Reno Stage Scene: ‘Trial by Jury’ by Firebird Light Opera

Summoned by a stern subpoena, Edwin is sued by Angelina, prompting a judge’s ruling. And a good Judge too!, but Angelina is more than the judge expected.

~Review and Photos by Dana Nöllsch~


“Trial by Jury” The Story

First performed in 1875, Trial by Jury was a comedic hit for W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. Centering around a lawsuit concerning a breach of promise of marriage, Angelina is suing Edwin, but the judge has plans of his own.

This one-act comedic operetta satirizes the legal system and societal norms of the Victorian era. There is undoubtedly an Old West feel to the story, and the atmosphere is as compelling as the music is delicious.

The story is humorous, and the music is performed exceptionally by the Firebird Light Opera, with the added bonus of a wedding, dancing, and karaoke after the performance. The actors are fun to dance and sing with after the performance, so be sure to join in the frivolity.


Here are some photos to give you a taste of “Trial by Jury”


The Performances

The actors are fantastic, bringing the story to life with their intriguing performances. As far as the singing goes, there is not a weak singer in the bunch, and to top it off, they are having fun doing it.

Also, be sure to check out the costumes, they are great!


The Bottom Line

If you are looking for a fun evening of theatre with inspired singing and dancing, then Trial by Jury is just what you are looking for.
The location is unique, and the National Automobile Museum is a fantastic venue. You can arrive early to check out the cars, except on Sunday, when the Museum is closed, but the theatre is open.


Trial by Jury

By Gilbert & Sullivan

Directed by: Kimberly Harris


Cast

The Learned Judge: Scott House

Plaintiff – Angelina: Alyssa Caplan

Plaintiff Understudy: Debbie Sessions

Defendant – Edwin: Donovan Ott-Bales

Counsel for the Plaintiff: Kevin Merkling

Usher: Brian Wadsworth

Usher Understudy: Astrid Winterberg

Foreman of the Jury: Jeff Harootunian

Bridesmaids: Ashley Melendez, Sadie Moss Hart, Ruby Quezada, Rachel Rosell

Jury: Dorothy Devine, Cheryl Eckert, Phil Eslinger, Emily Mc Kendricks, Astrid Winterberg

The Public: Roni Ellison, Debbie Sessions

Crew

Music Director: John Ondich-Batson

Accompanist and Asst. Music Director: Carol House

Asst. Director: Emily Mc Kendricks


Performance Dates

October 30th & November 1st at 7 PM

November 2nd at 2 PM

Firebird Light Opera

National Automobile Museum
1 Museum Dr, Reno, NV
info@firebirdlightopera.org

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