Reviews

First produced in New York in 1962 and London in 1963, this musical based on a comedy written by the Roman playwright Plautus some time in the second century BC, has graced many stages – if ‘graced’ is the correct word for a musical that is full of puns, naughty innuendo and pratfalls! Whatever, it’s been around for a long time and it still makes people laugh!

“Virtue is only triumphant in theatrical performances,” (so says the Mikado – Act 2). Perhaps he should have added, “Especially in the Stuart Maunder State Opera production of The Mikado”. It is a delight for the eyes and ears!

Set in a world of Asian/Western fusion with an abundance of ‘Hello Kitty’ and lollipop colours, this production is a shining example of how to update a G&S classic without removing the traditional elements, i.e. Gilbert’s words and Sullivan’s music.

Broadway’s favourite Asian leading-lady Lea Salonga gave a capacity audience at the Concert Hall exactly what they wanted, plenty of Broadway, plenty of movie, and a lot of pop. The Philippine performer who rose to stardom in 1989 as the original Kim in Miss Saigon has captivated audiences ever since, on Broadway in Flower Drum Song, Allegiance, and Once on This Island.

Cabaret performer extraordinaire Meow Meow (Melissa Madden Gray) returns to home territory and graces the stage at the Malthouse with her extremely endearing wit and charm. Her subversive approach to the silly season is highly irreverent and somewhat sacrilegious, and this merely adds to the festive mood.