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South Simcoe Theatre’s production of ‘Pippin’ – a rollicking fun time

May 8, 2025   ·   0 Comments

By Brian Lockhart

A young man searches for fulfillment and a purpose in life in the South Simcoe Theatre’s production of “Pippin.”

This classic musical first hit the stage on Broadway in 1972.

Based on the book by Roger O. Hirson with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, the South Simcoe Theatre production is directed by Scott Hurst with music direction by Colin Frotten.

The stage is set during the reign of Charlemagne, the Holy Roman Emperor. His son Pippin, has just graduated from university and has returned home.

In the role of the leading player, Lindsay Stephen acts as a kind of narrator throughout the play and speaks not only to other actors, but she breaks the fourth wall several times and speaks to the audience.

Carolyn Nettleton takes on the role of Pippin. After graduating, Pippin seems lost, but determined to find his purpose in life.

After consulting with his father Charlemagne, Pippin decides that fighting in battle is a worthy activity.

A battle scene is creatively portrayed through the use of a shadow box.

Afterwards, Pippin decides that killing is just not something he wants to do.

Pippin’s father Charlemagne, played by Mark Vina, seems indifferent to his son’s activities or future.

However, Charlemagne’s wife Fastrada, played by Krissy Hutchens, has other plans for her son and Pippin’s half-brother.

In the role of Lewis, Tyler Baillie, is eager to one day assume the throne, but he may not really have what it takes to assume the role of Emperor.

Enter Berthe – Pippin’s grandmother. In the role of Berthe, Judi Erickson offers advice to Pippin, but also maintains a playful personality.

Pippin’s search for meaning takes him to a rural area, where by chance, he meets a young widow.

Nicole Strawbridge takes on the role of Catherine, a widow who lives with her son on a farm.

Catherine’s son, Theo, is having a difficult time after his pet duck dies, and Pippin tries to help him get through it.

Pippin must decide if staying on the farm and living that lifestyle is the purpose he has been looking for.

This is a full-blown musical production with a talented cast and incredible costumes. The orchestra is highly professional and does an incredible job all the way through the production.

On top of the main cast, there is a full complement of supporting players who really make this production come alive.

Costume designer Sandi LaPlante has done an incredible job of recreating the clothing of the time period.

The South Simcoe Theatre’s production of Pippin is a fun, rollicking presentation that is highly polished and suitable for the entire family.

Pippin is on stage at the South Simcoe Theatre’s Cookstown stage through to May 18, with Friday and Saturday evening performances and Sunday matinees.

For tickets, visit the website at: www.southsimcoetheatre.com. 

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