Magic to Do: A Pippin Review

by Ashley Hothan

Pippin, Lincoln Community Playhouse, Friday April 17, 2026

Lincoln Community Playhouse has produced yet another hit show with Pippin: a fantastical musical with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz (of Wicked fame) and book by Roger O. Hirson. The scene is set in 780 A.D. and thereabouts, in the Holy Roman Empire. The titular character, Pippin, is the eldest son of King Charlemagne. The story follows Pippin in his quest to find fulfillment as he aims to live an extraordinary life beyond the confines of academia and the mundane. LCP’s production, directed by Devon Stone, music directed by Bill Maltas, and choreographed by Karen Freimund Wills, had a steampunk spin to it, which was peppered in well throughout the scenic design.  

I went in with limited knowledge of the show- this was my first viewing of Pippin– and I needless to say, I was excited to enjoy it for the first time. I sat front row center, where I felt especially drawn into the magic happening onstage. LCP’s space is both comfortable and intimate, allowing for an immersive experience (which came in handy for the sing-along part in “No Time At All”, led by the fabulous Sandy Van Pelt as Berthe). I was thoroughly enchanted through the entire run; swept into the golden glow of a time that while simpler than our inexhaustible modern society, still was relatable in Pippin’s search for the mirage of extraordinary purpose.

The technical design of the show was impressive. The production team succeeded in building a world that was both fantastical and industrial, which was apt for conveying that the story was being put on by a troupe of actors beginning to break the fourth wall as the show progressed. All aspects of production were cohesive and captivating. I was particularly pleased with the gorgeous lighting design by Cassi Crain and the period costumes by Maralee Maldavs. Though there were a few sound issues with mics dropping out here and there, it was easily forgivable when the overall production was so well put-together. 

The true juggernaut of this production though was its cast. The Leading Player, who drives the action forward as a quasi-narrator/director, was played with an intensity that was both sharp and sensual by Marikita Saure. King Charles (Scott Earley) was a witty source of comedic relief, foiled well by his paramour, the cunning stepmother Fastrada (Caitlin Marrow). The most compelling standout for me was none other than Pippin, played by Alex Rownd, whose soaring tenor voice and magnetic acting choices brought charm and heart to his endearing character and consequently, the coming-of-age story as a whole. The ensemble rounded out the cast beautifully as their voices married together in a mellifluously resonant chorus, and they skillfully took on multiple characters. Everyone caught my eye at some point, and I was blown away by the dedication they so graciously brought to us, the audience. Thank you to everyone who was a part of this production, whether on stage or off, for sharing with us your hard work and talent.

If you go: and I would highly recommend that you do- you can attend this coming weekend Friday and Saturday (the 25th and 26th) at 7:30pm and Sunday (the 27th) at 2pm. Tickets can be purchased online at lincolnplayhouse.com or by calling the box office at 402-489-7529. I’ve already got my tickets to see it again- so I hope to see you there!

Ashley Hothan has been involved in community theatre for going on a decade, both on the stage and behind the scenes. She is an avid supporter of the arts and a life-long Nebraskan. Her greatest joys in life are her friends, family, and two beautiful cats: Hank and Dot. “When I come into the theatre I get a sense of security. I love an audience. I love people, and I act because I like trying to give pleasure to people.” -Vivien Leigh

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