H.M.S. Pinafore

This lighthearted comic opera by Gilbert and Sullivan has enjoyed great audience appeal since it opened in 1878. This version, with its subtle cuts in the libretto and tasteful song selection, features more simplified harmony for the chorus and in some cases easier keys for teen singers. At a trim 90 minutes, it's a perfect length for today's audiences. The story is as familiar as ever: Old Admiral Sir Joseph Porter plans to marry the much younger Josephine with the consent of her father, Captain Corcoran. But Josephine is in love with Ralph, a common seaman, and they plan to elope with the help of the crew. Dick Deadeye overhears their plan and tells the Admiral. Little Buttercup, an overweight comic woman, professes her love for the Captain and tells him she knows a big secret. The secret is that Ralph and the Captain were switched as babies, so that Ralph is a highborn person while the Captain is lowly. Sir Joseph cannot marry the daughter of a low person so he gives Josephine to Ralph and makes him the new captain. To complete the happy ending, the Captain will probably marry Buttercup. Other female parts include Cousin Hebe and additional female relatives of Sir Joseph. Some 16 songs including the favorites "We Sail the Ocean Blue," "Little Buttercup," "I Am the Captain of the Pinafore," you'll be humming long after the performance.