Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers

Image from MSU's 2026 production of Rossini's La cambiale di matrimonio. Image shows 6 people in costume looking over a balcony.

Thursday, November 19, 2026

Fairchild Theatre

7:00 pm

Opera poster graphic with scenic Venice canal and Rialto Bridge at sunset in the background. Title type: Gilbert & Sullivan’s The Gondoliers, A silhouette of a gondolier standing and paddling a boat in the foreground, through canal in Venice
Other dates
Wednesday, Nov. 18
Saturday, Nov. 21
Sunday, Nov. 22

Worthington Family Foundation Opera Theatre Season

Set against the lively backdrop of Venice, The Gondoliers is one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most spirited and satirical operettas, blending humor, romance, and political charm. The story follows two gondoliers unexpectedly elevated to royalty, navigating questions of identity, love, and duty in a tale filled with mistaken identities and comic twists. Sullivan’s exuberant score features memorable ensembles and bright, engaging melodies that capture the energy and appeal of this beloved work. Sung in English with English surtitles. Join the opera’s director, Melanie Helton, for preview lectures held 45 minutes before each performance.

CONDUCTOR: Octavio Más-Arocas
STAGE DIRECTOR: Melanie Helton

Generously sponsored by James and Susan Bonfiglio, Lauren Harris, Dr. James M. Miller and Dr. Rebecca H. Lehto, the Eleanor H. and Harold E. Leichenko Opera Endowment established by Lauren Julius Harris, and the Richard and Joan Witter Endowment for MSU Opera Theatre.