Michael Arden, left, and Tyrone Giordano are voice and sign-language counterparts in their dual portrayal of the title character in “Pippin.” Deaf West Theatre and Center Theatre Group have partnered to put together a sound and sign-language rendition of the 1970s musical with score by Stephen Schwartz (“Wicked”) and book by Roger O. Hirson. It’s at the Mark Taper Forum through March 15. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
The concept: A theatrical troupe tells the story of Pippin, son of Charlemagne. Ty Taylor, center, portrays the Leading Player. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
Troy Kotsur, front, portrays Pippin’s kingly dad. Like many young men, Pippin seeks direction in his life. Is politics the answer? (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
The prospect of war momentarily excites Pippin, as played by Tyrone Giordano, left, and Michael Arden. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
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The king’s other son, the muscle-bound Lewis, played by James Royce Edwards, seeks to prove his worth. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
Things begin to look a bit dicey in “Pippin” at the Mark Taper Forum. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
The search for purpose is in full bloom for Tyrone Giordano, left, and Michael Arden in their dual portrayal of Pippin. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
A lot of skin was shown in the original 1972 production, directed and choreographed by Bob Fosse. Ty Taylor, center, as the Leading Player, keeps the tradition going at the Taper. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
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Troy Kotsur, center, is a king at prayer when danger enters, stage right. (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
Everyone seems to have an agenda in “Pippin,” including the king’s scheming wife, Fastrada, played by Sara Gettelfinger. Will young Pippin be able to navigate the thicket? (Lawrence K. Ho / Los Angeles Times)
