Iolanthe (Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Company of Long Island)

Considered by many to be Gilbert & Sullivan’s finest work, Iolanthe tells the story of Strephon, a young shepherd who happens to be the son of a fairy mother and a mortal father, leaving him half a fairy…down to the waist, but his legs are mortal. When Strephon falls in love with the beautiful Phyllis, ward of the Lord Chancellor of England, the House of Peers — who are to a man madly in love with Phyllis — object strenuously, setting up a confrontation between the power of the Peers and that of the Fairy Queen and her mystical band.

Featuring witty dialogue, clever lyrics and beautiful music, Iolanthe includes such memorable Gilbert & Sullivan favorites as “If You Go In,” “None Shall Part Us From Each Other,” “When All Night Long a Chap Remains,” “In Friendship’s Name” and the Lord Chancellor’s famous, tongue-twisting “Nightmare Song.” Its brilliant blend of comedy, romance and drama makes it a natural for musical-theater fans of all ages. This is a fully-staged production, featuring a cast of over 25, full scenery and costumes, and the 17-piece Gilbert & Sullivan Light Opera Orchestra, under the capable baton of Music Director Sara Holliday.

Iolanthe is playing at three venues throughout Long Island. For tickets and information, click the individual location:

May 21, 2005: Long Beach

June 4, 2005: Islip

June 18, 2005: PortWashington