Sept. 29, 2014

Contact Matt Campbell at 608-796-3766 or mscampbell@viterbo.edu

VITERBO UNIVERSITY TO PRESENT PIPPIN OCT. 10–12

LA CROSSE, Wis. – The Viterbo University theatre and music theatre program will present the Tony Award-winning musical Pippin, Friday, Oct. 10–Sunday, Oct. 12 in the Fine Arts Center Main Theatre.

Pippin is the inspiring musical comedy with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson about a young prince searching for fulfillment and meaning in life. After seeking glory and significance in battle, politics, and other places, Pippin realizes that he will be most happy with a simple and ordinary life.

“Pippin features Fosse-inspired and original choreography, singing, magic, and grand spectacle performed by an immensely talented cast and crew of Viterbo students,” said Matthew Scott Campbell, the Viterbo faculty member who is directing the production. “It’s a really poignant story we’re trying to tell, in an extraordinarily interesting way.”

The original Broadway production of Pippin won five Tony Awards in 1973. The 2013 revival won four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical. Pippin is one of the most popular musicals of all time.

“I think the music has a lot to do with the popularity of Pippin” Campbell said. “Schwartz (of Wicked fame) wrote the music very early in his career and it reflects the musical theatre and popular music genres of the early 1970’s while maintaining relevance. Additionally, the story is about the journey of finding fulfillment and the search to be extraordinary. A journey so many of us can identify with, particularly college students.”

Campbell is joined by fellow faculty members Nancy Allen, the music director for the production, and Shane Rhoades, who is serving as the choreographer.

 Performance times are 7:30 p.m. Oct. 10–11 and 2 p.m. Oct. 12. This performance is part of Viterbo’s 2014–15 Bright Star Season and is sponsored by La Crosse Radio Group. It contains language and themes appropriate for mature audiences.

Pippin was originally produced on the Broadway stage by Stuart Ostrow and was directed by Bob Fosse. The Theo ending was originally conceived in 1998 by Mitch Sebastian. It is presented through special arrangement with Music Theatre International (MTI). All authorized performance materials are also supplied by MTI. 421 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019.

Tickets are $23 for main floor, $20 for lower balcony, and $17 for upper balcony seating. For more information or to order tickets, contact the Viterbo box office at 608-796-3100 or visit www.viterbo.edu/tickets.

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