The 40th anniversary celebration of Pee-wee's Playhouse, a beloved TV series, was a testament to the enduring spirit of its creator, Paul Reubens. Despite the absence of Reubens, the event was a joyous tribute to his unique vision. The celebration was a testament to the show's impact, featuring a mix of nostalgia and pure, unadulterated fun. The secret word of the night was 'fantastic,' and it resonated throughout the Greek Theater in Los Angeles, a fitting tribute to the show's whimsical nature.
The event was a star-studded affair, with a diverse lineup of performers and musicians. Kate Pierson of the B-52s performed the iconic Pee-wee theme, joined by the house band, which included Mark Mothersbaugh of DEVO and Fred Armisen. The B-52s and DEVO performed their hits, with surprising energy domes and a human-sized lobster making appearances. The original Playhouse puppeteers also showcased their talents in a puppet-free number, and Puddles Pity Party, aka Michael Geier, wowed the crowd with his incredible singing voice.
The stage design was simple yet effective, with a few large pieces emulating the show's original production. The performers were excited to walk through the signature zigzag padded red door, a portal to childhood. The show featured a mix of clips from the series, including an opening montage, and a variety of sketches and performances. One of the highlights was a tribute to The Del Rubio Triplets, with Fred Armisen donning a blonde wig and performing alongside Kate Pierson and Fred Schneider.
The event also showcased the diverse talents of comedians, including Julio Torres, who performed in a vintage costume once worn by Reubens. Torres' performance was a blend of physical comedy and self-deprecating humor. Sheng Wang and Patti Harrison also performed, with Wang's gentle set paying reverence to Pee-wee and Harrison's signature weirdness and edginess. Michael Carbonaro's shaving cream act was a standout moment, blending novelty with art.
The celebration captured the essence of Pee-wee's Playhouse, a show that was both sanitized for kids and irreverent at its core. It was a night of silliness and fun, with the best possible ending being a big dance party set to the song 'Tequila.' Reubens may not have been physically present, but his spirit was very much alive and well, as the event paid homage to his unique vision and the enduring impact of his creation.
