The Grand Duchess - Wichita

With apologies to a beloved children’s story, the Wichita Grand Opera might well be referred to as “The Little Opera Company That Could.” Friday was the opening night of the WGO’s final production for the 2015 season – Jacques Offenbach’s “The Grand Duchess” – and this little-known comic gem did not disappoint. Offenbach’s operettas inspired and influenced the works of Johann Strauss, Jr. and Arthur Sullivan. So, even though his works are less familiar in the United States, fans of “Die Fledermaus” or “The Pirates of Penzance” will likely find this amusing work familiar territory.

Directed by —, The Grand Duchess - Wichita leans on a strong ensemble — Kaitlyn Costello, Cullen Gandy, William Powers — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about screen titles of 2015.