By ALEXA BERRY
Contributing Writer
The College of Saint Rose Theatre has magic to do for you this May! Join us on May 3, 5, 6 and 7 at 8 p.m. and May 6 and 7 at 2 p.m. for the theater’s production of “Pippin.” The story follows young Pippin on his journey to find himself and figure out what he wants to do with his life. His journey gets a bit interesting due to the actors and characters around him who are attempting to write his story for him.
Over the years, “Pippin” has undergone a lot of changes. But no matter how many times the show has been redone, the plot remains the same. The show’s most recent Broadway revival a few years ago turned the story into a circus filled with acrobats and elaborate costumes, but Saint Rose director Angela Ledtke hopes to strip it down in order to focus more on the central message of the show.
“All the actors represent different stresses and pressures that students face in their lives,” said Ledtke. “I wanted to make it relatable.”
In order to make the story relatable, the main focus is on each character and what they mean in Pippin’s life. When you strip away all the costumes and royal characters, it’s a story about a young boy who hasn’t quite found his place in the world yet, a struggle many college students deal with and can relate to.
The cast and crew have been working hard all semester to put together a show that the audience will be sure to enjoy. Although there are no flying acrobats or circus performers, audience members are in for a treat with light shows and plenty of audience involvement. The audience isn’t just watching the show, they become part of the show.
Will Heatley, who plays the Leading Player, knew the show was going to be great since the first rehearsal. When asked about his character, Heatley said, “I find Leading Player very intricate because as as a person, I try to control all of life’s pressures as cool as possible.”
It also stars James Reilly as Pippin, Andrew Pariseau as King Charles and Melissa Narusky as Cathrine. Each cast member brings something special to the stage and that shines through during each performance.
The show will be at The College of Saint Rose Theater, located at 996 Madison Avenue. Tickets are $15 for general admission and $10 with a student ID. There is limited seating available so make sure to get there early for the best spot.
