The Bowling Green State University Theatre and College of Musical Arts is going to be performing the movie “Pirates of Penzance” with a new twist.

The original version of the musical had a complicated plot that was only resolved when allegiances to a queen saved the day. With the help of a contemporary setting, this updated production moves through the complications with ease.

This production, which opened in 1879, is supposed to be as wacky and entertaining as it has ever been.

The new theme is going to be “Beach Blanket Bingo,” which takes the classic tale of swashbuckling adventures and policemen and sets it on a California beach circa 1961.

“We thought that the notion of a beach party at the end of February would be something that everybody could enjoy,” co-director Michael Ellison said.

The pirates become a motorcycle gang of ruffians appropriately named the “Pirates.” The policemen, who are a group of lifeguards, and the young daughters become sorority sisters in Gamma Eta Pi.

The comical, sentimental pirate gang, bumbling lifeguards, dim-witted young lovers, dewy-eyed daughters and the eccentric Major General are all bound by honor and duty, which is woven together with a magnificent score.

To figure out what all of this means performances will be held in the Eva Marie Saint Theatre on the second floor of University Hall on February 21, 22, 28 and March 1 at 8 p.m. , and on March 2 at 2 p.m.

Adult tickets are $10, and tickets for children cost $5. Group rates are also available.

Reservations can be made by calling the Bowling Green State University Theatre Box Office at 419-372-2719.

PIRATES OF PENZANCE

SHOWS: Feb. 21, 22, 28 and March 1 at 8 p.m. and March 2 at 2 p.m. at Eva Marie Saint Theatre.

COST: Adults, $10, and children, $5; group rates are available.

DIRECTORS: Ronald Shields and Michael Ellison

HISTORY: The Gilbert and Sullivan opera premiered on Dec. 31, 1879, in New York City.