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The Worlds of Gilbert and Sullivan

This light opera in 2 acts by Edward German, to a libretto by Basil Hood, introduced England's Queen Elizabeth I, Raleigh, Essex, and other Elizabethan characters, and was premiered in London in 1902. It was a very successful operetta, having several revivals over the years.

The three-cornered story tells of Queen Elizabeth I, who loves Sir Walter Raleigh - who loves her lady-in-waiting Bessie Throckmorton. Picture the scene! The show had a very singable score which generated several English concert classics.

It is still performed on occasions, more often in Concert Version. Many of its songs are still firm favourites on the concert platform. We have included a short selection here to whet your appetite. A lovely soprano ballad for Bessie - A Lover's Vow, all about a love letter! The English Rose is a beautiful tenor song, sung by Raleigh. O Peaceful England is a majestic hymn to England, sung by Queen Elizabeth (and chorus). It remains one of the great contralto concert pieces to this day. The rousing song The Yeomen of England sung by Essex (with chorus) is an evergreen baritone favourite. 

Let's start by reading the poignant  Love Letter . . .?

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