Franklin Light Opera presents a modern reimagining of Gilbert & Sullivan’s Iolanthe
March 20–22 • Williamson County Performing Arts Center
Franklin Light Opera brings a fresh, contemporary take on Gilbert & Sullivan’s Iolanthe to the Williamson County Performing Arts Center March 20–22. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at https://www.franklinlightopera.com/tickets.
Set in a modern London city park, this production replaces Victorian settings with a playful world where fairies, politicians, and park‑goers collide. The story follows a half‑mortal shepherd whose forbidden love uncovers a long‑hidden secret, prompting the Fairy Queen to intervene in Parliament. Sullivan’s classic score remains at the center of the show, now updated with a vibrant 21st‑century orchestration.
Music Director Makai Keur describes the sound as “early‑2010s indie rock with a folk‑rock sensibility,” shaped by influences like The Lumineers, Vampire Weekend, The Decemberists, and Phoenix. Several performers contributed their own arrangement ideas, giving the production a uniquely collaborative musical voice.
Director Elizabeth Steele notes, “This cast has embraced a world of urban fairies and overconfident footballers with real commitment. We may have moved the Peers from Parliament to the practice field, but the satire is unchanged: powerful people taking themselves very seriously while everyone else looks on.”
Audiences of all ages can expect a witty and joyful look at privilege, love, and the humor we find in taking ourselves a little too seriously.
Franklin Light Opera is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit community theatre company in Franklin, Tennessee. Learn more at www.franklinlightopera.org.
