Last performed by Eastbourne G&S in 2008, this rarely produced musical classic is back to delight Eastbourne audiences once more! Originally written to send-up the aesthetic movement of the 1870s & 80s, the enduring themes around trends, shallowness, self-obsession, double standards, and affectedness are sure to resonate with today’s social media generation. Add to the mix some playful philosophising on the nature of romantic love and affectionate mocking of the military, and you have an irresistible piece of musical entertainment.
The title is taken from the central character, Patience, who is uninterested in love, despite being admired by the romantic poet, Bunthorne. The other ladies have abandoned their handsome soldier suitors in favour of him, but unbeknownst to them, Bunthorne is a fraud who secretly despises poetry! The situation becomes even more complicated with the arrival of Patience’s childhood friend, Grosvenor, a perfect embodiment of the romantic ideal. Will Patience finally fall in love? And can the disgruntled soldiers win back their girlfriends? Gilbert and Sullivan's charming comic opera serves up beautiful music and hilarious twists in a timeless satirical gem.