Review by Violet Hisey, Highlands High School Critic Team
With a performance troupe, a royal family, and a few dazzling dance numbers, Taylor High School brought their audience on a journey to many centuries ago, to tell the story of Pippin: His Life and Times.
Created by Stephen Schwartz and Roger O. Hirson, Pippin is a comedic musical that draws inspiration from historical events of the Middle Ages. The musical follows a performance troupe led by the Leading Player and their retelling of the story of Pippin, the son of Charlemagne, on an adventure for meaning and significance in his life.
With impeccable comedic timing, stunningly elaborate costumes, and exceptional vocals, Taylor High School successfully brought the story of Pippin to life. The infectious energy radiating from the cast during thrilling numbers like "Magic to Do" and "Morning Glow" magnificently captured the vibrant yet profound essence of the production, inviting the audience into a whimsical world where fantasy and philosophy intertwine.
Justin Hughes embodied the curious and determined spirit of Pippin, seamlessly blending his exceptional acting skills with a captivating voice. His vibrant performance brought the character to life, showcasing a depth of emotion and a dynamic presence that resonated with the audience. From "Corner of the Sky" to "Love Song," Hughes displayed a wide range of emotions, weaving together moments of longing, joy, and introspection.
The Leading Players, brilliantly embodied by Logan Duerk and Hannah Hodge, mesmerized the audience with their flawless comedic timing and extraordinary vocals. Their abilities were showcased separately in songs such as "Glory," yet they both came together nicely in songs such as "Magic to Do." Together, their skills in acting, dancing, and singing created unforgettable moments that resonated with the audience, showcasing their exceptional abilities as both actors and singers. Additionally, Jacklynn Lindsley and Jack Hawkins displayed their dancing abilities as Fastrada and Lewis, respectively. Their dynamic performances showcased not only their dancing talents but also their ability to embody the evil nature of their characters.
The costume crew, led by Rachel Hutson and Hope Schablein, perfectly captured the performance troupe's magical essence while remaining true to aspects of the Middle Ages. The crew did an exceptional job at creating the circus-inspired costumes for the leading players, while also creating time-accurate costumes for characters with more historical background, such as Charlemagne. Additionally, choreography, led by Jacklynn Lindsley, Marci Voss, Georgia Mercer, and Logan Duerk, created a vast amount of dance numbers that highlighted the production's most skilled dancers. From solo tap numbers to emotional ballads, it was clear that this team put time and effort into every dance created.
Overall, Taylor High School's production of Pippin mastered the original aspects of the famous musical while also adding new, improved, and vastly creative elements to every scene.
Review by Ashlyn Fuhrmann, William Henry Harrison High School
Silks float across the stage, sounds of the circus whiz by, a spotlight shines down on a single microphone. Magic has begun at Taylor High School's<cq> whimsical production of
Pippin.
Originally opening on Broadway in 1972, Pippin tells the story of Prince Pippin through a magical performance troupe. Composed by Stephen Schwartz and directed by Bob Fosse, Pippin grapples with the difficult balance of self-fulfillment and desire. This dark comedy shows the true duality of man through the show's begging question: "Where is your 'Corner of the Sky'?"
Taylor High School's production of Pippin skillfully executed the difficult choreography and intricate storytelling of this show. The bold hair and makeup, as well as the complex relationships between characters, brought the show to life in an exciting and awe-inspiring array of color.
Justin Hughes gracefully portrayed the role of Pippin, playing the fine line between childlike innocence and parental maturity with seeming ease. From his articulate facial expressions to his outstanding vocal performance in songs such as "Morning Glow," Hughes constantly brought a sense of wonder to each scene. Controlling the story at each turn was none other than Leading Players Tall and Short, played by Hannah Hodge and Logan Duerk. The pair's larger-than-life performances and stage presence brought the audience into the story through both comedic fourth wall breaks and dramatic narrations. Hodge and Duerk embodied the eccentric personalities of the Leading Players throughout, shining in songs such as "Finale," pushing Pippin towards his ultimatum.
Jacklynn Lindsley perfectly embodied the seemingly naive "ordinary housewife and mother," Fastrada, but proved to be just the opposite as she gives Pippin the opportunity to become king in "Spread a Little Sunshine." Additionally, Lindsley's energy was unmatched throughout the show, as she continued to showcase the deceit of which Fastrada is capable. Charlemagne (Carter Giesting), however, was oblivious to Fastrada's plan. Giesting depicted the unforgiving and cold-hearted king with flair, adding another element of balance to the production, one of war and peace.
Continuing to elevate this already captivating show was the stunning choreography by Jacklynn Lindsley, Marci Voss, Georgia Mercer, and Logan Duerk. The creative use of different styles of dance, from tap to Fosse to traditional jazz, helped to bring a fresh take on this classic production. Additionally, Rachel Hutson and Hope Schablein's costumes further developed the idea of individuality that was spoken throughout the performance, with each actor having a unique piece, allowing them to be a fully formed performer in the troupe.
Given the acrobatic difficulty of this show and the need to consistently balance opposite ideals, this spectacle is a challenge, but Taylor High School proved that it can be simply "Extraordinary," wrapping each element into a perfectly crafted story of finding oneself.
Review by Charlotte Weghorst, Highlands High School Critic Team
Betwixt the shimmering streamers, the clashing of bloody blades, and the sweep of velvet dresses lies the whimsical, yet poignant, tale of Pippin. In this world where firelight flickers, evil stepmothers scheme, and reality blurs with the illusion of theatrics, Taylor High School's production of Pippin transported audiences to a mesmerizing spectacle of ambition, self-discovery, and magic.
The 1972 production, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson, tells the story of Pippin, the wide-eyed and idealistic son of Charlemagne, who returns home determined to find a life of true fulfillment. His journey sweeps him from the blood-soaked chaos of battle, to the fiery passion of rebellion, and finally into a haze of wandering introspection. As he chases his magnified ideas of glory, love, and purpose, the world around him begins to fracture, blurring the lines between grand ambition and hollow illusion.
With dynamic performances, striking visuals, and a story that balances fantasy with the introspection of reality, Taylor High School's production of Pippin clearly took careful attention to detail when constructing a world of ringmasters, aerial feats, and, of course, a sprinkle of fairytale magic.
Justin Hughes played the character of passionate Pippin and expertly portrayed his character's overall development from a naïve, curious scholar to a thoughtful, yet embittered man. In ballads such as "Corner of the Sky" and "Extraordinary," Hughes demonstrated his vocal talent and broad range for such a multifaceted character.
Tall Leading Player and Short Leading Player , portrayed by Hannah Hodge and Logan Duerk respectively, showcased their talents in elaborate numbers such as "Magic To Do" and "Finale." The duo illustrated their aptitude for spectacle with their vocal capabilities, clever attention to detail, and sophisticated dance routines. Finally, Thea Godel portrayed Berthe and demonstrated an innate physical comedy in songs such as "No Time at All."
Choreography by Jacklynn Lindsley, Marci Voss, Georgia Mercer, and Logan Duerk enhanced musical numbers by utilizing multiple dance styles and purposeful movements in order to develop different characters and their individual motivations. Moreover, costumes by Rachel Hutson and Hope Schablein focused on individuality and bold statements, serving as a catalyst for a storyline about coming into one's own. Finally, makeup by Hannah Hodge and Ava Mueller worked with glitter and rhinestones to create a circus-inspired look that added to the fantastical and vivid world they were attempting to build.
Amidst captivating performances, dazzling spectacle, and attention to detail, Taylor High School's production of Pippin reminds us that while the extraordinary may steal the spotlight, sometimes the absolute magic is found in the simplest, most ordinary of acts - just living.
Excerpts From Other Top Review
"Justin Hughes' portrayal of Pippin was dynamic and captivating. Through variations in his physicality and facial expressions, he powerfully expressed Pippin's wide range of emotions throughout the show, from hope to agitation to despair. His warm, resonant vocal tone and skillful breath control made numbers such as the determined ballad 'Corner of the Sky' feel earnest and polished."
-Catherine Foster, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team
"The supporting cast added depth to the production, with standout performances from Thea Godel as the comical grandmother Berthe, and Georgia Mercer as Catherine, the widow who offers Pippin a chance at an ordinary life. Jacklynn Lindsley's portrayal of Fastrada, Pippin's conniving stepmother, was a masterclass in deception and ambition. With a seductive charm and cunning intellect, she manipulated those around her to advance her son Lewis's claim to the throne. Lindsley embodied Fastrada's duplicitous nature, presenting a warm and wonderful mother to Lewis while secretly plotting to secure his future."
-Eva Sarakatsannis, Highlands High School Critic Team
"Additionally, Ava Mueller, the production's set designer, crafted a visually striking set that perfectly captured the whimsical atmosphere of a circus. Her design extended the performance space into the audience with a runway, creating an immersive experience. Additionally, a cleverly constructed platform concealed the live orchestra while adding dimension to the stage, elevating the visual and practical aspects of the performance."
-Anabelle Price, Larry A. Ryle High School Critic Team
"The real masterminds of the show were the Leading Players, brought to life by Hannah Hodge and Logan Duerk. Their dynamic performances breathed life into the production, adding energy and charisma to every scene. With impeccable vocals and distinct interpretations of their roles, Hodge and Duerk each added their own unique flair to the characters, elevating the show and captivating the audience from start to finish."
-Eshanya Kapoor, Larry A. Ryle High School Critic Team
"Unique hairstyles and bold makeup, by Hannah Hodge, transformed the actors on stage into their unique roles and characters. The use of flashing, colorful lights along with the precision and timing of spotlights by Noah Lange and Owen Metz added an impactful amount of vibrance and flair to the stage. Lively dances created by student choreographers Jacklynn Lindsley, Marci Voss, Georgia Mercer, and Logan Duerk were complex, energetic, and wonderfully showcased the talent of on-stage performers."
-Logan Dunn, Saint Ursula Academy Critic Team
"The actors shone from head to toe with dazzling costumes and eye-catching makeup. Rachel Hutson and Hope Schablein created looks that captured the magic of the show, while still representing the specific struggles and identities of the characters. Specifically, Fastrada's blue bodysuit left the audience in awe, staring in a subtle robe as she flung it aside to reveal a shimmering navy bodysuit that captured the boldness of the character perfectly."
Emily Benight, William Henry Harrison High School Critic Team
"Though the search for identity and fulfillment is full of bumpy twists and turns, Pippin is a compelling example of what amazing things you can find if you keep looking for long enough. The line separating dreams and delusions is as thin as a tightrope, but Taylor High School's cast and crew walked along it with finesse in this gleaming production."
Ella Adams, Mercy McAuley High School Critic Team
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