The Mikado at Lyric Opera

Windy City Times - Somewhat Recommended

"...The problems begin when the voices are not singing. After seeing G&S for 40 years in many different theaters, I've concluded that G&S is far too dialogue-driven for a vast opera house. Even with amplification, it just doesn't work. The slow, deliberate articulation of this production really "takes the top off" much of the humor and sense of spontaneity. This isn't singular to this production, but a general position I've reached. You are welcome to disagree."

Centerstage - Highly Recommended

"...The clever tongue and joyful lyricism of W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan were never more finely tuned than when they authored "The Mikado". It is a piece of riotous fun and rapier wit that spares not one character from some kind of satirical slash, be it a touch or a grievous wound. The piece is an absolute joy, filled with some of G&S’s most recognizable lyrics and melodies."

Chicago Stage Review - Recommended

"...As always, the flawless music of the Lyric Opera orchestra and chorus carry the entire production on their very capable shoulders.  If you love Gilbert & Sullivan then this production is a must-see and even if you don’t, you will still find much to marvel at.  For G & S in the 21st Century, this is as good as it gets."

ChicagoCritic - Highly Recommended

"...I can’t thing of a finer holiday present to anyone who has never seen a Gilbert & Sullivan comic opera than to take them to the Lyric Opera of Chicago to see The Mikado. They’ll thank you for a lifetime."

Around The Town Chicago - Highly Recommended

"...The ensemble/chorus is strong andwhile not used to “acting” as much as singing, Griffin was able to get them to add movement to their stage appearances. Other stand-outs in the cast: Philip Kraus, The very comical Andrew Shore, Emily Fons and Katherine Goeldner. The set (Mark Thompson, who also did the wonderful costumes) is pretty simple and allows the audience to hear the words and watch the actions instead of looking at spectacle. To often, directors rely on glitz and forget about the content; in other words, they sell the sizzle over the steak itself. Griffin gives us the steak and a very juicy morsel it is."

Chicago Theater Beat - Highly Recommended

"...It is a bit of silliness that is pure genius and that is what Lyric’s Mikado pulls off so well throughout the whole production. The show will send you into the cold winter night, your ear alight with its happy tunes and a joyful heart against the cares of this world. And what could be a better Christmas gift than that?"