Published March 15. 2023 12:09PM
by ED COURRIER Special to The Press
Catasauqua High School Drama Club brings back the Middle Ages with performances of “Pippin,” set for 7 p.m. March 17 and 18 and 2 p.m. March 19 at the school, 2500 W. Bullshead Road, Northampton.
John Leiderman, director, is assisted by Marissa Brewer, assistant director/choreographer; Greg Snider, music director; and Robert Arnold, orchestra director.
In the tale told by the Leading Player, head of a mysterious performance troupe, Pippin is a prince searching for meaning and significance. The young prince and his father, Charlemagne, are loosely based on real-life characters from medieval history.
The 1972 Broadway premiere was directed by Bob Fosse, with the musical nominated for 11 Tony Awards and receiving five. The 2013 Broadway revival was nominated for 10 Tony Awards, receiving four.
“Our goal is to show you that there is a little bit of Pippin in us all,” Leiderman said.
For further information, cost and tickets, visit chsdramatickets.com.
PRESS PHOTOS BY ED COURRIER Pippin, played by Aidan Heil, in front, receives military instruction from his father, Charlemagne, played by Adyn Wellington, as they march to “War Is a Science” during a recent rehearsal of “Pippin” by the Catasauqua High School Drama Club. Performances are planned for 7 p.m. March 17 and 18 and 2 p.m. March 19 at CHS, 2500 W. Bullshead Road, Northampton. For tickets, cost and other information, visit chsdramatickets.com.
At right, Fastrada, played by Emily Eisenhard, sings “Spread a Little Sunshine” to her son Lewis, played by Jillian LaPointe, during a recent rehearsal of “Pippin” by the Catasauqua High School Drama Club. Performances are set for 7 p.m. March 17 and 18 and 2 p.m. March 19 at CHS, 2500 W. Bullshead Road, Northampton.
The Leading Player, performed by Angelina Dries, in front, and the performance troupe kick off the musical with “Magic to Do.”
Pippin, played by Aidan Heil, sings a solo titled “Corner of the Sky.”
In front, Pippin's grandmother Berthe, performed by Kaelynn DeJesus, sings “No Time At All.” She is accompanied by, from left, students Elisa Osorto, Maryellen Schlegel and Eisenhard.
Pippin (Heil) is flanked by featured dancers Osorto (left) and Eisenhard as he sings “With You.”
