A Fresh Take on a Classic

Prepare to be dazzled! Roundabout's ‘Pirates! The Penzance Musical’ has just landed on Broadway, and it’s a delightful blend of Caribbean vibes and French Quarter allure, guaranteed to sweep you off your feet from the very first moment. While Gilbert & Sullivan purists may need a moment to adjust, the rest of us will be enchanted almost instantly.

A Stellar Cast Brings Joy to the Stage

Staying true to the whimsical plot of the original 1830 operetta, this production—crafted by director Scott Ellis, composer Rupert Holmes, choreographer Warren Carlyle, and orchestrator Joseph Joubert—features an outstanding cast that knows how to deliver both fun and folly in this high-energy escapade.

Ramin Karimloo shines as the charismatic Pirate King, while Jinkx Monsoon brings a hilarious twist to Ruth, the nurturing figure among the pirates. But it’s David Hyde Pierce who steals the spotlight, brilliantly portraying both W.S. Gilbert and the unforgettable Major General Stanley, showcasing his comedic genius.

A Colorful New Orleans Adventure

Set against a vibrant and playful New Orleans backdrop designed by David Rockwell, the visual spectacle is accented by Linda Cho's colorful pirate costumes. The story unravels as a band of boisterous pirates anchors in the city, seeking brides from the daughters of a bewildered Major General.

Amidst the chaos, young Frederic, portrayed superbly by Nicholas Barasch, finds his true love in Mabel, played by the enchanting Samantha Williams, despite the comical hindrances orchestrated by his nanny Ruth.

A Hilarious Turn of Events

The plot thickens when Frederic learns he was mistakenly apprenticed to a pirate instead of a riverboat pilot. With his 21st birthday approaching, humorous misunderstandings unfold as the Pirate King and Ruth conspire to count Frederic’s leap-year birthdays one by one, leading to uproarious comedy.

An Unforgettable Performance

While some cast members may play their roles a bit larger than life and the second act could use some tightening, the overall exuberance shines through. Each joke lands with laughter, especially thanks to Pierce’s masterful comedic timing, stealing every scene he's in.

Karimloo’s nuanced performance as the Pirate King adds depth, while Monsoon’s portrayal as the crafty pirate nanny is pure entertainment gold. However, Barasch stands out with a stellar Broadway debut that kickstarts the show with an electrifying rendition of 'Good Morning'.

A Heartfelt Conclusion

The musical concludes with a powerful message of acceptance, taken from Gilbert & Sullivan’s ‘HMS Pinafore,’ reminding us that pirates, too, have hearts. After an exhilarating couple of hours filled with laughter and vivid performances, this earnest ending feels not only refreshing but absolutely earned.