From TOLEDO REPERTOIRE THEATRE
The Toledo Repertoire Theatre will open its 94th season with the Gilbert & Sullivan timeless classic, “Pirates of Penzance” weekends Sept. 18 through Oct. 4 on the Tenth Street Stage, 16 10th St., Toledo. For tickets and showtimes for the 10 performances, visit the Toledo Repertoire Theatre’s website at www.toledorep.org or call the Rep’s box office at 419-243-9277.
Set along the rocky coast of Cornwall, the story unfolds as Frederic celebrates his 21st birthday, and prepares to leave the life of piracy behind. As he prepares to depart, he meets and instantly falls in love with Mabel, the daughter of the bumbling Major-General Stanley. However, a twist involving Frederic’s unusual leap-year birthday throws his plans into chaos, forcing him to honor his duty to the pirates far longer than expected.
“I’m grateful to have the opportunity to work on this playful and complex show as my first with the Rep,” said director Mikayla Trimpey. “I think audiences will be surprised by the humor enveloped with the beautiful operatic harmonies, finding this operetta to be far more reachable and relatable than expected.”
“Pirates of Penzance” pokes fun at authority, duty, and social conventions while delivering an irresistibly fun theatrical experience.
“I’m excited to play a role where I can literally be over the top!” said Eric Hillenbrand who portrays the Pirate King. “Acting, singing, dancing — all with very well written humor. It’s a very physical role and I’m happy to bring it to life!” This is not the first time Hillenbrand has put on a peg leg and eyepatch. “To have the opportunity to reprise a role that I have performed previously allows me to expand and go more in-depth with this character. It’s an honor and a privilege.”
The show follows young Frederic, who has been mistakenly apprenticed to a band of soft-hearted pirates. “I always enjoy playing characters like Frederic,” said actor Kamron Girardot. “It’s an exciting opportunity to be taking on a bit of a different vocal style than what I typically perform. Frederick is well meaning, maybe a little harsh or unaware at times, but he has a heart of gold.”
Actress Brooke Jones, who plays the principal role of Mable, has profound excitement in her role, as well as praise for her fellow actors in the cast. “I’m excited to combine my past inner angst and romantic, headstrong teenage self to bring the role of Mable to life,” explains Jones. “I’m incredibly grateful to work with such a lovely cast and crew at the Rep and I’m looking forward to sharing this wonderful, nonsensical musical with audiences.”
Filled with catchy melodies, clever wordplay, and iconic songs like “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major-General,” its enduring charm lies in its playful tone, memorable characters, and the seamless blend of humor and music that continues to delight audiences of all ages. “Getting to add our own chaotic twist to the show is just the cherry on top of a great time,” director Trimpey said. “We’re all so excited for people to come see this show!”
Cast List
- Frederic – Kamron Girardot
- Mabel – Brooke Jones
- Pirate King – Eric Hillenbrand
- Major General – Dave Dorrell
- Ruth – Rose Roberts-Karnes
- Police Sergeant – Issa Polstein
- Sam – Jacob Smith
- Kate – Valerie Adamski
- Edith – Celleste Brazeau
- Isabel – Ariel Webb
- Ensemble: Diane Ley, Kobe Towbridge, Ethan Oliver, Ryan Butera, Madeline Jones, Linda Hamann, Teresa Batterson, Mick Pfotenhauer, Basil Sanchez
Creative Team
- Director – Mikayla Trimpey
- Choreographer – Riley Runnells
- Music Director – Charlie Ligus
- Stage Manager – Jennifer Dorrell
- Producer – Rob Koenig
- Executive Director – Dave Dorrell
