For me, the theatre troupe approach actually makes sense considering the first mission Marika had to pull off. I wouldn't otherwise be able to imagine how "aggressive" pirates would have been hired to do a "peaceful" pirating demonstration.

It does feel funny at the same time though - especially when the crew is rather content with their missions as well (or at least aren't showing their discontent - Mami calling the missions small doesn't count). It's like a bunch of mercenaries are being hired to play a game of paintball.

I also echo the problem with Marika's attitude, and the pirate-play doesn't help. Hopefully this new irregularity does. (I was actually hoping the escort ships would actually try to shoot down the Bentenmaru, showing that not all transactions go according to plan.)