Pirates of Penzance

Gilbert and Sullivan may be rolling over in their graves over this updated version of their beloved operetta...but if they are, it's undoubtedly with hysterical laughter. Brilliantly conceived to play on the deck of the tall ship Peking, docked at Pier 16 at South Street Seaport, this rendering takes a leaf from British pantomime, with women playing some of the pirate roles, and men playing a few of the Major General's daughters. The action takes place entirely on the main deck, and the audience can race around after the actors (clearing the way when one comes barreling through), or watch from the sidelines or seats on the upper deck. Kids, in particular, take to this kind of theatrical experience, since fidgety feet aren't anchored in one place. Director/book adapter Michael Scheman takes serious liberties with the libretto, to the delight of the audience. Martin Van Treuren, who plays both the Major General and Frederick's nursemaid, Ruth, delivers a performance that would have the most taciturn theatre-goer giggling like a kid. Jonathan Brody, as the Pirate King, Colin Hanlon, as Frederic, Montego Glover, as Mabel, and Kevin Covert, as the Police Sergeant, all bring considerable talent, enthusiasm, and humor to their roles. And speaking of kids, you'll want to determine if yours are at a level of sophistication where they can handle a bit of sexual innuendo (okay, maybe more than a bit). The book now includes references, some oblique, some obvious, to sex, drugs, and certain current presidential figures who may not have behaved with complete decorum. We brought an eight year old and a twelve year old, and most of the eyebrow raisers sailed right over the younger one's head, while the older one smugly registered every word. But they, and the adults in their company, had a wonderful time, and would gladly go again! Tickets available through TeleCharge.