Synopsis
Set in the fictional Japanese town of Titipu, 'The Mikado' is a satirical operetta that follows the story of Nanki-Poo, the son of the Mikado (the Emperor of Japan), who has fled his father's court to escape an arranged marriage. Disguised as a wandering minstrel, Nanki-Poo arrives in Titipu in search of his true love, Yum-Yum, who is engaged to her guardian, Ko-Ko, the town's Lord High Executioner. Chaos ensues when the Mikado demands an execution to uphold the law, and Ko-Ko must devise a plan to avoid carrying it out. Meanwhile, Nanki-Poo and Yum-Yum's love is tested by societal expectations and the arrival of Katisha, a formidable noblewoman who seeks to marry Nanki-Poo herself. Through a series of comedic misunderstandings, clever wordplay, and satirical commentary on British politics and society, the characters navigate love, duty, and deception. Ultimately, the operetta concludes with a series of revelations and resolutions, including the discovery that Nanki-Poo is alive and well, and the lovers are free to marry. The Mikado himself arrives to pardon everyone, bringing the story to a joyful and harmonious close.
Characters
- The Mikado of Japan (lead)
- Nanki-Poo (lead)
- Ko-Ko (lead)
- Pooh-Bah (supporting)
- Pish-Tush (supporting)
- Yum-Yum (lead)
- Pitti-Sing (supporting)
- Peep-Bo (supporting)
- Katisha (lead)
Musical Numbers
- If you want to know who we are
- A wand'ring minstrel I
- Our great Mikado, virtuous man
- Young man, despair
- And I have journeyed for a month
- Behold the Lord High Executioner
- As some day it may happen
- Comes a train of little ladies
- Three little maids from school are we
- So please you, sir, we much regret