The Broadway Pirates of Penzance by Ilkley Amateur Operatic Society at The King’s Hall, Ilkley GILBERT & Sullivan purists are inclined to be a little bit sniffy when it comes to considering unorthodox versions of their revered Savoy Operas.

Afficionados of musical theatre in its broader sense are likely to thoroughly enjoy Joseph Papp’s lively and accessible Broadway version of the Pirates of Penzance. Papp retains all the familiar songs of the G&S original and even adds two numbers from HMS Pinafore and Ruddigore.

The most recognisable changes are in the casting of voices rooted in musical comedy and in the highly coloured synthesised orchestration.

Since the Broadway Pirates is strictly musical theatre rather than sedate Savoy opera, vigorous choreography becomes an integral part of the show. The whole thing might have been tailor made for this fantastic all singing, all dancing Ilkley cast which has been expertly directed by Helen Clarke and choreographed by Julie Boldy. Both musically and theatrically, this is a dazzling production which fizzles and crackles from the first note of the overture to the lusty roar of the spectacular finale.

Uninhibited physical comedy is a striking feature of Helen Clarke’s astute direction. Mark Allan’s powerfully sung Pirate King is an athletic swashbuckling figure who is also genuinely funny. Even the self righteous Frederick comes across as an interesting multi-dimensional figure in this version.

Rob Durkin projects the persona of a romantic hero and his high tenor voice fits Frederick’s demanding songs like a glove. Nicky Burrows, as his beloved Mabel, embellishes her famous song Poor Wandering One with some stunning vocal pyrotechnics. Every syllable of Major General Stanley’s celebrated patter song, delivered presto agitato by Angelo Clarke, is crystal clear.

Stephanie Burgess sensitively combines robust comedy and pathos as Ruth, the spurned piratical maid of all work. David Hardman’s deadpan Police Sergeant and his cavorting constables have a whale of a time singing When a felon’s not engaged in his employment. The stage presentation makes clever use of a catwalk around the orchestra pit while Andrew Walbank’s scenery – complete with a Pirate galleon – realistically depicts the rocky Cornish coast and a ruined chapel by moonlight. Pam Clarke and Mark Allan’s contrasting story-book period costumes complete the stage picture.

Mike Gilroy leads a superb orchestra and he propels the show along at a cracking pace. Ilkley’s Broadway Pirates of Penzance should appeal to all – even the purists. Don’t miss it!

It continues at the King’s Hall tonight and tomorrow at 7.15pm and Saturday at 1.30pm and 5.30pm by Geoffrey Mogridge