Iolanthe

Maitland Gilbert & Sullivan & Musical Society Inc presents ... Gilbert & Sullivan's Iolanthe Maitland Gilbert & Sullivan & Musical Society Inc (MGASAMS) is pleased to announce its forthcoming October 2006 season of the musical Iolanthe. MGASAMS has been operating continuously since 1965 producing quality amateur musical theatre to lower Hunter audiences and celebrated its 40th year of operations last year. With music by Arthur Sullivan and lyrics by W.S. Gilbert, this 2006 production of "Iolanthe" will have the audience laughing along and enjoying the marvelous wit and sarcastic touch that we've come to know and love from the great "Gilbert & Sullivan" musical tradition. Iolanthe traces a romantic struggle between Strephon (a half fairy, half mortal) and Phyllis (a shepherdess and ward of the Lord Chancellor), who wrongly assumes Strephon's mother Iolanthe (a fairy who is ageless) is a rival love interest. First time director Alex Ross co-directs with MGASAMS's much loved Jeanette Massey, whilst the well experienced and respected Mark Wilson joins the team again as Musical Director. Joelene Griffiths and Guilhernie Noronha star as Phyllis and Strephon respectively. Also starring are long time MGASAMS members Michael Cooper as Lord Chancellor, Alex Sefton as Lord Mountararat, Sharon Allen as Iolanthe, Angie Hutchison as Leila and Adina Watkins and Amber Lewis in the shared role of Fleta, as well as newcomers to MGASAMS David Woodward as Lord Tolloller, Kelly Maybury as Private Willis, Marian Hankins as The Fairy Queen and Melanie Dietrich as Celia. The usual quality 23 piece orchestra supports the principals and 17 member chorus ensemble for a thoroughly entertaining and affordable artistic experience. Show Dates: Maitland Town Hall on October 6th and 7th at 8pm and October 7th and October 8th at 2pm. Additionally, East Cessnock Bowling Club on 14th October 2006 and 15th October 2006 at 2pm (cabaret style seating, dining and bar facilities available – information for members and their guests). To avoid disappointment, bookings are highly recommended by contacting Maitland Visitors Centre - (02) 4931 2800 Prices: Adults - $17.00, Concession - $13.00, Family $50.00, Group discounts (10+) are available. Tickets are also available at the door for each performance.