Catch Hale's Zany 'Pirates'
Gilbert and Sullivan's comic opera The Pirates of Penzance; or, The Slave of Duty premiered in New York in 1879 and has been popular with audiences ever since. The show's intricate counterpoint melodies, witty lyrics, plot twists and comic characters continue to entertain, especially when strong singers are cast in the leads, as they are in the current production at Hale Centre Theatre.
Besides excellent vocals from a talented cast directed by HCT's Jennifer Hohl, Hale's Pirates features beautiful Victorian costumes and two whimsical sets, one for each act. The show includes more dancing than most Pirates productions, plus energetic, broad comic performances that had the audience laughing out loud the night I attended.
The pacing of the show is fast, perhaps a little too fast for the audience's understanding of the plot and appreciation of Gilbert and Sullivan's witty lyrics. If you aren't familiar with the show, I would highly recommend reading a plot synopsis and viewing video clips beforehand, so you can follow the story and know what to expect.
Hale Centre Theatre's Pirates of Penzance is in the second half of its six-week run and continues nightly except Sundays through Sept. 25. Tickets are $22-$26 for adults, $15-$16 for children. The show is popular, so buy tickets in advance online or by calling 801-984-9000.
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