Utopia Limited or The Flowers of Progress by
Gilbert and Sullivan, is very rarely performed, probably due to the number of
costumes required for the large principle cast and the two styles of costume for
the chorus
The story unfolds when King Paramount of the south seas
island of Utopia decides that his people should adopt all English customs and
institutions, but he goes a bit overboard and decrees that the kingdom and each
of its inhabitants should become a "company limited" based on the
English "companies act" of 1862.
The king's daughter, Princess Zara, brings six
"flowers of progress" from England to train the Utopian people in
"English" customs. But the reforms are too successful, which upsets
the judges of the Utopian Supreme Court, the "Public Exploder" and
ultimately the entire populace, which revolts against them.
The contrast between the rather bohemian lifestyle of the
Utopians and the formal English style can be successfully achieved by setting
Utopia in the 70s. With the Utopians in bohemian 70s kaftans, groovy flares and
flowing maxi dresses in the first scene, adding the constraints of bowler hats,
jackets, gloves and umbrellas in the second, makes a comical and fitting
addition to the story.
Kettering Amateur Operatic Society recently staged a
fantastic production of this rather rare play and we were delighted to provide
a range of authentic 70s wear for the entire cast. The 70s style costumes
created a truly colourful and dramatic effect particularly with the main
characters, King Paramount, Princess Zara and Tarara.
For more information on our authentic 70s wear for
productions set in the period, call 01908 372504 or visit www.admiralcostumes.co.uk
Pictures courtesy of KAOS
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