Stamford Gilbert and Sullivan Players announce family-filled cast for The Gondoliers at Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre

The latest production by a long-running theatre group will have a family feel as new generations join their parents and grandparents on stage.

Stamford Gilbert and Sullivan Players have announced the cast for The Gondoliers at Stamford Corn Exchange Theatre from October 12 to 14.

The town ensemble first put on the Gilbert and Sullivan classic way back in 1905, as the Stamford Operatic Society.

More than a century later, the latest production of the popular work will be performed by some up-and-coming younger talents.

“They are a whole new generation discovering their love for Gilbert and Sullivan, following in the footsteps of their parents and grandparents, and joining the society as part of our growing junior membership,” said director Ruth Palmer.

President Ken Wainwright and his wife Margaret (the Duke and Duchess of Plaza-Toro) will be joined on stage by their granddaughter Julia Salmon (Gianetta).

Ken and Margaret have been with the Society since the late 1980s, and their children Elizabeth and James joined in 1990, while grandson Daniel also made his debut in 2017.

Julia, 12, who also debuted that year in Pirates of Penzance, has earned a first outing as a principal soprano this year.

“She is astounding us every week with her natural ability and is quickly becoming one of our rising stars,” Ruth added.

“We are very proud that a Gilbert and Society such as ours is continuing to appeal to all generations.”

Youth representative Rachael Hayward (Vittoria) will once again tread the boards with her mum Barbara, while 14-year-old Heather Moores (Giulia) makes her first appearance with her dad Alex (Grand Inquisitor Don Alhambra).

John Clayton (Luiz) will introduce two more of his sons to the group – Matthew, 15, who plays the lead baritone role of Giuseppe, while his youngest son Zach, 13, is in the chorus.

They follow in the footsteps of their brothers Tim and Ben who made their debuts in 2018.

“These fantastic youngsters have the world at their feet, and are blessed with an abundance of talent, so we can’t wait to let them shine,” Ruth said.

“We are so proud of everyone in our Gilbert and Sullivan family.”

For tickets and more details, visit www.stamfordcornexchange.co.uk/the-gondoliers/