March 20th-22nd
Synopsis
Pippin is a musical written by Roger O. Hirson with music by Stephen Schwartz. It first hit Broadway in 1972 and has become a classic. With its popular 2013 Broadway revival, the show also gained a modern circus-like twist.
Pippin follows a young prince who’s trying to figure out what his life’s all about. He’s tired of living the boring royal life, so he goes on a journey to find something more exciting and meaningful. Along the way, he tries out different paths—war, power, love—but none of them give him the happiness he’s looking for. The mysterious Leading Players guide him through his adventures, always pushing him to go bigger and take risks. But in the end, Pippin has to decide what really matters to him.
From March 20-22, follow Pippin’s journey as he tries to figure out what he wants out of life—whether it’s fame, love, or something else entirely—in this fun and thought-provoking musical!
Cast List
Pippin – Jack McCullough
Light Leading Player – Juliet Woolard
Dark Leading Player – Ella Boonn
Catherine – Ellie Reber
Berthe – Olivia Nuñez
Fastrada – Athena Chinen
Charlemagne – James Oltmanns
Lewis – Harrison Cobitz
Theo – Rowan O’Sullivan
Manson Dancers – Juliet Woolard, Ella Boonn, Sadie Bohrer, Ariana Pavri, Coy Evans
Dance Line – Sadie Bohrer, Ariana Pavri, Coy Evans, Emil Brody, Esti Richter, Fransya Turenne, Belle Starr, Danica Berger, Avali Tanglao-Aguas, Audrey Vokolos, Makayla Purdie
Vocal Ensemble – Sadie Bohrer, Ariana Pavri, Coy Evans, Emil Brody, Esti Richter, Fransya Turenne, Belle Starr, Danica Berger, Avali Tanglao-Aguas, Maja Mozdzer, Henry Yearley, Hailey Sun, Bridgett Appiah, Rowan O’Sullivan
Reviews
Thank you to the Cappies critics who came and reviewed HTC’s production of Pippin! The following two reviews were published first and second on the Cappies Website.
While King Charlemagne denies many things, there’s no denying that Harriton Theater Company’s performance of Pippin was a smashing success.
Originally a book written by Roger O. Hirson, this show took to Broadway in 1972, telling the story of young prince Pippin as he searches for meaning and fulfillment in life through music, religion, war, and sex. When he falls in love with a widow named Catherine, Pippin has to decide whether he should settle down or continue to make magic with the sensational troupe of performers.
Pippin, a difficult show, was performed with great eloquence from the whole cast. The dance numbers, choreographed by Juliet Woolard and Sadie Bohrer, were skillful and remarkable. “No Time At All” was a prominent song due to the cast’s ardor and creativity. They successfully got the audience to sing along with them, a difficult but gratifying task.
Pippin, a complex character with a strenuous vocal range, was performed outstandingly by Jack McCullough. His enthusiasm to join the army in “War Is A Science” and apparent anguish when he killed his father were done masterfully. His impressive vocals and childish attitude in “Extraordinary” were incredibly entertaining to watch. Juliet Woolard and Ella Boonn were breathtaking in their roles as Light Leading Player and Dark Leading Player. They embodied wonder throughout the show as they enticed Pippin and eventually Theo as his replacement. Juliet Woolard’s solo “Simple Joys” was breathtaking.
Fastrada, performed by Athena Chinen, spread drama everywhere she stepped while claiming she was just “an ordinary housewife and mother.” Athena did an exceptional job capturing her cunning and self-absorbed personality, especially in “Spread A Little Sunshine.” James Oltmanns put on a satirically tyrannical performance as King Charlemagne. He was extremely entertaining to watch in “War is a Science” and brought energy both when he was alive and dead.
Harriton Theater Company’s pit orchestra was phenomenal. Led by Vyanne Luong, the orchestra created outstanding songs throughout the show. It set the stage for the beginning, with ominous music transforming into a striking piece as they reveal the circus. The sound effects added a comical touch throughout the show, especially when describing what some people thought Pippin looked like. Heads of costuming Ava Romano and Will Epstein’s circus-themed outfits were spot on. The bright costumes paired with mismatched tights for The Players were a dazzling combination. Kayla Schulman and Audrey Mariani were extraordinary heads of hair and makeup. The clown makeup on everyone, including the pit orchestra, was an exceptional touch.
Harriton Theater Company presented a provocative show, full of dark humor and an eldritch ambience. With awe-inspiring dance numbers and vibrant songs, Pippin was none other than a masterpiece.
Aurora Gruber (Academy of the New Church)
A set of gloved hands behind the velvet curtain shine in the spotlight alluding to the world of magic in the world of Pippin at Harriton High School. What was behind the curtain was the extraordinary extravaganza filled with billowing curtains, golden hoops, and a star-studded cast. Harriton High School put on an awe-inspiring performance of this tale of enchantment, self-discovery, and family.
Pippin tells the story of a boy, Pippin, who ventures on a journey in an attempt to find something completely fulfilling, all while being led by a mysterious circus troop. He is the son of King Charlemagne whose selfish and cruel tendencies inspire Pippin to create change in the world. Along the way, he discovers the importance of relationships and most importantly, self-trust.
The depiction of the circus world was anchored by the ensemble’s consistent commitment and energy. Each cast member brought something to the table, whether it was precise dance moves or vocal talent. Sadie Bohrer was a standout with her unmistakable skill for dance.
Superstar Jack McCullough put on a spectacular portrayal of Pippin because of his dedication to the character, his constant energy, and his remarkable voice. At any moment in the show, you could look to McCullough to bring you a funny facial expression, an ad-lib, and pure passion. In numbers like “Corner of the Sky” and “Glory,” he brought a booming voice that commanded the attention of those around him. Juliet Woolard, who played the Light Leading Player, displayed her talent for both dancing and singing. Woolard stayed true to her character at all times, giving the audience the perfect amount of sass and confidence.
The supporting and featured actors contributed greatly to the magic of the show. Ellie Reber, who played Catherine, was convincing in her performance. Reber’s lovely singing provided the scenes with an added feeling of wonder. James Oltmanns brought consistent charisma and fun in his role of Charlemagne. Olivia Nuñez put on a playful and amusing performance of Berthe.
Every aspect of tech in Pippin helped to transport the audience into the circus world, whether it was with eye-catching costumes, stunning set pieces, or fun lighting designs. Though there were some missed mic cues, the cast and crew were able to bounce back. The fire pit at the end was effective and impressive, and the sets were unmistakably made with intention and creativity.
Harriton High School’s production of Pippin was an exciting, feel-good experience that was nothing short of extraordinary.
Margot Shea (Friends’ Central School)
Thank you to the Philadelphia Independence Awards for reviewing HTC’s production of Pippin! The following are excerpts from their reviews.
Harriton High School’s Pippin was a strong and thoughtful production of a uniquely challenging musical. The cast handled the complexities of the story with care, and it was clear they were committed to honoring the style and message of the show.
In terms of performance, I liked how the whole cast and ensemble stayed engaged and into it the whole time – always in character for the whole time they were on the stage. Your leads did a fine job – and were great choices for each role. Special shout out to Jack who did a wonderful job as the leading man! There was also some excellent dancing in this show led by the Leading Players … very nice work! We came to be entertained and we were – and learning that this show was completely run by students was so impressive to me! Congratulations on all of your hard work and a really fine show! I wish you luck in the future and hope to come back to see more of your school’s great work!
The technical team for Pippin at Harriton High School did an impressive job managing and directing the many moving parts of this complex production. Their commitment to staying true to the original staging was evident, and the overall execution was strong.
Reading that this show was choreographed and directed by students was amazing! This was a beautiful show overall visually with great dancing and strong blocking and a great overall look. Each person involved with the creative leadership should fell exceptionally proud. You kept your actors and ensemble engaged – they gave it their all and performed with their hearts – that all comes from great leaders and clearly you have Great Leaders! Awesome!