If you’re looking for some entertainment this weekend or next, University Theatre is showing the musical “Pippin.”

Jonah Kahn | jonah.kahn@ahsyedku-edu

“Pippin” tells the story of a recent college grad as he tries to find his purpose in life.

Cast members gave an inside look on the show and the rehearsal process. 

The cast rehearses Monday through Friday, around 24 hours each week, to bring the production to life. 

Freshman Jacobi Robinson plays the title role, putting him in a leadership position. He navigates this with ease. 

“I’ve just been trying to spread my kindness to literally anyone I can,” Robinson said. “I know that some of the days can be a little long, so trying to keep everyone’s spirits up along that process has been my goal so far.”

Director Jim Dick added a modern take on the story that makes the show feel a bit eerie.

Senior Anna Shelton said the audience can expect to be a little uncomfortable but to sit into that. 

As a senior, entering her last show at KU feels surreal, but is well-equipped to give critiques to her friends, being both the dance captain and assistant choreographer. 

“I feel like I have a pretty good, like, balance with that, and, I mean, I have a lot of respect for everyone, so they all respect me, so when I give them, like, critiques or corrections, they’re all very receptive,” Shelton said.

Being in the ensemble along with the dance captain and assistant choreographer means she is in charge of the fight call and lift call before each run of the show to make sure all performers feel comfortable and safe with challenging movements. 

Technical elements like lighting, set design and a live pit orchestra are other ways KU students can be involved with the production. 

Both Shelton and Robinson look forward to opening the show on April 11. They both know to soak up and enjoy the performances before that final curtain falls. 
If you’re interested in seeing the show, tickets can be purchased at https://kutheatre.com/pippin