Talks take place on Thursday afternoons, starting at 2pm, and usually take place in the Lecture Hall, Rewley House, 1 Wellington Square, Oxford OX1 2JA. These are free for Oxford u3a members but you are welcome to attend as a guest for a donation of £5 (£2 for members of all other U3As).
Most talks are recorded on Zoom for the benefit of those Oxford u3a members who are unable to attend Rewley House.
In the event of adverse weather conditions, please telephone Rewley House (01865 270360), to enquire whether the talk has been cancelled.
Bernard Lockett – The Music and Satire of Gilbert and Sullivan
25th February 2027 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Bernard Lockett is a life-long enthusiast of Gilbert and Sullivan and whilst never a performer, his interest is in the background of the works, their heritage and place in British theatrical history and the influence that Gilbert and Sullivan have on to-day’s musical theatre genre. As an author, two of his books are about Gilbert and Sullivan and has been a Trustee since 2010 of the International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival that takes place annually in both Buxton and Malvern.
This talk will give the historical background and an assessment and overview of Gilbert and Sullivan works, looking at their musicality and considering, with reasons, the vast amount of social and political satire within the shows. Bernard Lockett will also assess the heritage of Gilbert and Sullivan, the world-wide popularity of the works in the 21st century and the modern production values.