Story & photos by Samantha Gaynor a junior at Coral Glades High School and the Publicity Designer for PIPPIN. Additional photos by Cheri Tishman
Coral Glades High School Drama Department had magic to do and they, indeed, delivered. With their late February production of “Pippin,” the cast and crew performed synchronized choreography and delicate harmonies all while telling the poignant story of a prince trying to find his “Corner of the Sky.”
“Everyone, at some point in their life, is trying to find their corner of the sky,” director Kristina Johnson said. “Working on this show with my students allowed us all to learn more about finding who we are and also put together a magical show for our audience.”
“Pippin” follows the namesake of the show, played by senior Daniel Lemache, who searches for meaning as he tries his hand at kingship, battle, and love. The musical is narrated by the Leading Player, played by sophomore Sophia Young, who manipulates the situations thus presenting an entertaining show to her audience; complete with elaborate choreography, lighting, and sound effects.
“It’s really interesting to play somebody like Leading Player because I’m nothing like her,” Young said. “I love getting to show a demanding, sassy, manipulative side. I’m so grateful for the opportunity to play this role and it’s been such a great learning experience for me.”
Pippin’s search for meaning is only intensified with Coral Glades Drama Department’s search for a theater to call their own. The school was opened 11 years ago without an auditorium so the drama department has taken their traveling Troupe to various high schools in the district, the outdoor grassy area behind the school, and even the cafeteria. “Pippin” was performed u=in mid-February at J.P. Taravella for three evening shows and a matinee performance.
“It can be difficult to move theaters because we have to relearn the moves in a completely different setting,” Johnson said. “We’ve been able to manage, but it’s definitely a little more of a challenge.”
Despite this obstacle, Coral Glades Drama Department has consistently managed to produce award-winning shows, including their superior rated one act, “Roots of Red” which they will bring to the State competition in March. The Troupe hopes to garner even more awards for “Pippin”, this newest addition to their repertoire. High school critics, called Cappies (Critics and Awards Program) will attend, submit reviews for the show, and then nominate actors and technical crew members for different positions, such as Best Supporting Actor or Makeup Design. In May, a gala takes place where the winner for each category is announced.
Curious Savage will be their next show and is currently scheduled for April 16-18 at Coral Glades High School.
