Yeomen: Director's Vision
When asked for her "vision" for the 2000/2001 Yeomen, Aimee said:
The Yeomen of the Guard is unique among the 14 Gilbert & Sullivan
operettas for its tragic theme and absence of satire. Despite the
presence of standard G & S fixtures, both musically and dramatically
Yeomen, which from its premiere in 1888 was never billed as a comedy, is
more akin to a serious opera than a light-hearted musical play. My
interpretation is conservative in maintaining the original time and
place settings, but breaks somewhat with tradition in its treatment of
the show as opera instead of typical G & S patter. The set will be
imposing; the costumes detailed; the atmosphere cold, dark, and ominous;
and the music truly operatic. The experience will not be one of a
comedy-melodrama with some "slow bits", but of a deep and moving
tragedy. To celebrate MUGSS' 50th year, I hope to provide audiences
with a feast of striking scenery, compelling acting, glorious music, but
definitely no cheese and no ham.
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