General News
13 January, 2026
Gilbert and Sullivan sing-along to unite Dunolly
The renowned tunes of Gilbert and Sullivan will fill Dunolly Town Hall for a twilight singalong concert this Saturday.
Comic operas first performed in the 1800s, and around the world ever since, will descend on the Dunolly Town Hall this weekend.
Returning Melbourne-based performers The Wand’Ring Minstrels have been brought to town thanks to the Dunolly Gilbert and Sullivan Society.
The group’s founder, president, and secretary Rachel Buckley said the performance was to connect the community.
“We have a really strong community in Dunolly but we need a good reason like this to bring everyone together,” she said.
“Wouldn’t it be lovely if people come along and had a bit of a sing?”
Despite a legacy of nearly 15 years of performance, Ms Buckley said the local society won’t be performing due to lack of numbers.
“We’ll be singing along in the audience,” she said.
Alongside her, she hopes, will be costumes of pirates and fairy queens with prizes for the best junior and adult costumes.
It’s a picture of community support that Ms Buckley said the group needs.
“If people don’t come we can’t afford to do the shows,” she said.
“We’re not trying to make money but we just want to cover our costs.”
Over the years, the community group has held performances that have attracted audiences a few hundred strong.
But Ms Buckley said most theatre groups are only hanging in there given the shortage of volunteers and cost of living pressure.
“If you don’t support local groups you can lose them,” she said.
“Once we lose a group they’re gone forever.”
The Twilight Singalong is being held before dark between 7 and
8.30 pm, January 1, at the Dunolly Town Hall. Tickets can be bought online or at the door, with further information on the Dunolly Gilbert and Sullivan Festival’s Facebook page.
The event is open to all ages with entry for those under 15 years old free.
“Try and come along to home grown events if you can,” Ms Buckley said.