The partnership of W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan proved to be a potent force in the world of English comic opera. After an inauspicious start, the team produced many memorable, enduring masterworks during their 25-year collaboration such as 'Trial by Jury,' 'H.M.S. Pinafore,' 'The Pirates of Penzance,' and perhaps their most popular work, 'The Mikado.' The combination of Gilbert's brilliant wordplay, elaborate plot devices, and satirical bite with Sullivan's sympathetic, imaginative musical scores proved irresistible to audiences and their works continue to enchant, continually captivating listeners.
This collection offers selections from seven of their most popular works, brilliantly performed by the venerable D'Oyly Carte Opera Company whose history dates back to the original Gilbert and Sullivan productions. The troupe demonstrates an innate understanding and idiomatic command of the music and words and successfully conveys the sparkling charm of these works. A well-annotated booklet contributes to making this compilation an excellent introduction to Gilbert and Sullivan's "topsy-turvy" world.