VBL on demand: Secrets of a Savoyard: translating Gilbert & Sullivan to modern audiences

Virtual Britsburgh Live on demand presents.... 

Secrets of a Savoyard: translating Gilbert & Sullivan to modern audiences

For almost a century and a half, the works of Gilbert and Sullivan have proliferated across the English-speaking world. Though theatrical and musical styles have risen and fallen in popularity over that time, the popularity of Gilbert and Sullivan has endured, culminating today in dozens of performing groups devoted to performing the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. To what can we attribute the enduring power of the Gilbert and Sullivan art form? What are the secrets and challenges to keeping Gilbert and Sullivan relevant and alive to modern audiences?

Join Shane Valenzi, Gilbert and Sullivan aficionado, as he explores potential answers to these questions, and shares insights gleaned from mentors who trace their influences back to Richard D'Oyly Carte himself!

Shane Valenzi currently serves as the artistic director of the Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company in Chicago, Illinois, where he has worked as the resident stage director since 2013. He has been the stage director for the Pittsburgh Savoyards for the HMS Pinafore (2017), The Mikado (2010) and Patience (2009) shows. Additional directing credits include Stage 62 and the Penn Singers Light Opera Company in Philadelphia, where he was honored by the Kennedy Center as the best collegiate director in the Mid-Atlantic states for the company's 2006 production of Candide. Performing credits: Prime Stage Theatre Company, Nashville Opera, Independent Musical Productions (Huntsville, AL) (2x Huntsville WINGS Award nominee - Best Supporting Actor, Judges Choice). B.A., University of Pennsylvania; J.D., Vanderbilt University.

The Pittsburgh Savoyards have been offering entertainment to the greater Pittsburgh area for 82 years and during this difficult time, are looking to support our artists with online events, small productions and classes.

This video was recorded on May 21, 2020. 

Enjoy!

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Explore fascinating British-themed topics with the guidance of experts and enjoy the company and conversation of fellow enthusiasts as a member of one of Britsburgh Societies: Britsburgh Arts Society, the Britsburgh Beer Society, the Britsburgh History Society, the Britsburgh Literary Society and the Britsburgh Tea Society. If you are not already a member, I would like to invite you to consider becoming a Britsburgh Society member. To become a member, visit the Britsburgh membership page.

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