A Yiddish Version

Of "Pirates Of Penzance" :

Director Allen Lewis Rickman has provided an English translation of Grand's words, which is projected above the stage along with a Russian translation. Those familiar with the operetta will surely get a charge out of the clever way Grand has adapted Gilbert's lyrics and situations. Instead of mixing up the words "pirate" and "pilot" as in the original, Grand has nursemaid Rivke (Ruth) accidentally bind young Fayvl (Frederick) to a band of pirates because with their swords in hand she thought they were kosher slaughterers at afternoon prayers. When the pirates leap upon Der Groyser General's daughters they sing what translates to, "What a chance to get married! / Quick, find a chuppah!" And when the Sergeant of Police explains his hesitancy to attack the Groyser Gazlen and his men, he pleads, "I'm no Maccabee."