Gilbert & Sullivan Present Trial By Jury

Hereford Gilbert & Sullivan Society are bringing live music back to your local area this summer with a performance of “Trial by Jury”, a comic light opera.

The comic operetta (musical theatre) of Gilbert and Sullivan has been a mainstay of British theatre for over a century. The famous show-writing duo (think Rogers & Hammerstein, Lerner and Loewe, etc) penned at least 14 shows together, including the very famous “Pirates of Penzance” (see us perform this in March at the Courtyard Theatre) and “Mikado”. “Trial by Jury” is one of their first collaborations.

For those who might not have experienced G&S before, “Trial”, a short operetta at just 45 minutes, makes the perfect introduction. The story is told through song, with catchy tunes and witty English libretto, very different to the style of typical opera one might imagine.

In typical G&S style, “Trial” follows a topsy-turvy storyline. Angelina, a jilted bride, is suing her would-have-been husband Edwin, for ‘breach of promise of marriage’. A corrupt judge and a biased jury create an unusual trial with an even more unorthodox outcome!

Hereford G&S Society’s outdoor 2021 production of “Trial by Jury” will be set in 1921, the year in which women were first admitted to the bar as lawyers in the UK. The role of the counsel – traditionally played by a man – will be played this time by a woman, in celebration of the centenary of this landmark date for women in the British legal system.

Whether you’re an avid fan of Gilbert & Sullivan, or have never heard of them before, don’t miss this opportunity to visit Whitfield House and witness ‘The Crown vs Edwin’ – live music, comedy, and even the chance to picnic in the beautiful grounds from an hour before each performance (don’t forget to bring your own blanket/chairs & food/drink).

Tickets are £12.50 and just £5 for under 16s, available from www.ticketsource.co.uk/herefordgands. Advance booking is essential.