The University of Wyoming Department of Theatre and Dance closes out the 2011-2012
season with Gilbert and Sullivan's sparkling and lavish comic opera, "The Mikado,"
April 17-21 at 7:30 p.m. on the Fine Arts main stage.
Tickets cost $14 for the public, $11 for senior citizens and $7 for students. For
tickets and information, call (307) 766-6666 or go online at www.uwyo.edu/finearts.
"The Mikado" is directed by Vocal Arts Professor and UW Opera Theatre Head Larry L. Hensel, and is conducted by UW Symphony Director Michael Griffith. UW's production will feature eminent artist Marcia Ragonetti in the role of Katisha. She is one of the region's most celebrated artists and hailed by critics as a "perfectly splendid mezzo."
"Gilbert and Sullivan provide young, developing singers the opportunity to really shine and the production is particularly appropriate for young artists," says Hensel. "I love operas that have dialogue in them, as our students gain practical theatrical experience and are able to develop their characters through the combination of dialogue and musical expression."
There's too much flirting going on in the town of Titipu and it's against the law. The Mikado, emperor of all, decrees that heads must roll. The Japanese setting supplies a colorful background for the opera, including gorgeous costumes and scenic elements, although the portrayal of Asian society is a satire of Victorian British customs and social mores.
