The Pirates of Penzance, outdoor theatre by Illyria
A swashbuckling musical misadventure for all the family.
- Booking essential
Set sail for silliness as young Frederic discovers he’s been accidentally apprenticed to a band of hopelessly cheerful pirates, and thanks to a leap‑year birthday, he might be stuck with them until he’s 84. Cue chaos, catchy tunes, and a whole lot of “ooh‑arr!”
With bumbling buccaneers and a love story that refuses to wait 63 years, Gilbert & Sullivan's fast‑paced, laugh‑packed show is bursting with brilliant songs and larger‑than‑life characters. Perfect for families who love adventure, music, and a good giggle.
Times
Prices
| Ticket type | Ticket category |
|---|---|
| Adult | £21.68 |
| Child 3-17yrs | £13.01 |
| Concession carer | £0.00 |
The basics
- Booking number
Call n/a.
- Accessibility
Please check our homepage for access information. The performance takes place on the grass in the Walled Garden.
- Meeting point
Gibside Walled Garden.
- Suitability for children
Recommended for all ages.
- What to bring and wear
Bring along a picnic, your own low-back seating or rug. Wear suitable clothing for the weather and bring a blanket to stay cosy.
- Other
Running time approximately 120 minutes, including a 20 minute interval. The performance starts at 7pm. The Pizza Pit and café will be open pre-show and during the interval.
Upcoming events
Summer of Play 2026: free family activities
A Summer of adventure is waiting at Gibside! Let imaginations soar, feet run wild, and creativity come to life.
Hidden Gibside, a history walk for those seeking a challenge
Deep dive into Gibside's stormy history on a scenic 6-mile walk and discover relics of the past hidden in the landscape.
Tuesday health walk
A gentle guided stroll at Gibside.
Wednesday health walk
Explore Gibside on a free guided walk.