A CREW of scallywags recently took over part of Penarth giving people a taste of outdoor theatre.

Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera The Pirates of Penzance was performed to 250 guests at The Kymin Gardens, which are managed by the Vale of Glamorgan Council.

Theatre company Illyria opened the show with their first song Pour O Pour the Pirate Sherry, with the cast involving the audience – spraying the first few rows with a light shower of water from their pirate’s steins.

The audience listened to renditions of familiar popular songs including Modern Major-General Song and Come Friends who Plough the Sea.

When darkness fell the stage was lit up, with aim of bringing a magical atmosphere to the story.

Cabinet member for art, education and the Welsh language, Cllr Rhiannon Birch, said: “The company are exceptionally good and extremely funny, completely entertaining and captured the audience’s attention throughout.

“It was an excellent and thoroughly enjoyable evening, and I am very much looking forward to watching Illyria’s next production.

“The success of these recent productions, performed by Illyria, demonstrates the venue’s capability to host outstanding events.

"Spaces such as these are important local attractions.”

Illyria began its outdoor productions more than 30 years ago, and the company has toured the UK and internationally.  

Illyria Theatre will be returning to the Kymin on Friday, September 2, at 7pm with their production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream.  

For tickets visit the Eventbrite webpage.