The quintessence of Gilbertianism, directorial revitalization of Gilbert and Sullivan operas, and 'Thespis'. (Volumes I-III)

Originally highly successful pieces of brilliant and uniquely creative theatrical/musical fun, productions of the Gilbert and Sullivan operas in subsequent eras have sometimes degenerated into tedium. This study develops practical and conceptual principles, techniques, and perspectives useful in achieving effectiveness in directing modern G&S productions.; The study is based on wide ranging production experience in all fourteen G&S operas with the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company, Light Opera of Manhattan, San Francisco Lamplighters, and an original production of Thespis designed for this study. Practical production methods are correlated, and techniques are developed for countering disintegration in long-running productions, applicable also to Broadway and West End shows.; Production derived considerations are critically assessed from applicable aesthetic and psychological theory. To aid working artists in visualizing the artistic response, a scientifically based model is developed of the neurological nature of aesthetic and comic pleasure. The natures of 'impression' and 'artistic essence' are examined.; The highly useful place of the G&S tradition as a rich resource is advocated. However, creativity and inspiration, the excitement and life of art, are also needed for stimulating theatre. To facilitate appropriateness of creativity, techniques are developed of creative coherency. Among these are 'integral interrelation,' 'artistic equivalency,' and 'inter-genre paralleling.' To aid directors in applying creativity appropriately to context and style, Gilbertianism is examined from several perspectives.; The 'quintessence of Gilbertianism' reflects ironic and satiric whimsey in gravely indulged absurdity, incongruity, and artifice found in human nature, human institutions, and human society. Gilbertianism amiably presents these human idiosyncracies through subtle exaggeration, pseudo-logic, immediate oddity of circumstance, and inversion, punctuated with touches of overt comedy. Stage Gilbertianism incorporates perfection of execution and subtle stylistic exaggeration. The art of Gilbertianism can be seen as a structuring of delights in the form of pseudo-operatic 'high' farce (i.e. sophisticated and subtle farce). A stylistic essence of Gilbertianism for performance is the 'ludicrously Apollonian.'; Stylistic adjustments useful in producing Thespis as a Savoy opera are recommended. Overall, key production recommendations include enthusiasm, awareness, vitality, careful polish, respectful affection, and, most important, coherent ingenuity, and humor.