The Lord High Executioner Returns: Eastbourne Celebrates Gilbert & Sullivan’s Most Beloved Masterpiece
EASTBOURNE, UK – The Eastbourne Gilbert & Sullivan Society is proud to announce its upcoming production of the world’s favorite comic opera, The Mikado, arriving at the Royal Hippodrome Theatre this May.
For generations, The Mikado has stood as the pinnacle of Victorian wit and musical excellence. This May 22nd–24th, Eastbourne audiences will experience a fresh but faithful production that honors the "innocent merriment" of the original while introducing a new ‘tartan twist’.
Originally conceived by G&S Austin, ‘The McAdo’ reimagining replaces the fictionalised Japan of the 1880s with the rugged charm of the Scottish Highlands. While the tartan may be new, the brilliance remains unchanged: fans will enjoy Sullivan’s familiar legendary score and Gilbert’s razor-sharp satire, with all the same songs and characters they know and love. Warmly received by Gilbert & Sullivan fans in the States, The McAdo is now gaining interest in the UK, with this production marking its regional premiere.
“Gilbert and Sullivan would be proud. Savoyards everywhere should come see it.” — CTX Live Theatre
“…this resetting really does work in that it sharpens and clarifies Gilbert's original satirical intent.” — Berkshire on Stage
“A brilliant reimagining... a world-class opera take-off on The Mikado.”— David Glen Robinson, Arts Critic
About the story
In a town where flirting is a capital offence, the local executioner is in over his head. The chaos truly begins when a wandering minstrel with a dangerous secret arrives in search of his true love—only to find himself entangled in a web of absurd laws and paradoxical logic. When the fearsome ruler demands a head must roll to satisfy the law, the town is plunged into a hilarious world of bureaucratic blunders, jealous rivals, and classic comedic twists.
From the iconic "Three Little Maids" to the "Little List" of society's nuisances, the production promises a nostalgic yet high-energy night out for longtime Savoyards and newcomers alike.
“True to our society’s mission to ‘Keep Gilbert & Sullivan Alive’, we wanted to lead with what people love most—the comedy, the incredible music, and the grand tradition of G&S,” says vice chair, Rowan Stanfield. “The Highland setting brings a fresh experience for performers and audiences alike, while maintaining absolute respect and reverence for the original material.”
Performance Schedule:
● Friday, 22nd May: 7:30 PM
● Saturday, 23rd May: 2:30 PM (Matinee) & 7:30 PM
● Sunday, 24th May: 2:30 PM (Matinee)
Venue: Royal Hippodrome Theatre, Eastbourne, BN21 3PF Tickets: £22 Full Price | £10 Under 18/Students | Group rate £19 for 6+ Booking:www.royalhippodrome.com or call the Box Office on 01323 802020.
