The Arts at the Etherredge Center’s Cultural Series continues Nov. 18 as The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players bring an evening of classic comic opera to Aiken.
A sextet of principal performers and a pianist from the renowned New York-based company will present “The Pirates of Penzance” in one act, according to a news release.
“We’re thrilled to bring The New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players back to Aiken,” said Paul B. Crook, Executive Director of the Etherredge Center. “Their performances capture the humor, charm, and musical brilliance that have made Gilbert and Sullivan timeless. It’s a wonderful opportunity for our community to experience a world-class production right here on campus.”
The comic opera, set on the coast of Cornwall, follows Frederic, a young man mistakenly apprenticed to a band of kindhearted pirates until his 21st birthday. Upon completing his term, Frederic vows to rid the world of piracy—until an unexpected leap year complication threatens to keep him in their ranks for life. With a fantastically funny score, this production features one of the most recognizable patter songs in musical theatre history: “The Major General’s Song.”
The fun begins at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. for the evening’s concert—the third of this year’s Cultural Series.
Following intermission, the ensemble will return in formal attire to perform a concert featuring selections from the rest of Gilbert & Sullivan’s operas. The second half of the evening will also include the group’s signature audience participation segment, with the singers performing impromptu requests from the crowd. This unique performance style ensures that no two shows are ever alike, the news release said.
The group has performed in Aiken before as part of the 2017-2018 Cultural Series.
Tickets are $40 for the general public; $35 for senior citizens, military personnel, USCA faculty and staff;and$5 for students.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit etherredgecenter.universitytickets.com, visit the Etherredge Center box office at 340 Scholar Loop or call (803) 641-3305.
Augusta Good News is an award-winning member of the Georgia Press Association, receiving a second place General Excellence in 2025. Sign up for our free weekly newsletter here..
