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"Doctor Who and the Pirates: A Swashbuckling Singalong with Surprising Depth"

“Pirates make everything better,” Evelyn declares, and Doctor Who and the Pirates proves her right in spades. Jacqueline Rayner delivers a hilarious and inventive romp that not only embraces classic pirate tropes but elevates them with sharp humour, musical brilliance, and an emotionally resonant undercurrent.

The story is cleverly framed by Evelyn narrating the adventure to one of her students. This device, reminiscent of The Princess Bride, allows for a playful deconstruction of the narrative as the student questions Evelyn's embellishments and forces her to revise on the fly. It’s a wonderfully meta touch that adds layers of charm and hilarity to the experience.

A Script That Shines

Rayner’s knack for blending historical settings with a comedic twist, first showcased in The Marian Conspiracy, is on full display here. The script overflows with witty dialogue, clever wordplay, and larger-than-life characters. Every joke lands, and the swashbuckling adventure brims with rum barrels, treasure maps, and all the piratical tropes you could hope for.

The pirates themselves are delightful caricatures, led by the uproariously funny Red Jasper, played with scene-stealing gusto by Bill Oddie. Nicholas Pegg also shines as a hilariously inept sea captain, adding to the rollicking chaos.

Musical Brilliance

What sets Doctor Who and the Pirates apart is its audacious leap into full-blown musical territory. Part 3 transitions into a genuine musical extravaganza, complete with original songs that rival the best in Doctor Who’s history. Colin Baker’s rendition of “I Am the Very Model of a Gallifreyan Buccaneer” is a standout—both impressively performed and laugh-out-loud funny.

The songs are diverse and expertly crafted, with Helen Goldwyn delivering especially strong vocals. “I'm a Better Sailor Far Than You” is a particular highlight, blending humour and melody seamlessly. The musical elements elevate the story to a level of pure joy and creativity rarely seen in the franchise.

A Twist of Emotion

Amid the laughs and catchy tunes, Doctor Who and the Pirates takes a surprising turn in Part 3, revealing a tragic twist involving Sally, Evelyn’s student. This moment arrives as a gut-punch, grounding the story in a poignant reality that contrasts starkly with the comedic chaos. It’s a masterstroke of tonal balance, giving the adventure an emotional weight that lingers long after the final song.

Performances that Sparkle

Colin Baker and Maggie Stables are in top form. Baker effortlessly switches between comedic flamboyance and the gravitas required for the story’s darker moments, while Stables anchors the narrative with her warmth and sharp wit. Her chemistry with Baker is as delightful as ever, and she carries much of the story with grace and charm.

The supporting cast is equally strong. Bill Oddie’s Red Jasper is a riot, and Nicholas Pegg brings impeccable comic timing to his role. The ensemble’s commitment to the musical numbers is especially commendable, adding to the story’s infectious energy.

A Satisfying Finale

The final part ties together the pirate adventure and the framing device in a satisfying and heartfelt conclusion. The treasure hunt provides a rousing end to the swashbuckling antics, while Evelyn’s interactions with Sally give the story a poignant resolution.

The Verdict: A Pirate Classic

Doctor Who and the Pirates is a triumph of inventive storytelling, blending humour, music, and heartfelt drama into an unforgettable adventure. Jacqueline Rayner’s script is razor-sharp, the performances are stellar, and the musical numbers are a delight.

Whether you’re a fan of pirates, musicals, or just great Doctor Who, this story is a treasure worth discovering.

📝90/100