Wednesday, February 4, 2015

Pippin @ PlayhouseSquare


Through February 15, 2015
Connor Palace Theatre, 1615 Euclid Avenue, 216-241-6000


Bob Abelman

"Pippin" is a coming-of-age-during-the-Middle Ages story about the eldest son of Charlemagne, who explores war, sex, power and the ordinary in an effort to find something in life that is completely fulfilling.  All he need do is buy a ticket to this absolutely superb and thoroughly entertaining national tour.

To see a full review of this show, read Bob Abelman's CJN article here.

Roy Berko


The touring production of PIPPIN, in spite of some minor flaws, is mainly magical.  It nicely carries out the story’s theme and should delight those who are seeing the show for the first time, or are seeing the new and reconfigured edition of the show. From my perspective,  it would be worth seeing the show just to hear “Corner of the Sky” and “Morning Glow.”

To see a full review of this show, read Roy Berko's blog here.

Kerry Clawson

Everything’s gloriously over the top under the Big Top in the national tour of "Pippin."
The magical musical, reconceived in 2012 with a circus setting by Tony Award-winning director Diane Paulus, thrills at PlayhouseSquare’s Connor Palace with its death-defying acrobatics as young prince Pippin goes on his own death-defying journey to find his place in the world. Paulus’ creation, the first revival of Stephen Schwartz and Bob Fosse’s 1972 original, is so dazzling to watch, we’re almost on sensory overload.

To see a full review of this show, read Kerry Clawson's review here.

Howard Golub

The troupe that once merely sang, danced, contorted and postured now literally jumps through hoops to please. Not only hoops, but all the other feats that go with a trapeze, tightrope, fire pit, bouncing-ball and occasional magic contraption — and it’s all done wearing considerably more revealing costumes (by Dominique Lemieux).

In a show that celebrates youth, it’s ironic that the best scenes involve the older generation, naturally taken on by the more seasoned performers.  


Mark Horning


“Pippin” quite easily can be considered the consummate Broadway show.  It combines Song, Dance, Magic, Circus, Acrobatics, Costuming and Lights into a whirlwind of mesmerizing visual and audible delight.  Prepare to be dazzled during this run of easily sold out performances.   

To see a full review of this show, read Mark Horning's blog.

Art Thomas

I am now a believer. Everything about this show is magic. While there are a few things to quibble about, the circus skills, Fosse-inspired dance, and unified design make the production rise far above the book and score. This is not a reimagined show. It is a new "Pippin" with surprises and enough "stuff" to please any type or age of theatergoer.

Click here to read the complete review at WestLife