Strong cast performances and an emphasis on detail brought a comical element to the University Resident Theatre Company's opening performance of "Pirates of Penzance."

The Gilbert and Sullivan musical centers on the consequences following young Frederic's decision to leave his pirate ship to look for love. Michael Smith successfully blends Frederic's naivete and curiosity about life to create an appealing character. For example, when Frederic meets his first love interest, Mabel, he reacts with expected nervousness.

Smith's scenes with Frederic's lifelong friend Ruth, played by Leslie Suzanne Brott, proved to be both humorous and endearing. Even though she is 24 years older than Frederic, the lovesick Ruth hopelessly implores him to marry. The unlikely pairing of the two characters added to the scenes' comic quality.

At times, Brott's portrayal of the jilted Ruth was somewhat overemphasized and tended to rely too heavily on facial expressions.

Supporting characters also turned in top-notch performances. Don Donahue, portraying the sergeant, provided comic relief through his limber body movements and rubbery facial expressions.

Noteworthy was Mark Brotherton's performance as the Major-General. Brotherton was perfect as the nervous father of the ladies of propriety. Through his singing and actions, he conveyed well the Major-General's paternal concerns for his wayward daughters.

While the cast's acting was strong Friday evening, the singing seemed weak in some of the first numbers, although it improved in Act Two.

Unfortunately, the lively words of "Climbing Over Rocky Mountain" were muffled by the accompanying music. However, "Oh, Better Far to Live and Die," a solo by the pirate king played by David Brown, emphasized the action and highlighted his powerful singing voice.

In addition to fine performances by the company, attention to small details enhanced the musical. The ornate and cleverly crafted sets created the feel of an actual pirate island. A detailed map with a movable ship served as the curtain of the musical. Paper puppets, introduced to represent characters farther in distance from the stage, elicited laughs from the audience.

The informal but staged interaction between the cast and members of the orchestra called attention to the orchestra pit located in the middle of the stage. This occasional interaction delightfully separated "Pirates of Penzance" from other musicals.

The sword fighting scenes were particularly entertaining. While fencing with two pirates on each side, Brown realistically performed the movements with skill and ease.

URTC's performance of "Pirates of Penzance," combined strong acting with the right touch of music and comedy to deliver two hours well spent.