The plot may involve a breach of promise of marriage, an action never heard at the Central Criminal Court, and a judge so disreputable that it would make every judge that has sat here positively blush, but where else can you possibly hear Gilbert & Sullivan’s “Trial by Jury” except at the Old Bailey!
This semi-staged production will mark the tenth anniversary year of the Old Bailey Choir who will provide the chorus with soloists from English National Opera’s Harewood Artists and the ENO Orchestra accompanying. We are delighted to be joined by the Lady Chief Justice, Baroness Sue Carr who will be singing on the Thursday and Friday. Also singing with the choir will be High Court and Crown Court Judges, Silks and Solicitors aplenty. The proceeds will be split between the Sheriffs’ and Recorder’s Fund , which supports prisoners on release and provides better facilities for families visiting prisoners, and ENO’s Harewood Artists which enables British-trained singers to perform with a major opera company while receiving specialist coaching, support and guidance.
This is a performance not to be missed; as WS Gilbert wrote in the opening chorus,
Hearts with anxious fears are bounding
Hall of Justice crowds surrounding breathing hope and fear –
For today in this arena summoned by a stern subpoena
Edwin sued by Angelina shortly will appear.
We hope that you will join those crowds to support two good causes. Tickets are on sale for £100 with some seats at £50. There will be a bar open from 6.15pm as well as after the performance.
If you prefer – and we hope you will – for £200 you can join a select number for champagne and nibbles before the performance, and then take your seats at the front, with champagne and canapés afterwards and an opportunity to mingle with distinguished performers and guests.
Tickets can be purchased via ENO’s website:
https://www.eno.org/events/trial-by-jury/ or by telephoning the box office on 020 7845 9300.