Mikado – Principal characters

There are five male principal parts.

Nanki-Poo - (Tenor) The son of The Mikado, he has fled his father’s court to escape the determined advances of Katisha, a lady of mature years who has decided that he is the one chance that she has left. He has made his escape, and disguised now as a ‘wandering minstrel’, he is searching for the beautiful Yum-Yum, who he has seen just once at a band concert, and with whom he has fallen head over heels in love. A strong young man determined not to be forced into something against his will.

Pish-Tush - (Bass-Baritone) Described by Gilbert as ‘a Noble Lord, this character is the one who shows sense and to that end is perceived to be trying to keep matters under control He has a strong solo which describes the situation regarding the post of Lord High Executioner, thus putting the audience in ‘the picture’.

Pooh-Bah – (Bass-Baritone) This character makes self- promotion into an art form, and is only comfortable when he is in control. He tells us that he “was born sneering”, regarding everyone to be below him in every respect. He is an absolute chauvinist, and women un-nerve him completely. He really is a very pompous and odious character, but will show a trace of humanity that will eventually win through!

Ko-Ko – (Baritone) Described as ‘a cheap tailor’, this poor chap, though having committed no crime other than having a flirtatious eye, has found himself promoted to the exalted rank of Lord High Executioner. He can cope with this, and quite enjoys being the centre of attention until he is actually compelled to ‘do the deed’. Panic sets in, and hereby provides an actor with a wonderful range of emotions to display. An excellent character part with a strong comic element.

Mikado – (Baritone) An absolute autocrat in every sense - his word is law and must be obeyed. Irritated beyond all by Katisha, who has become a constant thorn in his side, and an absolute pain in the neck? Although he does not appear until act 2, he has some very strong dialogue and one of the best solo items in the show. Good presence is required from this character, who must appear to be dominant when on stage.

There are four Principal Ladies – Yum-Yum, Pitti-Sing and Peep-Bo - all wards of Ko-Ko – The Lord High Executioner. Katisha - a mature lady

Yum-Yum – (Soprano) A little bit naïve, she has a limited knowledge of the world away from Ko-Ko and her two companions. She believes that she is ‘the most beautiful girl in the world’ because she has nothing to judge this by, and no-one has ever told her otherwise. Thrilled and flattered when Nanki-Poo comes looking for her, her interest in him falters when she discovers that he has agreed to be executed if Ko-Ko will allow him to marry her for a month. She also learns that as the wife of an executed man, she will be buried alive. This definitely cools her ardour!!

Pitti-Sing – (Mezzo) She is the best friend of Yum-Yum - a live wire who easily supplies the sense that Yum-Yum lacks. She is the one who organises everyone, and she is not afraid to speak out, especially to Katisha. This is fine until she gets involved in covering up Nanki-Poo’s supposed execution. Then we see that she can panic with the best.

Peep-Bo – (Mezzo) The third part of the trio, this character is the one who will tell things as they are. She does not spare fools gladly at all, and although not a large principal part it supplies a wonderful opportunity for a young character actress to make herself noticed.

Katisha – (Alto) Often portrayed as large and not very good looking, we will be kinder to our Katisha and settle for making her a “lady of more mature years”. Perhaps a touch of ‘mutton dressed as lamb’, behind the domineering woman out for revenge at being ignored by Nanki-Poo, we see a vulnerable and lonely lady. There is great comedy here too in her encounters with Ko-Ko. This part is demanding, and requires great skill in portraying all the emotions that are needed, especially when she finally realises that she has missed her last chance.