Stephen Schwartz’ music and lyrics are glorious, but both the original production (directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse) and revival relied heavily on pageantry to enhance the rather weak book by Roger O. Hirson. In the revival, director Diane Paulus tapped Fosse protégé Chet Walker as choreographer, corralled the talents of circus troupe Le Cinq Doigts and expert illusionists, and introduced gender-blind casting, with Patina Miller in the Leading Player role made legendary by Ben Vereen.
Seacoast’s production of Pippin is also fitting for our times in its creative interpretation, economic design and execution. Played to in-person audiences (masked and at 40% seating capacity) and live-streamed, Knowlton adds layers of intrigue with Shakespearean-inspired script adjustments and multiple ‘non-traditional’ casting choices in the principal roles. The sets, costumes and props are simple and elegant. Knowlton as choreographer also adds to the seamlessness of the storytelling, creating gorgeous stage pictures, and supporting each cast member’s dance skills. A pas-de-deux performed by Pippin’s high-kicking stepmother Fastrada and limber half-brother Louis was lovely to watch, as was Fosse’s signature Manson trio and the ensemble’s carefully choreographed rearranging of six wooden chairs into different set structures.
Unfortunately for the actors, they could not see the smiles on the masked faces of the audience members during the performance, but the joy of being part of a live performance again was palpable in the laughter, applause and standing ovation. I would be excited to see the livestream version, with its close, up-front and center perspectives. Great, new-fashioned theatre magic at Seacoast Rep through July 18.
Seacoast Rep show times are Thursdays at 7:30, Fridays at 8 pm, Saturdays at 2 pm and 8 pm, and Sundays at 2 pm. Tickets are available through the Seacoast Rep box office at 603-433-4472 or seacoastrep.org/tickets.
