Wolverhampton operatic group in Gilbert and Sullivan classic
An operatic company is bringing a classic melodrama into the 21st century with its latest production.
Gilbert and Sullivan's Ruddigore was first performed in 1887 and was set decades earlier in the Napoleonic era.
But when it is performed at Tettenhall College next month by the Tettenhall Operatic Company it will feature mentions of Brexit, Scottish Independence and even Donald Trump.
Director Julian Souter, who is also the company's chair, said: "What we have done is put it into 2017 so we have got all those modern references.
"We have been faithful to the storyline as it always was but have brought it into modern times."
Ruddigore, originally by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert, is set in a seaside village where the Baronets must commit some kind of crime every single day – or else die in agony.
Robin Oakapple is in love with Rose Maybud, the village beauty, and enlists the help of his foster brother to woo her on his behalf.
What follows includes everything from threatening ghosts to an attempt at kidnap.
Mr Souter, added: "There is a lot of comic stuff in there and some romantic stuff as well.
"The music is extremely tuneful and with the ghosts there is a classic bit of opera which can be quite scary."
Tettenhall Operatic Company has been entertaining audiences with concerts and performances of operas and operettas for over 25 years.
Previous shows have included Die Fledermaus, The Magic Flute, Carmen and The Merry Widow.
Ruddigore will be performed at The Towers Theatre, Tettenhall College, Wood Road for three nights from June 1 to June 3.
Tickets costs £11 for the Thursday and £12.50 for the other two nights.
Visit www.ticketsource.co.uk to book a seat.
