The existential question of 'what is the meaning of life' answered onstage...well, sort of. The Footlighters Inc.'s production of 'PIPPIN' brought the question, and so many others, to life with magic, stunts and a score you'll be humming for weeks. Presented at the Stained Glass Theater in Newport, Ky., this show kicked off their season with a bang and a mostly-flaming torch.
To start, this is a production I had been pining to see for a long time, especially after the 2013 Tony-winning production of the revival starring Patina Miller and Andrea Martin (who also won Tonys for their roles). The score is a mysterious, regal and kooky journey in music, composed by Stephen Schwartz, and the musicality enhanced the production with raucous choreography that accentuated the camp-ness of the show.
The stage was set with projection screens on either side, for scene-setting and for lyrics, which made the intimate setting even more so. The long draped fabrics connecting at the apex of the theater set up the circus-like setting well, and the set felt multi-dimensional and well-used. The orchestra was actually behind and above us, in the upper balcony of the converted church, which did at times make it hard to hear the singers, but overall was great with acoustics. The costumes, as well, were colorful and varied, giving way to a diverse ensemble.
Standout performances were the Leading Player and the ensemble, though it was hard to single out any out of the talented cast. The leading player was played by Sharisse Vernelle Santos, who embodied every piece of the puzzling character--the role is both the leading player and the drive of some conflict. Her vocals were spot-on, and she had a great stage presence. Also notable was the ensemble, whose swift and trick-filled choreography had room to breathe and shine on stage, and Catherine, played by Allison Evans, whose sweet yet intentional demeanor and glorious vocals made the emotional heart of the show shine through.
The score is chock-full of earworms and clever, yet classic songs. The uniqueness of a show like 'Pippin' is rare in today's modern era--it is non-traditional and kitsch in its story, yet classic in how it tells it. Judging by the performances, Footlighters hit the nail on the head and runs this last weekend, before their season continues with 'Next to Normal.' For more information on their season, click here. Thanks for coming to the theater with me--and shoutout to my friend Cassidy for her amazing performance!
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