Cappies Review: Robinson Secondary School's 'Pippin'

FAIRFAX, VA — Have you ever felt sure that you're different from everyone around you? While they lead their ordinary lives, you're destined for something more, something extraordinary. If you've ever thought this, you have something in common with the star of Robinson Secondary School's production of Pippin.

Pippin, with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson, was originally a student production at Carnegie Mellon University. It premiered on Broadway in 1972 and enjoyed a revival in 2013.

The musical uses a circus-style performing troupe to tell the story of Pippin, the son of Charlemagne, as he searches for fulfillment and meaning in life. The medieval setting coupled with the meta-theatrical players provide a unique experience.

The musical's grand scale demands an equally grand production value, and Robinson Secondary School happily obliged. Lights, sets, and costumes worked together to make a visually stunning spectacle, and the ensemble of talented performers never missed a beat.

The story is guided by the comical, fourth wall-breaking Leading Player, played by Hanna Kornell. With abundant stage presence, hilarious facial expressions, and a strong voice, Kornell was a force to be reckoned with as her Leading Player commanded the stage. Assuming the titular role of Pippin was Colin Diggs, who certainly did the character justice.

Diggs' portrayal was both confident and sympathetic, and his voice filled the auditorium in the soaring 'I want' song "Corner of the Sky."Each supporting cast member brought their own energy to the table. Pippin's father, King Charles (Jimmy Grimes), had flawless comedic timing. Pippin's grandmother, Berthe (Sam Wallington), was a crowd favorite as she led a sing-along of the incredibly fun "No Time at All."

Jordan James played Catherine, Pippin's romantic interest, in a pleasant, down to earth way. In addition, James and Diggs acted well as a unit, bringing their characters' humorous and sweet relationship to life. But perhaps more impressive than any one individual or couple was how the cast performed as an ensemble. Whether they were singing, dancing, fighting, or doing all at once, the troupe members struck a perfect balance between moving as a whole and making personal character choices. They wowed the audience with their synchronized movements in dance and gymnastics. Every song was a joy to witness, and as a result each number was met with thunderous applause and cheers at its conclusion.

The task of creating the colorful world that Pippin lives in fell to crew members. Even from before the show started the atmosphere was palpable, with lights and projections shining on the semi-circular stage. The costumes also added a visual flair, with each performer wearing a unique yet equally vibrant outfit.

Sets were used sparingly but effectively to create beautiful stage pictures throughout the show. The crew that put all these technical aspects together deserves commendation for making Pippin so visually pleasing.

With its medieval characters played by circus performers in a somehow modern way, Pippin is a strange show. However, Robinson Secondary School didn't let that deter anybody. With competent leads, a strong ensemble cast and stunning visuals, the magic promised at the beginning of the show was definitely delivered.

Review by Alec Reusch of George Mason High School

Photo: Rich Condit