Gilbert proposed a Venetian setting for the new light opera. Sullivan would have the chance to write bright, colorful music. Sullivan went to Venice to soak up the atmosphere. Once back in England, he received the lyrics to the new opera as Gilbert completed them. Sullivan however puttered at them. He was distracted with plans for the grand opera. He devoted the fall of 1889 however to "The Gondoliers". Sullivan labored at the light opera and completed it by December 2. The curtain went up on "The Gondoliers" on December 7 before a brilliant audience. The press raved.