Opera Review - The Mikado

Opera Review – The Mikado (English National Opera)

Set in the town of Titipu in Japan where flirting is punishable by death, Nanki-poo son of The Mikado of Japan, has fled from court to escape his betrothal of marriage to an elderly rich lady by the name of Katisha. Disguising himself as a travelling musician, he meets and falls in love with Yum-Yum who is already betrothed to her ward Ko-ko, a former tailor of the town, now Lord High Executioner. They seem destined to spend their lives apart but a series of twists and changes in circumstances bring the couple together and not without some highly comical moments.

This latest production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera by English National Opera sets the scene not in the traditional Japan but in the 1930’s in what could be considered the English Riviera. This staging does not detract from the comedy of the original piece though and in many ways enhances it with some Chaplinesque qualities in the characters’ performances. The stage itself was stunning being decorated totally in whites and creams and in a style reminiscent of the art deco period. It made a stunning contrast to the performers’ black and white costumes and along with the occasional red accessory gave it an oriental feel.

The music was light, the lyrics were touching, comical and clever and featured such well-known favourites as Three Little Maids, Tit Willow and They’d none of ‘em be missed! The chorus worthy of a mention, were both energetic and enthusiastic in their song and dance performances and look incredible against the stage backdrop.

There were several notable performances from amongst this exceptional cast, particularly Richard Suart’s Ko-ko who provided many of the laughs of the evening with his witty lines and slapstick performance. I especially enjoyed his updated rendition of “They’d none of ‘em be missed” which was very in keeping with current affairs and full of satire and humour....it really was a song not to be missed and judging from the audience reaction, it was a huge success. Richard recently released a book celebrating his twenty years connection with The Mikado which explores the history of the Mikado but also looks at the many changes to the song to keep up with the times.

The star of the show however was Alfie Boe as Nanki-Poo. I have mentioned Alfie in previous blog entries as a wonderful performer and brilliant opera singer but this opera also allowed him to show other talents. Not only is the man a great comic actor but he can dance too! He hammed up his character superbly without going over the top and his performance was full of energy and enthusiasm which was quite contagious at times. It was wonderful to sit in a packed opera house and listen not just to extraordinary performances and cleverly written score but also to be part of audience and feel the buzz that ran through them like an electric current.

There are only a few performances remaining in this run, but if you are able to go and see it, I would highly recommend it. It is impossible to watch and leave in a bad mood. This comic opera really lifts the spirits and despite its sometimes serious subject will leave you feeling elated.

For more information on English National Opera, see their website www.eno.org

For more information on Richard Suart’s book “They’d none of ‘em be missed” see http://www.amazon.co.uk/

For more information on Alfie Boe, his recordings and future engagements visit www.alfieboe-uk.com or follow him on twitter www.twitter.com/alfieboe