City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret to put on ‘Pippin,’ its first full-scale musical
Featuring West Aurora High School alumnus Dan Keller in the title role
The City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret is putting on its first full-scale musical production, “Pippin,” on July 24-27 at Perry Theatre at Aurora University.
After four years of sold-out cabarets and over $17,000 raised by and for the community, the nonprofit organization is taking a bold leap into full musical theater production — and inviting the Fox Valley to witness the magic.
Starring in the title role is Dan Keller, a 2018 graduate of West Aurora High School, returning to his hometown stage to portray the restless prince in search of fulfillment.
Alina Dukala of Lombard takes on the role of the Leading Player, guiding the audience, and Pippin alike through a dazzling, seductive journey of choices and consequences.
Rowan Currie of Aurora brings depth and charm to the role of Catherine, the widow who helps Pippin discover where true happiness may lie.
The cast also features an array of powerhouse performers from across the Chicago area:
• Luke Rahtjen of Aurora as Charles, Pippin’s authoritative father and king
• Liz Hutchinson, former West Aurora High School choir director and a Warrenville resident, as the scheming Fastrada
• Sharon Lindemann of Arlington Heights as the irreverent and wise grandmother Berthe
• Michael Holstine, a 2019 West Aurora High School graduate, as the proud and dim-witted half brother Lewis
• Kellen Ferris of Wheaton as Theo, Catherine’s lovable son
The remainder of the cast is composed of several incredibly talented local performers, each bringing their own impressive credits and passion for storytelling to the stage.
Directed by two families of local artists and educators — the Curries and the Deckers — “Pippin” is a visually inventive, powerful story of ambition, illusion, and self-discovery.
With an enticing score by Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked,” “Godspell”) and original choreography inspired by Bob Fosse, the show promises spectacle, humor, heart — and just a touch of magic.
“Pippin is a cautionary tale about chasing greatness at the expense of love, humility, and connection,” said Kirsten Currie Tait, co-founder, music director and producer. “I hope audiences will reflect on what happens when ego overshadows meaningful relationships and service. This story asks us all to consider what truly makes a life extraordinary.”
“This production is the culmination of years of dreaming, fundraising, and community-building,” said Grace Currie, co-founder and executive director of City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret. “We are so proud to showcase local talent in a show that will help audiences think deeply about what it can mean to fly too close to the sun.”
Join us for a milestone moment in Aurora’s arts scene: a production that marks the beginning of a new chapter for City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret.
Performances will be at 7 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 24-25; 2 and 7 p.m. Saturday, July 26; and 2 p.m. Sunday, July 27, at the Perry Theatre at Aurora University, 349 S. Gladstone Ave. in Aurora. Tickets are available via cityoflightstheatre.org.
Preview tickets for July 24 are $26.91 or $21.74 for students or seniors, age 65 or older. Tickets for the rest of the shows are $32.09 and $26.91 for students and seniors.
About City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret:
Founded in 2021, City of Lights Theatre & Cabaret is a nonprofit arts organization dedicated to presenting professional-caliber musical theater while nurturing community talent and creating inclusive spaces for storytelling and collaboration. Past productions include 11 original cabarets, and Pippin marks the company’s first full-scale musical.