Definitive Versions

Kevin Kline is the definitive Pirate King, at least for me. You're going to get different answers from different people. I feel like he portrayed the role true-to-life, yet still a little over the top.

I've seen a few filmed versions of Pirates. The Papp version is still the best filmed version, although there are a lot of cuts in the script. If you can get a copy of the Central Park production - same cast with the exception of Ruth who is played there by Patricia Rutlidge - the script is more intact. Kevin Kline's performance is FANTASTIC, the rest of the cast still have not quite found their footing with it.

Opera Austrailia recently filmed it with Anthony Warlow in the role of the Pirate King. I think you can only get it in PAL format right now, but keep an eye out for it.

As for other versions...the D'Oyle Carte production of Mikado is a must. Also, check this site: http://www.gs-festival.co.uk/ It's a festival that takes place in Buxton, England every year. There are professional and amateur productions performed of all the G&S repitoire. All performances are recorded and available for sale. Anything by Opera Della Luna is great. Some of the other productions may be a little hit and miss, but it's worth checking out.