PIPPIN

Good to see the Director back in Luton, for this delightfully re-imagined production, which the cast gave their all to - you could feel their investment in the project.

It is not a show I particularly like, but I appreciate the skill and care shown by all.  I heard a number of people querying the story, but felt it was reasonably clear in that it was Pippin’s journey to find himself and the various ways he achieved this.

The set was simplistic, but the projections helped create the relevant feel for each sector of Pippin’s ‘journey’.  I thought the ‘bed’ scene was very funny and well-managed, as were a number of other moments within the production.  Costumes were suitable for the piece, but some lacked a bit of cohesion, so the overall feel wasn’t balanced.  The splashes of colour from Charlemagne’s capes etc were welcome.

Lighting was special – I loved the swirling spots giving different patterns on the stage, and the use of the amber spots, supplemented by the reds and blues, all very atmospheric.  Sound was not the best – late mic cues in most scenes, and feedback from some mics which was very noticeable.

Musically very good – some lovely harmonies and voices really melded together well – particularly Pippin and Catherine.  I enjoyed the choreography, it was quirky but essentially fitting for the piece, and everyone got into the feel of the requirement – there were several dance breaks which the dancers executed well.

Ben Harte (Pippin) sang beautifully, and gave us the angst and realisations of what was and wasn’t for him in his search for fulfilment, good empathy with the rest of the cast, and particularly Carla Pointing (Catherine) as his love interest, who again sang beautifully, these two provided some lovely duets and comedy moments.

Nicole Read (The Leading Player) was essentially the narrator of the story, with excellent audience awareness, punchy singing and witty asides, well realised.

Debbie Cavanagh (Berthe) created a fun ‘granny’, I enjoyed what she did with the part, clear, concise, humorous and tuneful.

Joshua Thompson (Charlemagne) was definitely the older statesman, with his questionable advice to Pippin, loved his ‘War is a Science’ number, with Vicky Wells (Fastrada) his scheming wife, also well-accomplished – a good duo.  Nick Norkin (Lewis) was their other more manly son and Fastrada’s favourite, who got his come-uppance in the end, nicely played.

Effie Desborough (Theo) was very good – she spoke clearly and acted very well.

The Ensemble of Katicia Blanchard, Cheryl Desborough, Jo Herd, Lewis McIntosh, Kelly Seaton, Graham Thomas, Rosie Till and Chloe Whitney-Bamford, added much to the feel of the production - good to hear Lewis and Graham with some lines which were nicely delivered.

My thanks to Nico and the Griffins for their hospitality, I enjoyed the evening, there were some good performances and musically very accomplished.

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