SOLANA BEACH, California — I’ve been a subscriber and reviewer of North Coast Repertory Theatre for the past 25 years, and as they close out their 41st season, this intimate venue proves that like a fine wine or a rare gem such as obsidian, moonstone or sapphire imbued with magic, it has only grown better with time. Pippin speaks to each of us, as we seek our purpose in this often confusing world.
With an immensely talented cast of twelve actors, several of whom are making their North Coast Rep debut, director Nick DeGruccio delivers this beautiful tale of self-discovery. The book was written by Roger Hirson and the music and lyrics were conceived by Stephen Schwartz. This clever, fun, and fast-paced play was originally directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse in 1972. It ran on Broadway for many years and enjoyed a revival in 2013.
North Coast Rep’s production is thoroughly enchanting through choreography (Roxanne Carrasco), a simple effective set (Marty Burnett), an array of eye-catching costumes (Zoe Trautmann) all accompanied by live music (Ron Councell, Mark Margolies, Nikko Noblez, and Tom Versen). The energy, vibrancy, and thrum of excitement set the stage for this stellar show.
The quest for finding one’s purpose is universally relatable. And in nearly every novel or story, the journey entails some bumps along the road. We saw this with Herman Hesse’s Siddhartha, Avenue Q’s Princeton, and perhaps each character from The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Every young person wants to find his niche and leave his impression on the world. Pippin (Brendan Dallaire), the son of Charlemagne (Jason Maddy) is no different.
Upon witnessing the King bark, “Denied” as the peasants air their grievances, Pippin knows he must take a stand for the defenseless. This is how he will make his mark! He will become King. In short order, the new King realizes that this is not his calling and he is back to the drawing board.
I can honestly say that every cast member is a “stand out” and the synergy created on stage is palpable. Robert Zelaya’s performance as the Leading Player is nothing short of amazing. This actor sings, dances, glides, and engages every individual on and off the stage. His New York stage experience is evident in his ease and delight in mastering the role. This reviewer believes he studied dance in utero.
Jason Maddy has performed on San Diego’s stages many times, and each time I see this actor perform I am impressed by his growth and range. I have seen him play an assassin, a king, and a young man in turmoil. It is obvious he is enjoying his role as Charlemagne and his reputation for being a King not only on the throne but in the bedroom.
Katie Karel embodies a fetching and funny Fastrada, Charlemagne’s second wife and mother of Lewis (James Oblack). Karel has also graced many local stages as well as appearing in Off-Broadway productions. Oblack hails from NYC where he acts and sings solo and with his band. Oblack has been nominated for Best Male Performer!
Brendan Dallaire, as Pippin, has a long history of performing in youth theatre and JCompany before working on his BFA at the University of Michigan. His portrayal of the young prince is spot on, and his interactions with his father (Maddy), his stepmother (Karel) and his half-brother (Oblack) are charming.
Berthe (Gracie Moore) is Pippin’s grandmother, but don’t be fooled into thinking she is just about knitting blankets or baking cookies! She encourages Pippin to relax and let his life unfold. “You think too much,” she cajoles him. Her delivery of “No Time At All” is adorable and enhanced by the Players. This actress has a long history in regional theater, as well as stand-up comedy in LA, in addition to having performed on TV.
The youngest member of the cast, and absolutely no less talented, is Spencer Kearns (Theo). Kearns, a rising senior at San Diego School of Creative and Performing Arts, has taken on the starring role of Billy Elliot, Sky in Mamma Mia, A Chorus Line, and others. He has been dancing since the age of 5, and it is guaranteed that we will be hearing and seeing much more as this actor continues his journey into the arts.
Assisting Pippin in his journey of revelation are three more players, Amy Smith, Leslie Stevens, and Melissa Glasgow. All three are seriously accomplished actors and dancers. Smith graduated from Broadway Dance Center and has danced alongside the Black Eyed Peas, Colbie Cailat, Kristen Chenoweth, and Donny Osmond. Stevens has appeared in Chicago, Lend Me a Tenor, and Damn Yankees. Broadway performances include La Cage Aux Folles. This actor/director/choreographer has performed with the LA Opera. Melissa Glasgow is an Understudy/Alternate Player making her debut at North Coast Rep. Her creative acting/directing and choreography have taken her to Saudi Arabia!
Katy Tang returns to North Coast Rep, where she was last seen in The Cherry Orchard. As Catherine, she plays Pippin’s transitory love interest. Following his leave-taking she steps out of character (while remaining in character) to sing, “I Guess I’ll Miss the Man,” to the obvious frustration of Leading Player, Zelaya. By the show’s end, yes, the long-awaited finale, Zelaya and his Players have clearly delivered. They have “magic to do, just for you…miracle plays to perform…”
Eva Trieger is a freelance writer specializing in the arts. She may be contacted via eva.trieger@sdjewishworld.com