Jubilee featuring Trial By Jury

Two monumental anniversaries collided in glorious harmony as Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria (GSOV) celebrated both 150 years since W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan began their legendary collaboration, and 90 years of GSOV’s own musical legacy. Their commemorative production, Jubilee, was a feast of history, humour, and heartfelt artistry — a love letter to the enduring wit and brilliance of the G&S canon and to the generations of Victorians who have kept it alive for nearly a century.

It is clear that Director Diana Burleigh has a true passion for all things Gilbert and Sullivan. A longtime fan since her teenage years, her deep affection and insight into the complete G&S canon shines through in this production. Her careful attention to detail breathes life into the performance, fully immersing the audience into a delightful and whimsical world of yesteryear. It is obvious this is far more than just another show for Diana — it is a heartfelt labour of love, carried out with warmth and enthusiasm every step of the way.

Under Timothy Wilson’s expert musical direction, the 20-piece orchestra delivered vibrant and finely detailed performances, capturing every lively rhythm and subtle nuance of the score. Patrick Hill’s lighting design skilfully enhanced the atmosphere, perfectly reflecting the era and mood of the show. Meanwhile, the handsome period costumes, crafted by Susan Marshall and her creative team, added a rich layer of elegance and grandeur, enriching the visual storytelling.

Act One opened with an extraordinary curiosity: Dramatic Licence, a delightful twenty-minute gem performed only for the third time ever in the world! This witty play reimagines the fateful moment impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte brought Gilbert and Sullivan together to create Trial by Jury. The result is both clever and charming — a perfect prelude to the operatic magic to come. GSOV stalwarts Robin Halls (as D’Oyly Carte), Andrew McGrail (as Arthur Sullivan), and John Parncutt (as W. S. Gilbert) sparkled with irresistible chemistry, deftly portraying the creative friction, mutual admiration, and sheer brilliance that would define one of theatre’s most iconic partnerships.

Next on the bill was the eagerly awaited Trial by Jury, a one act operetta that satirizes love, fidelity, and societal expectations through a breach of promise case. Angelina sues her unfaithful suitor, Edwin, for breaking his marriage promise. The flirtatious Judge, amused by her charm, resolves the case by offering to marry her himself. With witty characters and lively courtroom antics, the operetta playfully critiques romance and justice, blending sharp social commentary with light-hearted musical satire.

Lucy Gries shone as the radiant Plaintiff, her charm and occasional sassiness lighting up the stage. Ryan Jacobs was an endearingly roguish Defendant, bringing just the right balance of swagger and haplessness. Geoff Dawes delivered a scene-stealing turn as the pompously loveable Judge, his every gesture dripping with self-importance and glee. Brett O’Meara’s sharp-witted Counsel, Sam Hargreaves’ sprightly Usher, and Bruce Packard’s earnest Foreman provided strong comic support, each relishing their moments in the spotlight. The bridesmaid quartet, led by the effervescent Serena Waterworth with excellent support from Catherine Bates, Hannah Sleeth, and Shirin Albert, added sparkle and musical vitality.

Act Two’s offering – Jubilee - shifted gears into an inspired musical tapestry including a vibrant medley of two dozen beloved G&S arias and choruses, threaded together with a warm, witty narrative celebrating GSOV’s own 90-year story. The anecdotes were pure gold: tales of love found on stage (Paul and Naomi Tooby), and dreams realized abroad (Suzanne Houlden’s rise from GSOV to starring as Josephine with D’Oyly Carte in London). These stories infused the music with intimacy and heart.

Among the evening’s highlights were Owen Davies’ exuberant My Name is John Wellington Wells (The Sorcerer), Robin Halls’ swaggering I Am a Pirate King! (The Pirates of Penzance), and Rachel Buckley’s radiant One of Us Will Be a Queen (The Gondoliers) alongside Parncutt and McGrail. Serena Waterworth’s sublime soprano in Poor Wand’ring One drew audible sighs of delight, while the ensemble’s harmonies in Eagle High, Bridegroom and Bride, and the soaring finale Hail Poetry sent chills through the room. A special mention must go to Rachel Buckley’s portrayal of Queen Victoria — regal, witty, and wonderfully commanding.

What a memorable evening! Congratulations to everyone involved in this impressive 90th-anniversary production. With over thirty talented performers—blending experienced actors and exciting newcomers—the stage was alive with energy and warmth. The company’s strong camaraderie and genuine joy in performing filled the theatre, earning enthusiastic applause from a clearly delighted audience. This was more than just a show; it was a heartfelt celebration of skill, passion, and the magic of theatre that both honoured the genius of Gilbert and Sullivan while showcasing the extraordinary artistry of GSOV’s past, present, and future. After ninety glorious years, this company shows no signs of slowing — and one can only await their centenary celebrations with eager anticipation.

To quote the finale of Trial by Jury:

“So we’ve settled with the job, and a good job too!”

Jonathan Cox

Photos: Torquil Syme