Pippin (1972 Original Broadway Cast)
A young man graduates from college and wonders how to find real meaning in his life. What's an heir to the 9th-century Holy Roman Empire to do? If you're Pippin, son of Charlemagne, you decide to dabble in war, sex, and politics before finally finding love. When Bob Fosse directed the original Broadway production ofPippinin 1972, he transformed what had originally been a relatively innocent college project by composer-lyricistStephen Schwartzinto a burlesque filled with broad comedy, bawdy characters, and magical but dark situations. John Rubinstein (best known for his TV work and son ofpianist Artur) plays the title character, andBen Vereenkick-started his career (and won a Tony) as the narrator figure known as the Leading Player. Schwartz's combination ofGodspell-like ensemble energy with various pop-rock styles makes for a snappy, tuneful score, including the soul-driven opener "Magic to Do," the soaring "Corner of the Sky," the lovely ballads "With You" and "Love Song," and the romping "No Time at All" (delivered with saucy conviction byThe Beverly Hillbillies' Irene Ryan as Pippin's grandmother).This 1991 release includes no synopsis and no liner notes. If you want remastered sound, a detailed synopsis, and full lyrics, pick up the2000 remastered version.--David Horiuchi