A tyrannical father, an intense battle, a dying duck, and a scheming stepmother. These are just a few obstacles young Pippin faced on his journey to find life’s purpose. Performed live in front of a packed audience, Farmingdale Playcrafter’s rendition of the Tony Award-winning musical Pippin was a bewitching production that teeters the line between reality and magic.
“Pippin is one of the favorite musicals of all time,” said Farmingdale High School Director Ms. Jessica Mischke. “We pour our hearts into the performances and are especially excited to perform Pippin exactly 50 years since it premiered on Broadway!”
The stellar cast, which featured several NYSSMA-honored musicians, dazzled the audience throughout the entire ominous musical. Senior Rebecca Kenjesky was the ultimate ring leader, playing the charming and manipulative Leading Player. Freshman William Herbert starred as Pippin, the story's young and confused protagonist, longing to find his purpose in life.
“Rebecca is a musical theatre powerhouse. When she is on stage, she completely transforms into Leading Player with a captivating and compelling performance,” said Farmingdale High School Director, Ms. Jessica Mischke. “William is an outstanding vocalist/actor, and I have a hard time believing that he is only a freshman. His skills are far beyond his years, and he approached the role of Pippin with such maturity, depth, and heart.”
Pippin’s demanding father, Charles, King of the Holy Roman Empire, was played by sophomore Bobby Silverstein. Fastrada, the beautiful conniving stepmother, was played by senior Trinity Babino. Senior Molly Keena played the hopelessly romantic widow and mother, Catherine. Pippin's saucy grandmother, full of wisdom, grace, and sass, was played by senior Gabriella Stein. Freshman Devin Williams played Theo, Catherine’s small, lovable son. Senior Eamonn McLoughlin played Pippin’s strong, dim-witted, egotistic half-brother Lewis. Rounding out the cast were the omnipresent players, Abigail Almonte, Clay Bany, Allison Banz, Hailey Batista, Gil Bitsimis, Nova Bulin, Kiley Cacace, Kaylin Cleere, Alex Cosentino, Grace Curcio, Gianna DiDio, Anthony DiPaolo, Cathryn Doran, Emily Gaba, Sofia Grago, Makai Jones, Kairi Knudsen, Emma Kurtz, Ava Lanot, Theresa Lazicky, Nick Lin, Ryan Loughlin, Joseph Magazzo, Ryan Marbit, Bella McDonald, Vincent Mei, Addison Moller, Ava Monteleone, Alexa Nazario, Carly Paine, Angelina Pascutto, Ash Pinna, Maddie Rotbart, Giana Saginario, Lily Sclafani, Skylar Studdert, Nick Suwalski, Ryan Sweeney, Ava Vaden, Isabella Winter, and Ava Zimic.
Pippin demands intense emotion from its actors, but no musical production would be complete without a reliable, talented production staff. Pit Conductor Mr. Ed Kozlowski led the orchestra, assisted by Mrs. Pat Facchiano, while Ms. Jamie Capasso and Mr. Erik Chocianowski headed design and construction. Lastly, Mr. Joseph Hasset, Mrs. Cherie Dreyfus, and Mr. Corey Sterler managed lighting and sound.
Director Jessica Mischke and Assistant Director/Choreographer Erik Mischke’s presentation of Pippin was an extraordinary tale about finding pleasure in the ordinary things in life. A truly important message to remember as we embark upon the holiday season.