HMS Pinafore and Box & Cox: a delicious duo of family fun featuring some of Gilbert and Sullivan’s most familiar songs for four performances only (4-6 October) at Darebin Arts Centre. Booking gsov.org.au.

The Captain of the HMS Pinafore instructs his daughter, Josephine, to marry the wealthy Sir Joseph Porter, the ruler of the Queen’s Navy, but she loves a lowly sailor, Ralph. Surely, his sisters, his cousins, and his aunts would all agree, this match is impossible? But what of the Captain’s love, a gypsy woman, his dear little Buttercup? 

Threaded with popular and well-known songs, this classic comic melodrama plays with the absurdity of class distinctions and the timeless idea that social norms can determine who we love. Look forward to a production both deeply embedded in the tradition of Gilbert and Sullivan with its light-hearted funniness, and full of contemporary surprises!

Also in this double bill is Cox and Box, a short and lively three-handed farce in the style of a sitcom (think ‘Gilmore Girls’ meets ‘Kath and Kim’). Two men share an apartment without knowing that they do: how will their greedy landlord solve this ridiculous problem?

Matinees come with the added bonus of family activities for your young sailors. Come along at 1.15pm to enjoy colouring competitions, best costume prizes and learning to dance the hornpipe.

The season is directed by Daniel Sinfield, musical direction by Joshua Geddes, and features The Gilbert and Sullivan Opera Victoria Chorus and Orchestra.

Friday 4 Oct, 8pm
Saturday 5 Oct, 2pm
Saturday 5 Oct, 8pm
Sunday 6 Oct, 2pm

Tickets $45
Youth, Concession, Group and Family pricing available. Companion cards accepted.

Bookings: gsov.org.au

Total running time 2hrs 30mins (including two intermissions)

Video: When I was a Lad, https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mS85wS3bupo