The Pirates of Penzance

An orphan Fredric is hours away from being 21 years old. Soon his indentured to pirates (due to a misunderstanding) will end and he can then hunt the pirates down. In addition, Fredric has just discovered what young women look like and has fallen for Mabel Stanley, daughter of the Major general. All of this is about to change.

I have always enjoyed the variations of "The Pirates of Penzance." Among my favorites is this Broadway Theater Archive from 1980. It was recorded at the New York Shakespeare Festival (a live performance in NYC Central Park.) The cover of my copy of the DVD Release date : October 22, 2002, looks like the standard cover of the series. It is distributed by Kultur. Run time 2 hours and 2 minutes.

You need to know that this film has all the strengths and weaknesses of a stage production vs. The Movie. The sound sometimes comes and goes and you have to listen closely to understand much of the singing. It helps to know what you are watching in advance. On the positive side, I have always appreciated the minimal scenery of the stage and marvel at how so many can do so much with so little. This is an excellent film for those living in a culturally deprived area and to hold others until they can see the real thing again.

Just so you know this is not a movie. So many of the players push the envelope with their variation on the Gilbert & Sullivan theme and music. Speaking of music the stage surrounds the orchestra so you can watch them and occasionally the audience. Linda Ronstadt as Mabel has a surprisingly high voice at first and I assume is on purpose soon she settles down and you would think that the play was made just for her. Kevin Kline adds the over the top energy needed to keep this fast passed play going. When all is said and done you will be exhausted from listening and laughing.

Next you will want to track down "Pirates of Penzance" - Anthony Warlow, David Hobson, Australian Opera.