Some things are so deeply entrenched in cultural consciousness that they’re familiar without knowing the source. The works of British duo Gilbert and Sullivan fit that bill, as snippets of “Modern Major General” or “I’m Called Little Buttercup” seem to live like sleeper agents in everyone’s DNA. Ken Ludwig’s Sullivan & Gilbert builds on that recognition. Our own little slice of Savoy entertainment, Gilbert & Sullivan Austin, stages Ludwig’s classic “getting the band back together” narrative, as Queen Victoria herself demands an operatic revue from the artistic pair – despite the fact Sullivan and Gilbert have been feuding all year. There’s romance, anger, a bumbling prince, and high drama, all set to timeless music. – Cat McCarrey
