The Grey Kimona : An Operetta
F. Wynne Jones
(composer),
Sydney
:
William Brooks
,
1902
Z859614
1902
single work
musical theatre
opera
Described as a 'Japanese opera' The Grey Kimona was first staged by juveniles under the direction of Meynell and Gunn as the first part entertainment at Adelaide's Theatre Royal (the second part being a selection of short moving pictures). The storyline involves the Damio of Kissi-Kissie who decrees that until his daughter, Kissie-mie) is married no one in his kingdom shall be allowed to kiss – the punishment being execution. The machinations of the plot then revolve around a group of American tourists 'who have come to exploit the music halls of the country' (Advertiser 30 September 1907, p.9).
The introduction of the American variety entertainers provided ample opportunity with the storyline for the introduction of songs, dances and comedy routines. Songs from the operetta include: 'I Know a Little Push Around the Corner,' 'Japloo Baby',' 'When the Fish Don't Bite,' and 'A Little Boy and an Apple Green.'
