SATIRE, fun and pure farce are promised when Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘The Grand Duke or The Statutory Duel’ takes to the stage next month.
Performed by Astwood Bank Operatic Society, it’s never been performed in the Redditch area yet ran for 124 straight performances on its London debut in 1896.
It tells of a man who, thanks to ending up in a variety of situations, ends up engaged to four women – but which one will he choose?
The twists and turns hang on a plot involving bloodless duels by the drawing of cards – and sausage rolls – with plenty of great tunes.
“In common with many local amateur music associations we’ve been in limbo for almost two years now since our production of Orpheus in the Underworld in March 2020,” said ABOS director Steve Skinner.
“The committee has kept things ticking over via Zoom meetings and, only more recently meetings in person as we watched the developing pandemic situation and made and adjusted, and readjusted, our plans.
“However, as we were able to start meeting in numbers greater than six to sing, we seized the opportunity to attempt a show which is the only G&S collaboration never yet mounted by Astwood Bank Op Soc – The Grand Duke.”
Just getting it ready for the stage has been a major triumph, added Steve.
“We’ve had to try to observe safe distancing, regular pre-rehearsal Lateral Flow Tests, singing in masks, which isn’t pleasant and so on,” he said.
“Week by week we’ve had cast and production team absences, following bouts of Covid infection, but now, fingers crossed, we’ll have a show and a full company.
Because of fears about possible audience numbers, ABOS have opted to keep things local this year, and to put on the Grand Duke at the Parish Church in Astwood Bank, St Matthias and St Matthews, opening on Thursday, March 10, with three evening performances ending on Saturday, March 12, plus a Saturday matinee.
Tickets are £12 (£10 concession) from Jean Chalk on 01527 63319 / Email: [email protected]
