Pirates Of Penzance; Or The Slave Of Duty

Operetta isn't something that is much seen these days, but back in the 19th century, it was all the rage. Arthur Sullivan's music and libretto by W.S. Gilbert brought much dazzle to the, first, the London stage, then very early New York circuit, in a world before musicals ruled the Great White Way. Even before coming to America, Gilbert and Sullivan were already famous in the States.

"The Pirates Of Penzance; Or The Slave Of Duty" marked the fifth collaboration of the pair and, as the subject of piracy and pirates was so popular at the time, did remarkably well in the States. Founder and director Josh Short of The Wilbury Theatre Group treats us to a "wildly adapted" version of the comic opera with a bit of a twist, actually, a few of them. Performed in Wilburys' large new space, the audience is able to sit in the middle of the action, or, if they wish, remain stationary on the sidelines. This reviewer chose to view from the best angles possible, and during the performance was able to move in order to get a better view.

If it sounds rather archaic, it truly isn't. The group of actors is willing to interact with the audience no matter where they're sitting, and this makes for a fun experience. Meg Donnelly's costumes are a mix of uniforms (police/ pirates) and street clothing, although very colorful to be sure. The sets are a mixture of brightly painted platforms decorated with nautical touches like netting, inflatable palm trees, and beach balls. As previously mentioned, the action can be viewed at close range, and as our actors dance and sing their way through "Pirates" you cannot help but want to participate.

The cast is a mixed bag of performances, although most of them are quite strong, not all are vocal. Shannon Hartman (Ruth/Mabel) has the strongest and most versatile singing voice of the cast; she switches from the elder and ugly Ruth to the sweet Mabel's crooning with relative ease. Jennifer Mischley (Samuel/Major General) didn't miss a beat with oft-used "Major General's Song," and turns in a very fun performance. Brian Kozak's Frederik is the most fun, and although not the best singer, his earnest and giddy portrayal are great to watch. All of the daughters Maggie Papa, Sarah Leach, Sherry Romanzi and Emma Sachetti are absolutely delightful.

The rest of the cast are all musicians as well and serve as our band of pirates and include some familiar local faces as Jason Quinn and Aaron Blanck. The story unfolds in an (almost) uninterrupted performance, there's a very brief intermission but all the glory of Gilbert and Sullivan's musical genius is on display, albeit with guitars, horns, and very little percussion. It rather suits the staging, which is quite fluid, and the choreography by Ali Kenner Brodsky lends itself to such a display. Never missing a beat, the ensemble treads along and it's quite fascinating to watch.

This imaginative production of "Pirates" is refreshing, to say the least. It is something that has not been seen locally for some time and begs repeat viewing with friends or family. Come and get your tickets and play with the slaves of duty at Wilbury.

"Pirates Of Penzance; Or The Slave Of Duty" is running through June 3rd at The Wilbury Theatre Group, 40 Sonoma Court, Providence, RI. 02909. For information or tickets call 401-400-7100 or visit [email protected].