The Hotchkiss Drama Association is kicking off its 2025–26 season with “Pippin,” the Tony Award-winning musical by Stephen Schwartz. The show opens Nov. 7 in Walker Auditorium.
Director MK Lawson, who heads musical theater at Hotchkiss, said students on the Drama Association board chose Pippin after discussing this year’s theme, “Innocence. Lost.”
“The students were big fans of Pippin when they read it,” Lawson said. “It spoke to their desire to present shows that reflect some of the disillusionment they’re feeling as young people, while still having a lot of comedy and a wonderful score. I thought it was a great choice because it gives our bold actors the chance to play big, broad characters — and to show off our talented dancers.”
The musical follows a troupe of performers telling the story of Pippin, the first son of Charlemagne, in a playful “show within a show.”
“Pippin has this fascinating structure — a group of players performing Pippin: His Life and Times...,” Lawson said. “I hope audiences really follow that element and enjoy the broad theatricality of it. We’re also including a cool new tech element for the finale that’s sure to wow — no spoilers, though!”
The cast features Jack McCarthy ’26 as Pippin, Carla Oudin ’26 as the Leading Player, Tyler Rosenblum ’27 as King Charles (Charlemagne), Lily Siris ’26 as Fastrada, Ryan Lee ’28 as Lewis, Serena Nam ’26 as Berthe, Olivia Kwon ’26 as Catherine, and Hermione Wu ’27 as Theo.
Behind the scenes, Avery Hines-Mudry ’27 serves as production stage manager, and costumes are co-designed by Isabel Schlaack ’26. The set and run crew are entirely student-built and operated.
Lawson praised the cast’s professionalism and collaboration.
“This cast has been so prepared and thoughtful,” she said. “They’ve brought their own creative ideas to the table — some moments in the show are directly inspired by their input. It’s been amazing watching them bring the ‘players’ to life and build real relationships onstage.”
“Pippin” runs Nov. 7–9 in Walker Auditorium.
“Come see Pippin! It’s gonna be lit,” Lawson said.
