The Pirates of Penzance

The Pirates of Penzance  or The Slave of Duty is Gilbert & Sullivan’s swashbuckling musical comedy.   Goofy, irreverent, and as entertaining today as it was when it first opened in 1879 it follows the story of an orphan boy who was mistakenly apprenticed to a pirate instead of a (ship's) pilot. One of the most popular operettas ever written, "Pirates" is an hilarious farce featuring soft-hearted pirates, bumbling policemen, impressionable young ladies and an eccentric Major-General.  This production encompassed all that Gilbert and Sullivan set out to do.

This welcoming society uses its venue well to illustrate the talent of the society with banners and its friendliness created by numerous well-informed front of house staff. The style of the programme was refreshing and colourful - well designed, clear and easy to read.  It had everything a member of the audience could want in terms of information.

The sound produced by singers and orchestra together was first-class.  Attention to detail in terms of diction and dynamics were very evident and the conductor is to be congratulated on bringing out the musicality of the performers.

The production, whilst traditional, had some refreshing touches which delightfully added to the enjoyment of what is a splendid comic opera. The casting of the show showed a superb balance of experience combined with talent.  Every principal played their role to the hilt and totally drew every ounce of humour out of the libretto.  Musicality of a high standard was provided under the baton of an MD who like all the performers acquitted themselves in fine style.  The producer is to be congratulated on bringing together a great example of a swashbuckling, irreverent Pirates of Penzance – just as it should be.

Cast and crew are to be heartily congratulated on their contribution to a wonderful evening for a most receptive and appreciative audience. 

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