Undoubtedly the favorite operetta of Gilbert & Sullivan affectionados around the world. Bright, catchy tunes and lavish costumes and sets. A silly story line but (in most cases) one goes to the theater to be entertained even if the plot revolves around an executioner who is next in line to be executed and therefore must cut off his own head. (He has been condemned to death for flirting--and flirting is a capital offense.)
I highly recommend seeing the movie "Topsy-Turvy". A major part of the story line is the creation of this wonderful work. Plus there are scenes and songs from other operettas in the G&S repertoire which are not as well known as "The Mikado".