UPDATED “MIKADO” IS PURE ENTERTAINMENT

Glenn Falls Post Star

Bob Rose

WESTPORT – At the Depot Theatre, a highly talented group of singers and actors is transporting delighted audiences to the Gilbert and Sullivan topsy-turvy town of Titipu.  The comic opera, “The Mikado,” is staged with color and elegance, much light humor and pointed satire that has been updated to include references to current events, politicians like Gov. George Pataki and President Bush and even a brief mention of nearby Lake Champlain’s reputed underwater resident Champ.  The familiar tale of lovers Nanki-Poo and Yum-Yum unfolds with an exciting freshness, even though it was first performed in 1885.

 Director Michael Unger’s expert touch is evident everywhere and he has another show of which he can be justifiably proud.

 Nanki-Poo, son of the Mikado but now disguised as a traveling minstrel, is sprightly played by Michael Scott Harris.  The apple of his eye, Yum-Yum, is demurely portrayed by Amy Fitts.  Both have had extensive stage experience, Harris having been a regular with the New York Gilbert and Sullivan Players and Fitts having appeared in several Depot roles as well as with the Texas Shakespeare Festival.

 Lord High Executioner Ko-Ko is in the capable hands of Paul C. Kelly, while Jamie McGonnigal asserts himself as Pooh-Bah, Lord High Everything Else.  Both comically display their characters’ self-importance as the much-loved story races to its happy ending despite oft-repeated threats of beheading and, for Yum-Yum, being buried alive.  The role of sometimes vindictive Katisha,spurned lover of Nanki-Poo, Sandra Parris brings both comedy and a lovely voice.  In fact, all of the cast sings from the heart, knowing exactly whento emote, when to soften and when to be lightly humorous.  Minor roles are equally well played so that the entire evening production is a display of exciting talent.  Accompanist is pianist and musical director Norma Jeanne Curley, who is enjoying her sixth season with Depot.  She and the cast are always in perfect sync, often with a comic twist.  Also making her annual visit to Depot is choreographer Laurie Brongo, whose imaginatively created movements add much to the overall effect.

As several members of the Sunday matinee audience were overheard saying, “‘The Mikado’ is a wonderful way to spend an afternoon.”  Add the simple but effective set suggesting the Oriental locale, its quick changes and the attractively authentic costumes and you watch beauty unfold before your eyes.