Princess ida Tickets

When one thinks of classical opera, a few big names come to mind, such as Mozart and Verdi. However, there are many other incredible classical operas that often get overlooked. One of these hidden gems is Gilbert and Sullivan's "Princess Ida."

"Princess Ida" was first performed in 1884 and was the eighth collaboration between W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan. The opera is based on Alfred Lord Tennyson's poem "The Princess" and follows the story of Princess Ida, who has sworn off men and created a women's university on a secluded island. The plot thickens when Prince Hilarion, who was once betrothed to Princess Ida, tries to win her back.

One of the unique aspects of "Princess Ida" in relation to classical opera is its humor. Unlike many serious operas, "Princess Ida" doesn't take itself too seriously and is full of witty jokes and satirical commentary on Victorian society. For example, the opera pokes fun at the idea of women's education, which was a controversial topic at the time.

Another aspect that sets "Princess Ida" apart is its music. While it still follows the standard structure of a classical opera, the score includes various musical styles, such as choral numbers and solo pieces. In addition, the songs themselves are catchy and memorable, which is not always the case with traditional operas.

Despite its initial success, "Princess Ida" didn't have the same staying power as some of Gilbert and Sullivan's other works, such as "The Pirates of Penzance" and "The Mikado." However, modern productions of "Princess Ida" have brought attention back to this underappreciated masterpiece.

In conclusion, "Princess Ida" is a must-see for anyone interested in classical opera. Its humor and memorable music make it a standout among traditional operas, and its commentary on societal issues is still relevant today. If you have the opportunity to see "Princess Ida," don't miss out on this unique and entertaining experience.