H.M.S. Pinafore Opens April 23

The NMU music department will present H.M.S. Pinafore April 23-25 at Forest Roberts Theatre. The opera examines a common theme of Gilbert & Sullivan productions: the foibles of love between members of different social classes in Victorian culture.

Cast members pictured at left include Kathy Saville (CITE) in the role of Cousin Hebe and Chet Defonso (History) as Sir Joseph Porter, K.C.B.

“There’s nothing quite like the sparkling energy of Gilbert & Sullivan,” said director Rob Engelhart (Music). “This opera is full of infectious tunes, memorable characters and side-splitting comedy. I believe Chet is going to be both historial and hysterical. As a specialist in British history, he has provided lots of interesting background for all of us, and he can turn on a marvelous British stuffiness that is absolutely right for this role.”

Engelhart also promises a few playful surprises, including some Upper Peninsula and NMU references. Floyd Slotterback (Music) has volunteered the services of the University Choir and Madrigal Singers as both on-stage chorus members and ensemble voices in the orchesta pit. Nancy Redfern (Music) will be the accompanist.

Performances are scheduled at 7:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 23 and 24, and at 3 p.m. Sunday, April 25. Tickets are $12 for adults and $5 for NMU students and children under 12. They are available now at all NMU ticket outlets or at the door before each performance.