'Pirates of Penzance,' 'The Music Man' to play locally

The "Lion King" isn't the only stage production opening this week. Here's a rundown of what's opening on other local stages:

"The Pirates of Penzance," Aug. 10-Sept. 25, Hale Centre Theatre, 3333 S. Decker Lake Drive, West Valley City.

Gilbert and Sullivan's popular comedic musical, which has been entertaining audiences for 130 years, is a hysterical romp featuring operatic singing, pirates and tomfoolery.

The story follows pirate trainee Frederick. Upon completing his 21st year apprenticing a tender-hearted band of pirates, he meets Mabel, the daughter of Maj. Gen. Stanley, and the two quickly fall in love.

His romance is interrupted when he discovers that his Feb. 29 birthday means that, technically, he only has a birthday every leap year. He is required to apprentice the pirates until his 21st birthday, and must therefore serve another 63 years. Mabel agrees to faithfully wait for him.

The production stars Austin Dorman and Rhett Richins as Frederick; Bryon Finch and Bruce Bredeson as Maj. Gen. Stanley; and Camella Canete and Rebecca Lemon as Mabel.

Performances are Monday through Saturday at 7:30 p.m. with matinées each Saturday at 12:30 and 4 p.m. and occasional weekdays at 4 p.m. Tickets are $15-$26 (801-984-9000 or www.halecentretheatre.org)

"The Music Man," Gristmill Performing Arts foundation, Aug. 13-17, The Benson Gristmill, 325 state Route 138, Stansbury Park.

Meredith Willson's classic story of American features John Bishop as Harold Hill, Amie Serr as Marion Paroo.

Showtimes are 8:30 p.m. with a pre-show at 8 p.m. Tickets are $8 for adults, $6.50 for children, family $25 family pass (435-882-0050 or 435-882-7678)

"The Normal Heart," Aug. 14, Rose Wagner Performing Arts Center, 138 W. 300 South, Salt Lake City.

Written in real time at the height of the AIDS crisis in New York, Larry Kramer's groundbreaking play serves as an autobiography of Kramer's own struggle with being HIV-positive, and watching his friends die around him. This led him to found the Gay Men's Health Crisis.

This is a one-night-only reading, to help kick off Plan-B Theatre Company's 20th anniversary as well as celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Utah AIDS Foundation. The production stars Doug Fabrizio, Kirt Bateman, Mark Fossen, Matthew Ivan Bennett and Jay Perry.

One reading only, free to the public, donations accepted, reservations required (jerry@planbtheatre.org)