Conductor: John Andrews
Director: Jeff Clarke
Performed by the National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company, featuring the National Festival Orchestra.
This year’s National Gilbert & Sullivan Opera Company production of The Mikado promises a sumptuous and stylish staging from Jeff Clarke. Set within the world of a flamboyant fashion designer’s atelier, the familiar topsy-turvy tale is reimagined with bold creativity and dazzling new designs.
Ko-Ko, in Gilbert’s eyes a cheap tailor, has been elevated now he is Lord High Executioner, to become a flamboyant couturier. The concept brings fresh context to the opera’s playful satire and the many colourful characters of Titipu.
The Mikado in a nutshell
The story follows Nanki-Poo’s attempt to escape an unwanted marriage, only to find himself caught between the formidable Katisha and the scheming Ko-Ko. Against the backdrop of a luxurious fashion house, the twists, misunderstandings, and comic manoeuvrings unfold with renewed visual wit.
With its inventive concept, memorable score, and striking aesthetic, The Mikado is set to be one of the Festival’s most imaginative highlights — a production not to be missed.
Cast
- The Mikado — Ben McAteer
- Nanki-Poo — David Webb
- Ko-Ko — Simon Butteriss
- Yum-Yum — Eleanor Sanderson-Nash
- Pooh-Bah — Grant Doyle
- Katisha — Gaynor Keeble
Performances at Buxton Opera House
Tickets: £20–£49
