Moorpark College’s production of Pirates of Penzance has premiered at the Peforming Arts Center on March 13. The classic Gilbert and Sullivan comedic opera is well-known for it’s musical numbers and satirical humor.

The first thing that any viewer will notice walking into the theater is the heavily stylized and elaborate set. There are large wooden planks extending over the orchestra pit, a building, several gallows and, most impressively, a sizable mock-up of a pirate ship.

The ship, at 25 feet long and 10 feet wide, is the largest stationary prop ever built for a Moorpark College production. It’s safe to say that the technical manager Brian Koehler and the props department’s work has paid off beautifully: the set serves as an additional character in the production, defining the story and adding mood to the setting. The costume design is also excellent; of particular note are the garishly colorful period dresses worn by the Major General’s daughters. On a technical level, the production is highly impressive.

The story concerns a young pirate named Frederic (Double-casted by Thomas Hollow and Tyler Houston) who has served a band of pirates ever since he was taken in by them as an orphan. He eagerly awaits his 21st birthday, when he is scheduled to be released from his indentured servitude. But when a British Major General (Andrew Walker) and his daughters stumble into the pirate’s territory, it leads to a bizarre chain of events that will change the pirates forever.

As for the content of the play itself, one’s enjoyment would depend on their interest in Gilbert and Sullivan, or comedic opera in general. The play, which happens to be subtitled “The Slave of Duty” satirizes British society and popular culture’s image of pirates. In the story, all of the characters (especially the pirates) are bound by codes of honor and duty that they adhere to with irrational fervor. This contrary depiction of pirates (who are often seen as being rapacious, chaotic, and backstabbing as opposed to honorable) is meant to serve as the basis of the play’s satire. One issue with the production did have is that between many of the songs having a very rapid pace (especially in the famous “Patter songs”, such as “I Am the Very Model of a Modern Major General”) and the orchestra, some audience members may not be able to perceive many of the song’s lyrics and the parody may fly over their heads. As a result, having prior knowledge of the songs would be necessary to fully enjoy this production.

All of the actors turned in good performances, from Andrew Walker as the Major General, Andrews Purwadi as the Pirate King, and Olivia Barker as Mabel. The blocking, choreography and singing were all performed with skillful professionalism. Any theatergoer who is interested in comedic opera, the works of Gilbert and Sullivan, or pirates will find much to enjoy here. Spanish major Angelica Smith, 25, portrays one of the Major General’s daughters in the play.

“It’s been the funnest show I’ve been in so far,” Smith says. “Gilbert and sullivan are very satirical, they kind of make fun of people of that time, especially social status.”

Director John Loprieno has stated his concerns that the play would not find a wide audience, but that since the premiere the production has been well-received.

“Overall, the word of mouth is very positive,” Loprieno said. “There are preconceived notions of Gilbert and Sullivan being stodgy, but many people have found the play to be humorous.”

Pirates of Penzance is playing at the Performing Arts center from March 15, 20, 21, 22, 27, 28, and 29 at 8pm. Matinees are on March 16, 23, and on March 30 at 2pm.