Following two incredibly successful NODA nominated productions in 2022 (Shrek and Little Red), the Quay Players once again return to the Greenwood Theatre to perform the Tony award-winning Pippin. The group take to the stage 13th-15th July.
Pippin tells the story of a young prince searching for meaning in life, whether that be through pursuing his passions, going to war, exploring his sexuality, or even murdering his own father. He is navigated through this turbulent journey by a fourth wall-breaking theatre troupe called the Players, spearheaded by the aptly named Leading Player. From the Players come a magnificent ensemble of supporting roles, who continue to guide Pippin to a mystifying finale, fulfilling a range of maternal, romantic and tyrannical roles in order to do so.
Pippin’s music and lyrics were written by Oscar and Grammy Award-winning songwriter, Stephen Schwartz (Godspell, Wicked), and its script by Roger O. Hirson. The original production, directed by Bob Fosse, whose style choreographers Zoe Stockwell and Emma Mitchell emulate consistently and exceedingly well, was bathed in the fantastical and outrageous. Quay Player’s 2023 production adheres to this tradition, embracing the theatrical and absurd nature of the show.
During the rehearsal process, Sophie Stockwell, director, declares her enthusiasm for putting on this lesser-known musical: ‘It’s exciting, it’s funny, it’s silly and it’s dark – all my favourite things. It’s a bit of an epic to take on but with this creative team and with the talent at Quay Players, I’m so excited to see what we can create together.’
Supported by Joe Cryan, Musical Director, and Alex Finch, Assistant Director, the creative team’s casting decisions and collaborative directorial style especially supports the absurdity and fluidity of the show. Opting for a gender-blind casting for a majority of the roles relays the idea that it truly doesn’t matter who Pippin, or in fact any of the Players are played by, as they are bound to replaced, just as Pippin is replaced by Theo at the musical’s close.
Greenwood Theatre Thursday, July 13th – 19:30
Friday, July 14th – 19:30
Saturday, July 15th – 14:30 and 19:30
Admission: £20, £18.
Booking: On the door or online via quayplayers.org.uk/tickets/
