Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Arthur Sullivan's operatic masterpieces with the album "Sullivan: Utopia Limited & King Arthur." This captivating collection showcases two of Sullivan's most notable works, offering a delightful blend of wit, satire, and musical brilliance.
"Utopia Limited," a lesser-known gem in the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire, is a political satire that unfolds on the idyllic island of Utopia. The story follows the King of Utopia as he attempts to modernize his society with the help of six Englishmen, leading to a series of hilarious and thought-provoking encounters. The album features the original orchestral arrangements by John Owen Edwards, bringing the score to life with rich, vibrant tones.
Complementing "Utopia Limited" is "King Arthur," a legendary tale of love, chivalry, and magic. This operatic journey takes you through a series of enchanting scenes, from the ethereal "Chorus of Lake Spirits" to the triumphant "Final Chorus." Sullivan's lush melodies and intricate harmonies create a sound world that is both evocative and deeply moving.
Performed by the talented cast of The Gondoliers, this semi-staged concert offers a unique and engaging listening experience. With a runtime of approximately 2 hours and 6 minutes, the album is a testament to Sullivan's enduring genius and the timeless appeal of his music.
Whether you're a seasoned opera enthusiast or a newcomer to the genre, "Sullivan: Utopia Limited & King Arthur" is a must-listen. This album is not just a collection of songs; it's a journey through the rich tapestry of Sullivan's musical legacy, filled with laughter, drama, and unforgettable melodies.
2022 Scottish Opera, under exclusive licence to Naxos Rights (Europe) Ltd.2022 Scottish Opera, under exclusive licence to Naxos Rights (Europe) Ltd.
Tracks
Utopia Limited: Overture (Arr. for Orchestra by John Owen Edwards)Arthur Sullivan, Derek Clark, Orchestra of Scottish Opera
Utopia Limited, Act I: In Lazy Languor Motionless (Phylla, Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Zoe Drummond, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act I: O Make Way for the Wise Men! (Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act I: Duet. Let All Your Doubts Take Wing (Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act I: Quaff the Nectar ... Bold Fac'd Ranger (Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark
Utopia Limited, Act I: Trio. First You're Born (King, Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act I: Duet. Subjected to Your Heavenly Gaze (King, Lady Sophy)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Yvonne Howard
Utopia Limited, Act I: O Maiden, Rich in Girton Lore (Zara, Captain Fitzbattleaxe, Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, William Morgan, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act I: Ah! Gallant Soldier, Brave and True (Zara, Captain Fitzbattleaxe, Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, William Morgan, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act I: Quartet. It's Understood, I Think, All Round (Zara, Captain Fitzbattleaxe, Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, William Morgan, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act I: Duet. O Admirable Art! (Zara, Captain Fitzbattleaxe)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, William Morgan
Utopia Limited, Act I: Finale. Altho' Your Royal Summons to Appear (Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act II: Recitative & Aria: O Zara, My Beloved One ... a Tenor, All Singers Above (Captain Fitzbattleaxe)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, William Morgan
Utopia Limited, Act II: Duet. Words of Love Too Loudly Spoken (Zara, Captain Fitzbattleaxe)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, William Morgan
Utopia Limited, Act II: Song. Society Has Quite Forsaken All Its Wicked Courses (King, Chorus of Flowers of Progress)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act II: Entrance of CourtArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark
Utopia Limited, Act II: Drawing Room MusicArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark
Utopia Limited, Act II: Recitative. This Ceremony Our Wish Displays ... Eagle High on Cloudland Soaring (King, Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act II: Duet. With Fury Deep We Burn (Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act II: Trio. If You Think That When Banded in Unity (King, Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act II: Trio. With Wily Brain, upon the Spot (Tarara, Scaphio, Phantis)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Phil Gault, Richard Suart, Arthur Bruce
Utopia Limited, Act II: Song. A Wonderful Joy Our Eyes to Bless (Mr. Goldbury)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Mark Nathan
Utopia Limited, Act II: Quartet. Then I May Sing and Play? (Nekaya, Kalyba, Lord Dramaleigh, Mr. Goldbury)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Catriona Hewitson, Sioned Gwen Davies, Glen Cunningham, Mark Nathan
Utopia Limited, Act II: Recitative & Song: Oh, Would Some Demon Power ... When but a Maid of Fifteen Year (Lady Sophy)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Yvonne Howard
Utopia Limited, Act II: Recitative. Ah, Lady Sophy ... Oh Rapture Unrestrained! (King, Lady Sophy)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Neal Davies, Yvonne Howard
Utopia Limited, Act II: TarantellaArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark
Utopia Limited, Act II: Upon Our Sea-Girt Land (Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
Utopia Limited, Act II: Finale. There's a Little Group of Isles Beyond the Wave (Zara, King, Chorus)Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Ellie Laugharne, Neal Davies
King Arthur: Chorus of Lake Spirits. Dawn and Daytime Turn to NightArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
King Arthur: Chorus of Unseen Spirits. Fairest Form of All the Earth!Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
King Arthur: The Chaunt of the Grail. Look Not to Thy SwordArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
King Arthur: The May Song. Ere upon Its Snowy BedArthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus
King Arthur: Funeral March & Final Chorus. Sleep! Oh, Sleep!Arthur Sullivan, Orchestra of Scottish Opera, Derek Clark, Scottish Opera Chorus