All Aboard for H.M.S. Pinafore at the Tabard this spring

The Tabard Theatre has announced the cast for its highly anticipated summer production of Gilbert & Sullivan’s beloved comic opera, H.M.S. Pinafore. Following the resounding success of last year’s critically acclaimed The Mikado, the same creative team returns with another of the celebrated duo’s timeless works, promising a lively, musically rich revival full of wit and charm.

Set aboard the Royal Navy ship H.M.S. Pinafore, the story follows Josephine, the Captain’s daughter, who finds herself torn between duty and desire when she falls in love with the lowly but noble sailor Ralph Rackstraw. As questions of class, loyalty and love collide, Gilbert & Sullivan’s trademark satire unfolds in a sparkling tale packed with humour, romance and instantly recognisable melodies.

Following a competitive audition process, the Tabard Theatre has assembled a strong and versatile cast, blending returning favourites with exciting new talent.

John Griffiths takes on the role of Sir Joseph Porter, the gloriously self-important First Lord of the Admiralty. Griffiths returns to the Tabard after his acclaimed turn in the title role of The Mikado in 2025, where his comic timing and commanding stage presence drew particular praise. His interpretation of Sir Joseph is expected to bring equal parts bluster and charm to one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most memorable comic creations.

Soprano Stevie Jennings-Adams stars as Josephine, the Captain’s daughter, a role that demands both vocal agility and emotional nuance as she navigates the conflict between love and social expectation. Opposite her, Finan McKinney plays Ralph Rackstraw, the earnest young sailor whose sincerity and romantic determination lie at the heart of the story.

Leopold Benedict appears as Captain Corcoran, Josephine’s well-meaning but class-conscious father, while Ryan Erikson Downey takes on the role of Dick Deadeye, the opera’s sardonic observer whose dry wit provides a sharp counterpoint to the surrounding romance. Kieran Wynn plays the Bosun, adding further colour to the ship’s lively crew.

Gloria Acquaah-Harrison brings warmth and humour to the role of Little Buttercup, the mysterious dockside vendor with a secret at the centre of the plot. Marissa Landy appears as Cousin Hebe and will also showcase her musical versatility by accompanying the production on flute, alongside Musical Director Annemarie Lewis Thomas on piano, underscoring the production’s intimate and musically driven staging.

First performed in 1878, H.M.S. Pinafore remains one of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most enduring and popular operettas, celebrated for its sharp satire of class and authority, as well as its sparkling score. With an experienced creative team and a dynamic cast, under the leadership of award-winning Director Keith Strachan, this new Tabard production is set to be a highlight of Chiswick’s summer theatre calendar.

H.M.S. Pinafore runs from 6th May to 6th June 2026. Full listings and online booking are available at the theatre’s website - https://tabard.org.uk/ - where you can also sign up to their free newsletter to stay informed about forthcoming shows and events.