The cast and crew of USC School of Dramatic Arts’ Pippin have prepared tirelessly since August for their opening night this Friday at the Bing Theatre. Working from
6-10 p.m. after a full load of classes, the students are dedicated to bringing the story to life.
“We’re close to the finish line — or opening night — and [the cast’s] excitement starts to build, which compensates for fatigue,” said co-director Scott Faris.
Pippin tells the story of a young prince with a powerful father, brought to life by an “acrobatic” ensemble. The performers portray Pippin’s coming-of-age story, filled with adventure, revolution, love and, of course, music.
From the composer of Wicked, Pippin is “a story about a young person finding his way and making choices–a pretty universal theme for all people growing up,” said Faris.
Students from different SDA programs are featured in roles ranging from theatrical design to musical theatre. Ensemble member Berri Harris, a senior studying musical theatre, said that even though it’s a busy schedule, her team is “super passionate about the show, loves the music and loves the story.”
“And so it’s just been fun to put it on,” she said.
Faris raved about the hard work of the cast and crew over the past few months: “These guys are super talented.”
Students worked alongside co-director Faris, who is a professor and head of stage management in SDA, and Director and Choreographer Dana Solimando.
Solimando is an outside professional who choreographed countless productions including Rent, which SDA is putting on next semester.
“We’ll audition January 8, that first week next semester. It’s a crazy time, it’s fun and it’s exciting,” Faris said.
Harris described her love for the show: “the music is amazing, and this story is kind of abstract, which is really cool because the audience can interpret it how they want to.”
“I think that people will be entertained from beginning to end,” she said.
Pippin runs from October 27 through November 5, with live-streamed and recorded options from November 4-12. Tickets are $22.