Gilbert and Sullivan Online Exhibit: The Mikado (London)


After the completion of Princess Ida, Sullivan resolved to write no more operas with Gilbert. When Gilbert proposed a plot for a new opera that was unacceptable to Sullivan, a series of painful communications between them threatened to end their partnership. In time, each partner modified his position, and when Gilbert presented Sullivan with the outline for a new Japanese opera, Sullivan saw in it an acceptable and desirable new direction. The Mikado (1885) was a showcase for their respective geniuses, and the opera is generally considered a masterpiece of collaboration. The Mikado was hugely successful in London and on provincial tour, and Carte sent productions to Germany in 1886-7 and 1887-8.

[Program]. London: Savoy Theatre, [1885]. Original production of The Mikado.

Program

[Cabinet photograph]. London: Barraud, [1885]. "Three Little Maids From School Are We."

Sybil Grey, Leonora Braham and Jessie Bond in the original production of The Mikado.

Photograph

W. S. Gilbert. The Mikado. London: Chappell & Co., [1885].

First edition of the libretto. Open to the original version of Ko-Ko’s little list.

Gilbert made important textual changes in his librettos up until the last minute and also made revisions during the few days following opening nights. This song as originally published was performed only a few times before Gilbert altered the lyrics and placed it earlier in the opera.

Libretto

[Souvenir program]. Berlin: Kroll’s Theatre [1886-7]. Der Mikado.

D’Oyly Carte’s "G" Company German tour. Designed by Alice Havers.

Program

[Print]. Hamburg: F.A. Dahlstrom, 1888. "Aren’t we three nice little maids?" by C.W. Allers.

One print in a portfolio titled Bunte Welt von C.W. Allers.

The print depicts backstage life at a D’Oyly Carte performance in Hamburg.

Print


Princess Ida



The Mikado (America)