Theatre-goers who love revivals of musical comedies that have survived the test of time should greatly enjoy Eastbourne Gilbert & Sullivan Society’s production of Patience at The Grove Theatre, Eastbourne from Wednesday, June 11th until Saturday, June 14th.
First performed in 1881, this is one of the less known G&S operettas, but offers surprisingly relevant humour, excellent musical numbers with witty lyrics, moments of mayhem and hopeless romantics. It playfully mocks trends in art and fashion – and feels more timely than ever in today’s image-obsessed world.
Society vice-chairman Rowan Stanfield says: “For those new to Gilbert & Sullivan, Patience offers the perfect entry point: catchy tunes, fast-paced comedy, and an accessible story that still resonates. For returning fans, it’s a fresh take on a hidden gem of the G&S canon.
“W.S. Gilbert always kept his writing highly topical and satirised the fads and trends of his day. This particular story translates wonderfully into the social media age, proving that nothing much has really changed when it comes to human nature!
“But more than anything, this production celebrates local talent and the power of community theatre. Every costume, chorus line, and harmony is the result of weeks of shared effort – and infectious joy. By buying a ticket, you’re supporting local theatre and helping keep the great British theatrical tradition of Gilbert & Sullivan alive for future generations.”
The story follows two rival poets – Reginald Bunthorne (who’s pretending to be deep and mysterious) and Archibald Grosvenor (who actually is perfect, and utterly cursed by it). Adding to the chaos are lovesick maidens who have ditched their soldier boyfriends in pursuit of more aesthetic ways
Kind-hearted dairymaid Patience, played by soprano soloist Yvonne, is baffled by all the fuss over love and poetry. But when both poets fall for her, things get complicated… and hilarious.
A cast of local talent also includes Adrian Samuel as Archibald Grosvenor, Paul Eccles (Reginald Bunthorne), Margot Miller (Lady Jane) and Alex Abrahams (Colonel Calverly). Under the direction of Cate Couch and musical direction of Tony Biggin, they provide fun, frolics, melodrama and, of course, mistaken identities in an enjoyable romp.
Patience is showing at The Grove Theatre, (under Eastbourne library), from Wednesday 11 June to Friday 13 June at 7.30 pm, with extra shows on Thursday 15 June at 2 pm and Saturday 14 June at 1pm.
All photos taken during rehearsals and copyright of Ian Down
