CHARACTER BREAKDOWN:

Mabel – (Soprano) - (Coloratura Soprano) – Character is 18 to 22 years of age -
Doesn’t strictly need to dance, but move reasonably, be light on her feet
Needs an out-front, natural expressive voice with excellent diction. She is sweet and innocent but also needs good comic timing.

Frederic – (Tenor) Character is 18 - 22 years of age - Needs to be a good mover for dance sequences. Young, manly, genuine and innocent. He is funny in his over bounding earnestness in always trying to do the honorable “thing”. He is energetic, out-going & honest.

The Pirate King – (Baritone) – Age open - Needs to be very athletic and a good mover for some dance sequences. He is brash and full of himself as he lives out his romantic dream. With the wind in his hair and his chest out, he boldly glides upon the high seas looking for adventure.

Major General Stanley – Character is 50 plus years of age - (Baritone) Mabel’s father. He must be vibrant, with warmth & good humor and be eccentric but believable. Excellent diction and articulation are important to this character.

Ruth – (Contralto) Character is 47 year of age - Character requires an energetic mover. Comic timing is important. Ruth’s character undergoes a transition from nurse maid to Pirate.

Sergeant of Police – (Bass) - Age open - Comic role – leader of a band of scaredy-cats who want to appear brave. Can be portrayed as somewhat of a ‘bumbling’ or clumsy character. Needs to be a good mover, preferably a good dancer.

Samuel – (Baritone) - Age open - The Pirate King’s right-hand man, he is sincere, earnest, and simple-minded. 

Edith – (Soprano) - All daughters are of a variety of ages, Mabel being the youngest – Edith has a big voice, is a good mover and possesses a vibrant personality.

Kate – (Mezzo-soprano) - All daughters are of a variety of ages, Mabel being the youngest – Kate is similar to Edith in her talents and sass but has her own way of seeing the world.

Isabel – (Soprano) - All daughters are of a variety of ages, Mabel being the youngest -Isabel can be closest to Mabel’s age. She sings in a similar range as Mabel and can often be seen shadowing her sister.

Chorus of Daughters – (Contraltos and Sopranos) – Daughters play in the ages of 20’s – 30’s. Each daughter is her own individual. They all have big voices and enjoy light movement. Daughters can be played by males or females.

Chorus of Pirates – (Baritones and Tenors) - Age open - Simple minded, tender-hearted souls. Big, full-out singing is a thrilling aspect of the Pirates. The choreography calls for basic dancing ability in addition to strong vocal ability and a keen comedic sense. Pirates, (as with Sisters and Constables) can be played by males or females.

Constables – (Bass or Baritones) – Age open - They obey their duty and the law but are cowards at heart. Actors who play Constables must find moving and singing on stage to be a great deal of fun. Constables can be played by males or females.

NOTE: Pirates of Penzance is an enormously vibrant and celebrative show. We are looking for artists who love to sing, collaborate with others and be part of a collaborative “whole.”
I look forward to getting started with this hilariously entertaining show and hope to see you at the auditions!