H.M.S. Pinafore Character Descriptions
Captain Corcoran (baritone)
An earnest but quirky leader with a poetic and dutiful heart, the role of Captain Corcoran requires a unique performer who can lend his own offbeat energy and character to an otherwise straightforward role. Solid singing and acting, excellent comedic timing, and very light dancing required.
Sir Joseph Porter (comic baritone)
A traditional “Grossmith” patter role, Sir Joseph is all stuffy formality and airy condescension, with a dash of mildly superficial poetic sensibility that makes him empathetic to, if not entirely comfortable with, the plight of tortured lovers. This role requires an experienced G&S performer and gifted physical comedian, with some very light dancing.
Ralph Rackstraw (tenor)
Ralph (rhymes with “waif”) is considered by his fellow sailors (and himself) to be the most able-bodied seaman aboard the HMS Pinafore. Whether he is or not is a different story – but he certainly looks the part. Handsome, eloquent, and melodramatic, the role of Ralph requires excellent singing and stage presence. Ralph will sing with the men’s ensemble for all but the opening two numbers.
Josephine (soprano)
Captain Corcoran’s daughter, Josephine undergoes a journey from an overwrought youth who relishes the role of the tortured lover, to a truly conflicted woman torn between love and comfort. Outstanding singing and acting and very light dancing required.
Dick Deadeye (bass-baritone)
Our window into the world, Dick Deadeye thought he was joining the actual navy, but ended up on a ship full of singing, dancing human puppy dogs. Unabashedly ugly and eminently practical, Dick Deadeye is NOT a villain; he is simply the only character willing to tell the truth, no matter how little anyone else wants to hear it. This role requires superb character acting and very good vocal skill. No dance required. Dick will sing with the men’s ensemble for all numbers.
Little Buttercup (contralto)
The iconic “Bumboat Woman,” Little Buttercup is gregarious, flirty, and selfless, willing to sacrifice her own happiness for the happiness of others at every opportunity (even when it results in confusion and conflict). Good vocals and acting skills required.
Cousin Hebe (mezzo soprano)
Sir Joseph’s cousin, she is completely devoted to him, and therefore irritates him to no end. Hebe requires a good singer and comedic actress who can add her own creativity and spunk to the role.
Bill Bobstay (baritone)
The Boatswain’s Mate, he is only ever referred to in the show as “Botswain.” Bill is a bundle of energy – a golden retriever in the body of a sailor (both in loyalty and optimism). Requires a good singer and actor. Moderate stage movement. Sings with the men’s ensemble throughout.
Bob Becket (bass)
The Carpenter’s Mate, “Silent” Bob never speaks and is never spoken to, yet forms a duo with the chatty and boisterous Bill in all stage business. An expressive physical actor and solid bass voice is required. Moderate stage movement. Sings with the men’s ensemble throughout.
Women’s Ensemble
Sir Joseph’s sisters, cousins, and aunts. The women dote over Sir Joseph, the lovers, and the sailors. Despite their profound awkwardness and overbearing nature, the sailors are rather captivated by them.
Men’s Ensemble
Crew of the H.M.S. Pinafore. Energetic, loyal, dutiful, and joyous, they are puppy dogs in human form. Incessant and silly stage movement is a trademark of this revered male chorus.
