Phoenix theatergoers looking for something far less traditional than a night at the theater may want to prepare for rum, pirates, and complete unpredictability.
The Drunk Shakespeare Society dropped anchor in downtown Phoenix this summer with Drunk Pirates, a new immersive comedy experience inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island — and powered in part by alcohol-fueled improvisation.
Running for a limited 12-week engagement at The Rose Theater, the production follows an intentionally chaotic formula that has helped make the company a national draw: one actor takes five shots of rum before stepping into a leading role and attempting to keep the story afloat. From there, anything can happen.
The story loosely follows familiar Treasure Island territory as Jim Hawkins joins Long John Silver and a questionable crew aboard the Hispaniola in search of Captain Flint’s hidden treasure.
But sword fights, shifting alliances, audience participation, and increasingly unpredictable performances ensure that no two shows unfold quite the same way. Rather than a traditional stage production, Drunk Pirates leans into audience interaction and improvisation, creating an experience that feels like a theater performance, comedy show, and interactive party rolled into one.
The production takes over The Rose Theater in downtown Phoenix starting June 10, and guests can order cocktails and snacks throughout performances. Ticket options range from balcony seating to premium experiences, including the over-the-top “Royal Experience for Two,” which includes VIP seating, champagne, cocktails, curated treats, and perhaps most importantly, the chance to influence the show itself.
The pirate-themed production builds on the success of Drunk Shakespeare Society’s flagship concept, which earned recognition as a New York Times Critics’ Pick by combining classical theater with liquor and improvisational comedy. The company says it has performed more Shakespeare than any theater group in the country – this summer, they’re trading sonnets for sea shanties. Learn more at DRUNK SHAKESPEARE.
