The Mikado

⭐⭐⭐⭐

The Artscape Opera House

July 2025

The Cape Town G&S Society’s recent concert-style performance of The Mikado was a celebration of Gilbert & Sullivan’s charm delivered with both sophistication and accessibility. Presented at the Artscape Opera House, the production cleverly combined orchestral power, vocal talent, and elegant visual design to bring the comic opera to life in digestible, highly enjoyable segments.

The Cape Town Philharmonic Orchestra, seated prominently on stage, carried Sullivan’s score with energy and precision. Rather than a full theatrical staging, the story was conveyed through a combination of solo performances, ensemble singing, and interludes of narration that offered context and background. These insights into the history of the opera and the company helped audiences appreciate both the story and the craftsmanship behind it, making the performance particularly accessible for those new to Gilbert & Sullivan.

Visually, the production struck a balance between simplicity and glamour. The set was minimalistic but elegant, enhanced by clever lighting design that created depth and visual interest. Chinese lanterns were used to remarkable effect, giving the stage texture and atmosphere without overwhelming the performers. Against this subtle backdrop, the cast’s elaborate costumes and flowing ball gowns added a touch of opulence, transforming the concert into an affair that was as stylish as it was entertaining.

Among the many highlights was the modernised take on “I’ve Got a Little List,” which translated Gilbert’s satire into a contemporary context. The updated lyrics were witty, sharp, and perfectly timed, eliciting genuine laughter while preserving the original song’s playful spirit.

Performances throughout were strong, with soloists displaying both vocal skill and comedic timing. The ensemble contributed richly layered harmonies, giving the score fullness and texture, while the interplay between the singers and the orchestra maintained a lively, engaging pace.

By choosing a concert format, the production successfully navigated the sometimes complicated plot, allowing audiences to follow the story without losing the operatic flourish that makes The Mikado so enduring. The combination of musical excellence, clever presentation, and visual elegance made for a thoroughly enjoyable evening.

In short, this rendition of The Mikado demonstrated that Gilbert & Sullivan’s work can still charm and delight modern audiences. The Cape Town G&S Society managed to respect tradition while making the opera approachable, humorous, and visually captivating—a testament to the timeless appeal of the Savoy Operas.