Opera defies its detractors (From Gazette Series)

Opera defies its detractors

JERRY Springer - The Opera, the controversial musical which has sparked outrage throughout the country, comes to the Bristol Hippodrome from Monday, May 15 to Saturday, May 20.

Saved by 21 regional theatres, following The Arts Council England's refusal to fund the tour, due to well-publicised pressure from Christian Voice which has argued the show is offensive and unnecessary, the show opened in Plymouth in January this year.

Co-writer and director Stewart Lee said: "Jerry Springer - The Opera was developed on public money in public spaces and belongs to the nation, whether the nation wants it or not."

Producer Jon Thoday said: "I'm delighted the small minority have not prevented the public from seeing this brilliant show - freedom of speech and artistic freedom have prevailed."

The show has received many awards for Best Musical - The Olivier Awards, The Critics' Circle Theatre Awards, The Evening Standard Theatre Awards and The What's on Stage Awards.