This year marks a significant milestone for the beloved musical “Pippin,” as it celebrates its 50th anniversary. The Theatre Royal Drury Lane is set to host a special anniversary concert that promises to breathe new life into the classic show. At the heart of this celebration is the director Jonathan O’Boyle, ArtsEd’s Director of the School of Musical Theatre. Jonathan’s vision brings together an amazing cast, including ArtsEd’s third-year BA (Hons) Musical Theatre (MT) students, serving as the choir, and ArtsEd graduates, including Jac Yarrow and Zizi Strallen, creating a bridge between the school’s past and future.

Under Jonathan O’Boyle’s direction, the production revisits his successful run with “Pippin” in London and Manchester in 2018. With rehearsals starting up for the final performances on April 29th and 30th, the cast and crew are immersed in bringing the musical’s magical story to life. The collaboration with musical director Chris Ma and casting director Jane Deitch ensures a high caliber of performance, set against the backdrop of one of London’s most iconic theatres.

“I’m delighted to be directing the 50th anniversary concert of Pippin, having previously directed the show in London & Manchester in 2018. I’m thrilled to be working with the talented third years on this production, as well as ArtsEd graduates Jac and Zizi. It’s great to see emerging talent working with some of our esteemed alumni.”
Jonathan O’Boyle – Director of the School of Musical Theatre

Since its original Broadway debut in 1972, “Pippin” has enchanted audiences with its compelling story and captivating music by Stephen Schwartz and Roger O. Hirson. The original production, directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse, won five Tony Awards, establishing its place in the pantheon of musical theatre classics. The show’s revival in 2013 continued its legacy, winning four Tony Awards, including Best Revival of a Musical.  Although smaller in scale, ArtsEd’s BTEC Musical Theatre Sixth Form students recently brought this incredible show to life at ArtsEd’s Andrew Lloyd Webber Foundation Theatre here in Chiswick.

The “Pippin” 50th Anniversary Concert at Theatre Royal Drury Lane is not just a celebration of a musical milestone but a showcase of the bright future of musical theatre. Don’t miss the chance to witness this magical blend of history and new talent coming together for two nights only this April.

Come watch our 3rd Year School of Musical Theatre in Pippin’s 50th Anniversary Concert:

Book Tickets

Pippin 50th Anniversary Concert Choir

Click headshot’s to view student profiles

Lionel Robert Blanc

Dan Burstow

Hayden Cable

Jesse Chidera

Finley Davies

Mia Endicott

Ben Fenwick

Emily Florence

Ella Foster

Josie Garner

Georgie Gaudencio

Alex Gavin

Charlie Geoghegan

Will Hardy

Alex Hayden

Alex James Hodge

Will Hopkins

Emilia Paige Jurin

Esme Kennedy

Maya Khatri Chhetri

Mia Lamb

Harrison Langham

Josh Latunji

Olivia Leah

Tom Major

Mimi Maskrey

Reece McGowan

Zara McLellan

Stevie Millington

Taylor Morris

Max Mulrenan

Choolwe Laina Muntanga

Hayes Nolan

Jayde Nolan

Aislin Olivia

Yujin Park

Maisie-Kate Robertson

Giorgia Romeo

Joe Simmons

Sedona Sky

Harry Grant Smith

Nkara Stephenson

Emily Takman

Elsie Grace Ward

Emily Whitby-Samways

Joel Wilding

Anne-Marie Wojna

At ArtsEd, International Women’s Day is not only a moment to celebrate this year’s theme #inspireinclusion, but also a reflection of our beginnings—a school founded by the forward-thinking Grace Cone and Olive Ripman in the early 20th century. These women trailblazers recognised the power of a combined academic and performing arts education to prepare young individuals for the world of theatre. This International Women’s Day, we are especially proud to recall their legacy, which set a precedent for gender equality and educational excellence—a story further elaborated in our detailed article on the women who built ArtsEd over the years

International Women’s Day: The Women who built ArtsEd – ArtsEd

This year, the KS5 assemblies, led by Amy Whiterod, Deputy Director of Sixth Form, focus on ‘Female role models in our lives.’ Her aim is twofold: to recognise the invaluable influence of women in our immediate circles and to shine a light on the societal impact of female leaders and pioneers. Through her presentation, Amy encourages a celebration of achievements and a critique of persistent gender inequalities, advocating for a world where inclusion is not just an ideal but an everyday reality.

In the same spirit, the library’s monthly display draws attention to women’s narratives through a selection of powerful literature. The shelves are adorned with works like ‘The Penelopiad’ by Margaret Atwood and ‘Her Naked Skin’ by Rebecca Lenkiewicz, each book inviting students to explore the complex and compelling stories of women across time and space.

Within our Sixth Form, Year 13 Musical Theatre students are engaging with Carmel Dean’s seminal song cycle, ‘Well Behaved Women.’ This project, led by BTEC Musical Theatre Pathway Lead Giovanna Ryan, features an all-female group of performers who bring to life the stories of defiant and transformative women throughout history. From Boudicca to Harriet Tubman to Ruth Bader Ginsburg, ‘We Rise’—the closing number—honours their rebellious spirit and contributions. You can view the moving performance of this piece below, showcasing the talent and dedication of our students to this powerful narrative.

We Rise – Performed by Y13 Musical Theatre students

As part of International Women’s Day, the Student’s Union invited the ArtsEd community to wear purple this Friday (today)—a colour that heralds strength, power, justice, and dignity. To extend our solidarity beyond our attire, the Student’s Union are encouraging everyone to consider a small donation to the Pachamama Project. Founded by Ella Lambert, sister of ArtsEd degree student Luke Lambert, this charity has made a profound impact by providing over 100,000 handmade, reusable sanitary pads to those in need globally, aiding in the fight against period poverty. Let’s wear purple with purpose and support Pachamama’s mission to uplift and empower.

Donate

Taking positive steps towards inclusivity, ArtsEd is introducing free period products in all provisions across ArtsEd, recognising and accommodating the needs of all who menstruate. This initiative is not just about providing for a biological need but is a step towards eliminating period poverty and a statement of our commitment to the health and dignity of our students, further information on this to be shared soon.

“At ArtsEd, we aspire to be a model institution for equality in all aspects: recognition, investment, opportunities, and rewards for everyone, irrespective of their gender. Together, let’s strive to create a world where every woman and girl can thrive, unhindered by discrimination or inequality. As we celebrate International Women’s Day, let us remember that gender equality isn’t just a goal; it’s a fundamental human right.”
– Acting Chair of Trustees, Farida Mannan

Reflecting on our illustrious beginnings and celebrate the progress made, we acknowledge that there is further work to be completed, but ArtsEd is proud to be part of this journey. Ensuring that inclusivity and gender equality are not just aspects of our legacy but are actively pursued in our present actions and future ambitions.

As we commemorate International Women’s Day, we full-heartedly stand behind the theme of inspiring inclusion. Let’s continue to celebrate our progress, challenge inequities, and support each other in a collective quest for a more inclusive world.

Join Our Open Events Designed For Underrepsented Performers

Join ArtsEd in championing diversity in the performing arts. Our upcoming Open Events are tailored for underrepresented performers, offering a platform for dialogue, support, and discovery. Sign up to make your mark and advance the narrative of diversity on stage.

Sign Up