Love conquers all in "The Mikado," a comic opera by Arthur Sullivan and W. S. Gilbert introduced in London in 1885. The Lyric Opera of Kansas City presents the satirical comedy in five performances through April 28.
"The Mikado" takes place in Titipu, Japan, a fictional hamlet subject to the whims of an emperor and corrupt officials. Gilbert and Sullivan used the exotic location to soften their pointed commentary on imperial British politics and institutions.
Nanki-Poo, the son of the ruler of Japan known as the Mikado, arrives in the village disguised as a minstrel in search of his beloved Yum-Yum. But there are obstacles to their love, soon pointed out by local civil servants. Many twists and turns ensue before the couple arrive at the altar.
Lyric Opera of Kansas City presents The Mikado through Sunday, April 28 at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts, 1601 Broadway, Kansas City, Missouri. (816) 994-7200. For an in-depth guide to the performance, check here.
