New to G&S?
Some resources for those starting their G&S journey
Thousands of books have been written about Gilbert and Sullivan.
Our librarian has written some notes for those new to the topic, with a few suggestions to get you started.
The Topsy Turvy world of Gilbert and Sullivan
Keith Dockray and Alan Sutton ISBN 9781781557761
A highly readable and well-illustrated account of the 14 G&S operas, how they related to Victorian society and why they remain relevant today. An excellent starter.
The Gilbert and Sullivan Book
Leslie Bailey
The whole story of the G&S partnership, the operas and how they forged a revolution in the art of the musical theatre. Published in 1950s but remains a classic account.
The Secret Life of the Savoy and the D’Oyly Carte family
Olivia Williams ISBN 9781472269799
For over 100 year the D’Oyly family and Opera Company had the monopoly of producing the G&S operas as well as their own hotel interests. This general account covers all three generations from founder Richard, to Helen, Rupert and Bridget.
Oh joy! Oh rapture!
Ian Bradley ISBN 9780195167009
Looks at the performance history of G&S after end of copyright in 1961 and examines reasons for their continuing appeal to audiences.
The Complete Annotated Gilbert and Sullivan 20th Anniversary Edition
Ian Bradley ISBN 9780199392414
The definitive reference work for all who love the operas. Provides the complete texts with many notes on historical references, the sources of Gilbert’s characters and plots and details of “lost” dialogue and songs which were later cut. A book you will use again and again.
DVD: Gilbert & Sullivan - A Motley Pair
Capital Films skyARTS
Society Vice-President Simon Butteriss takes an in-depth look at the operas and tells the story of their writing and production. Arranged in five 30-minute episodes and includes many specially staged dramatic and musical extracts.
International G&S Festival
G&S enthusiasts gather in Buxton and Harrogate in August each year to celebrate and perform the “magic of G&S”. See What's on tab.
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