Hold on to your head because the “Pirates” are coming to the Claudia Crosby Theater at 7:30 Thursday.

The Gilbert and Sullivan favorite, “Pirates of Penzance,” is sure to delight all ages, said Kristy Drinkwater, president of the sponsoring Troy Arts Council. “This is a performance that will be of special interest to children who are interested in pirates. And many high school drama clubs have presented ‘Pirates of Penzance’ so it’s definitely something that high school students will enjoy and it’s tailor made for university theater students. And, of course, adults who love Gilbert and Sullivan will love ‘Pirates of Penzance.’ It’s a show for everyone.

The audience will join a band of swashbuckling buccaneers, bumbling British bobbies and the delightfully dotty “model of a modern Major-General” for a rollicking romp over the rocky coast of Cornwall.

“This exuberant musical theater masterpiece is performed in its original format by a cast of New York professionals,” Drinkwater said. “The cast will involve the audience, especially during the second act when they take requests from the audience for their Gilbert and Sullivan favorites.”

The Troy Arts Council offers a variety of entertainment opportunities during each of its annual calendar of events.

“‘The Pirates of Penzance’ is different from the other programs that we have planned for this year,” Drinkwater said. “We like to offer a variety of programming that will appeal to a wide range of interests but the ‘Pirates of Penzance’ will appeal to everyone. You don’t even have to think about it. Just sit back and enjoy it.”

Jerry Spann, TAC presenter chair, said “Pirates of Penzance” promises to be a great show.

“I know it will be great because I like Gilbert and Sullivan,” he said. “Anyone who likes them will like the show. It’s going to be fun for all because the pirates are coming.”

Spann said Dr. Catherine Allard, Troy University music department, will speak to the audience a few minutes prior to the show about Gilbert and Sullivan and their music.

Spann said that pirates are expected to be roaming the theater prior to the show. The pirates can be identified by the black patch over their eyes.

“Pirates of Penzance” will be a fun show from beginning to end. The audience will be invited to sit back and enjoy an evening of entertain as only Gilbert and Sullivan can provide.

Tickets for the show are $20 for adults and $5 for students. Tickets will be available at the door.