Scott Rittenhouse is a fabulous performer and Craig Cantley will steal the show.
Such is the insider dope about the upcoming run of “The Mikado.”
One of the most popular pieces of musical theater ever, “The Mikado” has been filmed, jazzed, swung and made into a ballet.
“The Mikado” is the quintessential example of the satire of human nature at which Gilbert and Sullivan excelled.
Northwest Savoyards’ production is in the traditional mold, combining a modern playfulness with a respect for the creators’ original intent. Gilbert’s wit and always relevant barbs aimed at the foibles of human nature receive full attention.
An orchestra under the direction of David Little brings to life Sullivan’s evocative orchestration, and the company’s outstanding performers, directed by Daniel Reinking, bring energy, humor and fine singing to the vocal lines. Songs include such popular favorites as “A Wand’ring Minstrel I,” “Three Little Maids from School” and “Tit Willow.”
Gorgeous costumes by Barbara Anderson, and a creative set designed by Harriet Saunders and constructed by Rob Carter, complete the transformation of the auditorium stage to a village in Japan.
“The Mikado” features lovable villains, hidden identities and thwarted lovers.
The twisted plot revolves around the star-crossed lovers Nanki-Poo, played by Rittenhouse, and Yum-Yum, played by Jenny Shotwell, and their nemesis, Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner played by Rob Martin. There’s the fearsome Katisha, played by Victoria Rimoczi, and Cantley’s hilariously ridiculous Pooh-Bah, and the emperor himself, played by Doug Lewis, with his own list of punishments to fit the crime.
“The Mikado”
8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays; 2:30 p.m. Sundays Oct. 20 through Nov. 12, PUD Auditorium, 2320 California St., Everett. $20 and $17, 866-811-4111, northwestsavoyards.org.
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