The MSU Opera Theatre production of The Pirates of Penzance (2011) was named first place winner in the National Opera Association’s Opera Production competition, Division III.  Former Division III winners included Cincinnati College-Conservatory of Music and SUNY-Purchase.

The Pirates of Penzance, a story about sentimental pirates and young lovers all bound to honor and duty, originally debuted in New York in 1879. The uproarious comic opera, directed by Associate Professor of Voice and Opera Director Melanie Helton, featured 25 instrumentalists in the orchestra pit and 48 vocalists. All of the roles were double cast to allow ample stage time for the singers.

Helton accepted the award in Portland, Oregon, at the national convention in January 2013. NOA website.