Portland Ovations Presents The Mikado 4/17

Portland Ovations is proud to present New YorK Gilbert and Sullivan Players (NYGASP), America's pre-eminent professional Gilbert & Sullivan repertory company performing one of the most popular musical pieces written in the English language The Mikado on Sunday, April 17th at Merrill Auditorium, which will begin at 4 p.m.

NYGASP's production of this comedic favorite is in the traditional mold, combining a modern playfulness with a respect for the creators' original intent. Described by the New York Times as, "Colorful and lively...stylish...the production, like so many from this dedicated company, conveys a sense of affection for the work...masterfully updated...witty and clever."

Bringing together a wonderfully skilled orchestra, marvelous production design and splendid singing. The Mikado is a story of love, heartache and folly in imperial Japan, which follows the character Nanki-Poo, the son of the Mikado of Japan who flees to escape an arranged marriage with an old woman. While masquerading as a travelling musician, he falls in love with the beautiful Yum Yum, who is also betrothed to another. Nanki-Poo continues to pursue Yum Yum, and drama ensues. A performance that is sure to delight audiences of all ages.

Ovations Offstage is offering a Pre-Performance Lecture: "Creating the Mikado" with Albert Bergeret, the Artistic Director of the New YorK Gilbert and Sullivan Players, on Sunday, April 17th at 3 p.m. in the Merrill Auditorium Rehearsal Hall. Bergeret will offer an overview of Gilbert and Sullivan, their process of creating this work, and the company's success in keeping The Mikado new and fresh.

Portland Ovations' presentation of The Mikado is graciously sponsored by Raymond James and Associates with media support from the Maine Public Broadcasting Network.

Tickets for The Mikado range from $34 to $49 for Ovations' Members and $38 to $54 for the general public. A limited number of $15 student tickets are also available to any full-time student. To purchase tickets, contact PortTix at 207-842-0800 or visit the box office window at Merrill Auditorium. Tickets are also available online at www.portlandovations.org.