It was with eager anticipation that I was looking forward to my annual visit to the production by the Birmingham Savoyards at the Old Rep. It is great to see the work of Gilbert and Sullivan being presented to a contemporary audience and it was a particular pleasure to find out that this year's would be "The Mikado," which has always been one of my own favourites among their operettas. 

"The Mikado" is set in the fictional town of Titipu and like so much of Gilbert and Sullivan's work, pokes fun in a gentle but effective way at some of the foibles of the society in which they lived. Like all their operettas, it combines the cleverly written lyrics of W.S. Gilbert with the delightful and charming melodies of Sir Arthur Sullivan.  As well as the music and song, there are hilarious moments of comedy throughout. 

This was a most enjoyable evening, with all the principal characters performing their roles to great effect, along with a fine supporting cast and accompanying music. I left the theatre with those songs with which I have been familiar since childhood ringing around in my head (my earliest introduction to The Mikado" was on a scratchy 78, given to me by my maternal grandparents). 

I am grateful as always to Angela, the friendly and efficient Secretary of the Savoyards for organising my visit and I am already looking forward to next year's production of "Ruddigore." Long may they keep the wonderful operettas of Gilbert and Sullivan in the public eye and ear in Birmingham and the surrounding area!