Pippin
at Friends Select School

Reviewed on November 18, 2023

Shreya Vaidhyanathan
Conestoga High School
Submitted for publication to Philadelphia Inquirer - Wordpress Site #1

"Rivers belong where they can ramble, eagles belong where they can fly" and you belong in the audience of Friends Select School's production of Pippin! A hardworking cast and crew told their rendition of the classic tale, transporting audience members to their "Corner of the Sky."

The 1972 musical, originally directed by Bob Fosse on Broadway with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson, follows young Pippin through his journey to find his life's purpose. His father, King Charlemagne, does not understand his plight, leading Pippin to forge his own path and encounter new people and experiences along the way.

Atia Osborne (Leading Player) was incredible in her narrator-esque role, her stage presence staying consistent from beginning to end. Osborne's vocals were unmatched, particularly standing out in "Glory" and "Finale." Olukayode Ekundare (Pippin) also delivered a spectacular performance, showcasing both his acting and vocal ranges throughout the musical. His chemistry and rich blend with Clara Gluzdov (Catherine) during their enchanting duet "Love Song" created a genuine onstage presence.

Equally impressive were Sarah Gorenstein (Fastrada) and Sam Goldwert (Berthe), both of whom brought exceptional energy to their roles. Goldert's comedic timing was perfect, garnering laughs and audience participation during their song "No Time at All." Gorenstein played the evil-stepmother part to a T, and also showcased her dance talent during choreographed numbers. Patrick Ryan (Lewis) and Chance Fries (Charles) were also hilarious, using props like golden armor and capes to expand their characters.

The lively ensemble of Friend Select's Pippin was dedicated to their roles, creating a dynamic mood onstage. Cal Hawkins (Player) gave a standout performance during his time onstage, amusing the audience with scripted mishaps and showing off his vocals with a harmony. In addition, the complex choreography made countless scenes entertaining.

Rounding off the cast's talents was a variety of technical elements, ranging from props to sets. The special effects fog during the "Finale" number was the perfect addition to the intense moment.

All in all, Friends Select's production of Pippin was "Extraordinary," and the audience's roaring applause by the end made it clear that this performance was impossible to pass up. Thank you, cast and crew of Friends Select!

Danity Pike
Episcopal Academy
Submitted for publication to Philadelphia Inquirer - Wordpress Site #2

Sets! Lights! Costumes! This is the "extraordinary" world of "Pippin," recently presented by Friends Select School. This production featured talented lead actors, an enthusiastic ensemble, and effective technical elements.

The 1972 original production of "Pippin" features music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Roger O. Hirson, and direction by Bob Fosse. The musical started on Broadway, winning four Tony Awards and later four more in the 2013 Broadway revival. "Pippin" follows the story of a young man, Pippin, searching for meaning and adventure. The Leading Player, guiding a traveling group of entertainers, personifies this story and often breaks the fourth wall.

Opening the show with "Magic to Do," Atia Osborne commanded the stage as the Leading Player. Her melodic vocals and Bob Fosse-inspired movements enticingly introduced the mood of the show. Later, her powerful belts in "Simple Joys" showcased her wide vocal range. Despite her demanding time onstage, Osborne remained focused in every scene with an active stage presence.

Olukayode Ekundare put his own spin on the lead role of Pippin with naturally delivered lines and attention-grabbing vocals. He ambitiously faced difficult numbers like "Extraordinary" with a clear and resonant voice, sustaining high belts and complex dance movements. Additionally, Ekundare displayed a wide range of emotions through his facial expressions and genuine interactions with the other characters.

Sarah Gorenstein provided a believable performance of Fastrada, accompanying her fluid dance movements with sass in "Spread a Little Sunshine." Her deceiving plans for the number were shown with knowing looks to the audience and bold mannerisms. Supporting Pippin as his love interest, Clara Gluzdov (Catherine) sang with a strong falsetto and emotional versatility.

The Players of "Pippin" rose to the challenge of elaborate choreography, giving it their best effort. To persevere through the complicated movements, the ensemble sang energetically with blended harmonies in songs such as "Morning Glow" and "Entr'acte." A standout performance was Cal Hawkins, who contributed comic relief to scenes through excellent comedic timing.

The production's stage manager, Aaron Operhall, consistently communicated well-timed cues throughout the entire show. Operhall allowed the actors to shine with no noticeable mistakes in the lighting or sound. Each scene transitioned smoothly with Friend Select's Stage Crew. Although certain set changes were clumsy, the removal of tech in the "Finale" was polished, adding to the rawness of the final scene.

"Pippin" is a difficult show for a high school to conquer, but Friends Select School put a edicated effort toward making the show magical - "spreading a little sunshine" along the way!

Sean Scott
Friends' Central School
Submitted for publication to Cappies Website #3

Adventure, aspiration, and self-discovery -- these themes marked Friends Select's lively performance of "Pippin." The cast put on an engaging show filled with talent that surely earned its own "corner of the sky."

Pippin is a fictional account of the life of Pippin, the son of King Charlemagne. The book was written by Roger O. Hirson and music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, and it premiered on Broadway in 1972.

Struggling to find his place in the world, Pippin decides to join the army and fight in a war against his father's enemies. Still being unfulfilled, he is led far and wide by the Leading Player to find what will finally satisfy his longing for purpose. In the end, he falls in love with a widow named Catherine and realizes he is content to live his life with her and her son, Theo.

Overall the production was quite good. The ensemble brought great energy to the show, especially towards the end of Act One and throughout Act Two. There were many skilled singers that brought the songs and the show to life. The cohesiveness of the cast was evident throughout the performance.

The leads both had wonderful vocals and impressive stage presence that carried the story forward. Atia Osborne as the Leading Player excellently played her demanding role complete with music, dancing, and narration. She was very comfortable on stage and kept the audience engaged, especially with songs like "Simple Joys." Olukayode Ekundare as Pippin was equally as excellent, and his performances of "Corner of the Sky" and "Extraordinary" received much applause. He also effectively portrayed Pippin's emotional arc and character development over the course of the play. Ekundare and Osborne's duet "On the Right Track" was also memorable.

Sarah Gorenstein, who played Pippin's stepmother, Fastrada, had a noteworthy performance as well. Her song "Spread a Little Sunshine" was very well done, accompanied by her lively dancing. Clara Gluzdov, who played Catherine, also did a commendable job. She and Pippin had great dynamics throughout their scenes, especially during "Love Song."

The technical aspects of the show only added to the magic of the performance. The mics were always on and working, ensuring that the actors were audible at all times. The colors of the lights were nicely used to complement and enhance the different moods on stage. Although there were a few awkward set changes, the relatively simple set was used well, and there was great use of space throughout the show.

Friends Select's "Pippin" was a successful show that showcased the collective talent of the cast.

Margot Shea
Friends' Central School
Submitted for publication to Cappies Website #4

A world of color, circus performers, and enthusiastic numbers, is not nearly a fair enough way to describe the wonderful world of Pippin. Friends Select School put on a solid performance of the show this weekend. The musical, written by Roger O. Hirson and Stephen Schwartz in 1972, is creative and energetic, and includes a unique breaking of the fourth wall numerous times. It received praise upon release and swept the Tony awards.

Set in a world of circus and magic, Pippin follows the journey of prince Pippin (Olukayode Ekundare), who is searching for more meaning in his life. He fights battles, faces challenges in relationships, and meets a fantastical traveling performance troupe, which is led by the mischievous Leading Player (Atia Osborne).

Olukayode Ekundare consistently brought strong vocals and high energy and played a convincing Pippin. As his character faced strenuous challenges, Ekundare provided a depth of emotion through his acting. Atia Osborne brought magic and high energy to the stage with her confidence and dedication to her character, the Leading Player.

The ensemble and supporting actors contributed to the show greatly and added magic. Leah Pessin and Cal Hawkins were standouts for their stage presence. Chance Fries, who played the role of King Charlemagne, was amusing and entertaining, and was a good representation of his character. Sarah Gorenstein who played Fastrada, the sassy stepmother of Pippin, was consistent in her dancing and snappy energy. She was a joy to watch and helped bring up the energy of the whole cast. Though the ensemble's choreography was difficult, the members rose to the challenge. Their vocals were satisfactory and enjoyable to hear.

The sound for this show was exceptional and very dependable. There was little to no struggle to hear or understand any of the cast members. Scene changes were clean and efficient. The set was minimal, but it got the job done. The use of the fog machine added to the final scene and was a fun addition.

Pippin is a very difficult musical to put on for a high school, but Friends Select put on a pleasant performance.