A body is found face down in a tank. Detective Inspector Iverson, investigating what seems like a routine case of suicide, becomes involved with the mesmerizing psychotherapist who was helping the dead woman find her true self. Gradually their roles are reversed as her probing uncovers the detective's own deeper motives and needs, until the knife-edge between suicide and murder is exposed.

In a small Japanese town, Ko-Ko is appointed to the unenviable position of executioner. Knowing he must successfully perform before the appearance of the Mikado in a month's time, Ko-Ko finds a suitable victim in Nanki-Poo, who is distraught over his unrequited love for the maiden Yum-Yum. Nanki-Poo agrees to sacrifice his life if he is allowed to spend his remaining days with Yum-Yum, who is betrothed to Ko-Ko. Performed by the D'Oyly Carte Opera Company during the 1992 Anniversary Tour at the Buxton Opera House.