School of Performing Arts Sets Sail with The Pirates of Penzance

Adventure, romance and comedy take the stage this spring as the School of Performing Arts presents The Pirates of Penzance.

Performances run April 10–12, 2026, in Sandefur Theatre in Guzzetta Hall, bringing together students, faculty and professional collaborators in a lively production of the classic comic operetta.

Originally created by W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, the story follows Frederic, a young pirate apprentice who falls in love with Mabel, the daughter of Major-General Stanley. Just as he prepares to leave piracy behind, Frederic discovers a twist tied to his leap-year birthday that keeps him bound to his apprenticeship, testing his sense of duty and his chance at love.

A production powered by collaboration

Directed by Dr. Frank Ward, professor of music at UA and director of Opera/Lyric Theater, the production highlights the collaborative energy that defines the School of Performing Arts.

Dr. Laurie Lashbrook, professor of music, serves as vocal coach, while Dr. T.J. Harper, visiting assistant professor, leads the musical direction. The production also features Julie Lehman on piano and UA students performing in the orchestra.

Choreography is led by Madelyn Adamczyk, a graduate student in arts administration, and production coordination is handled by Dane C.T. Leasure, senior lecturer and executive artistic director of Rubber City Theatre, with additional support from the theatre on costumes and set design.

Together, the creative team and student performers bring the operetta to life through music, movement and storytelling, offering students hands-on experience across every aspect of production.

“It is exciting to witness the collaborative energy, which is a long-standing staple of the arts community at The University of Akron, being featured so prominently in the performance of Pirates of Penzance. As we reimagine our future as a School of Performing Arts, this production will showcase the talents of our students, staff, and faculty and the synergy between our respective disciplines. It will also continue the legacy of performances and productions grounded by our continuing mission of inspiring artistic leaders for the future while serving as a cultural resource for the university and community.” - Dr. Galen Karriker, Interim Associate Director of the School of Performing Arts. 

A classic with lasting appeal

First performed in 1879, The Pirates of Penzance remains one of the most beloved works of Gilbert and Sullivan. Known for its humor, memorable music and playful satire, the operetta continues to delight audiences while showcasing the enduring power of live performance.

Plan your visit

Dates: Friday, April 10 and Saturday, April 11 at 7:30 p.m.; Sunday, April 12 at 3:00 p.m.

Location: Sandefur Theatre, Guzzetta Hall

Tickets: $15 adults, $12 seniors/youth, free for UA students

Purchase: Tickers available online or at the door

Parking: Available through The University of Akron by scanning the QR Code located at the entrance of the lots.