The Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Company made history with a rare fully-professional production of the final Savoy opera, The Grand Duke. A bold move, perhaps, as Gilbert’s storyline — involving a theatrical troupe plotting to depose the miserly Grand Duke of Pfennig Halbpfennig — is particularly convoluted and lacks his customary razor-sharp satire. But Sullivan’s score is as delightful and sparkling as ever, and there was plenty to enjoy in Andrew Nicklin’s bright, colourful production.

Among a strong cast, the undoubted star was Stephen John Davis in the pivotal role of Ludwig. This was an outstanding performance; strongly sung, and acted with great energy, intelligence and flair. Particularly impressive was his crisp, confident handling of his two patter songs, both as tongue-twisting as any of Gilbert’s finest. It is ten years since Mr Davis’s last appearance at the Buxton’s International Gilbert and Sullivan Festival; I hope we don’t have to wait another ten years to see him there again.

Comic doyen Richard Suart was in fine fettle as the much-loathed Grand Duke, wringing every ounce of humour from the dialogue and singing with his usual precision. G&S stalwarts Bruce Graham, Jill Pert and Donald Maxwell were equally impressive as Dr Tannhauser, Baroness von Krakenfeldt and the Prince of Monte Carlo respectively, while rising star John Savournin provided a surprise show-stopper as a camp, French-accented Herald.

Victoria Byron’s glorious mezzo was ideal for the role of Lisa, and her adoration of Ludwig was convincingly played. Victoria Joyce was suitably imperious as Julia Jellicoe, Gilbert’s least appealing heroine, but at times I struggled to hear her above the orchestra. The pro-am chorus made a lively contribution, and the National Festival Orchestra played impeccably under the direction of David Steadman.

The Grand Duke may not be in the same league as The Mikado, HMS Pinafore et al, but it doesn’t deserve to have been mothballed for so long. Perhaps this production will spearhead a more widespread revival.