October 17, 2024
Green Mountain Valley School (GMVS), renowned for its commitment to both competitive ski racing and academic excellence, will present the musical Pippin, October 24-26. This captivating 1972 Tony Award-winning musical tells the story of one young person’s pursuit of doing something extraordinary with their life. Join us at GMVS’s Dave Gavett Theater for this highly-anticipated event.
Based on the 2013 Broadway Revival version, Pippin is set under a traveling circus top, where a group of circus players tell the story of historical figure King Charlemagne’s son, Pippin, as he explores the meaning of life in the Middle Ages. Directed by Vermont native Nick Caycedo, who brings a wealth of experience and creative imagination to campus each fall, Pippin features Stephen Schwartz’s iconic, folk-inspired score (composer of Godspell and Wicked) and integrates heightened theatricality, Fosse-style dance, and circus artistry that will enchant and inspire the GMVS community to new heights.
To prepare for Pippin, GMVS hosted a three-day circus camp led by another Vermont native, Eric Bates, a world-renowned circus artist and Guinness World Record holder. Bates, the son of Jen Robillard, GMVS’s Assistant Academic Director and Language Teacher, is recognized globally as one of the top cigar box jugglers. His dynamic teaching style energized the group, encouraging them to embrace the physical and creative challenges of circus arts. His visit added an exciting new dimension to the students’ ability to bring the story of Pippin to life.
“We are immensely proud of the hard work and passion our students have shown during the preparation for this year’s production,” said Tracy Keller, Head of School. “Theater has always been a vital part of the GMVS experience, beginning with Dave Gavett’s inaugural production of Godspell. This year’s performance of Pippin will showcase the creativity and dedication that we aim to achieve across all of our programs.”
The story of Pippin captures each student’s pursuit of a meaningful life. In fact, the first time GMVS presented Pippin, back in 1980, it starred GMVS alumus Doug Lewis ‘82 as the Leading Player. Lewis went on to find his “extraordinary” as a two-time Olympian (‘84 & ‘88) and two-time U.S. downhill champion. Don’t miss your chance to experience this unforgettable production and support the extraordinary young players of Green Mountain Valley School.