A bold new production of The Pirates of Penzance sails into the Artscape Theatre next month.
Pirates, policemen, romance and comic chaos come to the Cape this winter as G&S presents the vibrant adaptation of Gilbert and Sullivan’s much-loved comic opera, The Pirates of Penzance, from Saturday 4 to Sunday 12 July.
Performed in English, filled with humour and shorter than many traditional operas, the production offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to opera for families, younger audience members and first-time opera-goers – while still delivering all the wit, wordplay and musical sparkle that Gilbert and Sullivan audiences know and love.
Directed by Darryl J Spijkers from Somerset West, with musical direction by Alastair Cockburn, the bold new staging brings renewed theatrical energy to one of the most enduring works in comic opera, while remaining firmly rooted in its Victorian-era setting and charm.
The production features a cast of more than 60 performers, dancers and live accompaniment from the orchestra pit by the newly formed Cape Town Sinfonietta, a 26-piece orchestra.
At a time when large live orchestras are increasingly rare in musical theatre and comic opera productions, audiences will have the opportunity to experience Sullivan’s sparkling score performed in full.
First performed in 1879, The Pirates of Penzance remains one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular and entertaining works.
Filled with razor-sharp humour, fast-paced storytelling, swashbuckling adventure and memorable melodies, the production includes favourites such as “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General”, alongside romantic duets, comic ensembles and energetic finales.
With its colourful characters, lively staging, dancers, full orchestra and large cast, the production promises laughter, spectacle and musical brilliance in equal measure.
- It will run for eight performances, including three afternoon matinees.
- Ticket prices range from R225 to R350 and are available online through Webtickets or via Artscape Dial-a-Seat on 021 421 7695.
