The Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society
performs the comic operettas of the British musical theater duo, Gilbert and Sullivan. These productions are as faithful to the original production values of these works as possible, with a professional orchestra and professional-caliber singers, costumes, and sets. Most CG&SS rehearsals take place in Middletown, CT. Performances have been at either the Santo Fragilio Performing Arts Center in Middletown, CT or the Valley Regional Performing Arts Center in Deep River, CT.
History
The Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society, founded by Robert Cumming, was organized in 1980 with the encouragement of then-Gov. Ella Grasso, a noted admirer of the works of Gilbert and Sullivan. Since then, the group has produced a Savoy opera every year. During its first decade, most performances were in Middletown, but since 2012 its shows have been staged in Deep River.
CG&SS is dedicated to the preservation and enjoyment of the rich heritage of satire and melody that emerged from the unique partnership of William Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan (between 1870 and 1900). The art form they created together, which was nurtured by impresario Richard D’Oyly Carte at The Savoy Theatre, established the underpinnings which sustain the modern-day musical.
The organization offers an outlet for creativity as people help with productions on stage, behind stage, or as a sponsoring member of the audience. It adds to the quality of life in the region through performing arts, provides for study and performances of these 14 masterpieces with professional guidance; enriches the historical offerings to area audiences; encourages and supports area youth by including students from area primary, secondary, and high schools to perform in its shows or to help with production activities. It performs showcase events at senior centers, retirement communities and assisted living facilities; the events consisting of excerpts from Gilbert & Sullivan shows.
The Connecticut Gilbert & Sullivan Society has received grants from the Middletown Commission on the Arts, the Connecticut Commission of the Arts, and the Middletown Foundation for the Arts, and the Community Foundation of Middlesex County. It receives on going support through donor contributions, dues and donations made by cast and crew members, employer-sponsored donation programs, and corporate sponsorships.
CG&SS provides a showcase for talented singers, directors, designers, instrumentalists and stage technicians of professional expertise who make a living at other professions. This is family-oriented historical entertainment for the widest possible audience in the English language.
Board Members
| Ed Kerrigan, President John Freedman, Vice President Dave Henderson, Treasurer Kathleen Thompson, Recording Secretary Denise Shultzman Judy Kerrigan John Dreslin |
Jeff Schwartz Richard Tecca David Moorehead Natalie Wood |
Directors and Producer
| Spencer Reese John Dreslin John Freedman |
… … … |
Artistic Director Music Director Vice President, Producer |
