The How Well We Live Foundation, in cooperation with the Livingston Arts Council, will be

hosting the first Opera at the Historic Howell Opera House in over 100 years,

The Original 1879 Gilbert & Sullivan Operetta

Pirates of Penzance

This Opera will be produced and directed by Emmy nominated producer, Sam Logan Khaleghi, and performed by local Michigan Artists

—————- Important Venue Information —————-

This performance takes place in an unrenovated historic second-story space within the Howell Opera House.

Due to the historic nature of the building, this space is not ADA accessible. Attendance requires walking up a full flight of stairs, and there is no elevator.

By purchasing a ticket, the purchaser acknowledges these conditions and confirms their ability to access the performance space safely. Ticket purchase also constitutes acknowledgment of the historic nature of the venue and voluntary assumption of any risks associated with attending the performance.

About The Show:

Step back to 1881 and experience this work as it was originally intended. This production is based on the original 1879 Gilbert & Sullivan operetta, performed inside the historic Howell Opera House in a setting that reflects the era in which it was created. Here, the music, humor, and atmosphere come together to offer a rare glimpse into the world this piece was written for.

“The Pirates of Penzance” is a fast-paced comic opera filled with clever wordplay, romantic twists, and delightfully absurd characters. The story follows a young pirate apprentice, a band of overly sentimental pirates, a determined Major-General, and a group of spirited daughters—all set to some of the most iconic and energetic music in opera.

Expect a lively mix of singing, theatrical storytelling, and humor that ranges from playful to sharp, all delivered in the classic Gilbert & Sullivan style.

Performance Dates & Tickets

Performance Dates & Times
Doors open one hour prior to each performance

  • Friday, April 24 at 7:00 PM

  • Saturday, April 25 at 7:00 PM

  • Friday, May 1 at 7:00 PM

  • Saturday, May 2 at 7:00 PM

Tickets: $50

Your ticket is more than admission—it is an investment in what comes next.

Before we can restore this Opera House, we have to make sure the organization behind it is strong enough to see it through. This is a fundraiser for the Livingston Arts Council, and we would love for you to be part of it! Please consider adding a gift at checkout.

LIMITED SEATING -- Get Tickets

Support the Reawakening Season!

This is the season opener before construction begins.

These floorboards beneath the performers' feet are living out their final season in their current form — worn, storied, and irreplaceable — before restoration and preservation work begins on the Howell Opera House.

You are not just attending a performance. You are standing where history is being made. This is the bookend — the moment between a building that has longed to be restored and the future it is about to become.

Hear this space come to life. Let it show you, in person, why it is worth saving.

Then make your mark.

Make history. Make a donation.

Donate

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Yes. All seating is assigned. Your seat location will be listed on your ticket. Seat selections are made at the time of ticket purchase.

  • Free street parking is available throughout downtown Howell, along with several nearby public lots—all just a short walk from the Opera House.

    For opening night on Friday, complimentary valet parking will also be available to make your arrival even easier. While valet service is free, gratuities for attendants are appreciated.

  • This performance takes place on the second floor of the historic Opera House, which remains in its pre-restoration condition. Please note that there is currently no elevator access, and entry to the theater requires ascending a full flight of stairs. As a result, this space is not ADA accessible.

  • A cash bar will be available beginning at 6:00 PM when doors open, throughout the performance, and during intermission. Small snacks will also be available for purchase. On opening night, the bar will remain open for a post-performance celebration.

  • Not yet! This performance takes place in the historic, unrenovated theater space…part of what makes this experience so unique. Restoration efforts are actively being planned.

  • No. The Opera House does not currently have an elevator.

    Due to the historic nature of the building, the theater is located on the second floor and has not yet been restored. Access requires physically walking up a full flight of stairs. As a result, this space is not ADA accessible.