Picture a little town in Japan whose citizens are finding the law that makes flirting the only crime punishable by death, rather, well… tiresome. They appoint Ko Ko, a lowly tailor, as Lord High Executioner, himself condemned for flirting and so not likely to execute anyone else. When the Mikado decides to pay a call to see how the execution record’s going, Ko Ko has to come up with a plan. Throw in the beautiful Yum Yum, her ardent admirer Nanki–Pooh, errant son of the Mikado, and the man-eater Katisha, and you have one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most famous nineteenth century comic operas in all its wonderful absurdity.

But this is The Mikado like you’ve never seen it before as East meets West and the musical style moves on a few years to the 40’s. The G&S classic score now swings and jives with sassy songs and a bit of gospel and Rhythm and Blues too. So hold on to your seats, this will be one of the most energetic and exhilarating shows you’ll see. It’s so hot, it’s cool!

"One leaves this most idyllic of British theatres in no doubt that it has a summertime smash on its hands." - Daily Telegraph