Perils of Penzance

Fringe 2026

Perils of Penzance

What do HMS Pinafore and Pirates of Penzance have in common with Oklahoma, My Favorite Things and You Can’t Stop The Beat? This talented 5 (actually 6!) person touring company will happily show you!

This is a show within a show about a dysfunctional touring company at an especially low point in their existence – for the struggling company to be able to pay their bills, set pieces and costumes have been sold, many cast and crew members have been let go, and the orchestra is down to just one harried pianist forced to play on a little old keyboard. But this doesn’t stop the few folks that remain from putting on shows and simply recasting parts as they go.

Yes, hilarity ensues! Romance blossoms (or does it?), tentative friendships are formed (or are they?), much judgement is cast (most definitely!) and lives are impacted in unexpected ways that leave you laughing and scratching your head – it IS an ode to Gilbert & Sullivan after all, so some head scratching must be expected!

And as the finale informs us... ..”Take heart, fair days will shine, Take heart, Take ours!"

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Plain Language Description

Perils of Penzance is a story about a touring company of actors and singers in Alberta. They have fallen on hard times, reducing their company, sets and costumes. But they do love to perform and they definitely need to make a living. Will they find a way to continue touring? Will friendships be formed? Will romance blossom? Their surprising solution to their money problems will leave you laughing in this fun tribute to Gilbert & Sullivan, with a bit of Rodgers & Hammerstein mixed in.