The Artisan Center Theater opened its production of The Mikado over the weekend. Tonight I make my debut as Nanki-Poo in the Gilbert & Sullivan operetta. My wife, Arlette Morgan, is making her musical theater debut this production as well, playing the part of Peep-Bo. Thankfully, we are in the same cast so we have actually gotten to spend a little time together during the hectic rehearsal process. Come on out and see us!
Take a whimsical trip to far-away Japan and enjoy The Mikado, a deliciously tangled love story which is actually a satire of senseless laws, self-important officials, and political “spin.” The Mikado features those favorite G&S characters, Yum-Yum, Nanki-Poo, and Ko-Ko, the Lord High Executioner with his “little list” of potential victims, not to mention the fearsome Katisha, the hilariously ridiculous Pooh-Bah, and the emperor himself, with his own list of punishments to fit the crime.
Gilbert’s lyrics and Sullivan’s melodies have delighted over one hundred years of operetta lovers but they are still as fresh as “the flowers that bloom in the spring.” Widely agreed to be Gilbert and Sullivan’s masterpiece, The Mikado is said to be the most popular operetta ever written.
After practicing his craft in New York City for many years, Broadway veteran and Mikado director John Wilkerson, along with his wife Margaret Shafer, relocated to Dallas to be closer to family. He completed his graduate work in vocal performance at the State University of New York and place third in the Metropolitan Opera competition. In working with some of the finest performers, directors, choreographers, musical directors, and technicians from the Broadway and British stages, he has worked at every level of performance from major concert halls to cruise ships, Broadway shows, national tours, Las Vegas, and overseas.
Running through October 10, this production is double-cast so I trade off performances with Craig Moody, a splendid talent whom has been a joy with which to work. I generally perform in all Tuesday, Thursday and Saturday evening shows. Please check my event calendar to confirm my performance dates. Tickets may be purchased online at www.artisanct.com.
Brad Stephens 