Iowa Public Radio Classical recently headed to Studio One with singers from the Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre’s Mikado production. The Young Artist cast, along with conductor John Hollins and pianist Tony Nickle, performed selections from the Gilbert and Sullivan operetta while giving us a glimpse behind the scenes of their upcoming performances at the historic Brucemore Mansion in Cedar Rapids.
Mikado tells the tale of Nanki-Poo, heir of the Mikado of Japan, and his quest to escape marriage to Katisha so that he may marry his love, Yum-Yum. However, she is already engaged to her guardian, Ko-Ko, performed by Arthur Beutel. Nanki-Poo is portrayed by Daniel Lopez, Katisha by Lauren Henderson-Turner, and Yum-Yum by Heather Youngquist. Robin Bradley and Jessica Pray play Yum-Yum’s sisters, Peep-Bo and Pitti-Sing. The ensemble will present a variety of songs from the Mikado, including the all-time favorite, “3 Little Maids from School.”
Listen to and enjoy this podcast of Cedar Rapids Opera Theatre’s Mikado highlights broadcast, live from Studio One on Iowa Public Radio Classical.
