By Eva Trieger
SAN DIEGO — According to Exodus 20, we are bid to “honor thy father and thy mother.” This edict presents something of a challenge for Pippin, son of Charlemagne, as we see in Pickwick Players’ courageous and feisty production at the Moxie Theater. This playful remake of the 1970s’ Broadway production entertains and delights with some impressive local talent.
The story is narrated and revealed through the Leading Player (Nick Williams) who promises the audience that he and the Band of Players will deliver magic, miracles and a “just finale.’ Pippin (Austin Klitch) seeks meaning in his life, and while his father, similar to any good dad, urges him to study and make use of his intellect, Pippin envies his half brother, Lewis’ (Steven Feller) brawn and warrior status.
However, after going to battle, Pippin discovers that bloodshed and gore are not his passion, and he remains unfulfilled and ever questing to find his “corner of the sky.” His exploration guides him to seek the wisdom of his granny, Berthe (Kat Fitzpatrick), who has been banished from court by her envious new daughter in law, Fastrada (Dawn Marie Zuniga-Williams), but still manages to steal the show with her sparkle, humor and musical number entitled “No Time at All”.
Pippin’s sexual awakening is intimated by mood lighting and seductive dance steps rich in innuendo and suggestion. The orgy is observed by the audience through a film of red sheer curtain and lots of bodies with jazz hands and gyrating torsos. By the scene’s end, Pippin has shed his sexual naïveté.
Charlemagne (Don Harmon) is the other true standout in this production. After defeating the Visigoths, Charlemagne declares “another victory for G-d and me.”
Choreographer Alisa Williams, directed clever movements using slapping of hands for a rousing tribute to war. In keeping with the aura of silliness, random body parts are tossed on stage, underscoring the bloody battle. “Glory” demonstrates Charlemagne’s raison d’etre and Pippin’s attempt to “try not to disgrace” his father.
Where Fosse’s show was built on darkness and cynicism, Pickwick Players’ show exudes an air of mystery and giddiness. The musical score, performed by a quartet, (Kirk Valles, Michael Farley, Aaron Erwin and Noah Himlin) presents entertaining, catchy and sometimes saccharine sweet songs. The jazzy syncopation of music and lyrics is diametrically opposed to the starkly barren set, designed by Chad Oakley.
Pippin’s search comes full circle after he meets Catherine (Teresa Elliot) and her son, Theo (Kori Crum), and realizes that his purpose in life is to appreciate what he has been given and where he is in this moment. He finds a balance between honoring his father, whom he has misjudged, and honoring himself.
This very Zen approach leads him to contentment, and as evidenced by the energy and joy, this young cast is right where they need to be too! Come of age with Pippin at the Moxie Theater in San Diego, August 3-1
*
Trieger is a San Diego-based freelance writer specializing in the arts. She may be contacted at eva.trieger@sdjewishworld.com