| The Hot Mikado |
|
|
|
|
 One of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular works gets an upbeat treatment for the Wanneroo Repertory’s next production. The Hot Mikado opens at the Limelight Theatre on 5 June. Director Alex McLennan said the music has more of an upbeat feel that is sure to have the audience tapping their feet. “The score uses 1940's popular musical harmonies and arrangements and a wide range of styles,” he said. “The styles include hot gospel, blues, rock, Cab Calloway swing, and torch songs. For example, the song Three Little Maids is sung in the style of the Andrews Sisters. While maintaining the Japanese architectural feel in the set, the costumes reflect a 1940’s American style such as Zoot suits.
The Hot Mikado tells the story of the Emperor’s young son Nanki-Poo, played by Kale Plumley, masquerading as a trumpet player, who is looking for the beautiful Yum-Yum, played by Tina Jackson. He learns that she is to marry the Lord High executioner, Ko-Ko (Peter Clark). Meanwhile, the Mikado (Ryan Taaffe) demands that Ko-Ko execute one person within the next month. Nanki-Poo agrees to be executed as long as he can spend a month as Yum-Yum’s husband. However, the plan goes awry and there are plenty of surprises as the plot races along its upbeat way to the finale. Other main characters in this production include Katisha (Julia Hern), Pooh-Bah (Christopher Churchouse); Pish Tush (Andre Ford); Pitti-Sing (Nyree Hughes); and Peep-Bo (Eva Perroni).
The musical direction is by Kate McIntosh, choreography by Claire Nichols and vocal direction by Geoff Robinson. Alex McLennan says fans of Gilbert and Sullivan’s original work will not be disappointed. The Hot Mikado runs from June 5th to the June 21st with matinees on the 14th and 21st
Performance Dates: June 5, 6, 7, 11, 12, 13, 14*, 18, 19, 20, 21*
Times: All shows at 8pm, except *Sundays 14 & 21 Jun @ 2pm.
Venue: Limelight Theatre, Civic Drive, Wanneroo
Tix: $25 Adult $20 Concession $12 Children
Bookings: 9571 8591 (Mon to Fri 9am-12noon) or book online
|
Location: Limelight Theatre, Civic Drive, Wanneroo
Contact: http://www.limelighttheatre.com.au/ |
