'Pirates' sail into Yuma High

Piracy on the high seas may still be making fearsome headlines, but it's more likely to charm when the mayhem shifts to the Snider Auditorium production of "The Pirates of Penzance" Friday.

Tim O'Brien, Yuma High School drama teacher and choir director, helms the school's annual spring musical of the Gilbert & Sullivan classic. O'Brien said he chose this light opera because he remembers it from his childhood. He said it is a funny show, but one not many people seem to know despite the popularity of the show's premier tune, "Modern Major General."

"It definitely has audience appeal. The music is lighthearted. And it's very comedic," he said. "There's lots of word play with characters arguing over words they mix up, like 'orphan' for 'often.'"

Members of the Yuma High Jazz Band double as the pit band to accompany this production. They are led by Amanda Dallabetta, who O'Brien says does a "fantastic job."

"I love their enthusiasm," he said. "The band adjusts well to the vocalists and backs us without overpowering the performers."

O'Brien is looking forward to a packed house and urges the public to come out and see very energetic and lively performers  put on a great family show.

"The Pirates of Penzance" plays  Friday and Saturday at 7 p.m. Tickets are $5 and can be purchased at the door. Tickets can also be purchased from any of the Yuma High fine arts students, O'Brien or Rebecca Taylor, fine arts department chair.

All proceeds will benefit the school's fine arts program, which contributed to the production. O'Brien and Dallabetta were ably assisted by Tammy White, who directed the choreography.

O'Brien also praised lead performer Cristen Felli, 17, a senior who plays the role of Mabel. O'Brien said that although this is Cristen's first year at the school, she rises to the challenge and plays her role like a professional. Cristen said she loves the  role she has been given.

"She's this show-off," the student performer said, "and I'm not really a conceited girl, so this is really out of the box for me."

Those who listen carefully will hear what a comical story "Pirates" can be, Cristen said.

Her part is challenging because she has to hit so very high notes. She added that she is excited to see the production come together.

"It's a really funny show and it's good to collaborate with my fellow students and see what they can do with their talents."

Roberto Lopez, 17, a junior, said he relishes his lead role as Fredrick, the pirate whose love interest with the character Mabel is doomed by the unfortunate timing of the leap year.

For kettle drummer Max Garcia, 18, this production is a "wonderful" experience because it gives him a chance to branch out from his more steady performing chores in the marching band. And the show has also been an opportunity to discover the music of of Gilbert & Sullivan, he said.

"I like playing in the pit band because it introduces me to all new styles of music. The singers control the tempo and with a pit band it's all about timing. The singers have to pay attention to you and you have to listen to the performers. It's like a beautiful relationship."