A highly decorated programme for the Offenbach opera “Genevieve de Brabant” which played at the Opera Comique in London from 18 March to 1 April 1876, with the Gilbert and Sullivan dramatic cantata “Trial by Jury” as the fore-piece.  The c.6.5” by 10.5” programme has the two comic gendarmes on the cover and there are scenes from the opera all around the internal margins. The casting of “Trial” is somewhat unusual as an “E. Campbell” is listed as Defendant (see below*). The Judge was played by Fred Sullivan, the composer’s brother. The first Bridesmaid was Annie Palmer. Future star of “Charley’s Aunt”, WS Penley, appeared as Foreman and also in the Offenbach piece, which featured Emily Soldene as Drogan and Emily Muir in the title role. Please note that the programme is pale green, not blue as it appears in my scans. It is in fair condition with some strong creases (it will be shipped folded along these pre-established folds), some light marks and edge wear. A much earlier owner has repaired five tears with sticky tape which is now brown-stained.

*NB: Rollins and Witts credit a "C. Campbell" as playing Foreman in April and May, and Counsel from May onwards. Ganzl suggests that Charles Campbell was understudy to Knight Aston who R&W say played Defendant in January & Feb.  But this programme must date from between 18 March and 1 April.  Clearly further research is needed. The other cast members fit R&W listings, except that Annie Palmer was First Bridesmaid, not one of the two ladies which they proposed.

This item was formerly in the collection of John Cannon, the respected G&S collector and researcher who died in 2021. He left instructions that all collectors should have a chance to acquire the treasures in his collection, which will therefore be auctioned here over the next year or so by StageMemories and PaperJoys. Please let us know if you would like to be added to a mailing list, to be informed of all or specific items from John’s collection. 

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