The Norwich Gilbert and Sullivan Society presents The Yeoman of the Guard

The Norwich Gilbert and Sullivan Society will present a semi-costumed concert version of “THE YEOMEN OF THE GUARD” at St. Cuthbert’s Church, Wroxham Road, Sprowston, Norwich NR7 8TZ on Saturday 16 November at 2.30pm. The cast includes Thomas Monument (Lieutenant of the Tower), Andrew Inglis (Colonel Fairfax), Kevin Jeckells (Sergeant Meryll), Patrick Monk (Leonard Meryll/First Yeoman), Edmund Ramsdale (Jack Point), Tim Hurst-Brown (Wilfred Shadbolt), Luke Davey (2nd Yeoman), Rachel Goodchild (Elsie Maynard), Genevieve Plunkett (Phoebe) Pam Warren (Dame Carruthers) and Becky Pick (Kate). There is a strong supporting chorus. Beverley McInnes is Musical Director and Accompanist; Tim Hurst-Brown is Director.

YEOMEN was premiered at The Savoy Theatre, London on 3 October 1888, where it ran for 423 performances. The show was rarely out of the D’Oyly Carte repertoire, always being one of the most popular of the Savoy Operas. The D’Oyly Carte continued to perform the opera right up until the company closed in 1982. When the D’Oyly Carte visited the Theatre Royal, Norwich for the last time in May 1981, YEOMEN was in the repertoire. Amongst many wonderful songs in the show are “I have a song to sing, O!”, “Tell a tale of cock and bull”, “Strange adventure”, “Were I thy bride” and “When a wooer goes a-wooing”.

YEOMEN has been performed on six different occasions by the East Norfolk Operatic Society, the last time being in 2017. Gilbert and Sullivan enthusiasts now have a great opportunity to hear Sir Arthur Sullivan’s stirring music coupled with W. S. Gilbert’s biting wit in this concert version of YEOMEN. Entrance is free, though there is a suggested donation of £5 to defray expenses. Refreshments will be served during the interval. Don’t miss what promises to be a delightful afternoon! (More details on www.norwichgands.co.uk)