EMPORIA — Rachel Muirhead of Hays is part of the Emporia State University Homecoming musical, “Pippin.”
First produced on Broadway in 1972, the show with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (of “Wicked” and “Godspell” fame) and book by Roger O. Hirson recently completed a successful national tour after a celebrated and award-winning New York revival in 2013.
“Pippin” presents a timely and powerful message about finding your place in a confusing world that is filled with possibilities. The story follows young prince Pippin (the son of Charlemagne) who is on a quest for an extraordinary life but is wrapped up in politics, war, family squabbles and love. “Pippin” also feature a mysterious and enchanting troupe of performers who help to tell the story. Led by a mysterious Leading Player, they sing, dance, perform acrobatics and magic tricks as they advance the action of the musical.
A senior, Muirhead plays Catherine.
Jim Bartruff is directing “Pippin,” his 12th ESU Homecoming musical. Co-directing is Lindy Bartruff, who is also the choreographer.
“This is a musical about doing a musical. At this stage in my career it seemed we could look back on and reflect over everything we’ve done together,” Jim Bartruff said. “And when you get an opportunity to do a show with great music, with a strong story to tell and that is about something you love doing, you have to take it on.”
The show features the scenic and lighting designs of Nancy Pontius with costumes designed by Susan Williams. It is under the technical direction of Chris Lohkamp with Amanda Dura as the costume shop manager. Penelope Speedie returns as the music director with Stephen Holbert as her assistant music director. The production pianist is Melinda Groves.
The Homecoming musical is the first show of the season and institutes ESU Theatre’s new ticketing policy. The new policy centers around advance ticket sales. Tickets purchased in advance will offer a substantial savings over tickets purchased at the door. Advance sale tickets for the homecoming musical will be $15 for Premium seats (center section), $12 for second tier seats (side sections) and $8 for student tickets (side sections). Tickets purchased at the door will increase to $20 for premium seats, $15 for second tier seats and $12 for student tickets in the second tier.
Tickets for all ESU Theatre productions can be purchased online at tickets.emporia.edu. Tickets are also available in person from the University Ticket Office in the Memorial Union or by calling 620-341-6378.
“Pippin” will play in the Karl C. Bruder Theatre in King Hall (1301 Market Street) at 7:30 PM Oct. 18-20, 2018 with a matinee performance at 2 p.m. Oct. 21.