Even for those not familiar with Gilbert and Sullivan, this show is highly entertaining, and fans of the duo will absolutely love it. This new musical follows the collaboration through their fourteen comic operas performed at the Savoy theatre: the twee Gilbert, intent on writing comedy, and the more austere Sullivan, intent on composing for grand operas, make for an interesting dynamic. The songs are written in a similar style to Gilbert and Sullivan, with samples of their actual songs thrown in, and overall, piece is kept light-hearted; potential for drama is built up but never explored in great depth, which makes the show a touch anti-climactic, but also keeps it focused on being fun and enjoyable.

Greenside, until 17 Aug (not 11), 11.30am.
tw rating 4/5 | [Julian Joseph]