The Yeomen of the Guard: A Gilbert & Sullivan Production for 2026

The Gilbert & Sullivan Very Light Opera Company (GSVLOC) is set to present its production of The Yeomen of the Guard, or The Merryman and His Maid, for four weekends from March 6 through March 29, 2026. However, the performance scheduled for March 15 at 2:00 pm has been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions. Ticket holders for the cancelled performance are encouraged to move their tickets to another showtime by contacting tickets@gsvloc.org.

A Departure from Traditional Gilbert & Sullivan

While known for its fantastical stories and comedic elements, The Yeomen of the Guard offers a more somber tone than many other Gilbert & Sullivan operettas. The production explores themes of sacrifice and unrequited love, culminating in a tragic note for some characters, while still showcasing the musical brilliance and engaging performances characteristic of GSVLOC productions.

The Story Unfolds

Set in 16th-century London during the reign of Henry VIII, the plot centers on a scientist, Colonel Fairfax, facing execution on false charges of sorcery. To avoid allowing his cousin, who initiated the charges, to inherit his estate, Fairfax arranges a marriage to a woman who will soon become a widow. This leads to a complex web of relationships involving Elsie Maynard, a traveling singer, and Jack Point, a jester deeply in love with Elsie. Through the aid of Sergeant Meryll and his family, Fairfax escapes the Tower of London, leading to a poignant and not entirely happy resolution for all involved.

Cast and Creative Team

The production features a talented cast, including:

• Elsie Maynard: Mary Kettlewell
• Phoebe Meryll: Charlotte Smith
• Dame Carruthers: Lara Trujillo
• Kate: Ella Rose Katzenberger
• Jack Point: Sam Vinitsky
• Colonel Fairfax: Graham Remple
• Sergeant Meryll: Waldyn Benbenek

The production is directed by Gary Briggle, with music direction by Dr. Randal Buikema.

Staging and Design

The set design, by Michael Hoover, features painted stone floors, stairs, and an iron gate with intricate details, all set against a backdrop of the Tower of London. Lighting design by Carl Schoenborn enhances the atmosphere, particularly highlighting the ominous “Tower Green.” Bronson Talcott’s costume design includes traditional red and gold uniforms for the Yeomen of the Guard, alongside period-accurate attire for other characters, reflecting their social standing.

A Long-Standing Tradition

The Gilbert & Sullivan Very Light Opera Company has been producing Gilbert & Sullivan operettas in the Twin Cities since 1979. The Yeomen of the Guard marks the company’s third production of this operetta, with the previous staging occurring over a dozen years ago. The company consistently delivers high-quality productions, featuring a live orchestra and a large ensemble cast.

Performance Details

The Yeomen of the Guard will be performed at the Conn Theater at Plymouth Congregational Church (1900 Nicollet Avenue South, Minneapolis) through March 29, 2026. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit the GSVLOC website.