BWW Reviews: PIPPIN at Agoura High School's Theatre Department - Magic To Do…And They Did!

Pippin at Agoura High School's Theatre Department

The Stephen Schwartz coming-of-age musical that helped put Bob Fosse on the map exploded onto Broadway in 1972. It then had a successful televised version in 1981. With the recent 2013 revival, the theatre world and all who see it are rediscovering this powerful show. It now has a showing through May 2nd with the Theatre Department at Agoura High School.

But with such a ground-breaking musical comes controversial subject matter. What does a high school do with many of the subject matters that come up in Pippin? Why, they respectfully switch out lyrics with age-appropriate words, tone down the choreography and staging, and refocus on the more general themes of the production. This sort of undertaking was seen at this performance, and it was executed with the respect and professionalism that this musical deserves.

Under the guiding hands of guest director/choreographer, Noel Britton, the cast of 41 singers/actors/movers (divided up into the "blue" cast and the "gold" cast...this reviewer saw the "blue" cast) moved their way with fluidity and nimbleness throughout the playing space with multiple moments of acting, vocal, and dancing strengths.

As this is a musical where the three top talents of a performer (singing, acting, and dancing) are utilized, Ms. Britton, along with Music Directors Chad Bloom and Robert Hackett, have the opportunity to create with those who were able to do all three and challenge and educate those who have a shortfall in one or the other. In doing so, as educators and professionals within the industry, they are able to create an evening of theatre that raises the bar high for not only the performers but for the audience as well.

Stand outs within the cast are many....too many to mention all specifically. But allow me to note a few here:

In the title role, Chris Reilly, handles the role of Pippin with confidence and strength. His voice mirrors the revival arrangement of 'Corner of the Sky' with reverence and great ability.

Being the first performer the audience sees or hears can be a daunting challenge for some, but Erin Schafheitle (Leading Player) is a vocal and acting powerhouse who rivals anyone on 'The Voice' or 'American Idol' and has no difficulty keeping the audience's attention. She keeps things going from beginning to end.

The role of Berthe (a cameo) is such a uniquely important entity to the musical Pippin that when it was produced on Broadway, it earned its original 1972 actress (Irene Ryan) a TONY nomination, its 2013 revival actress (Andrea Martin) a TONY Award, and it's 1981 televised actress (Martha Raye) rave reviews...Elena Moreno-Kalfsbeek rivals these ladies with her performance.

Kudos to technical aspects provided by the school's Technical Director James Auld, guest Technical Director Gary Mintz and guest designer Amanda Lawson for a creative use of space with the steampunk/circus-inspired set.

Bravi to Bloom and Hackett for assembling a formidable orchestra of professionals and students.

Pippin plays April 28th, 29th, 30th , and May 1st at 7pm, May 2nd at 2pm and 7:30pm at the Main Stage Theatre of the Performing Arts Education Center on the campus of Agoura High School, 28545 W. Driver Ave. Tickets may be purchased at the box office or online at www.thepaecs.com