NYGASP Presents PRINCESS IDA This Weekend; Hosts '21st Century Feminism' Talk Back

New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players (NYGASP) concludes its 41st Anniversary Season with the satirical comedy PRINCESS IDA this weekend, May 21 & 22 at NYU's Skirball Center for the Performing Arts (566 LaGuardia Place).

At the helm is Artistic Director Albert Bergeret, hailed as "the leading custodian of the G&S classics" by New York magazine. For 41 fun filled seasons, Bergeret's company has presented over 2,000 performances of the G&S masterpieces throughout the United States, Canada and England. Under his leadership NYGASP's productions have been charged with engaging contemporary entertainment values while retaining respect for the famous duo's comedic and musical genius.

PRINCESS IDA, or Castle Adamant is the classic battle of the sexes which nobody can win but where true love triumphs! Welcome to Castle Adamant, where women are fabulous, men are forbidden, and comic conspiracies reign supreme. As a baby, PRINCESS IDA was betrothed to Prince Hilarion-but the honeymoon was over before it ever started. Now all grown up, the Princess has sworn off men, opening an all-women college at the Castle in order to prove the superiority of her sex. But no moat can keep the Prince and his men from breeching these walls. It could be love. It could be war. It's definitely a castle-crashing, cross-dressing, toe-tapping laugh riot.

PRINCESS IDA will feature scenery by Albère, costumes by Gail Wofford & Stivanello Costume Company (original designs by Jean Brookman), lighting by Benjamin Weill and choreography by Janis Ansley Ungar with additional choreography by David Auxier. Acclaimed Artistic Director Albert Bergeret directs and conducts the large cast and orchestra.

Each season the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players offers several special family friendly events that everyone can enjoy! This season, the run of PRINCESS IDA present two unique offerings!

Talkback - 21st Century Feminism in 19th Century G&S. Featuring a panel of distinguished experts including Iska Alter, Professor Emerita of English, Hofstra University; Rena Charnin Mueller, Department of Music, Faculty of Arts and Science, New York University; Maria Tucci, Esteemed Actor of Stage & Screen; Carolyn Williams, Chair of Rutgers University English Department and Author of Gilbert & Sullivan: Gender, Genre, Parody; and moderated by G&S Founder and Artistic Director Albert Bergeret. Saturday, May 21st (5PM). *This event is open to ticket holders of the three Saturday and Sunday performances.

Family Overture - You're invited to a free musical introduction and plot summary made entertaining and informative for the entire family on Sunday, May 22nd at 1:45PM in the theater!

Performance times for PRINCESS IDA at NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts (566 LaGuardia Place) are as follows: Saturday, May 21 (2PM & 7:30PM); Sunday, May 22 (3PM; Family Overture @ 1:45PM). Discount subscriptions are available by calling (212) 769-1000. To order regular tickets by phone call NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts Box office at 888-611-8183 or visit www.nygasp.org.

Pictured: Amy Maude Helfer, Kate Bass & Caitlin Burke in a scene from PRINCESS IDA. Photo by William Reynolds.