Savoy opera
At the end of 1886 Lytton was engaged by Carte to appear at the Savoy Theatre. Eric Lewis, who had been understudying George Grossmith in the comic patter roles since 1882, left the D'Oyly Carte company. Lytton was appointed to replace him, understudying the role of Robin Oakapple in the new Savoy opera, "Ruddigore", which opened on 22 January 1887. A week later Grossmith fell ill. Between 31 January and 15 February, Lytton appeared in the role. When he went back to the chorus on Grossmith's return, W. S. Gilbert presented him with a gold-mounted walking stick in appreciation of his performance.