Review: PIPPIN at Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre is Magical!

PIPPIN at Broadway Palm was dazzling. From the moment the show began, so much was happening. It didn't ever stop, until the very end, and for that alone I have to give major props to the entire cast. Not only was the plot of the show very attention-grabbing, action-packed, and even a bit emotional, but the acrobatic and dance skill of the cast was also quite incredible to see.

The Leading Player in PIPPIN, played by Mara Luca, kept the show moving along fluidly. She would often appear somewhat randomly, but it wasn't ever really random. There was always a purpose to her being there, and her mysterious persona is revealed more and more as the show progresses. Luca was amazing in this role. She drew the audience in, and her voice was very strong. She was the best kind of fierce.

William James Callahan was perfect in the role of Pippin, and I loved following his character's journey throughout the show. He was able to express Pippin's emotions excellently as he searched for his purpose in life--his "corner of the sky." You could feel the highs and lows of his journey, simply because the acting was so strong.

Savannah Sprinkle, who played the role of Catherine, really got to shine in the second act. Although she was present in the first act, the audience doesn't meet Catherine until the second. Sprinkle brought not only humor to the role of Catherine, but she was fantastic in her portrayal of the emotions Catherine was experiencing. Her Catherine, alongside William James Callahan's Pippin, made for a perfect pair.

One thing I really enjoyed about the production is how several of the characters interacted with us as a part of the show, addressing the audience as "ladies and gentleman" many times before certain scenes and events took place. At some points, it felt like we were experiencing a show within a show--and, quite frankly, we were. It was very unique, and I liked that a lot.

I also loved that the story and music had a solid mix between entertaining, more fast-paced moments and emotional, slightly slower sections. It is no surprise that the music was so great, considering the score is by Tony nominee Stephen Schwartz, and the musicians in Broadway Palm's production of the show were particularly excellent.

I have to give a special shout out to one particular cast member, Sam Ferlo, who provided entertainment for the audience during intermission. He did many hilarious things as he walked around the theatre, and intermission went very quickly because of the humor he presented.

PIPPIN at Broadway Palm is definitely a production you do not want to miss. From the amazingly strong acting, to the incredible singing, and, of course, the spectacular dancing and acrobatics, there is something for everyone in this show. I won't give away the ending by telling you if Pippin ever finds what he is searching for, but I will say that his journey is absolutely worth following; I enjoyed every moment of it.

PIPPIN is playing at Broadway Palm now through November 18. Performances are Wednesday through Sunday evenings, with selected matinees. Beginning October 24, performances are Tuesday through Sunday with selected matinees. Ticket prices range from $45 to $70, with group discounts available for parties of 20 or more. Tickets are now on sale and can be reserved by calling (239) 278-4422, by visiting BroadwayPalm.com or by stopping by the box office at 1380 Colonial Boulevard in Fort Myers.

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