Theater Review: CCTC/HJT’s ‘How To Be A Pirate’ Is Ridiculous Fun

What child doesn’t dream of becoming a pirate? 

No bedtime, no teeth-brushing, no homework! Sounds pretty good to Jeremy Jacob. So when a crew of pirates lands on his North Beach and he’s asked to come along (because he looks like a good “digger!”), he jumps on board. 

Cape Cod Theatre Company/Harwich Junior Theatre’s “How I Became a Pirate,” based on the book of the same title by Melinda Long with illustrations by David Shannon, is a musical by Janet Yates and Mark Friedman. It’s filled with catchy tunes, comical dances and some crazy fun pirates. This delightful show will entertain everyone in your family. 

Ciara Cannon as Jeremy is a treat. The young actress holds her own and then some with this wild and crazy bunch of scalawags. The pirates are led by Captain Braid Beard, and Anthony Teixeria nails the role. His delivery as a man in command who is often bewildered is hilarious. But he’s not the only stand out; he’s surrounded by comical scene-stealers! 

Director Trish LaRose has gathered quite a talented group to portray the playful and absurd pirates. There’s Swill (Lexy Hatch), who always has to be addressed twice. Sharktooth (Gianna Casale) has an eye patch and a swagger that will bring giggles even to the youngest in your family. Pierre, the chef (Devin Massarsky) is a hoot with his French accent. When the captain is “thinking” he says he’s “sinking.” Needless to say, that causes a stir! And last but certainly not least, there’s Max (Rachel Walman). Max is just so funny trying to be the sensible one. 

They sing familiar pirate tunes and dance Chelsey Brown’s choreography in unison. I loved the ensemble number “Batten Down the Hatches,” Casale was sweet on “I’m Really Just a Sensitive Guy,” and I enjoyed the closing number “Pirates Dot Arggh,” too.  You’ll laugh, hoot and holler and grin throughout the entire show. Even the traditional jester welcoming you to the show was hilarious! 

Adding to the production is musical director Bob Wilder on piano and Chris Santos on the drums. I was surprised to see there were only the two of them in the back of the set. They were great. The songs and the music are a major part of the show, and they will keep even a toddler entertained. Cathleen Perry’s costumes are cute and Guy Laszlow Trudeau’s set changes from the beach to a ship seamlessly. Matthew Kohler is credited with both the lighting and sound design and controls the lightboard, too. He’s joined backstage by stage manager Laura Froeschner, Kyle Goff on the soundboard, and Fionn Pina Parker as the run crew. 

The entire show runs only about an hour, but it’s so rich with comedy and music that it belies that short time span. The length will make it a great family outing, as will the message of the show: There really is no place like home! Grab your tickets today! Arrgh!