MOSCOW, ID — The University of Idaho Department of Theatre Arts will present the Tony Award-winning musical “Pippin” beginning Thursday, Oct. 30, at the Hartung Theater, 625 Stadium Drive. The production, directed and choreographed by Jess Hirsh, assistant professor of musical theatre, marks the department’s first show to feature aerial arts in collaboration with the Gem State Flyers.
The production opens with a preview at 7:30 p.m. Oct. 30, followed by additional performances Oct. 31 and Nov. 1 at 7:30 p.m., Nov. 2 at 2 p.m., Nov. 7 and 8 at 7:30 p.m., and a final matinee Nov. 9 at 2 p.m. Tickets are available at uitickets.com, with free admission for U of I students and prices ranging from $6 to $26 for the public.
Written by Stephen Schwartz, creator of “Wicked,” “Pippin” follows a young prince’s search for meaning through battle, pleasure and power, only to learn that fulfillment may be found in life’s quieter moments. “Pippin is a young man who is trying to figure out what to do with his life, and he feels pressured to identify the most perfect, extraordinary choice — but to what end?” said Hirsh. “I know that is something that many folks in our campus community can relate to.”
Cale Wilponen, a sophomore theatre performance major, stars in the title role. “This is by far the most physically and mentally demanding role I have ever performed,” Wilponen said. “But after a year of support from my professors and peers, I plan to go on that stage every night and do everything I can to create the best experience possible for my cast mates, designers, crew, director and audiences.”
The show also coincides with the launch of the department’s new Bachelor of Fine Arts emphasis in musical theatre, which will allow students to focus on one of the fastest-growing areas of the industry.
For more information on upcoming productions, visit go.uidaho.edu/theatre-productions.
