Derby Day (light opera)
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Not to be confused with Derby Day (1952 film).
Derby Day is a 1932 three-act light opera, with music composed by Alfred Reynolds to a libretto by A. P. Herbert. Herbert wrote his text between March and May 1931, whilst on a trip to Australia, during the first run of his successful Tantivy Towers.[1]
Quick Facts Derby Day, Librettist ...
Derby Day | |
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Light opera by Alfred Reynolds | |
Librettist | A. P. Herbert |
Language | English |
Premiere |
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One contemporary review described the work as "mainly a Cockney opera", and praised the work as "topical in the best sense" and said of the music:[1]
I do not know if Mr. Reynolds is himself a Cockney, but I do know that his Cockney music, particularly in the coster scenes, is the best that has ever been written.[1]
In particular, the song for the tipster, "'Oo wants a winner for the big race tomorrer?", has been singled out for particular praise as a musical expression of the Cockney.[2]