Gilbert & Sullivan Archive

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G & S Festival

The Pirates Of Penzance
Book by: Sir William Schwenck Gilbert
Lyrics by: Sir William Schwenck Gilbert
Music by: Sir Arthur Seymour Sullivan
Musical adaptation by William Elliott;

A fresh take on one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular comic operas, this updated version of “The Pirates of Penzance” took New York by storm when it premiered in Central Park in 1980, leading to a subsequent smash-hit Broadway run.

Wacky, irreverent and as entertaining today as it was when it first opened in 1879, “The Pirates Of Penzance” spins an hilarious farce of sentimental pirates, bumbling policemen, dim-witted young lovers, dewy-eyed daughters and an eccentric Major-General, all morally bound to the often-ridiculous dictates of honor and duty.

The beauty, wit and whimsy of Gilbert and Sullivan’s classic score is suffused with a modern sensibility, making this “Pirates” an excellent choice for opera and light opera companies looking to expand their audience base. The sheer number of memorable roles makes it perfect for community and school groups. And with production requirements consisting of only two sets and a medium-sized orchestra, it should be considered by any company featuring comic actors with excellent singing voices.

Opened January 8, 1981 Ran for 817 performances.

Monterey Peninsula Community Theatre Company Charitable Trust
PO BOX 761 ∙ Monterey, CA 93942
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11/12/2007 14:15:00