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A Fresh Take on Pirates of Penzance Sets Sail for Broadway
A reimagined version of the beloved 1879 operetta, Pirates! The Penzance Musical, is heading to Broadway, with previews beginning on April 4 and an official opening on April 24 at the Todd Haimes Theatre. This new adaptation is led by the creative vision of director Scott Ellis, with choreography by Warren Carlyle and a witty script crafted by Rupert Holmes. The cast features a range of talent, including Ramin Karimloo, Jinkx Monsoon, David Hyde Pierce, Nicholas Barasch, Preston Truman Boyd, and Samantha Williams.
This rendition of Pirates! distinguishes itself by setting the story in New Orleans, transforming the traditional narrative into a vibrant jazzy-blues experience infused with Caribbean rhythms and the unique energy of the French Quarter. Audiences can expect a delightful mix of exuberant characters, including the famously clever Major-General, the daring Pirate King, romantic young lovers, adventurous daughters, lively pirates, and nimble-footed police, offering a treasure trove of comedic moments that promise to enthrall both newcomers and seasoned Gilbert & Sullivan fans.
“This project has been in development for seven years,” Pierce shared with BroadwayWorld’s Richard Ridge. “Initially, it was just an experimental idea to incorporate New Orleans culture for historical context. As we continued to explore this direction, it evolved into something distinctive and fresh. The more we embraced this concept, the more it developed its own unique identity. It really comes together beautifully.”
Monsoon echoed this sentiment, stating, “This new adaptation retains everything you adore about The Pirates of Penzance. For those who may be discovering it for the first time, the experience is inviting and accessible.”
Stay tuned as we follow the cast during their rehearsal breaks in an exclusive video update.
Source
www.broadwayworld.com