The Pirates of Penzance: Musical Info & Synopsis


Synopsis:

The Pirates of Penzance follows the story of Frederic, a young man who mistakenly believes he is duty-bound to serve as a pirate until his 21st birthday. But having been born on February 29th, a leap year, Frederic discovers that he won’t reach his 21st birthday until he’s much older. As Frederic encounters a bevy of eccentric characters, including the Pirate King, the Major-General, and a group of lively maidens, the plot unfolds with humor, romance, and a touch of whimsy.


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Musical Information

Musical Type: Opera (1879)

Cast Size: 15+

Genre: Comedy

Setting: 1800s / England


Creative Team

Music: Arthur Sullivan

Lyrics: W.S. Gilbert


Awards

Drama Desk Award: Outstanding Musical (1981)


Cast Albums

The D’Oyly Carte Opera Company Cast (1968)➝

Broadway Cast (1981)➝

The D’Oyly Carte Opera Company Cast (1991)➝


Licensing

The Pirates of Penzance is available for licensing through Music Theatre International.

Europe Licensing Options

International Licensing Options


Resources

Sheet Music: Amazon➝


Tags

Classical, Comedic, Original, Pirates, Ships


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