photos from our rehearsals. Follow us on Instagram for more behind the scenes snaps - @EastbourneGandS
Our Production
We are thrilled to present a vibrant cast of talented performers for our 2021 production. Those who have seen our past productions will recognise some familiar faces, alongside many others who are new to the society. Some of these performers are new to Gilbert & Sullivan as well as to the society, and we're excited to initiate them into this wonderful topsy-turvy world!
Keep an eye on our social media channels for updates from our rehearsals and more information about the cast. You can follow us on Facebook and Instagram.
Pirate Band
Richard Woodall
The Pirate King
Lizzie Lawton
Frederic
Alison King
Ruth
Oliver Price
Samuel
Ensemble:
Margaret Amey
Phillippa Acton
Peter Tucknott
Michael Bale
Nigel Lawton
The Stanley Household
Jenny McAlmont
Mabel
Paul Eccles
Major General Stanley
Lucy Sarsfield
Edith
Melody Westcott
Kate
Claire Mullan
Isabel
Police
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Sharona Turnbull
Martha
Tourists
Pam Cross
Flora
Eve Chatfield
Clara
Ensemble:
Margot Miller
Helen Morbey
Gregory Gower
Ensemble:
Mick Root
Colin Day
Patrick Birdsall
David Joyce
Lester Seale
Michael Greatorex
Brenda Gower
John Kimberley
Tim Gordon
The Sergeant of Police
Creative Team
Trevor Allen - Director
With over 40 years of performing and directing operetta under his belt, Trevor is our resident G&S buff. He last directed the society for its 2017 production of The Mikado, and has also performed on stage in several shows with us, most recently as The Grand Inquisitor in The Gondoliers.
Russell Ablewhite - Musical Director
Russell has sung professionally for decades, most recently at the Royal Opera House. His vocal expertise is much appreciated by the company!
russellablewhite.com
Rowan Stanfield - Producer / Assistant Director / Choreographer
Rowan is more usually to be seen on stage, having played several leading ladies for Eastbourne G&S in recent years. She's excited to be making her directorial debut for the society.
rowanstanfield.com
Lucy Sarsfield - Choreographer
As well as appearing as Edith, Lucy has co-choreographed the show with Rowan. She has been a performing member of the society for many years.