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Arthur Sullivan was a renowned English composer, best known for his collaboration with librettist W.S. Gilbert. However, "The Grand Duke" holds a unique place in their collaborative works. Here are some interesting facts about Arthur Sullivan and "The Grand Duke":

1. The Grand Duke (1896): "The Grand Duke" is the final Savoy Opera written by Gilbert and Sullivan. It premiered at the Savoy Theatre in London on March 7, 1896. While it wasn't as successful as some of their earlier works, it still has its own charm and uniqueness.

2. Plot Summary: The opera is set in the fictional German Grand Duchy of Pfennig-Halbpfennig and revolves around a theatrical troupe's efforts to overthrow the ruling Grand Duke. The plot involves mistaken identities, love affairs, and political satire.

3. Political Satire: "The Grand Duke" is notable for its political satire, poking fun at various aspects of German society and politics. This was a departure from their earlier works, which often focused on British themes and institutions.

4. Collaboration Issues: By the time "The Grand Duke" was in production, the collaboration between Gilbert and Sullivan was strained. They had creative differences, and Gilbert felt that the public's taste had changed, affecting the popularity of their operas.

5. Unique Musical Elements: Sullivan's score for "The Grand Duke" showcases his versatility as a composer. It includes lively and humorous numbers, as well as more complex and sophisticated musical passages.

6. Limited Success: The opera had a relatively short initial run compared to some of their earlier works, with 123 performances. It wasn't as well-received by audiences and critics, and it marked the end of the Gilbert and Sullivan partnership.

7. Posthumous Revivals: Despite its initial lack of success, "The Grand Duke" has been revived in various productions over the years. Some adaptations and revivals have brought attention to its unique qualities and the often overlooked brilliance of Sullivan's music.

8. Legacy: While "The Grand Duke" may not be as popular as some of the duo's earlier works like "The Mikado" or "The Pirates of Penzance," it remains an interesting piece for those studying the history of Gilbert and Sullivan's collaborations and the evolution of their artistic partnership.

Arthur Sullivan's contributions to the world of operetta and musical theater continue to be celebrated, and "The Grand Duke" is a fascinating chapter in the Gilbert and Sullivan repertoire.