The Pirates of Penzance Revival 1955 - Articles Page 1.8

Ages: 8+
Opened: October 6, 1955

The Pirates of Penzance - 1955 - Broadway History , Info & More

Shubert Theatre (Broadway)
225 West 44th St. New York, NY

No Gilbert and Sullivan comic opera boasts as many walk-away tunes as The Pirates of Penzance, the only collaboration of the pair to premiere on Broadway, and not in England. Building on the success of the previous year’s H.M.S. Pinafore, but trading—as their principal “serious” focus—the rigors of naval discipline for the obligations of duty, G&S manage to burlesque their normal share of popular institutions, including the army, the police, and operatic sopranos. Pirate apprentice Frederic, at age 21, has faithfully served out his indentures and, replete with a sense of duty, joins the police force, determined to exterminate his old mates. He falls in love with Mabel, the first girl he sees, but the daughter of Major-General Stanley, who himself is the target of a pirate revenge plot. Plans go awry when it is revealed that, thanks to a leap-day birth, Frederic is really only five and one-quarter years old. The engaging musical score includes some of the catchiest music in the G&S canon: Mabel’s pyrotechnic “Poor, wandering one;” the tongue-twisting patter song “I am the very model of a modern major-general;” “A policeman’s lot;” “Climbing over rocky mountain”—a survivor from Thespis, G&S’s lost first stage work; and “With catlike tread,” which, more than a quarter-century later, was given new words as “Hail, hail, the gang’s all here.” At The Egyptian Theatre.

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Goodspeed's Red Sox Edition of DAMN YANKEES Opens Tonight
by BWW News Desk - Apr 30, 2014


Goodspeed Musicals kicks off its 2014 season at the Goodspeed Opera House with the home run hit Damn Yankees. Goodspeed brings a unique New England flavor to its production, setting it in 1955 Boston and pitting the storied Yanks against the beloved Boston Red Sox. This ace musical comedy runs now through June 21 at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, Conn.

David Beach, James Judy, Lora Lee Gayer & More to Star in Goodspeed's Red Sox Edition of DAMN YANKEES; Cast Confirmed
by Tyler Peterson - Mar 5, 2014


Goodspeed Musicals kicks off its 2014 season at the Goodspeed Opera House with the home run hit Damn Yankees. Goodspeed brings a unique New England flavor to its production, setting it in 1955 Boston and pitting the storied Yanks against the beloved Boston Red Sox. This ace musical comedy will run from April 11 - June 21 at the Goodspeed Opera House in East Haddam, Conn. Damn Yankees will be sponsored by Dr. and Mrs. David F. Frankel and Bank of America.

Michael Praed Stars in THE WHITE CARNATION at Jermyn Street Theatre, Beg. Tonight
by BWW News Desk - Feb 4, 2014


Following a critically acclaimed and sell-out run at the Finborough Theatre, the first production in sixty years of R. C. Sherriff's supernatural drama, The White Carnation transfers for a limited three week run to Jermyn Street Theatre, opening tonight, 4 February 2014 (Press Night: Thursday, 6 February 2014 at 7.30pm). The show stars Michael Praed (Design for Living - West End, Robin of Sherwood, Dynasty) who joins the existing superlative Finborough Theatre cast, which includes acclaimed newcomer Daisy Boulton and Benjamin Whitrow (Mr. Bennet in BBC's Pride and Prejudice).

Michael Praed to Star in THE WHITE CARNATION at Jermyn Street Theatre from Feb 4
by BWW News Desk - Jan 7, 2014


Following a critically acclaimed and sell-out run at the Finborough Theatre, the first production in sixty years of R. C. Sherriff's supernatural drama, The White Carnation transfers for a limited three week run to Jermyn Street Theatre, opening on Tuesday, 4 February 2014 (Press Night: Thursday, 6 February 2014 at 7.30pm). The show stars Michael Praed (Design for Living - West End, Robin of Sherwood, Dynasty) who joins the existing superlative Finborough Theatre cast, which includes acclaimed newcomer Daisy Boulton and Benjamin Whitrow (Mr. Bennet in BBC's Pride and Prejudice).

Vancouver Opera Lights Up Dark Winter Days With ALBERT HERRING, Now thru 12/5
by BWW News Desk - Nov 30, 2013


The busybodies of proper English village life are brilliantly skewered in Benjamin Britten's devastatingly satirical Albert Herring, onstage at Vancouver Opera for four performances only. Fast-paced, effervescent and musically clever, this sparkling 1950s-style company premiere is a scrumptious treat for Vancouver audiences.

Vancouver Opera Lights Up Dark Winter Days With ALBERT HERRING, 11/30 - 12/5
by Rosie Hertzman - Nov 6, 2013


The busybodies of proper English village life are brilliantly skewered in Benjamin Britten's devastatingly satirical Albert Herring, onstage at Vancouver Opera for four performances only. Fast-paced, effervescent and musically clever, this sparkling 1950s-style company premiere is a scrumptious treat for Vancouver audiences.

Tom Skerritt Completes A TIME TO KILL Broadway Cast
by BWW News Desk - Aug 14, 2013


Producers Daryl Roth and Eva Price announced today that Emmy Award-winning actor Tom Skerritt will make his Broadway debut in A Time to Kill, Tony Award-winning playwright Rupert Holmes' stage adaptation of John Grisham's best-selling novel. Skerritt will portray Lucien Wilbanks, the mentor to protagonist Jake Brigance (played by Sebastian Arcelus), in this thrilling, iconic courtroom drama. Skerritt joins the previously announced Sebastian Arcelus, Chike Johnson, Patrick Page, Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins, Fred Dalton Thompson, John Douglas Thompson, and Ashley Williams plus Dashiell Eaves, J.R. Horne, John Procaccino, Tijuana Ricks, and Lee Sellars. Casting is now complete.

Patrick Page, Tonya Pinkins, Chike Johnson, Ashley Williams & More Join A TIME TO KILL on Broadway
by Nicole Rosky - Jul 26, 2013


Producers Daryl Roth and Eva Price announced today that Patrick Page, Tony Award winner Tonya Pinkins, Chike Johnson, and Ashley Williams plus Dashiell Eaves, J.R. Horne, John Procaccino, Tijuana Ricks, and Lee Sellarswill join the previously announced Sebastian Arcelus, Fred Dalton Thompson, and John Douglas Thompson in the new Broadway courtroom drama A Time to Kill, Tony Award-winning playwright Rupert Holmes' stage adaptation of John Grisham's best-selling novel. This new Broadway play holds the distinction of being the first-ever John Grisham property to be adapted for the stage. A Time to Kill is set to open on Broadway on October 20, 2013 at the John Golden Theatre (252 West 45th Street). Previews begin September 28th. Ethan McSweeny will direct. Final casting will be announced shortly. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on July 26th at Telecharge.com (212-239-6200) or by visiting www.ATimeToKillOnBroadway.com.

Sebastian Arcelus, Fred Dalton Thompson, John Douglas Thompson Join A TIME TO KILL on Broadway
by Nicole Rosky - Jul 19, 2013


Producers Daryl Roth and Eva Price announced today that Sebastian Arcelus, Fred Dalton Thompson (in his Broadway debut), and John Douglas Thompson will star in the new Broadway courtroom drama A Time to Kill, Tony Award-winning playwright Rupert Holmes' stage adaptation of John Grisham's best-selling novel. This new Broadway play holds the distinction of being the first-ever John Grisham property to be adapted for the stage. A Time to Kill is set to open on Broadway on October 20, 2013 at the John Golden Theatre (252 West 45th Street). Previews begin September 28th. Ethan McSweeny will direct. The remainder of the high-powered ensemble cast of 13 will be announced shortly. For more information, visit www.ATimeToKillOnBroadway.com.

Point Park's Conservatory Theatre Co. Announces 2013-14 Season: OKLAHOMA!, BLOODY BLOODY ANDREW JACKSON & More!
by Tyler Peterson - Jun 18, 2013


Point Park University's Conservatory Theatre Company will produce five works, including a special, student-devised production, a rock musical and a famous Irish play, in the 2013-2014 season. The season begins Oct. 18 and runs through April 19, 2014.

Berkeley Playhouse Presents GUYS & DOLLS, Now thru 4/28
by BWW News Desk - Mar 21, 2013


Berkeley Playhouse continues its fifth season with the Tony Award-winning GUYS AND DOLLS. Jon Tracy (Berkeley Playhouse, Aurora Theatre Company, Shotgun Players, San Francisco Playhouse, Magic Theatre) helms this musical from the Golden Age of Broadway, featuring a cast of 22, and choreography by Chris Black (Berkeley Playhouse, Aurora Theatre Company). GUYS AND DOLLS plays tonight, March 21 through April 28 (Press opening: March 23) at the Julia Morgan Theatre in Berkeley.

Berkeley Playhouse to Present GUYS & DOLLS, 3/21-4/28
by Kelsey Denette - Feb 12, 2013


Berkeley Playhouse continues its fifth season with the Tony Award-winning GUYS AND DOLLS. Jon Tracy (Berkeley Playhouse, Aurora Theatre Company, Shotgun Players, San Francisco Playhouse, Magic Theatre) helms this musical from the Golden Age of Broadway, featuring a cast of 22, and choreography by Chris Black (Berkeley Playhouse, Aurora Theatre Company). GUYS AND DOLLS plays March 21 through April 28 (Press opening: March 23) at the Julia Morgan Theatre in Berkeley. For tickets ($17-60) and more information, the public may visit berkeleyplayhouse.org or call 510-845-8542x351.

BWW's Top Connecticut Theatre Stories of 2012
by BWW Special Coverage - Dec 26, 2012


BroadwayWorld brings you the Best of Connecticut in the year 2012. Check out the Top Theatre Stories from each month during in the year 2012. We look forward to another exciting year of theatre in 2013!

BWW Reviews: Not in Kansas Anymore: Inge's BUS STOP at Center Stage
by Jack L. B. Gohn - Nov 30, 2012


Here in Baltimore, it seems to be Bus Stop season. It's been less than a month since I reviewed the Spotlighters' community theater production of the William Inge 1955 classic; now it's Center Stage's turn. And of course Center Stage (or is it Centerstage these days?) gives it a full-dress professional staging. The difference is surprisingly great.

BWW Reviews: Lovestruck and Crazy Like Foxes: BUS STOP at Spotlighters
by Jack L. B. Gohn - Nov 4, 2012


The flaws I've mentioned are real, but are far from detracting altogether from the enjoyment Bus Stop has to offer. Inge not only speaks up for crazy love, but for rustics who in their own ways are crazy like foxes in their pursuit of it. Crazy like a fox is usually good, especially when presented by as fine an ensemble as The Spotlighters have assembled here.

What's On - Philadelphia 2012-13 Theater Season
by Pati Buehler - Aug 30, 2012


The curtains are up for the Philly 2012-2013 Theater Season. From daring new works and world premieres, popular Broadway tour stops and of course, your favorite classic stage productions. Here's just a few of Philadelphia's favorite theaters listings.

Finborough Theatre's GAY'S THE WORD Closes
by BWW News Desk - Feb 20, 2012


The Finborough Theatre's 'Celebrating British Music Theatre' series follows Perchance to Dream with Ivor Novello's last musical.

Frank Barrie, James Bentham Lead Finborough Theatre's GAY'S THE WORD
by Gabrielle Sierra - Jan 27, 2012


The Finborough Theatre's 'Celebrating British Music Theatre' series follows Perchance to Dream with Ivor Novello's last musical.

ALADDIN, CHICAGO, DREAMGIRLS et al. Set for Muny 2012 Season
by Lauren Wolman - Oct 8, 2011


The Muny announced its line-up for the 94th season in Forest Park, the first for new Executive Producer Mike Isaacson. The summer 2012 season introduces 4½ musicals new to the Muny stage and includes several re-imagined classics.

42nd Street Moon Presents STRIKE UP THE BAND, 4/9-24
by BWW News Desk - Apr 9, 2011


42nd Street Moon's Ira Gershwin celebration continues in April with STRIKE UP THE BAND, to be presented at the Eureka Theatre in low-priced previews on April 6, 7 and 8, opening on Saturday, April 9, and running through April 24. Heading the cast will be Carson Church as Horace Fletcher with Michael Scott Wells as Jim Townsend, Samantha Bruce as Joan Fletcher and Moon's Producing Director Stephanie Rhoads as Mrs. Draper.

42nd Street Moon Presents STRIKE UP THE BAND, 4/9-24
by Nicole Rosky - Feb 14, 2011


42nd Street Moon's Ira Gershwin celebration continues in April with STRIKE UP THE BAND, to be presented at the Eureka Theatre in low-priced previews on April 6, 7 and 8, opening on Saturday, April 9, and running through April 24. Heading the cast will be Carson Church as Horace Fletcher with Michael Scott Wells as Jim Townsend, Samantha Bruce as Joan Fletcher and Moon's Producing Director Stephanie Rhoads as Mrs. Draper.

HELLO, DOLLY! Continues Run at Hackmatack Playhouse
by BWW News Desk - Aug 28, 2010


Hello, Dolly!, Hackmatack Playhouse's season finale, opened Wednesday with a packed house and a standing ovation. The applause continued after the show when the cast arrived at the opening night party at Uno Chicago Grill in Somersworth.

HELLO, DOLLY! Continues Run at Hackmatack Playhouse
by Nicole Rosky - Aug 19, 2010


Hello, Dolly!, Hackmatack Playhouse's season finale, opened Wednesday with a packed house and a standing ovation. The applause continued after the show when the cast arrived at the opening night party at Uno Chicago Grill in Somersworth.

Camp Broadway Presents Three Camps at North Shore Music Theatre
by BWW News Desk - Jul 19, 2010


Camp Broadway®, Broadway's Original Summer Camp, is presenting three five-day musical theatre camps for children ages 6-9, 10-13 and 14-17 at the North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts during July and August 2010. New facility owner and producer, Bill Hanney invited Camp Broadway® to offer its acclaimed program at the theatre this summer as the first step in his long-range commitment to restore quality theatre arts programming for young audiences. Registration begins July 19 for more information and to register visit www.CampBroadway.com/NorthShore.

Camp Broadway Presents Three Camps at North Shore Music Theatre
by Elisabeth Nebeker - May 28, 2010


Camp Broadway®, Broadway's Original Summer Camp, is presenting three five-day musical theatre camps for children ages 6-9, 10-13 and 14-17 at the North Shore Music Theatre in Beverly, Massachusetts during July and August 2010. New facility owner and producer, Bill Hanney invited Camp Broadway® to offer its acclaimed program at the theatre this summer as the first step in his long-range commitment to restore quality theatre arts programming for young audiences. Registration begins July 19 for more information and to register visit www.CampBroadway.com/NorthShore.

Other Productions of The Pirates of Penzance

1879   Regional (UK) World Premiere
Regional (UK)
1879   Broadway Original Broadway Production
Broadway
1880   New York Unknown
New York
1880   West End London Production
West End
1884   West End London Revival
West End
1900   Broadway Unknown
Broadway
1912   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1918   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1926   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1927   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1931   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1933   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1934   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1934   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1935   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1936   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1936   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1939   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1940   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1942   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1944   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1946   Broadway Unknown
Broadway
1948   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1949   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1951   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1952   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1955   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1961   Off-Broadway Off-Broadway Revival
Off-Broadway
1976   Broadway Broadway Revival
Broadway
1977   Off-Broadway Off-Broadway Revival
Off-Broadway
1979   Off-Broadway LOOM Revival
Off-Broadway
1981   Broadway Broadway Transfer
Broadway
1981   US Tour National Tour
US Tour
1982   West End London Production
West End
1985   Off-Off-Broadway Off-Off-Broadway Revival
Off-Off-Broadway
2006   Off-Broadway Off-Broadway Revival
Off-Broadway
2006   East Haddam, CT (Regional) Goodspeed Production
East Haddam, CT (Regional)
2007   Milburn, NJ (Regional) Paper Mill Production
Milburn, NJ (Regional)
2017   West End English National Opera Revival
West End
2025   Broadway Roundabout Theatre Company Broadway Revival Production
Broadway

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