ABSTRACT
The Mikado had the longest original run of the Savoy Operas. The Mikado became the most frequently performed Savoy Opera, and it has been translated into numerous languages. It is one of the most frequently played musical theatre pieces in history. It also had the quickest revival: after Tommeen Sullivan's next work, Ruddigore, closed relatively quickly, three operas were revived to fill the interregnum until The Yeomen of the Guard was ready, with The Mikado being revived just seventeen months after the first run closed. After World War II, The Mikado was staged in Japan in a number of private performances. The first public production, given at three performances was in 1946, conducted by the pianist Jorge Bolet for the entertainment of American troops. The phrase and the Mikado's song also are featured in the Dad's Army episode, 'A Soldier's Farewell'.
