Opera Theatre to Perform 'The Mikado'

By Jill Yesko, University Relations

Contact (336) 334-3890

Posted:1-16-08

GREENSBORO, N.C. – “The Mikado,” one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular collaborations, will be performed by the UNCG Opera Theatre.

Performances will be held Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 7- 10, at Grimsley High School in Greensboro.

Set in feudal Japan, “The Mikado” tells the story of Nanki-Poo, son of the Mikado of Japan. Disguised as a traveling musician to escape an arranged marriage with an elderly woman, Nanki-Poo falls in love with Yum-Yum, a beautiful young commoner.

But Ko-Ko, Yum-Yum’s guardian and the High Executioner is also in love with her. Complications arise when Nanki-Poo’s jilted bride and the Mikado arrive to try to separate the lovers. After a near brush with death, true love eventually prevails as Nanki-Poo and Yum-Yum marry.

One of the most frequently performed operettas, “The Mikado” is a farcical take on British politics that offers pointed social commentary on the foibles of humankind set to a libretto of memorable songs against an elegant score. The opera also reflects Victorian England’s fascination with Japan.

Among “The Mikado’s” best-known musical numbers are "Three Little Maids From School Are We," and "Willow, Tit-willow."

The production features UNCG School of Music faculty members Dr. Robert Wells as Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner, and Dr. Donald Hartmann as Poo-Bah, the Lord High of Everything Else.

“Ever since we produced Gilbert and Sullivan’s ‘The Pirates of the Penzance’ in 2003, it has been our goal to present one Gilbert and Sullivan show every other year,” said Dr. David Holley, professor of opera and director of the Opera Theatre. “After presenting ‘H.M.S. Pinafore’ in 2005-6, it was easy to choose ‘The Mikado’ this year. It’s a wonderful combination of ingenious comedy and wonderful music that is fun for the entire family.”

Performances will take place at 7:30 p.m. Feb. 7-9 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 10. Tickets are $15 public, $12 seniors, $6 seniors, students and children.

For ticket information call the UNCG Box Office at (336) 334-4849. Tickets can also be purchased online at www.uncg.edu/euc/boxoffice.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

University Relations
Location: 500 Forest Street
Mailing Address: PO Box 26170, Greensboro, NC 27402-6170
Telephone:336.334.3783
Fax:336.334.4602