Here is where theater, dance, circus and magic melds into a seamless hoopla of wonderment. “Pippin” is a story about the journey a young prince takes to find the true meaning of his life. We are treated to the almost complete original Broadway, award-winning cast that makes for a smooth production.
“Pippin” really gives one their money’s worth in two hours and 20 minutes of solid performances by an outstanding, energetic cast. The cast recreates Bob Fosse’s unique chirography by Chet Walker with some of the best dancers to set foot on the Golden Gate stage ever. (Walker was in the original 1972 production.)
Renowned director Diane Paulus, (“Porgy and Bess” and “Hair”), choreographer Chet Walker and amazing circus creator Gypsy Snider (Montreal’s “Les 7 doigis de la main”) bring a brilliant combination of astonishing aerial, contortions, acrobatics and dance to an old chestnut, which is a nonstop production that, at times, takes your breath away.
Lucie Arnez plays Bertha, Pippin’s grandmother, with sexy charm and grace—even entering some surprising trapeze moments. She will go to the Broadway production Oct. 7 and Andrea Martin (who won a Tony for the role on Broadway) will replace her for the remainder of the San Francisco run.
The music by Stephan Schwartz (“Wicked” and “Godspell”) and book by Roger O. Hirson has been updated from the 1972 production to fit the new premise without losing the original intent of the story.
“Pippin” is a rare experience that brings the Broadway musical to another level.
Where: Golden Gate Theatre, 1 Taylor St. at Market Street, San Francisco
Through: Oct. 19
Tickets: $45 to $210
Details: (888) 746-1799 or visit shnsf.com.
