Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1878

Average_duration

:

80:45

Movement_count

:

33

Movement ....

H. M. S. Pinafore is a comic opera composed by Arthur Sullivan with a libretto by W. S. Gilbert. The opera premiered on May 25, 1878, at the Opera Comique in London, England. The plot revolves around the love story between Ralph Rackstraw, a lowly sailor, and Josephine, the captain's daughter, who is betrothed to Sir Joseph Porter, the First Lord of the Admiralty. The opera is set on board the H. M. S. Pinafore, a British naval ship. The sailors are busy preparing for the arrival of Sir Joseph Porter, who is coming to inspect the ship. Ralph Rackstraw, a sailor, is in love with Josephine, the captain's daughter. However, Josephine is betrothed to Sir Joseph Porter, who is of a higher social class. Josephine is torn between her duty to her father and her love for Ralph. She confides in her father, who tells her that she must marry Sir Joseph Porter. Meanwhile, Sir Joseph Porter arrives on the ship and is greeted by the sailors. He is pompous and self-important, and the sailors mock him behind his back. Ralph and Josephine decide to elope, but they are caught by the captain. The captain is outraged and threatens to have Ralph hanged. However, Sir Joseph Porter intervenes and reveals that he was once a humble office boy who rose to his current position through political connections. He tells the captain that love should be the only consideration in marriage, and the captain relents. The opera ends with Ralph and Josephine being allowed to marry, and Sir Joseph Porter marrying the captain's cousin, Hebe. The sailors celebrate their victory over the social hierarchy, and the opera concludes with a rousing chorus. H. M. S. Pinafore is known for its catchy tunes, witty lyrics, and satirical commentary on British society. The opera was a huge success and was performed over 570 times in its first year alone. It spawned numerous adaptations and parodies, and its influence can be seen in modern musical theater. The movements of the opera include a lively overture, several arias and duets, and a number of ensemble pieces. The music is characterized by its use of catchy melodies, intricate harmonies, and clever wordplay. The lyrics are full of puns, double entendres, and social commentary, and they are delivered with impeccable timing by the cast. Overall, H. M. S. Pinafore is a classic example of the comic opera genre, and it remains a beloved and influential work of musical theater to this day.

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