The Pirate Pretender

Music and Lyrics by Richard Taylor. Book by April Cantelo

Synopsis

On the idyllic island of Gardenia, ruled over by the much-loved Duke and his family, all is not as peaceful as it could be. For many years now a fierce band of local pirates, led by Captain Jake, have been creating havoc and when Jake plans to kidnap the Duke's beautiful daughter, Petunia, and make her his bride the fun really begins. With a rollicking tuneful score by Richard Taylor (the composer of Whistle Down the Wind), and a witty, action-packed book by April Cantelo, this musical is ideal for junior and lower secondary schools.

Cast:

6 female, 6 male, many small male and female roles, 2 narrators, chorus.

Narrator 1
Narrator 2
Royal Family:
Duke of Gardenia
Duchess of Gardenia
Petunia and Narcissus: their children
Guards:
Elm
Fir
Birch
Beech

Yew
Oak
Ash
Willow
Major Hardwood
Other Guards
Islanders:
Lobelia: Petunia’s close friend.
Attendants to the Duke and Duchess
Bodyguards for Narcissus
Festival Officials, Stall Holders, Entertainers

Other Islanders
Pirates:
Captain Jake: pirate.
Carlo: Captain Jake’s cabin boy.
Clara and Bess: the Pirate Molls.
Dead-Eyed Dick
One-Arm Arthur
Speaking Pirates 1-5
Singing Pirates 1-3
Pirate Tailor
Other Pirates

Instrumentation:

Piano