Trial by Jury & The Zoo

We are presented with a double bill of Victorian light opera that showcases the specific wit of the era. The evening begins with Trial by Jury, a satire of the legal system centred on a breach of promise of marriage case. You will hear Arthur Sullivan’s music parodying grand operatic conventions within the setting of a chaotic courtroom. The second half features The Zoo, a work composed by Sullivan with a libretto by B.C. Stephenson. Set against the backdrop of the London Zoological Gardens, the piece follows two pairs of lovers through a series of absurd misunderstandings. As you listen, we suggest noticing the sharp rhythmic interplay between the vocal lines and the orchestral accompaniment, a hallmark of these short-form comedies. The music shifts rapidly from sentimental ballads to spirited patter songs, creating a pace that remains consistent throughout both works. These pieces are designed to be accessible and provide a concentrated look at the development of English comic opera before the later, larger-scale collaborations became standard.

English National Opera performs here under the baton of conductor Peter Whelan. The ensemble is based at the London Coliseum and is celebrated for presenting opera in English, making complex works approachable for a broad audience. Joining the company is a distinguished cast of soloists including Mary Bevan, Robert Murray, Neal Davies, and Madeleine Shaw. The vocal line-up also features Alaric Green, Henry Neill, Alex Otterburn, Jonathan Lemalu, and Paul Sheehan. These performers are known for their clarity of diction and theatrical versatility, qualities essential for navigating the quick-fire dialogue and satirical nuances of this specific repertoire.

This performance takes place at the London Coliseum in London. With a total running time of approximately 85 minutes, the double bill is particularly suited to those who prefer a shorter evening at the theatre or who are visiting the opera for the first time. As is standard for this ensemble, the works will be performed in English. The venue does not enforce a specific dress code, so you should feel comfortable in smart-casual attire. The brief duration and lighthearted subject matter make this a practical choice for a mid-week cultural outing.