Outdoor Theatre - Illyria: The Pirates of Penzance at Gloucester Cathedral
Friday 18 September 2026
Illyria brings Gilbert and Sullivan’s The Pirates of Penzance to the historic grounds of Gloucester Cathedral on Friday 18 September 2026.
One of the UK’s leading outdoor theatre companies, Illyria performs this much-loved comic opera with a six-strong cast of actor-singers, bringing razor-sharp satire, glittering wit and unforgettable songs to one of Gloucestershire’s most spectacular settings.
Audiences can enjoy favourites including To be a Pirate King!, Modern Major General and A Policeman’s Lot is Not a Happy One, as the story follows Frederick, the Pirate King, Mabel and the Penzance constabulary in a brilliantly funny tale of duty, love and leap-year confusion.
The outdoor performance starts at 7pm, with doors opening at 6pm. Running time is approximately 120 minutes, including a 20-minute interval.
Freshly made ploughman’s and cream tea boxes can be purchased with tickets, and a small bar will be available serving red and white wine, Gloucester Cathedral’s own beer, CathedrALE, and soft drinks.
Please bring something comfortable to sit on, such as a picnic blanket, rug, cushion or folding chair, and dress appropriately for the weather. Only assistance dogs are permitted. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult.
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