Staged by Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Sydney, the production follows the story of Frederic, a young, handsome pirate who has just turned 21 and ‘graduated’ from his pirate apprenticeship. 

Having spent most of his life at sea, Frederic cannot remember what a young woman looks like, nor how to approach them. The swift arrival of a bevy of beautiful maidens out for a picnic and a paddle makes for an interesting series of events. 

President of Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Sydney, Dean Sinclair said the piece is “probably the best known and best loved of all the Gilbert and Sullivan comic operas.”

The performers, who will be donning handmade costumes from Sandra Tutt, have been rehearsing for 12 weeks and range in age from 20 to 60 years old. 

“We have a brand new production – brand new costumes, a cast of 32 singers, many of whom are graduates of Sydney Conservatorium, and a palm-court orchestra of 14 musicians,” said Mr Sinclair. 

He also said the musicians in particular had a “great fondness for Bundanoon”.

“This the 31^st year we have come to Bundanoon, but last year was the first time for the orchestra,” he said.

“The musicians had such a good time that we have doubled the size of the orchestra this year.”

Old favourite songs will be performed, including ‘Poor Wand’ring One’, ‘I am the very model of the Major-General' and 'A Policeman's lot is not a happy one'.

“It’s going to be sensational music-wise. The voices are superb,” Mr Sinclair said.

“We’re going to be raising the roof of the Soldier’s Memorial Hall.”

The Pirates of Penzance will be performed at the hall in Bundanoon on Saturday, September 23 at 2pm and again at 7:30pm.