Pirates, policemen, romance and comic chaos come to Artscape this winter as G&S presents a vibrant new production of Gilbert and Sullivan’s much-loved comic opera, The Pirates of Penzance, from 4 to 12 July 2026.
Performed in English, filled with humour, and shorter than many traditional operas, The Pirates of Penzance offers an accessible and entertaining introduction to opera for families, younger audience members and first-time opera-goers – while still delivering all the wit, wordplay and musical sparkle that Gilbert and Sullivan audiences know and love.
Directed by Darryl J Spijkers, with musical direction by Alastair Cockburn, this bold new staging brings renewed theatrical energy to one of the most enduring works in comic opera, while remaining firmly rooted in its Victorian-era setting and charm.
Popular and entertaining work
The production features a cast of more than 60 performers, dancers, and live accompaniment from the orchestra pit by the newly formed Cape Town Sinfonietta, a 26-piece orchestra. At a time when large live orchestras are increasingly rare in musical theatre and comic opera productions, audiences will have the opportunity to experience Sullivan’s sparkling score performed in full.
First performed in 1879, The Pirates of Penzance remains one of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular and entertaining works. Filled with razor-sharp humour, fast-paced storytelling, swashbuckling adventure and memorable melodies, the production includes favourites such as “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General”, alongside romantic duets, comic ensembles and energetic finales.
With its colourful characters, lively staging, dancers, full orchestra and large cast, this production promises laughter, spectacle and musical brilliance in equal measure.
What: The Pirates of Penzance
Where and when: Artscape from 4 to 12 July 2026
Tickets: Webtickets or Artscape Box Office on 021 421 7695
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