ABERDEEN, S.D. – The Northern State University School of Fine Arts will present the "The Pirates of Penzance" in the Johnson Fine Arts Center Jewett Theater. This staged concert production combines the talents of the Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony, NSU Opera and NSU Theatre.
Performances will run at 7:30 p.m. nightly on April 9 and 10.
A classic comedic operetta from the famous duo of Gilbert and Sullivan, “The Pirates of Penzance” is the spirited story of a young duty-bound pirate named Frederic falling in love with Mabel, the charming daughter of the Major-General. What follows is a humorous musical collision of bumbling pirates, strong-willed daughters and none-too-serious police.
“There is a reason ‘The Pirates of Penzance’ is one of the most popular pieces of musical theatre in the history of the genre,” says Michael Skyles, Instructor of Vocal Music and Music Director for the production. “And more reasons reveal themselves in every rehearsal. It’s encouraging to observe our students discovering how brilliant the piece is when they discuss the many absurdities contained within the story, and how the show itself holds up very well, even after 142 years.”
Theatre major MacKinley Bruemmer plays Major-General Stanley, the iconic, fast-singing comedic role in “The Pirates of Penzance.” He is enjoying the opportunity: “This is the first time I’ve undertaken a main role in a classic piece of musical theatre, and it can be a little intimidating to be in the character that everyone remembers. It’s been a fun challenge working on getting all those words out and understandable.”
Kane Anderson, the staging director of the production as well as Northern’s Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing, describes the show as “delightfully ambitious,” adding, “‘Pirates’ represents a School of Fine Arts collaboration between the annual musical, opera and orchestra that is a long time coming. Our show comes to fruition thanks to the efforts of so many talented students and faculty. Even in the age of COVID-19, Northern is committed to entertaining local audiences and building artistic community.”
This staged concert production includes music direction by Michael Skyles, Instructor of Vocal Music. The music is conducted by Dr. Christopher Stanichar, Assistant Professor of Music and Director of Aberdeen University-Civic Symphony. Staging direction comes from Dr. Kane Anderson, Assistant Professor of Acting and Directing. The artistic staff includes Noah J. Files, Assistant Professor of Theatre Design, as scenic designer and fight choreographer; Dr. Marla Fogderud, Associate Professor of Music, as costume designer; and Production Manager Brian Omland as lighting designer. Music instruction for the Opera Workshop class is by Dr. Darci Bultema, Dr. Marla Fogderud, and Michael Skyles.
Ticket Information
Due to COVID-19, admission is free to all 2020-21 NSU School of Fine Arts events. Limited seating is available; passes will be distributed at the door on a first come, first served basis. Masks are required for all patrons, and attendees are asked to follow appropriate social-distancing protocols.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and, soon, an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $120 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.