Gilbert and Sullivan Society Presents 'Trial By Jury' and 'H.M.S. Pinafore'

The Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston is one of the oldest organizations of its kind in the country. They're the recipient of numerous awards, as every summer a band of dedicated amateurs and professionals come together to perform the 19th century comic operas of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, which have remained popular throughout the years. You're sure to hear tune you recognize at this year's production, a double bill featuring the one-act operetta Trial By Jury as well as what is perhaps the team's most famous collaboration, H.M.S. Pinafore. The first is a parody of the British legal system centering around a ludicrous divorce case. The second was Gilbert and Sullivan's first hit, about a sailor who falls in love with the admiral's daughter, even though she's supposed to marry the First Lord of the Admiralty. Highjinks ensue when an unexpected secret about the sailor's past comes to light. The shows are unlike grand opera in that they're likely to be enjoyed by the whole family: anyone who is old enough to read surtitles (the transcription of what the singers are saying) will enjoy the production, which unlike many operas is in English. Gilbert and Sullivan is a great introduction to opera--even your NASCAR-loving relatives might find themselves having just a little bit of fun.

This year's production features a talented cast of Houstonians, including Alistair Donkin in his Silver Anniversary performance with the Society (that's 25 years!). The show, which has received rave reviews in the Chronicle, runs through this weekend, and tickets start at $19 and can be purchased by contacting the Wortham Theater Box Office at 713-238-2325.

What: The Gilbert and Sullivan Society of Houston's annual production, a double bil of Trial By Jury/H.M.S. Pinafore.
Where: The Wortham Center, 501 Texas Ave.
When: 8 pm Friday and Saturday, 2:30 pm on Sunday