High C’s

Although the show seems very silly and light by modern standards, Gilbert and Sullivan’s comic opera H.M.S. Pinafore was the long-running Cats or Phantom of the Opera of its day, lasting for more than 570 performances after its opening in 1878. The rollicking romance — about a poor sailor in love with the captain’s daughter — has never lost favor with those who prefer their opera on the soufflé side. The Lyric Opera frequently revives the popular show, including the production that opens tonight and runs through November 14 at the Lyric Theatre (1029 Central). Up-and-coming opera stars Jon-Michael Ball and Ava Pine make their Lyric debuts as the young sailor and his love interest. This evening’s show begins at 8. Tickets start at $20. For more information, see kcopera.org or call the ticket office at 816-471-7344.

Fri., Nov. 6, 8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 8, 2 p.m.; Wed., Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m.; Sat., Nov. 14, 8 p.m.; Sun., Nov. 15, 2 p.m., 2009