PRODUCTION TEAM
RUTH PALMER - DIRECTOR
Ruth has a wealth of experience in all things Gilbert and Sullivan, having sung principal roles with Oundle & Peterborough G&S, Nene Opera and The Wandering Minstrels. Ruth has performed on many occasions at the International G&S Festival at the Buxton Opera House, including being honoured with nominations for Best Female Voice (Aline) and for Best Female Performer (Patience).
After taking leading roles in Stamford G&S Players for several years, Ruth became our Director in 2018. She has since directed two NODA award-winning shows, Patience and Iolanthe.
GAVIN ASHLEY-COOPER - MUSICAL DIRECTOR
Gavin went to the University of Chichester where he trained as a pianist, organist, singer and conductor. During his time studying he played for a number of local societies both as rehearsal pianist and in the pit. He also studied for a degree in Theology at The University of Oxford, where he was director of Chapel Music at his college. Through this, he worked with musicians who are now world class in their field.
His theatre credits as MD include The Wizard of Oz, Calamity Jane, Godspell, Patience, Iolanthe, and Return to the Forbidden Planet and as a keyboard player/repetiteur: Blood Brothers, Oliver, West Side Story, The Witches of Eastwick, The Sound of Music, Legally Blonde, and Carousel.
TREVOR FRENCH - STAGE MANAGER
Trevor has been involved with theatre for over fifty years and has been Stage Manager for Stamford G&S Players for 18 years. He first became interested in backstage work after helping out at the Peterborough Gang Show, when he offered to help the Stage Manager at the Embassy Theatre.
Trevor has worked on every genre of live show, from rock bands to variety shows, including Kent Opera and Welsh National Opera, not to mention Buxton Opera House, during the G&S International Festival.
KATE BIDWELL - REHEARSAL ACCOMPANIST
Kate has taught piano since 2006, both privately and as a peripatetic. Since 2018 she has enjoyed taking on various accompanying roles, including School Accompanist at Copthill Independent Day School, Corby Male Voice Choir and The Grantham Singers.