Mikado

Just Brilliant!
A total classic, this is Gilbert and Sullivan performed at its very best! Opera Australia has captured the very essence of Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera in this version of `The Mikado'. The opera opens at a cracking pace under the baton of conductor Brian Castles-Onion, and the joy and fun of Sullivan's music has you smiling before anyone has so much as set a foot on the stage. Then the entertainment really begins with Gilbert's libretto.

In the best tradition of this opera there are the mandatory contemporary asides and props built-in, including an iPad used by Ko-Ko for his `list' - which contains many very relevant people who `will not be missed!'. The stage sets are beautiful, simple and fanciful, and are used to great effect by the artists on stage; the costumes are gorgeous and again, fun. The cast clearly enjoy performing this opera, and praise must surely go to Orchestra Victoria which does an amazing job performing this fast paced and elaborate score...

A "so-so Mikado."
An "updated" Mikado which looses as much as it gains by updating. Singing and music was good, sets ok. Costumes elaborate but disappointing. Certainly colorful enough but out of whack with Mikado as I understand it. While I liked it and will listen again and again it does not meet the standard set by Opera Australia in "Pirates" and even in "Patience" and "Gondoliers"...

My new favorite
I love the Mikado and the Stratford fest version was my favorite for years. This has some great scenes and has become my new favorite.

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