Pippin

The Tony-Award Winning revival of the acrobatic, colorful, fourth-wall breaking 1972 smash-hit "Pippin" has arrived in Hollywood with much-deserved fanfare and a star-studded opening night. This variation of the Bob Fosse directed hit maintains much of his unique and identifiable flare, but turned up to 11. The simple magic tricks and cast of dancers has been replaced with impressive illusions and a troupe of acrobats, the plain stage with the colorful interior of a circus tent, and the monotone costumes with vibrancy. And it works, very well.

"Pippin" is the story of a group of performers telling the story of the son of Emperor Charlemagne, attempting to find meaning in life, and the subsequent rebellion of their lead as he discovers true happiness away from all the pomp.

While many might attribute the designation of "lead" to the title character, they would be quite mistaken. The Leading Player, beautifully portrayed by Sasha Allen, an alum of the hit TV series "The Voice," held both Pippin's and the audience's hand as her powerful pipes led us through the story.

Yet while the Leading Player is the lead, Andrea Martin is undoubtedly the star. Her one scene and musical number brought down the house, and interrupted the production for a most well-deserved standing ovation for song, comedy and performing acrobatic stunts I would break a hip attempting at almost a third of her age. It's a treat to see such a powerful presence on stage.

Played by Matthew James Thomas, this production's Pippin was adorably lost with an incredibly sweet voice and innocent charm. His presence was a pleasure, and kept the audience from hating what could easily be an obnoxious character.

In addition to reprising Bob Fosse's direction, the production also brought back a cast member. The original Pippin from the 1972 production, John Rubinstein, joined the cast as a profoundly comedic Charlemagne.

As for the production elements, it's Cirque du Soleil's Broadway. Jugglers, aerial silks, contortionists, balancing acts, hula hoops and every other trick in the bag made its way on stage to dazzle and entertain and distract and metaphorically portray Pippin's journey.

Interestingly, the music is great '70s pop fun, but not the best part of this musical. It's all about the spectacle, and "Pippin" definitely brings it. So much so, that you don't mind the dropped lyrics or bits and pieces lost behind the oftentimes too loud live orchestra.

However, I for one am a huge fan of the surprisingly complex implications of the story, as well as its statements on concepts as vague as "happiness" and "fulfillment." It can be argued it stands for the power of imagination or the forces of adulthood. The beauty lies in the interpretation, and audience members can interpret the ending and the role of the circus troupe in their own way. Or they can ignore all that and have a blast at this incredible show.

"Pippin" runs through Nov. 9 at the Pantages, 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles. For information or tickets, call 800-982-2787 or visit www.broadwayla.org.