Fledermaus! is a story of revenge, infidelity, disguises, and imprisonment decorated by Strauss’s splendid waltzes. With its glorious music, wonderful singing, and a charming and witty libretto, GSOV offers two opportunities to see this joyful work of genius. The first is in the beautiful shady garden setting of The Knowe, an historic cottage in Sassafras. Tickets are strictly limited and this summer presentation always sells out quickly. The second is the recently refurbished, The Round Studio.

A Viennese gentleman, Gabriel von Eisenstein, who should be heading to prison for whacking a policeman and calling him a “dummkof”, ends up going to a grand party at the villa of the Russian Prince Orlovsky!

However, von Eisenstein has been lured into a trap concocted by Dr Falke, his once rival for the heart of Rosalinda. Meanwhile, believing her husband von Eisenstein is imprisoned, Rosalinda has agreed to Dr Falke’s invitation to attend the same party disguised as an Hungarian Countess! Falke’s aim is simple: revenge and to enjoy von Eisenstein’s embarrassment.

But it seems that even further mischief is afoot as Adele, the von Eisenstein’s maid, also attends the party in Rosalinda’s best dress! Inevitably, too much champagne is consumed resulting in a hilarious mixture of disguises and wrongdoings. However, through the splendid magic of operetta, all ends happily!

Fledermaus! will be presented in costume with accompaniment from a quartet of players  in the delightful garden of the historical The Knowe, Sassafras, as well as the Studio at The Round.

Sung in English.
Music: Johan Strauss II

Director: Robert Ray
Musical Director: Geoffrey Urquhart

This production is being kindly supported by Henkell Wines, and promises to be one of the highlights of Melbourne’s musical year.

“Fledermaus! is as good as it gets in the amateur theatre world. May there be at least 90 more years of Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria’s performances.”          Ruth Richter, Stage Whispers

“De Graff’s voice and acting were impeccable. She inhabited her role with grace and beauty.”          Juliet Charles, The Local Paper

Cast:

Gabriel von Eisenstein – John Parncutt
Dr Falke – Michael Zuccala
Alfredo – Josh Erdelyi-Götz
Dr Blind – Ryan Jacobs
Franke – Ian Lowe
Orlovsky – Terence MacManus
Frosch – James Douglas
Rosalinde – Christelise de Graaf
Adele – Bridgette Kelsey
Ida – Danielle Zuccala
Melanie – Zoe Lancaster
Hermione – Lydia Klimek
Ali-Rey – Stephen Headey

“Composed non-stop in forty-two ‘nights of veritable rapture’ this is the younger Strauss’s most celebrated and popular operetta – intoxicatingly melodious and exuberant.”
– The Guide to Musical Theatre

“… Fledermaus is the quintessential operetta penned by the legendary Johann Strauss II and first presented in 1874.”
– Stage Whispers

Interviews

Julie Houghton talks to Fledermaus! Musical Director Geoffrey Urquhart as broadcast on 3MBS “Intermezzo” on 27th February.

Joan Krutli interviews Fledermaus! Director Robert Ray as broadcast on Golden Days Radio “Theatreland” on 3rd March.
Includes music either side of the discussion.  Interview starts at 4:50.

Reviews

Graham Ford Reviews on Facebook (screen capture)

Stage Whispers on their website (screen capture)

The Theatre on their website (screen capture)

The Local Paper on their website (page 20) (extracted review)

The cast of Fledermaus! on stage in the delightful gardens of The Knowe. Photographer Robin Halls.