Gilbert & Sullivan Players Present "The Rose of Persia" April 3rd Symphony Space

America's foremost Gilbert & Sullivan repertory ensemble, the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players, will present a semi-staged full production of "The Rose of Persia," a comic opera written by Basil Hood and Sir Arthur Sullivan, on Sunday, April 3rd (3PM) at Peter Norton Symphony Space (2535 Broadway at 95th Street). Featuring a full orchestra, costumes and choreography, "The Rose of Persia" is a farcical tale of romance, intrigue and mistaken identities! Staged by Albert Bergeret & Jan Holland, the 29 member-company will be led in principal roles by Laurelyn Watson, David Wannen, Kimberly Deana Bennett, Michael Scott Harris, Stephen O'Brien and Richard Holmes.

"The Rose of Persia" was inspired by a tale from The Arabian Nights, and is set in the world of "Scheherezade." Combining exotic musical spices from the middle east and the wry humor of Victorian England, the production was Sullivan's last complete opera (1899) and librettist Basil Hood's first production for the Savoy Theatre. The book and score are a lively mix of elements familiar from Sullivan's work with Gilbert, and later influences looking toward the emerging genre of musical comedy. Mr. Bergeret will serve as musical conductor with costumes by Gail Wofford and choreography by Janis Ansley-Ungar.

Tickets for "The Rose of Persia" are priced at $51, $46 and $41. More information and tickets can be obtained by phoning (212) 864-5400.