Review: PIPPIN at Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall

Pippin is another Tony Award-winning musical from Stephen Schwartz, (Wicked, Godspell). The story is a spectacle representing a troupe of actors performing in a play about a young prince named Pippin, (Naysh Fox), in an anguishing search for his life's purpose. As his character comes to life, Pippin meets an odd array of circus-type characters along the way.

As this play within a play evolves, acrobatics, fight scenes, love scenes, murder and mayhem ensue. The young prince kills his father King Charles, (Brendon Schaefer), tolerates his stepmother Fastrada, (Erica Lee Cianciulli), and her son Lewis, (Courtney Dease) and falls for the lovely Catherine, (Savannah Sprinkle). The musical is served up cabaret-style prompting interaction from the audience, inviting them to participate in song and applause. If Cirque du Soleil and Burlesque had a baby, it would be Pippin.

The "ring master", or should we say, ring mistress in this case, is Leading Player, (Housso Semon). She is the driving force behind the production, keeping everyone in line and pacing the performances. Ms Semon is daunting as the woman in charge. She has the vocal stamina and physique that her character needs to exhibit her power and control. Naysh Fox is lovable and humorous as the naïve tormented Pippin. Brendon Schaefer is fun to watch as the likable madcap king. Sporting an agenda of her own, Ms Cianciulli is cunning as the king's wife. Courtney Dease does a fine job playing Pippin's stepbrother, vying for the throne. Ms Sprinkle brought a sweet quality to Catherine, Pippin's love interest.

In spite of its wacky storyline and disjointed nature, the entire ensemble comes together nicely, delivering amazing feats of acrobatics and theatrics. It's obvious each performer worked very hard at a very demanding role.

The elegantly lavender Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall doesn't have a bad seat in the house. Not many venues can boast a stately residence, bayside on a hill, with one of the best views in the city. You won't want to miss their 2016-2017 season of shows including, Smokey Robinson, Alan Cumming, Kristen Chenoweth, Idina Menzel, Taj Express, Annie, Once, Chicago, Kinky Boots and more.