The Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society performs the comic operettas of the British musical theater duo for the entertainment of audiences drawn from the local community and for comedy lovers from across the state. 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. Performances are in the fall, and done with professional orchestra, professional-caliber singers, choreography, costumes, and sets in the state-of-the-art theater at the Performing Arts Center, Valley Regional H.S. Deep River, CT.
The Connecticut Gilbert and Sullivan Society 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.
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 Middletown area (where it rehearses) and Deep River area (where it performs). It enriches the historical offerings to area audiences; encourages and supports area youth by including students from area schools. We also have done numerous showcases at senior living and area recreation centers, performing excerpts from G&S operettas .
The Connecticut Gilbert & Sullivan Society is supported through grants, donations by its cast, crew, and patrons, and the sponsorships of area businesses.
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.