Director's Note
PIPPIN is one of those quintessential shows that every actor does at some point in their career. It’s been a staple since the 70s and has seen amazing performers and so many versions of the show, most recently with an amazing revival on Broadway with Cirque-level performances.
PIPPIN can be anything; that is why it fits so well for Phamaly. It is a coming-of-age tale, but can be envisioned with experimental styles, classical choreography, or what we’ve done here. It does not allow society to tell us where we belong, but instead it says we need to find our “Corner of the Sky.” I think that's what we all strive for. Where do we fit? What’s *my* journey?
Within our production, we wanted to create an unusual family, but a family nonetheless. Our troop of carnival workers consists of different generations of people who have all found their way to our traveling show, where they are welcomed and embraced for their unique skills. Everyone here has a job and a story of how they got here.
Each night, our carnival chooses a show to perform for the VIPs who dare stay after hours in our big top. Tonight, we perform PIPPIN. The players will draw for roles, and on any given night, who knows what could happen.
It’s a little bit dangerous and a little unpredictable, but this Phamaly brings to life a tale that offers us a chance to connect, to feel, and to discover that there is wonder and art in the world, no matter what challenges we face.
Thank you for joining us. After all, we have “Magic to Do” just for you!
Robert Michael Sanders
Director
