Friends to present The Mikado Feb. 2-3

The spring opera, The Mikado, will take place Friday, Feb. 2, at 7:30 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 3, at 2 p.m. at Friends University in Sebits Auditorium, Riney Fine Arts Center.

The Mikado, one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s greatest hits, lampoons the stuffiness and legalism of Victorian England with a witty and beautiful score.

“Originally set in the mythical Japanese town of Titipu, we have chosen to set our production in England in order to highlight the operetta’s constant references to the absurdity of late 19th century British culture,” said Matthew Schloneger, assistant professor of voice. “With a wonderful cast of young singing actors, full orchestra, sets, costumes and choreography from Friends’ renowned dance department, the production promises to be an entertaining one!”

Tickets are $11 for adults, and $8 for seniors and students. They may be purchased online at friends.edu/finearts, or by calling the Fine Arts Box Office at 316-295-5677.

High school students are invited to attend a matinee of the opera Thursday, Feb. 1, at noon. Friends University is offering a special discount rate of $2 per student to attend the production. To reserve your space, please call 316-295-5548 and let Robyn Mabe know how many students will be attending. Cash or checks can be written out and sent or dropped off at the Fine Arts Office, Room A2, before Feb. 1 or the day of the matinee. Checks can be made out to “Friends University Fine Arts Office.”

For more information on this event or other Fine Arts events, please contact the Fine Arts Box Office or finearts@friends.edu.

Friends University, a Christian University of Quaker heritage, equips students to honor God and serve others by integrating their intellectual, spiritual and professional lives.