About the Gilbert and Sullivan Society
Registered Charity no. 1062970
We are people who share a love of the works of Gilbert and Sullivan.
The Gilbert and Sullivan Society was formed in 1924 by two enthusiasts of the works of William Schwenck Gilbert and Arthur Seymour Sullivan. The society’s original and current aims are to encourage appreciation of the works of the famous duo to members and the public in general.
We offer programmes of events including lectures, musical events, quizzes etc and the opportunity to mix with like-minded aficionados of Gilbert and Sullivan.
We provide an up-to-date G&S library at the Barbican in London and publish the Gilbert & Sullivan News three times a year. This illustrated publication contains news items, features, book reviews, diary dates, obituaries, the occasional puzzle and much more!
In June 1997 the society was registered as a charity (no: 1062970). This allows us to make grants to individuals and organisations, to help further our aim to promote the works of Gilbert & Sullivan.
Our patron and president
For 100 years we enjoyed having a Royal Patron. In 2007, HRH The Duke of Gloucester KG GCVO became our Royal Patron. Previously his mother, Princess Alice, Duchess of Gloucester held the role for 48 years. In August 2024, upon reaching his 80th birthday, we were sorry that the Duke of Gloucester was unable to continue his patronage. He had been our most involved patron having attended four Gala Dinners at Society Conventions at Grim's Dyke Hotel including our Centenary Convention during his time with us.
Our president is Cynthia Morey. She joined the D'Oyly Carte Opera company in 1951 and went on to play many principal soprano roles. She became a Vice-President in the 1960's and our President in 2006. She is the oldest surviving D'Oyly Carte principal and we are proud to have her as our President.
