Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1884

Publication Date

:

1884

Average_duration

:

87:30

"Princess Ida" is an operetta composed by Arthur Sullivan with a libretto by W.S. Gilbert. It was first performed at the Savoy Theatre in London on January 5, 1884. The plot is based on Tennyson's poem "The Princess" and follows the story of Princess Ida, who has founded a women's university and refuses to marry Prince Hilarion, who has come to claim her hand in marriage. The opera is divided into three acts and features a number of memorable musical numbers, including "Oh, Goddess Wise," "Whene'er I Spoke," and "Now Wouldn't You Like to Rule the Roost?" The music is characterized by Sullivan's signature blend of catchy melodies and intricate harmonies, and the libretto is full of Gilbert's trademark wit and wordplay. The first act introduces the characters and sets up the conflict between Princess Ida and Prince Hilarion. The second act takes place at the women's university, where the male characters disguise themselves as women in order to gain access. The third act features a battle between the men and women, which is ultimately resolved when Princess Ida agrees to marry Prince Hilarion. "Princess Ida" was not as successful as some of Sullivan and Gilbert's other works, but it has since become a beloved classic of the operetta genre. Its themes of gender roles and education for women were ahead of their time, and the music and lyrics continue to delight audiences over a century later.

More....