Composer

:

Arthur Sullivan

Genre

:

Opera

Style

:

Operetta

Compose Date

:

1882

Publication Date

:

1883

Average_duration

:

95:48

Movement_count

:

33

Movement ....

Iolanthe 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 November 25, 1882. The plot revolves around a group of fairies who have been banished from the fairy kingdom for marrying mortals. The titular character, Iolanthe, is a fairy who has been banished for marrying a mortal. She returns to the fairy kingdom after being pardoned by the Fairy Queen. The opera is set in the House of Lords in London, where the fairies attempt to influence the political process. The Lord Chancellor, who is in love with Iolanthe, is conflicted between his love for her and his duty to the law. The fairies use their magical powers to help the Lord Chancellor, but their interference causes chaos in the House of Lords. The music of Iolanthe is characterized by Sullivan's use of light and playful melodies, as well as his skillful use of orchestration. The opera features a number of memorable songs, including "None Shall Part Us," "Oh, Foolish Fay," and "When I Went to the Bar." Iolanthe was a critical and commercial success upon its premiere, and it remains one of Sullivan and Gilbert's most popular works. The opera was revived numerous times throughout the 20th century, and it continues to be performed today. Its enduring popularity is due in part to its witty and satirical libretto, as well as Sullivan's charming and melodic score.

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