Theatre Fairfield's production of "Pippin" to bow at Quick Center | Press Releases

Theatre Fairfield, Fairfield University's student theatre company, opens its 2002-03 season with the magical musical comedy "Pippin" at the Regina A. Quick Center for the Arts at Fairfield University. The performances will take place at the Wien Experimental Theatre Wednesday, Oct. 30 through Saturday, Nov. 2 at 8 p.m., with 2 p.m. performances on Saturday, Nov. 2 and Sunday, Nov. 3.

Stephen Schwartz and Roger O. Hirson's "Pippin" is the fanciful tale of the eldest son of King Charlemagne, 8th-century leader of the Holy Roman Empire. Told in tongue-in-cheek fashion by a character aptly named the Leading Player, the story revolves around young Pippin's timeless quest for personal fulfillment.

With an ensemble of mysterious players guiding him, Pippin attempts to find meaning in life as a student, lover, warrior, king and, ultimately, a family man. Along the way, the intoxicating choreography of Bob Fosse and memorable songs such as "Corner of the Sky" and "Magic to Do" offer an evening of theatrical brilliance.

"Pippin" made its Broadway debut on October 23, 1972 at the Imperial Theatre in New York City. Directed and choreographed by Fosse, the show was 24-year-old Schwartz's second Broadway hit, coming fast on the heels of "Godspell." A favorite with audiences, "Pippin" ran for 1,944 performances over five years and won two Tony awards for Fosse and one for Ben Vereen, who became a Broadway mainstay for his star turn as The Leading Player. Schwartz's tuneful score received a Tony nomination.

Theatre Fairfield's ensemble includes 20 Fairfield University students directed by Adjunct Professor Heather Parady, the company's resident improvisation teacher and director. Lisa Brailoff is the show's choreographer and Charles Wade is musical director. Guest designers are Hugh Hanson, Kevin Schneck and Lynne Chase. Fairfield students Danny Williams, Nadja Encarnación, Liz Capinera and Kristy Farrell have major roles.

And all involved have Schwartz's blessing.

"I hope the students of Theatre Fairfield have a great time doing the show and the audience has an even better time watching them," said the Fairfield County resident.

Tickets for "Pippin" are $12 for general admission, $6 for staff and $5 for students. For more information, call Theatre Fairfield at (203) 254-4000, ext. 2274.