description The Mountebanks Overview
The Mountebanks is a two-act comic opera that premiered at London's Lyric Theatre in 1892, with a libretto by W. S. Gilbert and music by Alfred Cellier completed by Ivan Caryll after Cellier's death. The plot revolves around a potion that turns theatrical disguises into reality, forcing a troupe of frauds into their assumed identities.
It belongs to the late-Victorian English comic opera tradition and was one of Gilbert's later stage works.
help The Mountebanks FAQ
Who wrote the music and libretto for The Mountebanks?
The libretto was written by W. S. Gilbert, while the music was begun by Alfred Cellier. After Cellier died, Ivan Caryll completed the score.
When and where did The Mountebanks premiere?
The Mountebanks premiered at London's Lyric Theatre in 1892. It is structured as a two-act comic opera.
What is the plot of The Mountebanks?
The story centers on a potion that turns theatrical disguises into reality. This device creates comic confusion as performers and characters become trapped in the identities they are pretending to play.
Is The Mountebanks part of the Gilbert and Sullivan canon?
No. W. S. Gilbert wrote the libretto, but the music was not by Arthur Sullivan. The score was associated first with Alfred Cellier and then with Ivan Caryll.
explore Explore More
Reviews & Comments
Write a Review
Be the first to review
Share your thoughts with the community and help others make better decisions.
