With music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and the book by Roger O. Hirson, Pippin tells the tale of a young man in search of something to believe in, a path to follow, and ultimately – himself. Loosely based on ‘Pepin’ the son of 8th Century King Charlemange, Pippin sets about trying out life and all it has to offer via different careers and different directions in order to find his corner of the sky.
Maeve Black’s stunning Victorian Vaudeville setting paired with stunning lighting design from Aaron J. Dootson allows the players to truly tell this tale in the most theatrical and immersive of ways, making Pippin a remarkably bold and striking production.
Pippin’s search and the different paths it leads him down illustrates clearly that with all its craziness and drama the world is indeed a stage. As the players perform and indulge Pippin and his desires, we realise everything we see is an act. Leading player Genevieve Nicole is a wholly commanding presence, she steers and controls her fellow players who perform beautifully on her instruction, she shines in the role and bursts with sass and dangerous charisma as she steers Pippin through his search for fulfilment.
Jonathan Carlton is brilliantly cast as Pippin, he perfectly portrays the young Prince’s naivety and frustrations. The development in his character is wonderful to see as each experience leaves its mark and changes his outlook on life. Carlton’s delivery of Corner Of The Sky is especially beautiful, full of emotion and wonderfully displays the hopelesness he feels with his inability to fit in and understand his path in life.
The whole ensemble are superb, hardworking and utterly captivating. Director Jonathan O’Boyle has created a tight and incredibly slick team who are entirely in sync with each other. William Whelton’s choreography is sharp and precise and really adds to the beauty of this special piece while musical director Zach Flis delivers the sublime score to perfection.
High praise must also go to Mari Barclay who plays both Fastrada and Berthe. Her characterisation is exceptional, with brilliant comic timing and larger than life delivery she excels in both roles and also as a member of the superb ensemble as a whole.
The quality and delivery of Pippin is top class; the pairing of Katy Lipson and Hope Mill Theatre is a true gift to Manchester. Engaging, captivating and entirely magical, Pippin convincingly worked its magic and enchanted completely. A real gem of a show delivered with real style and sass.
On at Hope Mill Theatre until 23rd September
Tickets £20, (concessions £18)
Hope Mill Theatre, 113 Pollard St, Manchester M4 7JA
0161 275 9141
https://www.hopemilltheatre.co.uk/whats-on/
