A Most Ingenious Paradox: The Art of Gilbert and Sullivan
New York Times editor Wren credits the lasting vitality of the  works of Gilbert and Sullivan to their universal themes and the  humanity of their characters. Those who would credit the  brilliant pairing of witty language and superb music will  dispute this, but Wren substantiates his claims with detailed  arguments that prompt a new look at these familiar works.  Although many books are available on the lives of Gilbert and  Sullivan, the operas, and their place in Victorian life, there  are a number of reasons to purchase this one. Wren's lengthy and  intimate acquaintance with the works as performer, director, and  teacher allows him to write with affection in an uncluttered  style that will please both the general reader and the scholar.  Beginning chapters cover each man's work prior to their  collaboration, with subsequent chapters devoted to each Gilbert  and Sullivan opera in chronological order and the final sections  treating their later, separate work and their legacy. Plot  summaries are given in an appendix, and a useful bibliography  discusses the relative merits of each work. Finally, Wren  illustrates Gilbert and Sullivan's complex and often adversarial  relationship and its integral role in the success (or failure)  of each opera. Highly recommended for academic and public  libraries. Kate McCaffrey, Onondaga Cty. P.L., Syracuse, NYCopyright 2002 Reed Business Information, Inc.--This text refers to an out of print or unavailable edition of this title.