The Chocolate Church Arts Center (CCAC) kicks off its 2015-16 performance season by staging Gilbert & Sullivan’s “HMS Pinafore.” This light operetta/comedic farce highlights a diverse cast, talented musicians and an unrivaled production crew on the main stage beginning Friday, Sept. 11.

“We were looking for a summer project to showcase as our season opener. So we are pleased to begin the season with a nod to our history by staging this timeless love story,” said Jennifer DeChant, CCAC executive director. “For years, Gilbert and Sullivan operettas were produced annually on our main stage by the Brunswick Choral Society lead by Priscilla Montgomery, who also taught theater arts at Morse High School and directed their annual variety show.”

According to DeChant, Director Wayne Otto took the reigns of this complicated production with gusto. He cast 35 actors aged 12-65 to play the sailors manning the famous British ship, their wives, sisters and cousins. Otto worked with John Willey to develop a breathtaking set and spent hours consulting with costume designer Ann Scarponi on the right costumes true to the time period. Music Director Ben Proctor coordinated 11 musicians to bring the score to life. And choreographers Ashley Steeves, Charlotte Schofield and Caitlin Paul underscore emotional moments through dance and movement.

Written in 1878, “HMS Pinafore” immediately became a smash hit in London and has continued its tremendous popularity for the last 137 years. The story of a high-bred captain’s daughter, Josephine, who falls in love with a handsome sailor, Ralph Rackstraw, but can’t marry him because of his lowly station in life. She is betrothed to the lord of the admiralty, but when she sees the old geezer, decides the beautiful young man is preferable. The whole goofy story is full of laughs and terrific music.

Performances of “HMS Pinafore” are on Sept. 11,12,18, 19 at 7 p.m.; and at 2 p.m. on Sept. 13 and 20. Tickets, $10/advance and $14 at the door, are available online at www.chocolatechurcharts.org.

Tickets are also available through the box office: 207-442-8455 or stop by at 804 Washington Street in Bath. Box office hours are Tuesday, 1-4 p.m., Wednesday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Friday, noon to 4 p.m.