H.M.S. Pinafore
Opera in two acts
Music by Arthur Sullivan, Libretto by W.S. Gilbert
Spirited satire, romance, and mischief aboard a Royal Navy ship.
Sarasota Opera's inaugural staging of a Gilbert and Sullivan work, H.M.S. Pinafore is a cornerstone of Victorian comic operetta, where questions of love and social rank spark humor and delight. At the center of this story, set aboard a British Navy ship, is the earnest sailor Ralph Rackstraw and Josephine, the captain's daughter, whose affection challenges the strict hierarchies of their world. The uproarious satire includes witty patter songs and memorable melodies that make it a perennial favorite for audiences of all ages.
February | 13 - March | 19
Sung In:
English
Cast & Staff
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Performing
Feb 13, 16, 18, 21, 24, 28
Mar 5, 12, 19
Costume Designer
Howard Tsvi Kaplan
Facts about H.M.S. Pinafore
Composer & Premiere: Gilbert and Sullivan; premiered in London in 1878
Story: Set aboard a British warship, it follows the romance between the captain’s daughter, Josephine, and a lowly sailor, Ralph Rackstraw
Comic Conflict: Their love is complicated by strict class divisions and Josephine’s arranged match with the pompous Sir Joseph Porter
Style: A comic operetta filled with witty satire, catchy melodies, and sharp social commentary
Famous Songs: Includes favorites like “I’m Called Little Buttercup” and “When I Was a Lad”
Themes: Gently mocks class hierarchy, authority, and bureaucracy
Enduring Appeal: One of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most popular works, celebrated for its humor, charm, and memorable tunes
What should I wear to the opera?
You are encouraged to dress in whatever way you feel most comfortable. Some people like to make it special by dressing up. Others prefer to be more casual. Opening nights of each opera tend to be a bit more dressy (you will see more tuxes and long dresses) and matinees a bit more casual.
One suggestion: it does tend to be cool in the theater (especially in the orchestra section) and so a sweater or wrap might be helpful.
Where do I park?
There is limited on-street parking near the Sarasota Opera House. There are several parking garages in close proximity to the theater, including the Palm Avenue Garage (1289 N. Palm Ave.) which is directly behind the Sarasota Opera House.
Valet parking is also available for all evening and weekend matinee performances. Valet parking is complimentary for subscribers and donors. Otherwise the cost is $10.
For more information please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/parking.
Content Advisory
Coming Soon
Where is the Sarasota Opera House?
The historic Sarasota Opera House is in downtown Sarasota at 61 N. Pineapple Street.
For detailed directions, please visit https://www.sarasotaopera.org/directions.
Are there refreshments at the theater?
There are concessions at the Opera House which sell a variety of beverages, snacks, and sandwiches. The lobby is open 1 hour and 15 minutes before a performance, and the courtyard is open 1 hour and 45 minutes before a performance. We encourage you to come early to enjoy refreshments. No food or drink are allowed inside the auditorium.