The Pirates of Penzance
18 Apr 2024-20 Apr 2024
The Pirates of Penzance has consistently been in the top three most popular Gilbert & Sullivan operas and has been regularly staged by professional and amateur companies ever since it was first performed in December 1879. The abundance of delightful music in the score includes the frequently performed and often parodied song “I am the very model of a Modern Major General” as well as witty and characterful numbers for the pirates and the policemen.
The action opens on a rocky seashore in Cornwall where the pirates are celebrating the 21 st birthday of their youngest apprentice. Once the other pirates have gone, a group of young ladies arrives to picnic and paddle in the sea. Romance blossoms for the apprentice pirate and one of the daughters of the Major General but the pirates are on their way back to the beach …!
Later, we meet the rather timid policemen who are tasked with capturing the pirate band and we find out why being born in a leap year can be a real barrier to young love. As always, in the topsy-turvy world of G&S, the outcome depends on an unexpected plot twist and all of it is wrapped up in glorious music.
Come and watch the pirates and police battle it out this hugely popular show which will delight young and old alike.
As with all of our performances, this will be presented in our own enhanced concert style. We like it this way because we can concentrate just that bit harder on the music.
Relaxed Performance
Sat 20 Apr 2024, 2:30pm is is a child-friendly relaxed afternoon performance with support from The Earley Charity', with the lights on and activities available outside of the theatre. Up to two children can go free with a paying adult. Please email or call the box office to book.
