Critic's Choice: Fitting revival of ‘The Grand Duke’

EVANSTON – The Savoyaires have made of name for themselves producing the works of librettist W. S. Gilbert and composer Arthur Sullivan, and their current spirited revival of “The Grand Duke,” a rarely performed but thoroughly amusing comic opera, adds another feather in their cap.

For the Savoyaires, the well-cast show directed by Terry McCabe also represents a milestone: completion of the company’s second full Gilbert and Sullivan cycle, presenting all 14 operettas in the canon without a repeat from 2001 to 2014.

“The Grand Duke,” which premiered in London in 1896, was the duo’s final collaborative effort. Its convoluted plot – a troupe of actors seek political power by usurping the reigning leader, a much despised self-centered miser – defies easy explication. And though the synopsis of the action is readily available, broadcasting the libretto during the performance itself would have helped add further clarity.

Before the final curtain, Ludwig, leader of the rebels, finds himself involved with four different women at the same time. Adding to the fun, virtual duels decided by drawing playing cards place the winners and losers in a odd state of affairs.

McCabe leads a cast of formidable singers and actors that includes, among others, Kingsley Day in the title role; Dennis Kalup as Dummkopf, a theatrical manager; Daniel Berry as Ludwig, his leading comedian; Noel Taylor, the Prince of Monte Carlo; Lane Halverson, a herald; Alexandra Olsavsky, a soubrette; Clarice Warrick, a comedienne; Katherine Dalin, a baroness betrothed to the duke; and Margaret Jarvis, a princess also betrothed to the duke.

Work by Timothy Semanik, music director; Todd Rhoades, choreographer; Tom Kieffer, costume design; Grant Sabin, scenic design; and Tom Rusnak, lighting, all added to the high quality of the production.

If you go:

What: ‘The Grand Duke’

When: 7:30 p.m. Oct. 16 and 17; 3 p.m. Oct. 19

Where: Chute Auditorium, 1400 Oakton St., Evanston

Cost: $10 to $25

Info: Call 847-563-0155 or visit www.savoyaqires.org/tickets for information.