THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE

Composed by Arthur Sullivan • Libretto by W. S. Gilbert
A wonderfully witty satire
Performed In English

OPENS DECEMBER 1, 2012! ► A tropical coastline. Frederic has turned 21 and has reached the end of his apprenticeship to a band of hopelessly inept pirates. But wait: he was born on February 29 in Leap Year, so in fact he’s only five! Bound by his principles, he must remain indentured and forfeit both his new-found love for Mabel and his plan to lead a squeamish squad of police against the pirates. It all works out, though. Frederic is freed and the pirates are revealed as noblemen and therefore suitable husbands for Mabel’s sisters.
 

The Pirates of Penzance is a wonderfully witty satire of cherished institutions and attitudes. Bumbling police, a pompous military and slavish devotion to duty are all skewered with rapier wit by Gilbert and Sullivan. VO brings together two legendary performers – Christopher Gaze and Judith Forst - in this uproarious, absurd, and hugely pleasing comic opera.

► Read the full synopsis.

ON STAGE FOR 6 PERFORMANCES ONLY

All performances at the Queen Elizabeth Theatre

CAST & CREATIVE TEAM