BWW Reviews: PIPPIN Soars to New Heights

It's often hard to replicate the quality of a Broadway production on a road tour. It's common for the set to get knocked down to an easier-to-travel, more basic form, some of the staging may be adapted to accommodate the new set (often to the detriment of the production), and the ensemble may get a few people thinner. So what a rare treat Chicago gets with the national tour of "Pippin," playing at Broadway in Chicago's Cadillac Palace Theatre through August 9th.

Although, to even attempt to stage this inventive, circus-themed production conceived by Diane Paulus that won the 2013 Best Revival of a Musical Tony Award (earning its director, Paulus, as well its leading and supporting ladies Tonys to boot), one cannot go half-in. For this production to work, it must have the truly unbelievable skills of its acrobatic and circus performer ensemble and they must be given all of the full set pieces to fully perform all of their tricks.

This production of "Pippin" is nearly a sensory overload of feats, but the mind-boggling and enchanting feeling this elicits is, likely, exactly where Paulus wants her audience members by the end. We're wrapped up in the fun and awe of the spectacle of the Players who are leading Pippin on his search for meaning. This troupe's Leading Player, played here by Sasha Allen (who has the pipes for the role), entices both Pippin and the audience, perfectly shrouding the coming danger of the oft-mentioned "finale" she has in mind for Pippin.

The show truly belongs to the ensemble of the Players, but the quality of the cast from top to bottom is high. Sam Lips in the title role has a pleasant voice and, although the role demands a little more self-indulgence and egocentricity, Lips' charming demeanor makes him a very endearing everyman. And, as Pippin's stepmother, Sabrina Harper shines with a dry wit and terrific dance skills in her act one number that proved to be a highlight of the show.

Pippin's journey through his existential crisis may not be up everyone's alley, but Paulus' direction both deepens and makes more accessible the plot of this somewhat-heady, somewhat-disjointed musical. And, with such a top-notch cast full of truly brilliant feats and a quality that nearly matches its Broadway predecessor, this production of "Pippin" is not to be missed.

"Pippin" is currently running through August 9th, 2015 and the Cadillac Palace Theatre (151 W. Randolph St.). Tickets range from $27-$95 and are available by calling (800) 775-2000 or online. Visit www.BroadwayInChicago.com for more information.

Photo Credit: Terry Shapiro

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