The Grand Duke
by Gilbert & Sullivan Austin

Nov. 02
Sunday

Comic mishaps put a wandering theatre troupe in charge of the government for a day. Their good intentions turn the duchy upside down, and the Grand Duke is nowhere to be found!

What happens when clowns take charge? A conspiracy, a duel, a wild card and a surprise happy ending!

John Wolfson’s artful edit of the last of Gilbert & Sullivan’s comedies restores Gilbert’s original plot; stage director Allison Price and music director Jeffrey Jones-Ragona deliver Austin’s professional staged concert version of this overlooked comic gem with a full cast of Gilbert & Sullivan Austin regulars.

One presentation only, Sunday, November 2, 2025 at 3 p.m. the MacTheatre, 5600 Sunshine Drive, Austin, 78756, courtesy of the McCallum Fine Arts Academy.

The Grand Duke's zany plot hinges on the misinterpretation of a 100-year-old law regarding statutory duels -- which are decided by drawing cards.  A baffled comedian in an acting troupe suddenly finds himself in charge of the company, usurping the Grand Duke, and engaged to more women than he can keep track of!  And the frugality and phoniness of the wealthy classes and the nobility are lampooned throughout.

The Grand Duke is Gilbert & Sullivan's 14th and final collaboration. We are presenting an "in concert" version of John Wolfson revised libretto, based on W.S. Gilbert's original plot book.

 

** Please note -- All seats are general admission **

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The Grand Duke
by Gilbert & Sullivan, adapted by John Wolfson
Gilbert & Sullivan Austin