Piper Photo by Jacki Korito

The Beatles' melodic declaration—"All You Need is Love"—is not a literal truism. We know that. Of course, man does not live by bread alone. But neither can he live without it. Nevertheless, if you love John Lennon, were swept-up in Beatle-mania, or simply have an affection for classic rock 'n roll, Tim Piper's musical tribute to Lennon—at the No Ho Arts, in North Hollywood through January 2—is a must see event.

With an ever-changing video collage projected onto a screen up center stage (thanks to Piper), Luke Moyer's psychedelic lighting motif colorfully rains upon director Steve Altman's perfectly believable bandstand set-design. Piper takes us on a 1960s musical history tour, and it is magical. Yes, we get the low-down on Lennon's life from its beginning in the war-torn Britain of 1940 until its tragic ending in December of 1980. Yet Just Imagine is no mere docudrama; though it does have plenty of psychodrama— Lennon's checkered relationship with his mom and dad is touched on, for instance.

More accurately, Just Imagine is a celebration of Lennon's artistic and free-spirited legacy. Further, Piper, who has made a career of characterizing Lennon onstage and on television, is a ringer for this preeminent Beatle, not only in appearance, but vocally as well. With numbers such as "Revolution, "Help," and "Twist & Shout," Piper captures Lennon's primal and rhythmic screams and screeches. In renditions of "Don't Let Me Down" and "Beautiful Boy," we get a glimpse of Lennon as the soul-touching and composer and singer.

Moreover, we gain insight into the collaborative process that went on between Lennon and Paul McCartney, arguably the most accomplished and prolific songwriting duo in the annals of popular music. As Lennon, Piper explains with regard to McCartney, "We complimented each other. He was salt. I was pepper. He was oil. I was vinegar… (and) together we made a tasty salad."

Piper's Lennon is a singular presence infused with rebel-rousing intensity and heartfelt passion. But, because of a Kick-A-Plus  backup band—Morley Bartnoff on keyboard; Dan Butler, lead guitar; Greg Piper, bass guitar; Don Poncher, drums—we are loathe to call it a one-man show. After all, not only have these accomplished musicians mastered the scope and depth of the Beatles' and (solo) Lennon songbooks, they also pose as surrogate Beatles, helpfully adding their own quirks and comedy to the festivities. "Just Imagine" is a vivid recreation of the life and times of John Lennon, including his joy, anger, and his contagious vitality. To experience Tim Piper's near-channeling of Lennon defies imagination. You must see it to believe it.

"Just Imagine" continues at the No Ho Arts Center—11136 Magnolia Boulevard, North Hollywood—through January 2. Show times are Sunday at 3 p.m. and Tuesday – Saturday at 8 p.m. Plus, there are performances at 8 p.m. on Monday (December 21 and 28). The schedule varies from time to time. For reservations, dial (866) 811 – 4111. For further information and online ticketing, visit www.justimaginetheshow.com.