Pippin - Theatre Royal Drury Lane

Pippin takes to the stage once again in London’s glittering West End, and this time to celebrate its 50th Anniversary with a marvellous spectacle, which we only sadly get for two nights.

Pippin is loosely inspired by the history books, however, quickly abandons this notion as the audience members are told to set aside any preconceived notions they may have on the character. Instead, this musical uses the premise of a mysterious group of performers putting on a show that tells the story of Pippin, King Charlemagne’s son, on his quest to find true fulfilment. Led by the Leading Player, played by the legendary Alex Newell, the performers often break the fourth wall making this musical truly magical and unique.

Photography: Pamela Raith

It is safe to say that with music and lyrics by Stephen Schwartz and book by Roger O. Hirson, the show is guaranteed to have a successful reception by its audiences, and last night’s 50th Anniversary revival concert truly did not disappoint. With a star-studded cast like you have never seen them before, the show was brought to life in ways that can only be dreamt of. Despite its small cast and the minimal props, it was everything a musical should be. It let the audience’s imaginations work their magic, letting them conjure up their own intricacies whilst resting solely on the beauty of the score, directed by Chris Ma, and at times grand Fosse style choreography by Joanna Goodwin.

Accompanied by the London Musical Theatre Orchestra and the ArtsEd Choir, this cast was truly one for the history books. As Patricia Hodge’s character told us: ‘Oh it’s time to start living,’ and boy, if living feels like last night, then I’d like to live forever.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5*)

(Ticket gifted to Adventures in Theatreland in exchange for an honest review)

For FULL review, please check out this link.