It's a rather good piece indeed, although it might disappoint anyone hoping for an opera that sounded like "The Sting" - there's almost none of that at all.  I only know it from plonking through the vocal score at the piano, but I was impressed by the writing, and the excellent libretto (no hint of "Minstrel Show" whimsy whatsoever).  I'm surprised it has not attracted more interest, really?