The Mikado

One of the Gilbert and Sullivan Society’s most often performed shows, we once again return to The Mikado for their final show of 2025. Featuring some of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most well-known songs, The Mikado was set in Japan, both to play on the Japan-mania that permeated British society at the time, and as a way of stepping away from Britain, in order to satirise British society of the time.

In 1885, a group of Japanese entrepreneurs opened a Japanese Village in Knightsbridge, highlighting Japanese arts, culture, sport, fashion and ways of life. Director Paul Treasure sets this production within that village, with the characters very obviously British, occasionally dressing up as Japanese, but obviously English people visiting that village. The village set, including a nicely used Japanese bridge, was designed and constructed by Barry Boyd, with a responsive and thoughtful lighting design by Don Allen. Late 19^th century costumes, that could have been pulled from television’s The Golden Age, were assembled by a team lead by Veronica Hudson and Gail reading.

Accompanied by an orchestra of excellent quality, under the baton of Musical Director Bayden Adams, vocals were, as we expect from G&S, very strong, with the male chorus being particularly impressive.

Nika Classen was a convincing schoolgirl Yum Yum, with a performance that brightened the stage, working nicely with Joshua Edwards’ understated but effective Nanki Poo. She was well supported vocally by little maids Pitti Sing (Katie Nowland) and Peep Bo (Jasmine Young).

Lincoln Matrozis stole scenes as Lord High Executioner Koko. He delivered a very clever list of people that should be executed, which he wrote himself iIt is traditional that this list is altered for each production) that was very funny and a show highlight. Zac Porter’s Pooh Bah, Lord High Everything Else, had a different accent and demeanor for each of Pooh Bah’s government positions – a very clever touch. Michael Cummins was a stately and reserved Mikado, while Leonard Ong was a lively and impressive Pish Tush. I have not had the pleasure of seeing Leonard perform before and look forward to further performances.

The beautiful Belinda Butler seems to relish the harridan roles and is fabulous as the less-than-beautiful Katisha. One of the most regular of the G&S performers, and sometimes seen on stage with the West Australian Opera, Belinda’s performance was another highlight of the show.

Virtually sold out before it opened, The Mikado is clearly nearly as popular today as it was at its premiere 140 years ago. Patrons will not be disappointed with this fresh and fun production.

Kimberley Shaw