Photo Flash: First Look at Circle Theatre's PIPPIN: A BOLLYWOOD SPECTACULAR

PIPPIN tells the tale of an idealistic young man searching for self-realization, and finding a complicated world of tyranny, family betrayals, and the joys of a simple life. Featuring such Stephen Schwartz classics as "Magic to Do," "Corner of the Sky," "Morning Glow" and "I Guess I'll Miss the Man," Circle's production is inspired by the dynamic culture of India.

Kevin Bellie is Circle Theatre's Artistic Director and a company member for over 24 years. Directorial/choreographic credits at Circle include JEFF RECOMMENDED and awarded productions of URINETOWN, THE BAKER'S WIFE, THE BEST LITTLE WHOREHOUSE IN TEXAS, GENTLEMEN PREFER BLONDES, CAN-CAN, SEVEN BRIDES FOR SEVEN BROTHERS, MACK & MABEL, THE MYSTERY OF EDWIN DROOD, NINE, TRIUMPH OF LOVE, THE LIFE, GRAND HOTEL, and SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS. Other credits include Noble Fool's 25TH ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE, DROOD and THE TAFETTAS; McLeod Summer Playhouse's A CHORUS LINE; choreography for Porchlight's GYSPY, Circle's TOMMY and MSP's THE PRODUCERS.

The cast for Pippin includes Erin Baumrucker, Jen Bludgen, Sarah Bright, Sam Gray, Kim Green, Steve Greist, Christopher Logan, Isaac Loomer, Penelope Long, Nico Nepomuceno, Khaki Pixley, Shawn Quinlan, Patti Roeder, Neil Stratman, Noah Sullivan, and Nyk Sutter.

The Artistic Staff includes Kevin Bellie, Director & Choreographer; Ryan Brewster, Music Director; Bob Knuth, Scenic Designer; Jesus Perez, Costume Designer; Gary C Echelmeyer, Lighting Designer; Matt Gajowniczek, Sound Designer; Adele Powers, Stage Manager; Fernando Alvarez, Assistant Stage Manager; Rebecca Miles-Steiner, Prop Designer/Assistant Director; and Brooke Jaeky, Production Coordinator.

Celebrating its 27th season, Circle Theatre is an artist-based company and the proud recipient of over 40 Jeff Awards. Circle has produced multiple world premieres, including Rebecca Gilman's THE GLORY OF LIVING and THE CRIME OF THE CENTURY, Jon Steinhagen's THE ANALYTICAL ENGINE, the Midwest premiere of Michael John LaChiusa's THE WILD PARTY, and the Chicago premieres of Marvin Hamlisch's SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS, Jeff Daniels' ESCANABA IN DA MOONLIGHT, Adam Rapp's STONE COLD DEAD SERIOUS, and in the 2011-2012 season, the critically acclaimed WHEN THE RAIN STOPS FALLING.

PIPPIN will be performed at the Circle Theatre located at 1010 Madison Street in Oak Park. The show previews on November 10 & 13 at 8:00pm and opens on Wednesday, November 14th at 8:00pm, running from November 16th to December 23rd. Shows are on Fridays and Saturdays at 8pm & Sundays at 3pm.

The Box Office may be reached at 708-660-9540. Preview tickets are priced at $15 (November 10 & 13 only). Regular show tickets are Friday: All seats $26; Saturday/Sunday: $30 for adults, $28 for students/seniors. Group rates are available.

Kim Green, Christopher Logan, and Penelope Long

Neil Stratman and Company

Neil Stratman, Noah Sullivan, and Shawn Quinlan

Patti Roeder and Company

Jen Bludgen and Company

Neil Stratman, Christopher Logan, and Khaki Pixley