The Productions: Mikado in 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.

https://rbscpexhibits.lib.rochester.edu/files/gs/003107.jpg

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

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