GILBERT AND SULLIVAN

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23850, 28 December 1940, Page 10

GILBERT AND SULLIVAN

the coming season Tn 1871 an English composer of brilliant promise. Arthur Sullivan (later Sir Arthur), became acquainted with W. S. Gilbert, and in 18<"2 they collaborated in a piece for the Gaiety Theatre, London, ! 'Tho (<ods Grown Old." This was a great success, and there followed a partnership which was |to become world lamous. ] o-day the I works of Gilbert and Sullivan are as j appealing as they were at. the close of | the last century, and never tail to draw | crowded houses wherever staged. At | Mis Majesty's Theatre on Wednesday night next, Aucklanders will witness > ''The Gondoliers" presented by J. C. Williamson's Comic Opera Company—i the lirst offering in what will undoubtedly be a brief series of very notable revivals. The company contains a number of artists whose "careers have been Closely identified with the works of these masters of music and mirth. In "The Gondoliers" the talented comedian Ivan Mun/.ies will be seen once again as the Duke of Plaza Toro, and Evelyn Gardiner as the Duchess. The cast also includes Gregory Stroud, Richard Watsun. Viola. Wilson, .John En Hard, Maxwell Oldaker, Sara. Gregory, Phyllis Curnow, Vincent McMurray and Valerie Walsh. There is a full operatic chorus and orchestra, the musical director being .Mr. lico Packer. ''The Gondoliers" will be presented for four nights and at matinees. Then will follow '"The Pirates of Penzance," "Yeomen of the Guard." "lolanthe" "Ruddigore," "The Mikado" and "H.M.S. Pinafore." Box plan arrangements are advertieed,.