Pippin

Musical

Writers: Roger O. Hirson Stephen Schwartz

Overview

Show Information

Category
Musical
Number of Acts
2
First Produced
1972
Genres
Dark Comedy, Fairy Tale/Fantasy
Settings
Multiple Settings
Time & Place
england, middle ages (although deliberately historically inaccurate)
Cast Size
medium
Orchestra Size
Large
Dancing
Some Dance
Ideal for
College/University, Community Theatre, Diverse Cast, Ensemble Cast, Mature Audiences, Professional Theatre, Regional Theatre
Casting Notes
Mostly male cast
Includes young adult, adult, mature adult, elderly, child characters

Synopsis

As told by a traveling troupe of actors led by the cunning and charming Leading Player, Pippin is the story of a young prince, heir to the throne, who is searching for his own “corner of the sky.” Pippin returns from university certain that he will find a fulfilling purpose in life. As encouraged by the Leading Player, Pippin dabbles in bloody battle, licentious and lusty sexual entanglements, and saavy political maneuvers, only to discover that true happiness is more complicated than he thought. With infectious tunes by Stephen Schwartz and classic choreography from Bob Fosse, Pippin is both a humorous allegory about growing up and a dark tale of the danger of false appearances and empty promises.

Lead Characters

Pippin guide sections