Theatre group to stage “Princess Ida”

Art

May 5

Written By Staff

West Michigan Savoyards will bring “Princess Ida” to the West Michigan stage for the first time in over a decade. The show will at the Wealthy Theater, 1130 Wealthy St SE in Grand Rapids, on May 14, 15, and 16 at 7:30 p.m. and May 16 and 17 at 2.p.m. The comic operetta, written by Gilbert and Sullivan over a century ago, examines the role of feminist ideals amongst an absurdist landscape of arranged marriage, a hunger for war, and cross-dressing for the sake of love.

West Michigan Savoyards is an amateur, volunteer-driven theatre group dedicated to presenting the works of Gilbert and Sullivan to West Michigan audiences, in staged productions and beyond.

The story, in three short acts, follows Prince Hilarion as he seeks to win the affection of the princess to whom he has been promised, despite her swearing off men to run a women’s college. His quest has high stakes, for if he fails, his father has promised war.

What follows holds hilarious and timeless themes like the meaning of gender equality, the value of education, and the role of family. As all Gilbert and Sullivan shows do, the operetta juxtaposes soaring, intricate orchestrations with a laugh-out-loud satirical plot and dialogue.

“Much of this cast has been performing together for years, and the chemistry they have while creating both beautiful music and these hilarious scenes has been an honor to witness,” said Kit Story, the show’s director. “In every rehearsal, I get more excited about bringing this show to West Michigan audiences.”

To learn more, visit westmichigansavoyards.org.

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