Acrobats, magic, music, dancing and colorful costumes are all hitting Capital City Productions today as the local dinner theater debuts its take on the award-winning Broadway musical "Pippin."
"Pippin" is a coming-of-age production that follows the story of the oldest son of Charlemagne, also known as Charles the Great. Pippin struggles to find his purpose in life and discover what makes him extraordinary. Through trials and errors, he ultimately discovers the true meaning of being extraordinary.
While the plot may sound boring, CCP director Laura Vedenhaupt said, the show will be quite a "spectacle."
The original 1972 musical centered around war but was reimagined in 2013 with a circus theme. CCP will perform the 2013 version of "Pippin."
CCP's show will include magic, acrobats, aerialists, balloon animals and magic. There will also be an abundance of upbeat musical numbers that are bound to stick with audience members, Vedenhaupt added.
"It is so much more than (the story of Charlemagne's son)," she said. "It is drama, it is action, it is beauty, it is romance, it is funny."
The original and revival productions were nominated for and received several Tony Awards. The musical includes songs by award-winning composer Stephen Schwartz, whose major works have appeared in "Wicked," "Pocahontas" and "The Prince of Egypt."
"When people walk out (after the show), the only thing I want them to say is, 'Wow!' I want them to be speechless because this is a pretty speechless show," said Wyatt Logan, who plays Pippin.
For Logan, 18, this production holds a special meaning to him. This is his first time playing the lead character at a large theater company.
The relatability of the characters and storyline make the show timeless, said Curtis Sudduth, who plays the Leading Player. Like Pippin, everyone searches for the next big thing that will make them happy, but sometimes, people need a reminder that external items will not always satisfy them.
"We have to realize that what is going to make us happy is what's inside of us, and we've had it all along," Sudduth said.
The show will start at 7:30 p.m. today through Saturday and June 17-19, as well as 1 p.m. on Saturday and June 19 at 719 Wicker Lane. The buffet will be served prior to the show.
Tickets cost $38, and audience members can purchase them at ccpjc.org/pippin/.