The Pirates of Penzance

The Pirates of Penzance was the fifth Gilbert and Sullivan collaboration and the only one to receive a New York premiere. It has become a favourite of performers and audiences as it features some of Gilbert’s most loveable characters and Sullivan’s most famous and singable melodies. Packed full of sentimental pirates, blundering policeman, absurd adventures and improbable paradoxes, it is a glorious send-up of the conventions of grand opera.

The story concerns, Frederic, an accidental pirate’s apprentice, who falls head-over-heels in love with Mabel, the daughter of Major-General Stanley. Frederic is due to be released from his apprenticeship on his 21st birthday, but there’s a snag. Born on 29th February, Frederic discovers that he is technically still a youngster. Although very much in love, his dedication to duty is unshakeable. Can he find a way to live happily-ever-after with Mabel?