Most theaters have returned to normal operations again, however county mandates for mask requirements are still being decided as we go to press, so check the current guidelines before you leave to attend any performances. Covid protocols also vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please communicate with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their current policy is.

The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should verify it with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

“Chriskirkpatrickmas: A Boy Band Christmas Musical” Holiday entertainment just got more magical. Think, “A Christmas Carol” meets “It’s a Wonderful Life” meets…*NSYNC. It’s Christmas Eve 2009 and Chris Kirkpatrick from *NSYNC has a decision to make. This musical parody mashup of holiday classics features 12 original songs in a celebration of the season with music direction by Taylor Williams, whose work can be heard on the Grammy Award winning albums Hamilton, Dear Evan Hansen, and The Color Purple (2016 Revival). Written by Alison Zatta, with music by Alison Zatta and Valen Shore, and directed by Valen Shore, it runs December 1 through December 11 at the Actors Company in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.chriskirkpatrickmas.com.

“Bob’s Holiday Office Party” Every year, insurance agent Bob Finhead’s whacked out friends and clients stop by his small-town Iowa office for their annual holiday bash. The town mayor, the sheriff, the twin farmer sisters, the stoner, the town floozy and the pastor’s wife have already RSVP’d for this year’s event. But Bob has dreams of a bigger life and wants to escape their narrow-minded thinking. Will he be able to fulfill his dream of becoming a professional inventor and move to the big city, or will he come to realize how much he is the heart and soul of the town? Will any of this matter once the party starts, the bickering and fighting begins, and the drinks hit the floor? The play is set in the office of insurance salesman Bob Finhead in Neuterburg, Iowa (population 382). Bob is carrying on a flirtation with the mayor’s wife, while the mayor himself is busy accommodating a male houseguest. Joe, the alcoholic town sheriff, is attracted to Brandy, the town party girl who is the twin sister of Carol, the minister’s emotionally disturbed wife. There’s one other set of twins in town, La Donna and La Voris Johnson, wealthy farmers who are proud members of the Neuterburg Tea Party. Written by Joe Keyes and Rob Elk, and directed by Matt Roth, it runs December 2 through December 18 at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Hills. For tickets visit www.onstage411.com/BHOP.

“A Christmas Carol” tells the story of Ebenezer Scrooge, a prosperous curmudgeon of a man who believes that personal wealth is far more valuable than the happiness and comfort of others. With an infuriated “Bah! Humbug!” Scrooge summates his feelings of Christmas tidings and charitable giving, but he’s forced to face his selfish ways when three ghosts on Christmas Eve lead him through his Past, Present, and Future. Thanks to their guidance, Scrooge eventually learns to recognize his faults, and greets Christmas morning with a cheerful “Happy Christmas” before spending the day reconnecting and sharing love with those that mean the most to him. Written by Charles Dickens, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Lynn Ahrens, and directed by Tim Nelson, it runs December 2 through December 18 at the Rose Center Theater in Westminster. For tickets visit www.rosecentertheater.com.

“Santasia – A Holiday Comedy” The critically acclaimed musical sketch comedy show features Broadway musical parodies, heartfelt sentiment and classic Rankin and Bass inspired Claymation movies. The popular and celebrated live stage show has run in Los Angeles for the past 23 years. Written by Brandon Loeser and Shaun Loeser, and directed by Brandon Loeser, Shaun Loeser and Tania Pearson-Loeser, it runs December 2 through December 25 at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks. For tickets visit www.santasia.com.

“Volun-Tears” is based on the true experiences of women who have suffered sexual harassment and sexual abuse in the United States Armed Forces. Performed by a majority of U.S. Veterans, the play exposes the truth about the insidious, systemic sexual harassment and abuse that continues to shame and dishonor America’s military. Written by Lester Probst, and directed by Tony Lugo, it runs December 2 through December 11 at the Blue Door Theatre in Culver City. For tickets visit www.artsupla.org.

“Winter Wishes: A Holiday Cabaret Theatre” Featuring a talented cast of 15 singer-actors performing treasured songs and telling stories of holiday memories and wishes we will usher in this Magical Season of Joy and Light uplifting your spirits, making you laugh out loud and inspiring hope in your heart. Music by Paul Cady, with music by Paul Cady, it runs December 2 through December 11 at the Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.theatrewest.org.

“Ain’t Misbehavin’: The Fats Waller Musical Revue” It’s 1930’s Harlem, and the joint is jumpin’! Nightclubs like “The Cotton Club” and “The Savoy Ballroom” are the playgrounds of high society, and dive bars on Lenox Avenue pulse with piano players banging out new tunes that are a wild mix of raucous, rowdy, and mournful. At home on the keyboard is Thomas “Fats” Waller – the big-hearted, bigger-than-life impresario and international jazz pianist who helped create and define American swing. This is a musical tribute to Waller’s passion for pleasure and play. The revue features a five-person, triple-threat cast performing such classic hit songs like “Honeysuckle Rose,” “Your Feet’s Too Big,” “Black and Blue,” “I’m Gonna Sit Right Down and Right Myself a Letter,” “The Jitterbug Waltz,” and the iconic title song. Written by Murray Horwitz & Richard Maltby, Jr., with music by Thomas “Fats” Waller, and directed by Wren T. Brown, it runs December 3 through December 18 at the Rubicon Theatre Company in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“A Christmas Carol” A Noise Within’s delightfully festive, musically merry stage adaptation of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol has become a Los Angeles tradition with its innovative staging, whimsical costumes, original music and boundless good cheer. Written by Charles Dickens, adapted by Geoff Elliott, with music by Robert Oriol, and directed by Geoff Elliott and Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, it runs December 3 through December 23 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Die Heart” This holiday season, the Troubies leave no stone unturned and no glass un-shot – as they blow the roof off the Colony Theatre and hold the audience hostage with the classic Christmas film Die Hard combined with the music of Heart – in Troubadour Theater’s production of DIE HEART! Don’t spend the holidays “Alone,” run barefoot to the Colony Theatre and see the Troubies “Kick it Out,” but remember, don’t be late-comers or we’ll go “Crazy on You!” Hans Gruber and his “Bara-crewda” will be gunning for laughs in Burbank as they take on that tempestuous “Magic Man,” John McClane in this can’t-miss Troubie extravaganza! Written and directed by Matt Walker, with music by Ryan Whyman, it runs December 8 through December 18 at the Colony Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-558-7000 or visit www.troubie.com.

“Shambles” Blurring the lines between audience and performers, this immersive experience drops theater goers into a 60’s NASA holiday party complete with alien abductions, ugly Christmas sweaters and free-flowing champagne, as theatergoers meander through curated rooms of wonder. Written by Stefan Haves, with music by Philip Giffin, it runs December 8 through December 31 at the Actors’ Gang at The Ivy Substation in Culver City. For tickets call 310-838-4264 or visit www.ci.ovationtix.com/35132/production/1141592.

“A Very DIE HARD Christmas” In A Very DIE HARD Christmas, a team of terrorists has seized a building, taken hostages, and declared war. One man has managed to escape. An off-duty cop hiding somewhere inside. He’s alone, tired…and he doesn’t like Christmas. Action, humor, Professor Snape taking people hostage, singing, dancing, the guy from Family Matters, guns, puppets, explosions, the EPA guy from Ghostbusters getting punched in the face, Christmas miracles and familiar holiday friends galore. Maybe even an appearance by the legend himself, Santa Claus! This is much more than a stage version of the holiday classic Die Hard, its parody at its best. Written by Josh Carson, Brad Erickson, Andy Rocco Kraft and Mike Mayket, and directed by Gregory Crafts, it runs December 8 through December 18 at the Studio/Stage in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.theatreunleashed.org.

“Promises, Promises” The story concerns a junior executive at an insurance company who seeks to climb the corporate ladder by allowing his apartment to be used by his married superiors for trysts. Most of the play takes place at Christmas time and trouble starts at the annual office Christmas party. Includes the hits: “I’ll Never Fall in Love Again,” “Promises, Promises,” “I Say a Little Prayer for You,” “A House Is Not a Home,” and more! Written by Neil Simon, with music by Burt Bacharach and lyrics by Hal David, and directed by Brent Beerman, it runs December 9 through January 15 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre Main Stage in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.thegrouprep.com.

“The Wonderful Winter of Oz: A Holiday Panto” Lythgoe Family Panto invite you to take a new adventure to the enchanted land of Oz in their fantastically festive and fun production. Based on the British tradition of pantomime, where the audiences’ participation is part of the show, expect a hilarious, heartwarming evening full of song, dance and holiday merriment! The classic American tale gets a holiday makeover as Dorothy is spirited away by a blizzard on Christmas Eve and finds herself in a strange and wondrous land full of witches, munchkins and more! With beloved holiday tunes and a talented cast, you’ll discover the magic of panto to enrich your holiday season! Written by Kris Lythgoe, and directed by Bonnie Lythgoe, it runs December 9 through December 30 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“La Voix Studio 10th Annual Winter Gala” La Voix Studio, in association with the Maison De Music Foundation, will host their 10TH Annual Winter Gala honoring Randy Taraborrelli and The Supremes. The gala is expected to bring out musical legends and artists to honor Motown’s record breaking and most influential girl group of all time. Confirmed celebrity guests include Scherrie Payne, Lynda Laurence & Susaye Greene of The Supremes, Freda Payne, Joyce and Pam Vincent (Tony Orlando & Dawn), Randy Taraborrelli (biographer of Diana Ross and Beyonce), Iris Gordy and Karla Bristol Gordy (the Berry Gordy Family), Janie Bradford (former VP of Motown), Gloria Hendry from James Bond “Live And Let Die,” Betty Kelly of Martha Reeves and the Vandellas, Reggie Dozier (Grammy Award Winning Music Engineer), Donald Welch (Producer & Director), Charlo Crossley of Bette Midler’s Harlettes, Marla Gibbs from 227 and the Jeffersons along with many more! These inspiring musical greats will welcome a new generation of emerging soulful artists to perform a special tribute of chart-topping memorial hits to help raise donations for Maison De Music Foundation. Written by Shoshana Phillips, and directed by Donald Welch, it runs December 11 through December 11 at the American Jewish University in Bel Air. For tickets visit www.lavoixstudio.com.

“Latina Christmas Special” You thought your holidays with the family were dramatic? Try these three hilarious, touching and surprisingly personal Christmas stories of holidays past told by three acclaimed Latina comedians. When these three sassy BFFs get together, they down plenty of tequila and dish about everything from moms to cucarachas (cockroaches) to Farrah Fawcett and share their funny and intimate stories of childhood Christmas “dramas” that make them uniquely American, undoubtedly Latina and, most of all, friends. Bursting with laughs, more laughs, music and escándalo (scandal)! Written by Maria Russell, Sandra Valls and Diana Yanez, and directed by Geoffrey Rivas, it runs December 13 through December 20 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org/noise-now.

“18 Minutes of Fame: A Musical Journey with Barbara Minkus” You’ve seen her —a lot: On stage, on screen and especially on television. Other than the fact that she never became actually famous, she’s had what most performers would consider an enviable career. Because she started out as, and remains, an accomplished singer, her show business memoir is a musical one. Her road hasn’t always been an easy one. She faced physical challenges. She had to conceal her stage mother’s ongoing infidelities. Aspiring early on to sing opera, Barbara found her audiences steering her in the direction of musical comedy. Gaining a foothold in national media, she worked with the show business greats. She appeared 25 times as a raconteur and singer on The Merv Griffin Show; Appeared on TV with Danny Kaye and Jerry Lewis; 27 episodes of Love, American Style as a variety of characters; stints on Tosh O; Getting On; The Tonight Show. Her stage career has included the touring company of Funny Girl (as Fanny Brice); a starring role on Broadway in The Education of Hyman Kaplan; Off-Broadway roles in Picon Pie (as Molly Picon); Don’t Leave It All to Your Children; Rondelay. She starred locally as Jennie Grossinger in Saturday Night at Grossinger’s. She also had roles in eleven feature films. Along the way, she found true love. A trip to Israel with her husband brought her closer to her Jewish roots. Written by Susan Morgenstern and Barbara Minkus, and directed by Susan Morgenstern, it runs December 16 through December 18 at Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.theatrewest.org.

“The Long Beach Nutcracker” This production boasts a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, on-stage pyrotechnics, and a cast of over 250. Former Disney designers Elliot Hessayon and Scott Schaffer created the enchanting scenery, Australian artist Adrian Clark designed the detailed costumes, and renowned magician Franz Harary created the special effects. Written by E. T. A. Hoffmann, with music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky, and directed by David Wilcox, it runs December 16 through December 23 at the Terrace Theater at the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center in Long Beach. For tickets visit www.LongBeachNutcracker.com.

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CONTINUING

“A Child’s Christmas in Wales” Dylan Thomas recounts his childhood in Wales and the simple pleasures of Christmas in a small sea-side town. Snowballs, songs, and presents are all part of the whimsical Winter landscape as we follow a young boy through the most wonderful time of the year. Written by Dylan Thomas, it runs through December 11 at the Helen Borgers Theatre in Long Beach. For tickets visit www.LBShakespeare.org.

“Mrs. Dilber’s Fabulous Bedcurtains” is a comedic reimagining of the classic holiday tale, but without the old rich guy! Instead, playwright Arthur M. Jolly focuses on Mrs. Dilber, the housekeeper in the original story — and her epic attempt to get some bedcurtains despite a series of ghosts and other diversions including Dr. Jekyll, the little matchstick girl and an oddly Mr. Hyde-esque Tiny Tim … on a night somewhat adjacent to the more familiar story. Written by Arthur M. Jolly, and directed by Tor Brown and Marc Leclerc, it runs through December 18 at the Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.loftensemble.org.

“A Christmas Carol” Features SCR Founding Member Richard Doyle as Ebenezer Scrooge. This Orange County holiday tradition, now in its 42nd year, provides a perfect holiday story about Southern California holiday theatre. Written by Charles Dickens, adapted by Jerry Patch, and directed by Hisa Takakuwa, it runs through December 24 at the South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“The Empire Strips Back– the Unauthorized Star Wars™ Burlesque Parody” Combining striptease, song and dance, troupe routines and plenty of humor, audiences are transported into the world of burlesque to witness a menacing troop of seriously sexy Stormtroopers, a dangerously seductive Boba Fett, tantalizing Twi’leks, a delightfully lukewarm Taun Taun, a lady-like Skywalker, and of course, scantily clad and daring Droids. Even Darth Vader will explore her feminine side with a fantastical twist. Written and directed by Russall S. Beattie, it runs through January 1 at the Montalbán Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.empirestripsback.com.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
“Annie and Frannie Go to a Funeral”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
“Breakable”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
“Escape from Cottage Woods”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Open Door Playhouse	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
“Rainbow Girls Detective Agency”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

On behalf of the publisher, Steve Zall, and the co-publisher, Sid Fish, we want to thank all of the theater publicists who supply us with this content, all of the editors and publishers who deliver it to our readers, the wonderful staff of all the theaters we attend for doing a magnificent job during these trying times, and to all of our readers who support our efforts to keep you informed. We wish everyone good health, prosperity, and joyful times throughout this holiday season. And, although we have a special place in our hearts for Beverly Hills, we want to extend those wishes to all of the Southern California region!

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to normal operations again, however county mandates for mask requirements are still being decided as we go to press, so check the current guidelines before you leave to attend any performances. Covid protocols also vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please communicate with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their current policy is.

The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should verify it with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

“44: The Unofficial, Unsanctioned Obama Musical” Barack Obama’s election changed history. And as we can clearly see, it also ended racism forever! But 44 – The unOFFICIAL, unSANCTIONED OBAMA MUSICAL is the story of Obama you won’t read about in history books…because history books are now banned in most states. But also because 44 is the story of Obama as Joe Biden kinda sorta remembers it… 44 is a melting pot of music that delivers everything you’d come to expect from a Musical about the Obama Era – Sarah Palin scream-singing “Drill Me Baby” like Ozzy Osbourne, President Obama crooning “How Black Is Too Black?” over a smooth Motown groove, and of course, a 90’s R&B Slow Jam where Mitch McConnell declares his unquenchable passion for his beloved musket. Written and directed by Eli Bauman, with music by Eli Bauman and Jon “Bowzer” Bauman, it runs November 3 through November 15 at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.44ObamaMusical.com.

“The Sweet Delilah Swim Club” a story of five Southern women whose friendships began many years ago on their college swim team, who set aside a long weekend every August to recharge their relationships with each other. Free from husbands, kids and jobs, they meet at the same beach cottage, the “Sweet Delilah on North Carolina’s Outer Banks”, to catch up, laugh and meddle in each other’s lives. “The Sweet Delilah Swim Club” is a hilarious and touching comedy about friendships that last forever. Written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten, and directed by Martha Hunter, it runs November 4 through December 11 at the Theatre Palisades in Pacific Palisades. For tickets call 310-454-1970 or visit www.theatrepalisades.org.

“Warrior Queen Anahit the Brave” a world premiere, family-friendly musical inspired by an Armenian fairy tale. Filled with song, multi-media, interactive elements and spectacle, the story of Anahit’s transformation from peasant rug weaver to sword-wielding Queen of the Armenian Highlands is sure to empower girls and transfix boys ages six and up. Written and directed by Armina LaManna, with music by Shahen Hagobian, it runs November 5 through November 18 at the Colony Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-649-9474 or visit www.imaginetheatreca.org.

“Mindplay” Drama Desk Award–nominated theatermaker and mentalist Vinny DePonto leads us on a raucous romp through the back channels of our innermost thoughts, exploring the fragmented and flawed nature of our memories, and asks us to question whether we can trust the voice inside our heads. In the spirit of the Geffen’s long tradition of magic comes an entirely new theatrical event in which your thoughts play a leading role. Written by Vinny DePonto & Josh Koenigsberg, and directed by Andrew Neisler, it runs November 8 through December 18 at the Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater – Geffen Playhouse in Westwood. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“9 TO 5 the Musical” Based on the hit 1980 movie starring Dolly Parton, Jane Fonda, and Lily Tomlin, 9 TO 5 the Musical tells the story about three workmates pushed to a boiling point by their sexist and egotistical boss. Outrageously funny, thought-provoking, and even a little romantic, this musical is about friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. And remember, long before there was #MeToo, there were #WeThree. Written by Patricia Resnick, with music by Dolly Parton, and directed by Kirk Larson, it runs November 11 through December 10 at the Westchester Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“Smile” A kid from the inner city whose mother moved her in order to attend a White, affluent public school in Philadelphia’s Main Line, Rachel is a young girl still dreaming of her first kiss; she’s ill-equipped to navigate a world which defines her solely by gender, race and class. When an “incident” at school lands Rachel in the guidance counselor’s office, her situation sparks the young mother’s own questions and insecurities. Soon, Rachel and Helen find themselves developing a complicated relationship. Written by Melissa Jane Osborne, and directed by Michelle Bossy, it runs November 12 through December 5 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-380-8843 or visit www.iamatheatre.com.

“Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner” A progressive white couple’s proud liberal sensibilities are put to the test when their daughter brings her Black fiancé home to meet them in this fresh and relevant stage adaptation of the iconic film Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner. Blindsided by their daughter’s whirlwind romance and fearful for her future, Matt and Christina Drayton quickly come to realize the difference between supporting a mixed-race couple in your newspaper and welcoming one into your family—especially in 1967. But they’re surprised to find they aren’t the only ones with concerns about the match, and it’s not long before a multi-family clash of racial and generational difference sweeps across the Draytons’ idyllic San Francisco terrace. At the end of the day, will the love between young Joanna and John prevail? With humor and insight, the play begins a conversation sure to continue at dinner tables long after the curtain comes down. Written by Todd Kriedler, adapted from the screenplay by William Rose, and directed by Cate Caplin, it runs November 17 through December 18 at Theatre Forty in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Anatomy of Gray” Set at the end of the 19th century in the small town of Gray, Indiana, The Wizard of Oz meets Our Town in the Open Fist Theatre Company production of Anatomy of Gray, a funny and touching “children’s story for adults.” Following the death of her father, 15-year-old June prays for a “healer” so no one in town will ever have to suffer again. When a man literally blows into town in a hot air balloon, she thinks her prayer has been answered. At first, the new doctor cures anything and everything; but soon his presence leads to a clash between faith and science. Written by Jim Leonard, and directed by Ben Martin, it runs November 19 through January 21 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.

“The Brothers Paranormal” After a nationwide increase in sightings of “Asian-looking ghosts,” two Thai brothers struggle to launch a ghost-hunting business. The two brothers–one born in Thailand and the other in the American Midwest–are called to investigate the paranormal hauntings at the home of an African American couple displaced by Hurricane Katrina in this supernatural thriller. A suspenseful, humorous, and compassionate exploration of the trauma of leaving home, whether crossing the country, the globe, or over from the other side. Written by Prince Gomolvilas, and directed by Jeff Liu, it runs November 20 through December 11 at the East West Players in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-625-7000 or visit www.eastwestplayers.org.

“Invincible – The Musical” This inventive new work weaves the four-time GRAMMY® Award and 2022 Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Inductees’ legendary catalogue and inspired new songs throughout a reimagining of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Invincible – The Musical is set in the modern, war-torn metropolis of Verona where the newly elected Chancellor Paris vows to destroy the progressive resistance and return the city to its traditional roots. The star-crossed lovers’ story, exploring how love and equality battle for survival in times of great transformation, envisions peace in a divided world. Written by Bradley Bredeweg, with music by Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, and directed by Tiffany Nichole Greene, it runs November 22 through December 18 at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Bram Goldsmith Theater in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-746-4000 or visit www.TheWallis.org.

“Disney’s Winnie the Pooh: The New Musical Stage Adaptation” In a new story from the Hundred Acre Wood, this fresh stage adaptation is told with impressive life-size puppetry, telling exciting new stories featuring characters that have played iconic roles in the lives of children for generations. Accompanying the magical, modern narrative is an original score from Nate Edmondson, which features some of the songs written for the animated feature from The Sherman Brothers’, including Winnie the Pooh, The Blustery Day, The Wonderful Thing About Tigger’s, Whoop-De-Dooper Bounce, and A.A. Milne’s The More It Snows. Written and directed by Jonathan Rockefeller, with music by Nate Edmondson, it runs November 23 through December 30 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. For tickets visit www.winniethepoohshow.com.

“Patsy Cline Holiday Concert” One of the biggest box-office hits and critical successes in the history of Sierra Madre Playhouse was its 2015 production of the musical “Always…. Patsy Cline.” Now, the Playhouse is bringing back that show’s dynamic star and musical director, reuniting them for an extraordinary concert entertainment, Patsy Cline Holiday Concert. Written by Cori Cable Kidder, it runs November 25 through December 23 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets call 626-355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

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CONTINUING

“In the Heights” is a heartfelt, hopeful, high-energy musical about community, neighborhood and finding where you belong. The story takes place over three days in a close-knit neighborhood in Washington Heights in Upper Manhattan, New York City – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythms of three generations of music. Written by Lin-Manuel Miranda and Quiara Alegría Hudes, and directed by Luis Salgado, it runs through November 13 at the Karyn Jackson Theatre in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“Rent” follows a year in the life of a group of impoverished young artists and musicians struggling to survive and create in New York’s Lower East Side under the shadow of HIV/AIDS. How these young bohemians negotiate their dreams, loves, and conflicts provides the narrative thread to this groundbreaking musical. Written by Jonathan Larson, with music by Jonathan Larson, and directed by Reena Dutt, it runs through November 19 at the Shakespeare Center of Los Angeles in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-576-8193 or visit www.coeurage.org/rent.

“Belleville” A newly married American couple seem to be living an enviable life in the colorful, multi-ethnic neighborhood of Belleville, Paris… But when a series of small, unexpected encounters escalates the tension between them, some surprising cracks in the foundation of their isolated yet idyllic life begin to show. What do you believe when you aren’t even sure of those whom you trust most? Written by Amy Herzog, and directed by Benjamin Burt, it runs through November 20 at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 323-657-5992 or visit www.crimsonsquare.org.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
“Annie and Frannie Go to a Funeral”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
“Breakable”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
“Escape from Cottage Woods”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
“Rainbow Girls Detective Agency”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always. We also want to send our heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this important information, and to our editors and publishers who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to normal operations again, however county mandates for mask requirements are still being decided as we go to press, so please check the current guidelines before you leave to attend any performances. Covid protocols also vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please check with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their current policy is.

The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should check with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

“Drag: The Musical” is a groundbreaking new show full of glamour, glitz, and DIVAtastic twists featuring drag superstar Alaska Thunderf*ck. Debuting at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood, the all-star cast boasts a roster of drag icons including Alaska, Jujubee, Jackie Cox, Jan Sport, Lagoona Bloo, and Aria B. Cassadine, along with pop music legend Joey McIntrye, and Broadway veterans Nick Adams and Alysha Deslorieux. Together, they tell the tale of two rival drag clubs that must go head-to-head to overcome their differences in order to survive. Enjoy a hilarious and heartfelt celebration of the LGBTQ+ community and the power of family. Harkening back to cult classics like Rocky Horror and La Cage aux Folles with a modern twist, DRAG: The Musical is sure to become a modern-day, queer cult classic. Written by Alaska Thunderf*ck, with music by Tomas Costanza and Ashley Gordon, and directed by Spencer Liff, it runs through October 15 at the Bourbon Room in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.bourbonroomhollywood.com.

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“To the Bone” a darkly funny comedy about family, baseball, genetics — and the unexpected vagaries of life. Twenty years after the Red Sox lost their chance at the pennant when a Yankees fan bounded onto the field in the ninth inning to void what would have been the game-winning out, Sisters Kelly Moran and Maureen Dugan still live on the “Irish Riviera” south of Boston, where they were known as “hard girls” back in high school. Written and directed by Catherine Butterfield, it runs October 1 through November 5 at the Open Fist Theatre Company – Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.

“Nina Simone: Four Women” Following the 1963 bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church in Birmingham, AL. that killed four young girls, Simone shifted her considerable talents to activism. The result was some of the most powerful, impactful civil rights anthems ever written. Ham’s intensely personal play with music takes theatregoers into how the iconic chanteuse gave voice to countless other Black women fighting to overcome stereotypes and racism. Written by Christina Ham, and directed by Logan Vaughn, it runs October 2 through October 23 at the South Coast Repertory – Julianne Argyros Stage in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“Basement Folly” a couple ponders what to do when they discover that an unknown person is living in their basement. A normal couple would take swift action. But not these people. They have to discuss it: Call police? Kick the person out, with so many people homeless? Give priority to an old family friend who appears, homeless and needing shelter? What about their adult daughter, who wants a temporary place? What if it’s the wife’s unstable sister? What’s moral? What’s safe? And who’s down there, anyway? All fodder for the family’s greatest talent: bickering. Written by David Datz, and directed by Carol M. Becker, it runs October 3 through October 26 at the Theatre 40, in the Reuben Cordova Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-3606 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Mother Sisters” a docu-play curated and constructed by Makaela Vogel based on interviews she conducted with her eight aunts. Looking back over their varied and fascinating lives, these women affirm the strength and transformative power of their bond as sisters and female travelers of the late 20th century. Written by Makaela Vogel, and directed by Sky Paley, it runs October 5 through October 27 at the Echo Theater Company – Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 310-307-3753 or visit www.EchoTheaterCompany.com.

“The Mousetrap” Seven strangers are stranded at Monkswell Manor during a blizzard when a police sergeant unexpectedly arrives, worried that a murderer-at-large is among the guests. Before he can investigate, one of them is killed. Will the police be able to solve the case before another “mouse” falls? Written by Agatha Christie, and directed by Jules Aaron, it runs October 6 through November 13 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre – Main Stage in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-763-5990 or visit www.thegrouprep.com.

“Cindy & The Disco Ball: The Musical” time-travels back to a decade that was dy-no-mite! Colorful fashion, sensational songs, and disco dance moves bring an all-new Cinderella story to life. The story unfolds at a SoCal High School in 1976. On the flip side, a glittering Soul Sister with magic up her sleeves is keeping tabs on Cindy and her “messy” relationship with her stepsister. It’s a fun and fabulous journey through teenage self-discovery, high school romance, and four friends who dream up something big for the future – you know… the 1980s. Written by Joseph Leo Bwarie and Lori Marshall, with music by Rachael Lawrence, lyrics by Joseph Leo Bwarie and Lori Marshall, and directed by Joseph Leo Bwarie and Christine Lakin, it runs October 7 through October 30 at the Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-955-8101 or visit www.garrymarshalltheatre.org.

“A Day in the Death of Joe Egg” In this highly theatrical, very funny, but ultimately devastating tragic-comedy, married couple Bri and Sheila use irreverent humor as a way to cope with the daily struggle of caring for their 10-year-old, severely brain-damaged daughter, whom they’ve affectionately nicknamed “Joe Egg.” The result is an immensely moving and profound play about love and marriage. Written by Peter Nichols, and directed by Ethan Maniquis, it runs October 7 through November 21 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“Staring Into Nothing” Is a new musical/rock opera which explores the impact of mass media, social media, and the digital information age on the quality of our lives. It asks and attempts to answer the age-old philosopher’s question: “What Is Good and What Is Not?” Written by Steve Rogers, with music by Steve Rogers and Kurt Barabas, and directed by Jeffrey Polk, it runs October 7 through October 9 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-508-4200 or visit www.elportaltheatre.com.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Divorce” Three couples, each intent on getting divorced, find themselves sharing the same meeting room waiting for the same divorce mediator. Once, each of these couples were in love. What happened to bring each of them to this point? While they’re waiting, Brian and Carol, Doug and Angie, and Ken and Tanya share their stories of love that went wrong. Their tales are by turns hilarious and heartbreaking. Written by Jeff Gould, and directed by Marc Antonio Pritchett, it runs October 9 through November 20 at the New Collective Theater in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.divorce.brownpapertickets.com.

“Inconceivable” Based on personal experience and written by the performing actress, Atlanta/Israel native Meirav Zur, everything seen in this comedic solo production is true and resonates with audiences. This is a hilarious and real fertility journey. Those who are “inside” infertility can never truly explain it, and those who are “outside” of infertility can never truly understand it. This show bridges that gap, with many laughs along the way. Written and directed by Meirav Zur, it runs October 10 through December 12 at the Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.onstage411.com/inconceivable.

“The Addams Family” embraces the wackiness in every family, features an original story and it’s every father’s nightmare: Wednesday Addams, the ultimate princess of darkness, has grown up and fallen in love with a sweet, smart young man from a respectable family – a man her parents have never met. And if that wasn’t upsetting enough, Wednesday confides in her father and begs him not to tell her mother. Now, Gomez Addams must do something he’s never done before – keep a secret from his beloved wife, Morticia. Everything will change for the whole family on the fateful night they host a dinner for Wednesday’s “normal” boyfriend and his parents. Written by Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music by Andrew Lippa, and directed by Kirsten Chandler, it runs October 14 through October 23 at the Kavli Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets call 800-745-3000 or visit www.5startheatricals.com.

“Daddy Issues” How far will a gay guy go to please his overbearing Jewish parents? Mr. and Mrs. Moscowitz are in denial about their son’s gay lifestyle, disapprove of his career choice, and question his flair for decoration. To get his family to stop kvetching, Donald needs a son. With the help of his ballsy best friend Henrietta and rising drag queen Levi, Donald hires the ten-year-old kid from downstairs. Written and directed by David Goldyn, it runs October 14 through November 13 at the Dorie Theatre @The Complex in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.daddyissuestheplay.com.

“Damn Yankees” How far would you go to help your favorite team win? Would you risk your wife, your life, your very soul? Joe Hardy is about to find out, when his despair over the state of the Washington Senators summons a sulfuric stranger with an offer Joe can’t refuse. Featuring audience favorites like, “Shoeless Joe from Hannibal, MO.,” “Heart,” and “Whatever Lola Wants, Lola Gets,” Damn Yankees is a Faustian funfest that celebrates love, baseball, and the importance of an escape clause. Written by George Abbot & Douglass Wallop, with music by Richard Adler & Jerry Ross, and directed by Cynthia Ferrer, it runs October 14 through October 30 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“Farragut North” about behind-the-scenes election intrigue. No trick is too dirty, no lie is too outrageous, no spin is too ingenious if it gets your candidate over the top. Titled after the Metrorail stop closest to Washington D.C.’s geographic center for think tanks, lobbyists, power plays and spin-doctoring, Farragut North is a classic tale of hubris set against a contemporary landscape. Written by Beau Willimon, and directed by Peter Allas, it runs October 14 through November 5 at the Theatre 68 Arts Complex – The Rosalie in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.onstage411.com/farragutn.

“Ubu the King” Killing Wenceslaus and his entire family are not enough for old Ubu, his greed and insatiable appetite lead him into a spiraling series of events that result in murder, war, and ultimately the restoration of the King’s son, Boggerlas, to the throne of Poland. Meanwhile, Ubu and his conspirators sail off to safety at the end of the play facing no consequences for their reign of terror. You must be 18 or older to attend. Written by Alfred Jarry, translation by Cyril Connolly and Simon Watson Taylor, and directed by Tim Robbins, it runs October 14 through November 19 at the Actors Gang in Culver City. For tickets call 310-838-4264 or visit www.TheActorsGang.com.

“(Un)Documents” The multiple award-winning solo work lyrically depicts Valles’s journey across both sides of a river with two names, moving between languages to find their place in a nation that demands sacrifice at the altar of citizenship. In doing so, they create a new kind of documentation written with anger, fierce love, and the knowledge that what makes us human can never be captured on a government questionnaire. Written by Jesús I. Valles, and directed by Rudy Ramirez, it runs October 14 through November 20 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-0994 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

“The Atheist Mother” based on the fictionalized life of Madelyn Murray O’Hair, the woman who led the fight to ban prayer in America’s public schools. O’Hair’s battle to take God out of our classrooms became a cause celebre in 1961. The legal case was contested bitterly over the next two years, culminating in the 1963 Supreme Court decision holding that bible reading and prayer recitation in public schools were impermissible under the doctrine of separation of church and state articulated in the first amendment to the U.S. constitution. O’Hair’s enraged enemies in religious and political circles denounced the high courts’ decision and called her the most hateful woman in America. Written by Willard Manus, and directed by Judith Rose, it runs October 16 through November 13 at the Brick House Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/5573882.

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“The Inheritance Part 1 & Part 2” (Note: This production is presented in two separate plays, Part 1, and Part 2, that alternate days in the theater. A separate ticket is required for each show.) In contemporary Manhattan, Eric and Toby are 30-somethings who seem to be very much in love and thriving. But on the cusp of their engagement, they meet an older man haunted by the past, and a younger man hungry for a future. Chance meetings lead to surprising choices as the lives of three generations interlink and collide—with explosive results. Written by Matthew López, and directed by Mike Donahue, it runs October 16 through November 27 at the Geffen Playhouse – Gil Cates Theater in Westwood. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

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“According to the Chorus” In the basement quick change room of a Broadway theatre in the mid-1980s life is full of angst as the long-running production may close at any time and the chorus women are at war with the wardrobe department. Will the new dresser, with her own sad past and uncertain future, be able to navigate this minefield? This story is a funny, nostalgic behind-the-scenes look at a pivotal period in the history of Broadway where women’s issues and the AIDS crisis play out through the everyday lives of Equity performers and union dressers. Written by Arlene Hutton, and directed by Emily Chase, it runs October 21 through December 11 at the Road Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-761-8838 or visit www.RoadTheatre.org.

“Lend Me A Tenor” Culture-climbers in provincial but pretentious Cleveland are threatened with embarrassment when “Il Stupendo,” the Italian tenor they’ve imported to sing Pagliacci, may prove to be indisposed (or even worse) at the last minute. In this quintessential farce replete with six slamming doors and a phone that never stops ringing, members of the Cleveland Opera Company frantically try to keep the show going when the star can’t go on. The antics accelerate at full tilt, with one case of mistaken identity after another in this hilarious combination of slapstick, word play, romance, and great opera music! Written by Ken Ludwig, and directed by Todd Nielsen, it runs October 21 through November 6 at the International City Theatre – Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-436-4610 or visit www.InternationalCityTheatre.org.

“Man’s Favor Devil’s Plan” CONSUMER ADVISORY: This play deals with adult content including violence and racism. It is unsuitable for small children. Los Angeles, California, 1938, Mr. Avery’s Hotel. A microcosm of a nation that has been steep in a vicious hypocritical quagmire so pervasive that it’s become a reflection of the consciousness of a country. The owner is a victim of his own diabolical abuse and in denial of the consequences even though he is surrounded by them. Laddie, DD, and the rest in his employ navigate in a way that creates two worlds, one that allows them existence and the other that forces murderous results. Written by Kwik Jones, and directed by C. Julian White, it runs October 22 through November 20 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-7402 or visit www.therobeytheatrecompany.org.

“Radio Golf” Harmond Wilks, Pittsburgh’s first Black mayoral candidate, finds himself on the verge of the business breakthrough of a lifetime. The arrival of an unexpected visitor with surprising news forces Harmond to choose between his personal aspirations and his integrity. With humor and courage, Radio Golf challenges the steep price progress can exact upon the soul. Written by August Wilson, and directed by Gregg T. Daniel, it runs October 22 through November 13 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“WET: A DACAmented Journey” is the story of what it means to be an American in every sense of the word except for one: on paper. Chronicling the story of Anner Cividanis’ Journey as an undocumented American, the play captures the desperation that DREAMers experience with limited options of adjustment of status under a broken U.S. Immigration System. Written by Alex Alpharaoh, and directed by Daphnie Sicre, it runs October 22 through November 13 at the Greenway Court Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-673-0544 or visit www.GreenwayCourtTheatre.org.

“EISENHOWER: This Piece of Ground” Tony-winning theatre, television and film star John Rubinstein will portray General Eisenhower. Rubinstein had the honor of meeting “Ike” at the White House when he was a boy. Rubinstein, a lifelong Ike aficionado, has a deep commitment to the material and brings strength, humanity, and humor to the role. This play is a fiction, a piece of history. It is adapted from a range of General Eisenhower’s memoirs, speeches, and letters. The author is grateful to David Eisenhower and the Eisenhower family for permission to quote as needed. Written by Richard Hellesen, and directed by Peter Ellenstein, it runs October 28 through November 20 at the Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.TheatreWest.org.

“A Few Good Men” In this courtroom drama about two Marines on trial for complicity in the death of a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay, a Navy lawyer – who’s more interested in softball games than the case — expects a plea bargain and a cover-up of what really happened. Prodded by a determined female member of his defense team, he eventually makes a valiant effort to defend his clients and, in so doing, puts the military mentality and the Marine code of honor on trial. RECOMMENDED FOR MATURE AUDIENCES ONLY! Written by Aaron Sorkin, and directed by Casey Stangl, it runs October 29 through November 20 at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada. For tickets call 562-944-9801 or visit www.lamiradatheatre.com.

“Love Among the Ruins” When wealthy widow and socialite Jessica Medlicott is sued for breach of promise by her money-seeking ex-fiancé, will her past as an actress help or haunt her? As highly respected, strait-laced lawyer Sir Arthur Granville-Jones steps into the picture, he is driven to hilarious distraction by her larger-than-life personality. Based on the 1975 ABC Theater Presentation with Katharine Hepburn and Laurence Olivier, this world premiere adaptation of the courtroom classic Love Among the Ruins is every bit as charming and delightful as the original film, which garnered a Peabody Award and multiple Emmys. Written by James G. Hirsch and Robert A. Papazian, and directed by Michael Arabian, it runs October 30 through November 13 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

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CONTINUING

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“Lost Lake” is a tense, carefully wrought drama about the surprising, complicated friendship formed by two very different people with no one else to turn to. The lakeside rental Veronica has managed to afford is a far cry from the idyllic getaway she and her children so desperately need, and the disheveled property owner Hogan has problems of his own. Problems that Veronica is inevitably and irrevocably pulled into. An engrossing and revealing portrait of two strangers bound together by circumstance, Lost Lake is a vivid play about the struggle for connection in an imperfect world. Written by David Auburn, and directed by Faye Viviana, it runs through October 9 at the Beverly Hills Playhouse in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-855-1556 or visit www.crimsonsquare.org.

“The Wild Party” tells the story of one tragic, decadent night in a New York apartment shared by Queenie and her menacing lover, Burrs. The couple decides to throw the party to end all parties where Queenie meets a handsome stranger who wants to lure her away. Lust, jealousy, deception, drugs, sex, and violence all play out against the backdrop of Manhattan during the Roaring Twenties and Prohibition, just one year before Crash of 1929. This darkly brilliant show won a slew of awards and its thrilling, pitch-perfect score has become a modern-day classic. Contains adult situations and language, for mature audiences only. Written by Andrew Lippa, with music by Andrew Lippa, and directed by Kristin Towers-Rowles, it runs through October 9 at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-828-7519 or visit www.morgan-wixson.org.

“Mass Graves” A group of men, struggling with the consequences of their past actions, try to recover their lives inside a confined halfway house. As their cohabitants and families start closing in, each is forced to confront the crimes they committed. Can they redeem themselves or will the past keep pushing them to the edge? Written by Cris Eli Blak, and directed by Matt Lorenzo, it runs through October 23 at the Sawyer’s Playhouse at Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
“Annie and Frannie Go to a Funeral”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
“Breakable”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
“Escape from Cottage Woods”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
“Rainbow Girls Detective Agency”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always, and we want to wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day this month! We also want to send heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this great information, and to our editors and publishers who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to normal operations again, however county mandates for mask requirements are still being decided as we go to press, so please check the current guidelines before you leave to attend any performances. Covid protocols also vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please check with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their current policy is.

The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should check with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

“Animal Farm” Revolt is afoot at Manor Farm, when downtrodden beasts of burden rise-up against the cruel Farmer Jones. But self-ruled animal utopia quickly gives way to the temptations of power and privilege in Peter Hall’s fast-moving musical adaptation of George Orwell’s savage satire. Written by George Orwell, adapted for the stage by Peter Hall, with music by Richard Peaslee, lyrics by Adrian Mitchell, and directed by Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, it runs September 3 through October 2 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-353-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Being Future Being” delves into the power of creation, building a visual, aural, and ancestral landscape of Indigenous power. By (re)building new visions of the forces that brought this world into being, the multilayered performance becomes a site for transformation, ushering into focus new futures with the potential to reshape the way we relate to ourselves, our environment, and to the human and more-than-human cohabitants of our world. Written and directed by Emily Johnson, it runs September 8 through September 10 at the Eli and Edythe Broad Stage in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-434-3200 or visit www.broadstage.org.

“Dragon Show: The Extended Tail” is a highly interactive immersive experience featuring handmade artwork and architecture, original songs, and an engaging cast of talented performers. Feel the burst of excitement and wonder you’ve been missing as the world you know melts away before your eyes — revealing a breathtaking magical realm you never knew was there. Written by Katelyn Schiller and Nick Rheinwald Jones, with music by Weston Gaylord, and directed by Katelyn Schiller, it runs September 8 through October 2 at the (private residence) in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.spybrunch.ticketleap.com/dragon-show-extended.

“Ghosts” As widow Helene Alving tries to start her life anew after the death of her philandering husband, she must confront the ghosts of the past and the weight of her own secrets. She is determined that her son will not follow in his father’s footsteps, but when Oswald returns from France, she discovers that she may be too late. Written by Henrik Ibsen, adapted by Richard Eyre, and directed by Bart DeLorenzo, it runs September 8 through October 23 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“Bearings” Richard Kalvar crossed a line. He did something he never thought he would do; and then something happened. It must have because things no longer make sense. Rich has lost his bearings. Can Detective Mike Salcedo help him piece together the weird, passionate, hilarious fragments of his shattered life and make sense of them again? Can Kalvar regain his bearings? Written and directed by Matt Chait, it runs September 9 through October 9 at the Flight Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.eventbrite.com/e/bearings-tickets-395606518747.

“Bright Blue Sky” A heartfelt original musical that follows the personal accounts of an everyday group of people in the North Tower of the World Trade Center on the morning of September 11, 2001. Written and directed by Vincent Aniceto, with music by Tim Nelson, it runs September 9 through September 18 at the Rose Center Theater in Westminster. For tickets visit www.rosecentertheater.com.

“Nunsense” is a hilarious spoof about the misadventures of five nuns trying to manage a fundraiser. Sadly, the rest of the sisterhood died from botulism after eating vichyssoise prepared by Sister Julia Child of God. Thus, the remaining nuns – ballet-loving Sister Leo, streetwise Sister Robert Anne, befuddled Sister Mary Amnesia, the Mother Superior Sister Regina, and mistress of the novice Sister Mary Hubert, stage a talent show to raise the money to bury their dearly departed. With catchy songs and irreverent comedy, NUNSENSE is sure to keep audiences rolling with laughter. Written by Dan Goggin, with music by Dan Goggin, and directed by Alta Abbott, it runs September 9 through October 2 at the Theatre Palisades in Pacific Palisades. For tickets call 310-454-1970 or visit www.theatrepalisades.org.

“Silent Sky” When astronomer Henrietta Leavitt begins work at the Harvard Observatory in the early 1900s, she doesn’t begin by looking through a telescope. She joins a group of women “computers,” charting the stars as a vital part of the world’s first study of the sky done from photographs. As Henrietta, in her free time, attempts to measure the light and distance of stars, she also takes measure of her life on Earth, trying to balance her dedication to science with family obligations and the possibility of love. Based on the life of 19th-century astronomer Henrietta Leavitt, Silent Sky explores a woman’s place in society during a time of immense scientific discoveries. Written by Lauren Gunderson, and directed by Barbara Schofield, it runs September 9 through October 9 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets call 626-355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

“Almost, Maine” Welcome to Almost, Maine, a place so far north, it’s barely in the United States. Where the residents are so disorganized, it’s not quite a town. On one cold clear winter’s night, as the Northern Lights float magically in a star-filled sky, the inhabitants of Almost find themselves falling in and out of love in unexpected and hilarious ways. In nine entwined stories, strangers become friends, friends become lovers and lovers become strangers. Knees are bruised. Hearts are broken. But the bruises heal, and the hearts mend – almost. Written by John Cariani, and directed by Stephanie A. Coltrin, it runs September 10 through September 25 at the Rubicon Theatre Company in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“The Romantics” In this comic reversal of Romeo and Juliet, a mother and neighboring father concoct a fake family feud to make their son and daughter think they are ill-fated lovers and fall in love. Their scheme succeeds, but now how will the “feuding” parents find a way to reconcile so that the couple can wed? This wildly funny and entertaining comedy is filled with live music, sword fights and period costumes. The play is the basis for the 1960 musical The Fantasticks. Written by Edmond Rostand, and directed by Suzanne Hunt, it runs September 10 through September 25 at the Kings Road Park in West Hollywood. For tickets visit www.theromantics-weho2022.eventbrite.com.

“The Secret World of Archy & Mehitabel” Recounts the strangest collaboration in the history of literature: a partnership between a tiny six-legged creature whose ancestors walked with the dinosaurs, and an overworked, overwrought newspaper man in New York City. What could possibly come of it? Adapted for the stage by Dan Gilvezan from the beloved columns by New York Evening Sun journalist Don Marquis, the tales of Archy, a cockroach with the soul of a poet, and his best friend Mehitabel, the “toujours gai” alley cat, remain as charming, poignant, and relevant today as when they first delighted readers in 1916. Written by Don Marquis, adapted for the stage by Dan Gilvezan, and directed by Moosie Drier, it runs September 10 through October 15 at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks. For tickets call 818-687-8559 or visit www.whitefiretheatre.com.

“Sanctuary City” is the provocative, unforgettable story of two life-long friends, their tenuous grip on living in America, and persevering through whatever comes their way with wit and grit. Profoundly human and undeniably universal, it begs the question: how much do we owe to one another? Written by Martyna Majok, and directed by Zi Alikhan, it runs September 14 through October 9 at the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-7529 or visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.

“The Secret Comedy of Women” Celebrates the joys of the journey from girlhood to womanhood. An immersive theatrical experience that rejoices in the challenges of being a woman — from boys to bras and pantyhose to menopause — this two-woman show explores the universal female experience through a rollicking spectacle of sweetly sharp comedy, songs, dances, stories, and spontaneous moments of discovery that all women share. Written by Barbara Gehring and Linda Klein, it runs September 14 through October 16 at the Huntington Beach Library Theatre in Huntington Beach. For tickets call 855-448-7469 or visit www.playhouseinfo.com.

“The Great Jheri Curl Debate” Veralynn Jackson knows hair, her neighborhood, and that the invention of the Jheri Curl marks the end of the world. When she takes a job in Mr. Kim’s Korean-owned Black beauty supply store and the posters start talking to her, Veralynn might finally come to know her true calling. South Side Chicago meets South Korea in this heartfelt play where a business partnership and a touch of magical realism bring these two unlikely friends closer to understanding themselves and each other. Written by Inda Craig-Galván, and directed by Scarlett Kim, it runs September 15 through October 9 at the David Henry Hwang Theater at the Union Center of the Arts in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-625-7000 or visit www.eastwestplayers.org.

“Everybody” A funny, provocative, and very modern riff on a 15th-century morality play by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins. This is the story of us all, as we journey through life’s greatest mystery—the meaning of living. Representing the randomness of life and death, some of the cast are assigned roles by lottery during the show, creating a unique viewing experience each night. Written by Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, and directed by Jennifer Chang, it runs September 16 through October 17 at the Kiki & David Gindler Performing Arts Center in Glendale. For tickets call 818-506-1983 or visit www.Antaeus.org.

“I Never Sang for my Father” is an American classic that exposes the painful truths of the relationship between a gentle mother, a dutiful son, an alienated daughter, and their harsh, detached father. Family dynamics unravel as they are forced to face the past in this beautifully crafted drama. Written by Robert Anderson, and directed by Doug Kaback, it runs September 16 through October 23 at the Two Roads Theatre in Studio City. For tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4525327.

“Babe” A dark comedy by Jessica Goldberg about cultural evolution and the selves we thought we knew. Abby has been Gus’s right hand in the world of A&R music since the ’90s. Together they signed big bands, loved, fought, and lived hard; it was the best kind of work marriage, at least that’s how Abby sees it. Until Gen Z Kaitlin shows up, hell bent on showing these old rockers it’s 2022, and there’s a new generation hell bent on changing the world—evolve or die. Who goes down? Written by Jessica Goldberg, and directed by Chris Fields, it runs September 17 through October 24 at the Echo Theater Company @ Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 310-307-3753 or visit www.EchoTheaterCompany.com.

“Young Frankenstein” Legendary actress Sally Struthers (“All in The Family,” “Gilmore Girls”) stars as “Frau Blücher” in this electrifying musical stage adaptation of Mel Brooks’ brilliantly funny film that will leave you in stitches! Frederick Frankenstein, grandson of the infamous inventor Doctor Frankenstein, reluctantly inherits the family estate in Transylvania. With the help of a hunchbacked sidekick named Igor and lab assistant Inga, Frederick finds himself following in the mad-scientist tradition of his ancestor, creating a monster for this century. When the monster escapes, hilarity abounds. London reviewers called it “a love letter to American vaudeville” and “an evening of gloriously impure fun.” Please note: Contains mature humor, adult language, sexual innuendo, and situations. Written by Mel Brooks and Thomas Meehan, with music by Mel Brooks, and directed by Jeff Whiting, it runs September 17 through October 9 at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada. For tickets call 562-944-9801 or visit www.lamiradatheatre.com.

“A Clean Brush” tells the story of two house painters, Dick and Mello, who land a job painting a room in the basement of recently widowed Zoe Craig’s home. Zoe’s husband died in the room when he ‘accidentally’ fell into a stand of fireplace implements and suffered a severe head trauma, and now Zoe is looking to turn the room into a rental cash cow. The house painters think this is just another job until Zoe’s nosy neighbor stops by and plants doubt in the painter’s minds as to what really happened to the Widow Craig’s clumsy spouse. Complicating matters, Mello falls for the gorgeous Zoe. But are Mello and Dick being asked to cover up a murder? Written by Norm Foster, and directed by Howard Storm, it runs September 22 through October 23 at the Theatre 40, in the Reuben Cordova Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Night Watch” is an ingeniously devised “Hitchcock type” noir thriller which builds steadily in menace and suspense until the final, breath-stopping moment. Unable to sleep, Elaine Wheeler paces the living room of her Manhattan townhouse, troubled by unsettling memories and vague fears. The mystery begins when Elaine observes one corpse, and then another in the abandoned building opposite her home. Although her friends, family and authorities may not believe her, Elaine insists that she saw what she saw, and continuous suspicions arise as she begins to drive herself and everyone around her to their emotional limits. But with only limited evidence on hand, will plans be made for Elaine to be sent to a sanitarium or will a supposed killer make themselves known? Written by Lucille Fletcher, and directed by Brandon Ferruccio, it runs September 23 through October 8 at the Westchester Playhouse in Westchester. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“Kim’s Convenience” Set in a family-run Korean convenience store – is a hilarious and heartwarming ode to generations of immigrants. Mr. Kim is a first-generation Korean immigrant and the proud owner of Kim’s Convenience for the past 30 years. Now he’s trying desperately – and hilariously – to grapple with both a changing neighborhood landscape and the chasm between him and his second-generation offspring. Before KIM’S CONVENIENCE was a hit on Canadian TV and Netflix, it brought laughter to audiences through this warm and joyous stage play. Written by Ins Choi, and directed by Jon Lawrence Rivera, it runs September 25 through October 9 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“Desert Stories for Lost Girls” When 18-year-old Carrie moves in with her grandmother, she is thrown into a world of memory and mystery that unearths her family’s Genízaro identity — shining a light on a dark, bloody, and little-known period in the history of the American Southwest. Written by Lily Rushing, and directed by Sylvia Cervantes Blush, it runs September 30 through October 16 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-0994 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

“The Wiz Special Screening” On its opening day in 2021, the Academy Museum screened The Wizard of Oz (1939) accompanied by a live orchestra. To celebrate the first anniversary of the museum, we are proud to present the beloved Motown musical version of L. Frank Baum’s classic fantasy. Director Sidney Lumet followed a string of Oscar-winning 1970s classics with this lavish adaptation of the popular Broadway musical noted for its lively score and all-Black cast. Lumet’s film features a stellar array of iconic entertainers including Diana Ross as Dorothy (reconceived for the film as a shy Harlem schoolteacher), Michael Jackson as the Scarecrow, Lena Horne as Glinda and Richard Pryor as The Wiz, and was nominated for its Art Direction, Cinematography, Costume Design, and Music (Adaptation Score). Our screening of The Wiz will feature live and in-person dance performances by The Debbie Allen Dance Studio youth performers. Written by Joel Schumacher, with music by Quincy Jones, Charlie Smalls, Anthony Jackson, and directed by Sidney Lumet, it runs September 30 only at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 323-930-3000 or visit www.academymuseum.org.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
“Annie and Frannie Go to a Funeral”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
“Breakable”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
“Escape from Cottage Woods”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
“Rainbow Girls Detective Agency”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always, and we want to wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day this month! We also want to send heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this great information, and to our editors and publishers who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to normal operations again. Covid protocols vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please check with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their policy is. The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should check with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

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“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Open Fist Theatre Company presents a provocative new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream set in the Antebellum South. Intrigued by the Mechanicals’ line “That would hang us every mother’s son,” director James Fowler has moved the action from Athens, Greece to Athens, Georgia circa 1855. There, with Shakespeare’s text unchanged, we enter a world where the magic of an enslaved people plays out in the lives of those to whom they remain invisible. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by James Fowler, it runs July 2 through August 13 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.

“Saturday Night Fever” Tony Manero doesn’t have much going for him during the weekdays. He still lives at home and works as a paint store clerk in his Brooklyn, N.Y., neighborhood. On the weekends, however, he is the king of the dance floor at the local disco where he and his friends go to dance the night away. When a big dance competition is announced, he wrangles the beautiful and talented Stephanie to be his partner. As the two train for the big night, they start to fall for each other as well. Packed with disco classics including the Bee Gees’ hits “Stayin’ Alive,” “How Deep Is Your Love,” “Night Fever,” “Tragedy” and “More Than a Woman,” the musical is filled with explosive energy and sensational choreography. Written by Nik Cohn, adapted for the Stage by Robert Stigwood in collaboration with Bill Oaks, with music by The Bee Gees, and directed by Karen Babcock Brassea, it runs July 3 through July 17 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“Pretty Woman: The Musical” centers around a free-spirited Hollywood prostitute Vivian Ward, who is hired by Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman, to be his escort for several business and social functions, and their developing relationship over the course of her week-long stay with him. Written by Garry Marshall and J. F. Lawton, with music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, and directed by Jerry Mitchell, it runs July 5 through July 17 at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-556-2787 or visit www.SCFTA.Org.

“Clownfish” Newly released from a mental hospital, Erica is trying hard to be a good bridesmaid but is finding that everyone is treating her differently…and it’s getting really annoying. The only thing that could make this reunion worse? The wedding reception might just be being held in a haunted cabin. A dark comedy about mental illness, social stigmas, and the misguided desire to be “normal.” Written by Amy Dellagiarino, and directed by Laura Stribling, it runs July 7 through August 6 at the Theatre of Note in Hollywood. For tickets visit www.theatreofnote.com.

“42nd Street” Come along and listen to the lullaby of Broadway! Tap along as aspiring chorus girl Peggy Sawyer comes to the bright lights of New York City from Allentown, Pennsylvania, armed with her tap shoes and big dreams. Peggy’s talent catches the eye of legendary Broadway director, Julian Marsh, who gives her a spot as a chorus girl in Pretty Lady, his newest show. However, Pretty Lady’s leading lady, Dorothy Brock, the classic Broadway diva, is not pleased with the new girl in the cast. When Dorothy breaks her ankle during the show’s previews, Pretty Lady looks like it will have to close before it even opens, unless a new girl talented enough to lead the show can be found…perhaps someone like Peggy Sawyer? Will Peggy be able to step in and become a star? With a score chock-full of Broadway standards, including “You’re Getting to Be A Habit With Me,” “Dames,” “We’re In the Money,” “Lullaby of Broadway,” “Shuffle Off to Buffalo,” and the titular song “Forty-Second Street,” do not miss your chance to experience the glitziest, toe-tapping musical coming to Orange County this Summer! Written by Michael Stewart and Mark Bramble, with music by Harry Warren, lyrics by Al Dubn, and directed by Tim Nelson, it runs July 8 through July 24 at the Rose Center Theater in Westminster. For tickets visit www.rosecentertheater.com.

“Cinderella” Almost 4 decades after its world premiere at Santa Monica Playhouse, the beloved Rudie-DeCarlo musical CINDERELLA is getting a stunning multi-media makeover to kick off the 2022 Open-Again Summer Twilight Theatre Series. It’s Cinderella like you’ve never seen her before, with new songs, hilarious special FX, a silent movie segment that will have you falling out of your seat, dazzling costumes, amazing magical prestidigitation, and a story about being true to your dreams and loving yourself as you are that’s as true to today as it was then. Written by Chris DeCarlo & Evelyn Rudie, and directed by Graham Silbert from original direction by Chris DeCarlo, it runs July 8 through August 26 at the Santa Monica Playhouse, The Other Space in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-394-9779 or visit www.santamonicaplayhouse.com/cinderella.

“Ayano” Ayano is a woman who came to Los Angeles from Japan with a dream that she shared with many young women who come here from around the world: the dream of becoming a successful actress in Hollywood. With her charm and delicate beauty, she embodied a fantasy that many Western men projects onto Asian women: that of an object of desire. Things happened quickly for her: she landed several roles in quick succession, and acquired an American husband, an ex-Marine who was a Purple Heart recipient in Afghanistan. It’s five years on, and the Industry has not been kind to Ayano. She’s had to waitress, and husband Charlie has been laid off. Her brother-in-law despises her. She’s being pursued by a lecherous producer, to whom she owes money. Filled with guilt, she sees apparitions of her recently deceased father. Can Ayano and Charlie hold on until better times arrive? Can their devoted friends pull them through these times of intense challenge? Written by Chris Collins, and directed by Kiff Scholl, it runs July 9 through August 7 at the Other Space @ The Actors Company in West Hollywood. For tickets visit www.onstage411.com/ayano.

“A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to Divorce” Three couples, each intent on getting divorced, find themselves sharing the same meeting room waiting for the same divorce mediator. Once, each of these couples were in love. What happened to bring each of them to this point? While they’re waiting, Brian and Carol, Doug and Angie, and Ken and Tanya share their stories of love that went wrong. Their tales are by turns hilarious and heartbreaking. Written by Jeff Gould, and directed by Marc Antonio Pritchett, it runs July 9 through September 11 at the Two Roads Theatre in Studio City. For tickets visit www.divorce.brownpapertickets.com.

“Grease” will tell the classic love story of Danny and Sandy, featuring a talented cast that reflects the diversity of a typical Long Beach high school. The contemporary cast includes RuPaul’s Drag Race Season 12-star Darius Rose, aka Jackie Cox in the fabulous featured role of Teen Angel! The rest of Rydell High’s senior class of 1959 will represent the welcoming, melting-pot community of Long Beach. Written by Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey, with music by Jim Jacobs & Warren Casey, and directed by Snehal Desai, it runs July 9 through July 24 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center on the campus of Cal State Long Beach in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“Trouble the Water” tells the remarkable story of Robert Smalls, born into slavery in Beaufort, South Carolina, who carried his family and others to freedom by commandeering a Confederate warship into Union waters. Upon delivering the ship—including an arsenal of rebel weaponry—to the Union army, Smalls was declared a hero, awarded $1500, and introduced to Abraham Lincoln, influencing the President to allow Black men to fight for the Union. Smalls went on to be elected to five-terms in the U.S. House of Representatives. He helped found the Republican Party of South Carolina and authored state legislation creating the first free and compulsory public school system in the United States. Written by Ellen Geer from the novel by Rebecca Dwight Bruff, and directed by Gerald C. Rivers, it runs July 9 through October 2 at the Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga. For tickets call 310-455-3723 or visit www.theatricum.com.

“Freestyle Love Supreme” Before Hamilton, before In the Heights, there was freestyle love supreme, a 2020 Special Tony Award Recipient. Now – direct from Broadway – the hip-hop musical phenomenon from Thomas Kail, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Anthony Veneziale arrives at Pasadena Playhouse! Using cues from the audience, the cast takes you on a hip-hop comedy ride where no two performances are the same. Written by Thomas Kail, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and Anthony Veneziale, and directed by Thomas Kail, it runs July 12 through August 7 at the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-7529 or visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.

“Disney’s Newsies” STOP THE PRESSES! Based on the 1992 Walt Disney film and inspired by the true story of the 1899 New York City newsboy strike, this rousing musical is about standing your ground and fighting for what’s right. It follows a scrappy band of ink-stained street kids as they push back against the corporate greed of Big Apple media barons Joseph Pulitzer and William Randolph Hearst. NEWSIES features a Tony Award-winning score by Alan Menken (Little Shop of Horrors, Sister Act) and Jack Feldman and a book by Tony Award winner Harvey Fierstein (Kinky Boots). Songs like “Carrying the Banner,” “Seize the Day,” and “Santa Fe” deliver a powerful, timeless message: “Wrongs will be righted, if we’re united!” Written by Harvey Fierstein, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and directed by Richard J. Hinds, it runs July 15 through July 24 at the Kavli Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets call 800-745-3000 or visit www.5startheatricals.com.

“Men, Money and Madness” The song-filled show is packed with tunes from The Great American Songbook, with the addition of a few songs by our favorite modern European composers for good measure. Singer-actor Tessa Bell returns to the radical roots of cabaret, moving away from the mere aggregation of sentimental love songs, and confronting and commenting on the world as it is today with humor and compassion, making sense of the chaos that surrounds us by the strength and beauty of her vivid rendition of classic songs. Written by Tessa Bell, and directed by Victoria Lavan, it runs July 15 through July 17 at the Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.theatrewest.org.

“Remembering the Future” What would your 18-year-old self say to your 58-year-old self if it had the opportunity? How would that person judge the life you are living? This question hangs over Lefcourt’s world premiere comedy that deals with love, life, and the tinted prism of memory. Two sets of actors, representing the same couple at two different ages, meet for dinner after not seeing each other for nearly 40 years. There’s a lot of water under the bridge with both having unresolved feelings about the past. Is it too late to change direction? Can they? Should they? Written by Peter Lefcourt, and directed by Terri Hanauer, it runs July 16 through August 21 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OnStage411.com/Future.

“King Liz” It’s good to be king. Liz Rico is a powerful sports agent who represents NBA superstars, having fought her way to the top of a male-dominated profession with her skill for cutthroat negotiations. Given the chance to sign Freddie Luna, a once-in-a-generation high school talent with a troubled past, Liz sees an opportunity to take her career to the next level. But when accusations start swirling around the young phenom, Liz must attempt to rebound Freddie’s career or protect her own crown. Written by Fernanda Coppel, and directed by Jesca Prudencio, it runs July 21 through August 14 at the Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater at Geffen Playhouse in Westwood. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“The Metromaniacs” Would-be poet Damis has fallen in love with the works of a mysterious Breton poetess, not knowing that she is really Francalou, a middle-aged gentleman. Meanwhile, Damis’s non-literary friend Dorante has fallen in love with Francalou’s daughter, Lucille, who mistakes her new suitor for her favorite poet—Damis! Add to the chaos some scheming servants, pseudonyms, and disguises, and there is much to untangle before love-plots are resolved and a happy ending found. With his sparkling wit and brilliant sense of comedic timing, David Ives brings a new shine to this lost classic. Written by David Ives, and directed by Marjorie Hayes, it runs July 21 through August 21 at the Theatre 40, in the Reuben Cordova Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“18 Minutes of Fame: A Musical Journey with Barbara Minkus” You’ve seen her —a lot: On stage, on screen and especially on television. Other than the fact that she never became famous, she’s had what most performers would consider an enviable career. Because she started out as, and remains, an accomplished singer, her show business memoir is a musical one. Her road hasn’t always been an easy one. She faced physical challenges. She had to conceal her stage mother’s ongoing infidelities. Aspiring early on to sing opera, Barbara found her audiences steering her in the direction of musical comedy. Gaining a foothold in national media, she worked with the show business greats. She appeared 25 times as a raconteur and singer on The Merv Griffin Show; Appeared on TV with Danny Kaye and Jerry Lewis; 27 episodes of Love, American Style as a variety of characters; stints on Tosh O; Getting On; The Tonight Show. Her stage career has included the touring company of Funny Girl (as Fanny Brice); a starring role on Broadway in The Education of Hyman Kaplan; Off-Broadway roles in Picon Pie (as Molly Picon); Don’t Leave It All to Your Children; Rondelay. She starred locally as Jennie Grossinger in Saturday Night at Grossinger’s. She also had roles in eleven feature films. Along the way, she found true love. A trip to Israel with her husband brought her closer to her Jewish roots. Written by Susan Morgenstern and Barbara Minkus, and directed by Susan Morgenstern, it runs July 22 through July 24 at the Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.theatrewest.org.

“Laughter on the 23rd Floor” follows the rollercoaster antics that catapult a not-your-average 1950s writers’ room into the comedy fray, as they frantically attempt to please their larger-than-life boss of a weekly comedy variety show. Locked in an ongoing battle with NBC executives, who fear the show’s humor is too sophisticated for Middle America, the writing and fighting of the team expose the social and political undercurrents of the 1950s—reflecting back the ongoing tensions in today’s America in this updated, reimagined production. Written by Neil Simon, and directed by Stanley Brown, it runs July 22 through August 6 at the Westchester Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“If I Forget” Levenson, the Tony Award-winning book writer of Dear Evan Hanson, drew from conversations with his own family to write this play that explores the lasting impact of the Holocaust on a Jewish family at the beginning of the 21st century. Set in the years following the dissolution of the Oslo Peace Accords between Israel and Palestine, If I Forget is a funny, powerful tale about a family—and a culture—at odds with itself. Written by Steven Levenson, and directed by Jason Alexander, it runs July 23 through September 10 at the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-663-1525 or visit www.FountainTheatre.com.

“Get It Together” The play follows Mary, an aspiring poet, and Harold, a computer science professional, who find themselves in the spare bedroom of a Philadelphia house party. They haven’t seen each other in years, but they know what they’re heading towards. After a night of confession, teasing and tension, we see their story two years later and what that night has wrought: an unconsummated romance and an affection they apprehend but can’t have. It’s a story of growing into a tangled relationship and finding out what we take from relationships that we know aren’t meant to last. Written and directed by Michael Quinn, it runs July 29 through August 7 at the Zephyr Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.eventbrite.com/e/get-it-together-a-new-play-tickets-294111604727.

“Million Dollar Quartet” On Dec. 4, 1956, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins gathered for one night to play music and ended up making history. This Tony Award-nominated musical takes us inside one of the greatest rock ‘n’ roll jam sessions ever recorded with four legendary musicians doing what they loved most: expressing life’s joy and sadness through song. Described as “dazzling” by New York Magazine and “wildly entertaining” by Hollywood Reporter, Million Dollar Quartet will have you rocking down memory lane with more than 20 chart-topping hits like “Blue Suede Shoes,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “I Walk the Line” and “Who Do You Love.” Written by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, and directed by James Moye, it runs July 30 through August 21 at the Mission San Juan Capistrano in San Juan Capistrano. For tickets call 714-709-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

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CONTINUING

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“The Funny Man” is set in a lecture hall at the University of California, Santa Barbara, where Perelman was invited to speak as a guest lecturer in 1976. During the course of his lecture, he dispenses writing advice and talks about some of the colorful figures in his life, such as Groucho Marx, Dorothy Parker, Mike Todd, and Bert Lahr. He also describes his comic misadventures while writing travel articles about such exotic locales as China, India, and The Garden of Allah (Hollywood). S.J. Perelman first came to prominence as the writer for the early Marx Brothers movies. He later became a bellwether writer at The New Yorker, which published his comic sketches and parodies for some four decades. Perelman was also a successful playwright (“One Touch of Venus”), a television personality, and an Oscar-winning screenwriter (“Around the World in 80 Days”). Written by Willard Manus, and directed by Judith Rose, it runs through July 17 at the Brickhouse Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 800-838-3006 Ext. 1 or visit www.brownpapertickets.org.

“The Colored Museum” is set in a fictional museum where a collection of 11 “exhibits” have been mounted for public viewing. The sketches explore themes of slavery, stereotypes, Black identity, generational trauma, and intracommunal conflict. Celebration, satire, and subversion, Wolfe called his play “an exorcism and a party.” Written by George C. Wolfe, and directed by Jazmine Nichelle, it runs through July 24 at the Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
“Annie and Frannie Go to a Funeral”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
“Escape from Cottage Woods”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
“Rainbow Girls Detective Agency”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always, and we want to wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day this month! We also want to send heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this great information, and to our editors and publishers who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to fairly normal operations again. Covid protocols vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please check with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their policy is. The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should check with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

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“Uncle Vanya” This exhilarating revival pairs one of the greatest plays ever written with the world’s most celebrated translators of Russian literature. After years of caring for their family’s crumbling estate, Vanya and his niece receive an unexpected visit from his brother-in-law and his alluring wife. When hidden passions and tumultuous frustrations come to a boil in the heat of the Russian summer, their lives threaten to come undone. Comic, cutting, and true to life, this translation of Uncle Vanya provides an up-close, conversational-style encounter with a classic drama that every theater-lover must see. Written by Anton Chekhov, translated by Richard Nelson, Richard Pevear, and Larissa Volokhonsky, it runs June 1 through June 26 at the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-7529 or visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.

“The Desperate Hours” tells the story of a trio of escaped bank robbers who take a suburban family and hold them hostage by turning their tranquil, secluded home into a secret hideout from the law. Father, mother, daughter and son are captive and have their mettle tested as they try to prevail over a terrifying situation. Written by Joseph Hayes, and directed by Jules Aaron, it runs June 3 through July 10 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-763-5990 or visit www.thegrouprep.com.

“Harvey” Elwood P. Dowd insists on including his friend Harvey in all of his sister Veta’s social gatherings. The trouble is, Harvey is an imaginary six-and-a-half-foot-tall rabbit. To avoid future embarrassment for her family – and especially for her daughter Myrtle Mae – Vita decides to have Elwood committed to a sanitarium. At the sanitarium, a frantic Veta explains to the staff that her years living with Elwood’s hallucination have caused her to see Harvey also, so the doctors mistakenly commit her instead of her mild-mannered brother. The truth comes out, however; Veta is freed, and the search is on for Elwood, who eventually arrives at the sanitarium of his own volition looking for Harvey. But it seems that Elwood and his invisible companion have had influence on more than one of the doctors. Only at the end does Veta realize that maybe Harvey isn’t so bad after all. Written by Mary Chase, and directed by Marina Tidwell, it runs June 3 through July 10 at the Theatre Palisades Pierson Playhouse in Pacific Palisades. For tickets call 310-454-1970 or visit www.theatrepalisades.org.

“In the Heights” tells the universal story of a vibrant community in New York’s Washington Heights neighborhood – a place where the coffee from the corner bodega is light and sweet, the windows are always open, and the breeze carries the rhythm of three generations of music. It’s a community on the brink of change, full of hopes, dreams, and pressures, where the biggest struggles can be deciding which traditions you take with you, and which ones you leave behind. Written by Quiara Alegría Hudes, with music by Lin-Manuel Miranda, and directed by Benjamin Perez, it runs June 3 through June 26 at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts in La Mirada. For tickets call 562-944-9801 or visit www.lamiradatheatre.com.

“A Terminal Event” About an aspiring actress who works part-time as a medical receptionist and falls under the spell of a young advertising executive who insists on addressing his cancer diagnosis with alternative medicine. With regrets from their pasts and heavy defenses in place, they stumble into an unlikely chance at love. Written by Richard Willett, and directed by Maria Gobetti, it runs June 3 through July 10 at the Victory Theatre Center Big Victory Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-841-5421 or visit www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org.

“André & Dorine” If you missed it before, here’s your chance: Spain’s celebrated Kulunka Teatro returns to the Los Angeles Theatre Center with André & Dorine, the company’s poignant depiction of love and aging disrupted by Alzheimer’s. This Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle award-winning production tells the story of an elderly couple—André with his typewriter, Dorine with her cello—and how they relive and reinvent their love together as the disease becomes a permanent part of their relationship. Three actors portray more than 15 different characters, telling the story with masks, gesture and movement, with no spoken dialogue. Written by El José Dault, Garbiñe Insausti, Iñaki Rikarte, Edu Cárcamo, and Rolando San Martín, with music by Yayo Cáceres, and directed by Iñaki Rikarte, it runs June 8 through June 19 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-0994 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

“The Legend of Georgia McBride” Casey is young and broke, with a baby on the way and the landlord knocking on his door. Now, the owner of the bar where Casey works as an Elvis impersonator has replaced his act with a B-level drag show, and Casey’s about to learn a lot about show business—and himself. Written by Matthew Lopez, and directed by Jamie Torcellini, it runs June 10 through June 28 at the International City Theatre in the Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-436-4610 or visit www.InternationalCityTheatre.org.

“The Merry Wives of Windsor” reset in1950s small-town America during the nascent period of second-wave feminism and featuring a rockin’ score of ‘50s tunes. Things might seem picture perfect in “Small Town U.S.A”… but when opportunistic schemer and womanizer John Falstaff blows into town with his gang and tries to woo two wealthy ladies at once, the town’s women gleefully plot his comeuppance. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Ellen Geer, it runs June 11 through October 2 at the Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga. For tickets call 310-455-3723 or visit www.theatricum.com.

“Interstate” an Asian-American pop-rock poetry musical that follows Dash, a transgender spoken word performer who becomes internet-famous along with his best friend Adrian, a lesbian singer-songwriter. Their fiercely political and deeply personal music touches Henry, a transgender teenage boy living in small-town America. As Dash and Adrian hit the road for their first national tour, Henry sets out on a quest to meet his heroes in person, hoping to find answers to his own struggles. Written by Melissa Li & Kit Yan, and directed by Jesca Prudencio, it runs June 12 through June 26 at the David Henry Hwang Theater in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.eastwestplayers.org.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” An annual season staple going back decades, Theatricum’s wooded stage morphs into the enchanted woods of Athens, where mortal lovers chase and are chased, players prepare, and fairies make magical mischief in Shakespeare’s most entertaining and beguiling comedy. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Melora Marshall, it runs June 12 through October 1 at the Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga. For tickets call 310-455-3723 or visit www.theatricum.com.

“Pretty Woman: The Musical” centers around a free spirited Hollywood prostitute Vivian Ward, who is hired by Edward Lewis, a wealthy businessman, to be his escort for several business and social functions, and their developing relationship over the course of her week-long stay with him. Written by Garry Marshall and J. F. Lawton, with music by Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance, and directed by Jerry Mitchell, it runs June 15 through July 3 at the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 800-982-2782 or visit www.BroadwayInHollywood.com.

“A Midsummer Night’s Dream” Open Fist Theatre Company presents a provocative new production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream set in the Antebellum South. Intrigued by the Mechanicals’ line “That would hang us every mother’s son,” director James Fowler has moved the action from Athens, Greece to Athens, Georgia circa 1855. There, with Shakespeare’s text unchanged, we enter a world where the magic of an enslaved people plays out in the lives of those to whom they remain invisible. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by James Fowler, it runs June 25 through August 13 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-882-6912 or visit www.openfist.org.

“The West Side Waltz” In the world premiere of Thompson’s newly revised, music and heart-filled comedy set during the tumultuous ’80s, Theatricum artistic director Ellen Geer; her sister, Melora Marshall; and daughter Willow Geer take on the roles of an aging concert pianist, her violin-playing spinster neighbor, and a would-be actress on New York’s Upper West Side. Written by Ernest Thompson, and directed by Mary Jo DuPrey, it runs June 25 through October 1 at the Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga. For tickets call 310-455-3723 or visit www.theatricum.com.

“A Wicked Soul in Cherry Hill” On a November night in 1994, a murder was committed in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. In this poignant true-crime story told completely through song, a tight-knit Jewish community gathers to recount, remember, and reckon with the details of what happened in—and to—their town. This wholly original production asks what it does to our souls when our leaders fall from grace. Written by Matt Schatz, with music by Matt Schatz, and directed by Mike Donahu, it runs June 30 through July 24 at the Gil Cates Theater at Geffen Playhouse in Westwood. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

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“Slice” is a deep, probing, emotional conversation between father and son; man to man, bare knuckled, leaving no topic off the table. Written by David Watson, and directed by Joe Mellis, it runs through June 5 at the Atwater Playhouse in Atwater Village. For tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com.

“Try Not to Think About It, Alice Childress” A series of miscommunications turns into a night of survival when a natural disaster strikes the Hollywood Hills. This witty, challenging drama will leave you wondering what just happened and what will happen next, while the people hunkered down in a mansion just try to keep up with what they’re becoming amidst the Hollywood dream. Contains mature language, violence, sexual situations, and brief strobe light effects. Written and directed by Chris Haas, it runs through June 5 at the Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.

“A Chorus Line” is a celebration of those unsung heroes of the American Musical Theatre: the chorus dancers – those valiant, over dedicated, underpaid, highly trained performers who back up the star or stars and often make them look even more talented than they are. It’s also about competition, and competition might easily be the common denominator that grabs the audience and holds it by the collective heartstring until the final, ultimate choices are made. The show features one powerhouse number after another, “What I Did for Love,” “One,” “I Can Do That,” “At the Ballet,” “The Music and the Mirror,” and “I Hope I Get It.” Written by James Kirkwood and Nicholas Dante, with music by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Edward Kleban, and directed by Luis Villabon, it runs through June 12 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org www.thereceiptswithd.com
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org
“Trouble: A Calamity Adventure”	www.opendoorplayhouse.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always, and we want to wish everyone a Happy Father’s Day this month! We also want to send heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this great information, and to our editors and publishers who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor

Most theaters have returned to fairly normal operations again. Covid protocols vary from venue to venue, so you may still have to show proof of vaccination, and/or wear a mask during the show, so please check with the theater before you attend an event to find out what their policy is. The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing, however you should check with the theater to confirm it before making definite plans. Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month, or are already running at this time:

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OPENING

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“Afterglow” is a raw, one-act play exploring the emotional, intellectual, and physical connections between three men and the broader implications within their relationships. When Josh and Alex, a married couple in an open relationship, invite Darius to share their bed one night, a new intimate connection begins to form and all three men must come to terms with their individual definitions of love, loyalty, and trust as futures are questioned, relationships are shaken, and commitments are challenged. Written and directed by S. Asher Gelman, it runs May 5 through June 19 at the Hudson Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.afterglowla.com.

“She” Growing up in a small town filled with poverty and neglect, SHE escapes by re-imagining her reality through poetry. Her dreams take flight when she’s presented with the opportunity to attend the prestigious Vanguard Academy. Forced to make her own way, SHE discovers that dreams cost… and you don’t always pay with money. Written by Marlow Wyatt, and directed by Justin Lord, it runs May 6 through June 5 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-0994 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

“Our Town” Life has begun in the fictional town of Grover’s Corner, New Hampshire. Milk is being delivered. Breakfast is on the stove. We meet the town gossips, the boys who play baseball and the choirmaster with a secret sorrow. And soon, teenagers George Gibbs and Emily Webb will go from friends to puppy love to wedding day and beyond—two families forever joined together. Written by Thornton Wilder, and directed by Beth Lopes, it runs May 7 through June 4 at the South Coast Repertory Segerstrom Stage in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“The Play’s the Thing” a playwright named Sandor Turai comes up with a plan to save the engagement between his nephew Albert and an actress named Ilona after Albert overhears a flirtatious conversation between Ilona and Almady, an obnoxious actor (and Ilona’s former lover). Sandor has only hours to rescue Ilona and Albert’s romance from utter devastation. Sandor goes to work and hilarity ensues. Written by P.G. Wodehouse, adapted from a play by Ferenc Molnar, and directed by Melanie MacQueen, it runs May 12 through June 12 at the Theatre 40, in the Reuben Cordova Theatre in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“What a Fool Believes – The Doobie Brothers Experience” performs the full range of DOOBIE BROTHERS top hits, including some of the most complex and challenging songs performed for live audiences. Comprised of some of the best musicians and performers in the industry, WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES also introduces Sean Byrne, a world-class vocalist who is no stranger to commanding the stage. WHAT A FOOL BELIEVES – The Doobie Brothers Experience consistently delivers a remarkable show that will exceed your expectations! The show runs May 12 through May 15 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“Who Are You” offers a window into a transformative period of her life – which by then had encompassed successful careers in the acting and fashion realms, including stints at Vogue and Elite Models – and the ripple effect that her change of direction had on the women who came through the doors of Shareen Vintage. She founded the one-of-a-kind Los Angeles store in 2004, surrendering the art of acting for the art of real life. More than a store, Shareen Vintage was an experience, a unique haven for cool girls who celebrated their original style and were tastemakers in their own right. They came for an answer to the eternal question – “What am I going to wear?” As Shareen fashioned vintage clothing into new creations for them, talk often turned to another eternal question: “Who are you?” Bonds were forged and a sense of community grew, as chronicled by the likes of The New York Times, Vogue, Los Angeles Magazine, Racked, Lucky Magazine and others. The stories Shareen shares are touching, funny, hopeful and inspiring – intensely personal yet universal. Written by Shareen Mitchell, and directed by Kate Jopson, it runs May 12 through June 19 at the Greenway Court Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-673-0544 or visit www.GreenwayCourtTheatre.org.

“Beloved” Dorothy and Stephen are married co-owners of a failing real estate company. They’re shocked when they learn that their teenage son has committed a disturbing crime – and they’re devastated when they find out why. In three successive waiting rooms, accompanied by three young professionals, Dorothy and Stephen must overcome confusion, acrimony and bitter regret as they struggle to find a way forward. Written by Arthur Holden, and directed by Cameron Watson, it runs May 13 through June 19 at the Road Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-761-8838 or visit www.RoadTheatre.org.

“Fun Home, the Musical” is a refreshingly honest, wholly original musical about seeing your parents through grown-up eyes. When her father dies unexpectedly, graphic novelist Alison dives deep into her past to tell the story of the volatile, brilliant, one-of-a-kind man whose temperament and secrets defined her family and her life. Moving between past and present, Alison relives her unique childhood playing at the family’s Bechdel Funeral Home, her growing understanding of her own sexuality, and the looming, unanswerable questions about her father’s hidden desires. Written by Lisa Kron, based on the novel by Alison Bechdel, with music by Jeanine Tesori, lyrics by Lisa Kron, and directed by Kathy Dershimer, it runs May 13 through June 11 at the Westchester Playhouse in Westchester. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“God of Carnage” When two 11-year-old boys have a playground fight, Henry’s parents invite Benjamin’s mother and father for cocktails, hoping to discuss the situation civilly. But the evening deteriorates into an intense and darkly funny train wreck of finger-pointing, name-calling, tantrums and tears. And that’s before they break out the rum. Written by Yasmina Reza, translated by Christopher Hampton, and directed by Peter Allas, it runs May 13 through May 29 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.Onstage411.com/Carnage.

“King Lear” This theatrically adventurous production of perhaps the greatest play in English literature features original music, videos, and projections that will transform the theater into a not-too-distant-future United States ravaged by environmental catastrophes. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by John Gould Rubin, it runs May 14 through June 5 at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Bram Goldsmith Theater in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-746-4000 or visit www.TheWallis.org/lear.

“Metamorphoses” A charming re-envisioning of ancient Greek myths for a modern audience, Metamorphoses is set entirely in and around an on-stage swimming pool (front row patrons: beware of errant splashing!). Adapted from David R. Slavitt’s free-verse translation of “The Metamorphoses of Ovid,” the play’s locations, like the characters, are constantly shifting and transforming—from a swimming pool, to a wash basin, to the River Styx, to the sea. Gods and mortals alike endure love, loss, and transformation—all while immersed in a pool of water. Written by Mary Zimmerman, and directed by Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, it runs May 14 through June 5 at A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-353-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Naturally Tan” Told through the bold perspective of a vivacious drag queen named Tanvi, Naturally Tan follows Tanya Thomas’ desperation to fit in as a minority in Singapore and her search for acceptance in America. Fueled by assimilation pains, Tanya delves into the heart of colorism that plagues the Asian diaspora, the complexities of racial identity, and the consequences of damaging beauty standards. Will Tanya hide behind her insecurities forever or will she embody her worth as a woman of color, mother, and artist? Written by Tanya Thomas, and directed by Jessica Lynn Johnson, it runs May 14 through May 28 at the ARTSpace Black Box Theater in Simi Valley. For tickets visit www.tanyathomas.com/artspace.

“Newsies” Based on the true story of the Newsboys Strike of 1899, this family-friendly Tony-winning Disney musical centers on Jack, a rebellious newsboy who dreams of being an artist far away from the big city. When a publishing giant raises newspaper prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack and his fellow newsies band together in protest with the help of a new reporter hungry for her first story, making New York wake up to the power of “the little man.” It’s the perfect show for the whole family! Written by Harvey Fierstein, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Jack Feldman, and directed by T.J. Dawson, it runs May 14 through May 29 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts in Cerritos. For tickets call 562-916-8500 or visit www.3Dtheatricals.org.

“Tiger Style!” What happens when “tiger parenting” goes wrong?” Meet Albert and Jennifer Chen—brother and sister, once brilliant students and musicians, now epic failures leading unfulfilling lives. The problem? Their parents set unrealistic standards. The solution? Escape from Irvine and go on an “Asian Freedom Tour” to Shenzhen, China—a hilarious, eye-opening journey filled with colorful characters, intrigue and surprise. Written by Mike Lew, and directed by Ralph B. Peña, it runs May 15 through June 5 at the South Coast Repertory Julianne Argyros Stage in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“Hamlet” Following the death of his father, Hamlet, Prince of Denmark, returns home to find his uncle now occupies the throne and the queen’s bed. Spurred by the ghost of his father and surrounded by spies, Hamlet must choose between moral integrity and vengeance. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Elizabeth Swain, it runs May 20 through June 20 at the Kiki & David Gindler Performing Arts Center in Glendale. For tickets call 818-506-1983 or visit www.antaeus.org.

“Man of God” During a mission trip to Bangkok, the four members of a Korean Christian girls’ youth group discover that their revered pastor has hidden a camera in their hotel bathroom. Samantha is personally wounded that Pastor would do this to her. Jen is worried about how this might affect her college applications. Mimi’s out for blood, as usual. And Kyung-Hwa thinks everyone needs to have lower expectations for men. Their communal rage and disillusionment fuel increasingly violent revenge fantasies amidst the no-holds-barred neon bubblegum sex-tourism mecca of Bangkok. Written by Anna Moench, and directed by Maggie Burrows, it runs May 20 through June 19 at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-208-2028 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“King of the Yees” For nearly 20 years, playwright Lauren Yee’s father Larry has been a driving force in the Yee Family Association, a seemingly obsolescent Chinese American men’s club formed 150 years ago in the wake of the Gold Rush. But when her father goes missing, Lauren must plunge into the rabbit hole of San Francisco Chinatown and confront a world both foreign and familiar. At once bitingly hilarious and heartbreakingly honest, King of the Yees is an epic joyride across cultural, national and familial borders that explores what it means to truly be a Yee. Written by Lauren Yee, and directed by Tim Dang, it runs May 21 through June 12 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets call 626-355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

“Untitled Baby Play” Libby is having a baby, and a group of friends is planning her shower over email. What starts out as a comedy of manners for the digital age deepens as her longtime friends from childhood and college deal with cyber miscommunications and email chain snubs, even as they face their own existential angst surrounding the “baby question”. Written by Nina Braddock, and directed by Katie Lindsay, it runs May 26 through June 27 at the Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 323-380-8843 or visit www.iamatheatre.com.

“Sleep with the Angels” injects a dollop of magical realism into the everyday lives of two working women. Molly, a busy attorney, has just separated from her husband and is in desperate need of a childcare provider. Juana has recently arrived from Mexico and is looking for a job. It’s a perfect match! Soon, Molly and her kids are swept up into Juana’s magical and charming ways. But just who is Juana, really? Written by Evelina Fernández, and directed by José Luis Valenzuela, it runs May 27 through June 26 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 213-489-0994 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

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CONTINUING

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“Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” One moment can change the course of history. On April 29, 1992, at 3:15 p.m., in Simi Valley, four police officers were acquitted of any wrongdoing after having been caught on video brutally beating and kicking Rodney King, an African-American motorist who had resisted arrest, long after he had been subdued. Within hours, South Central L.A. erupted in what has been described alternately as “the riots,” “the uprising,” and “the revolution.” Protestors blocked freeway traffic, attacked motorists, wrecked and looted numerous downtown stores and buildings and set hundreds of fires. More than 50 people were killed, more than 2,300 were injured. Thousands were arrested. Property damages totaled more than $1 billion. . Written by Anna Deveare Smith, and directed by Karyl Lynn Burns, it runs through May 15 at the Rubicon Theatre in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

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Our local theme parks are operating at full capacity. Most require advance reservations online, as well as advance ticket, and possibly food, purchases. You will need an app in some to be able to take full advantage of all attractions and restaurants. Please check their websites for details, restrictions, and availability before planning a visit:

Disneyland Resort Disney’s California Adventure	www.disneyland.disney.go.com
Knott’s Berry Farm	www.knotts.com
Legoland California	www.legoland.com/california
SeaWorld San Diego	www.seaworld.com/san-diego
Six Flags Magic Mountain	www.sixflags.com/magicmountain
Universal Studios Hollywood	www.universalstudioshollywood.com

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Some theaters still provide online offerings in addition to or in lieu of live performances, with many events you can experience on a virtual basis. A few of these online events are only available on a one-time basis, while others are ongoing and can be viewed on-demand anytime. Visit each of the web sites below to see what they are currently offering. You will find free content as well as pay-per-view to choose from. Here are the links to web sites with online offerings:

3-D Theatricals	www.3dtheatricals.org www.thereceiptswithd.com
“A Death-Defying Escape”	www.deathdefyingescape.com
A Noise Within	www.anoisewithin.org
Antaeus Theatre	www.antaeus.org
“Blood/Sugar”	www.dianawyenn.com
Boston Court Pasadena	www.bostoncourtpasadena.org
CaltechLive!	www.events.caltech.edu www.youtube.com
Chalk Repertory Theatre	www.chalkrep.com
Coeurage Ensemble	www.coeurage.org
East West Players	www.eastwestplayers.org
Echo Theater Company	www.echotheatercompany.com
El Portal Theatre	www.elportaltheatre.com
Films.Dance	www.films.dance
For the Record Live	www.ForTheRecordLive.com
Fountain Theatre	www.fountaintheatre.com
Garry Marshall Theatre	www.youtube.com
Hero Theatre	www.herotheatre.org
IAMA Theatre Company	www.iamatheatre.com www.woollymammoth.net www.queenstheatre.org
International City Theatre	www.InternationalCityTheatre.org
“John Cullum: An Accidental Star”	www.vineyardtheatre.org/an-accidental-star
Kentwood Players	www.kentwoodplayers.org www.youtube.com/kentwoodplayers
Laguna Playhouse	www.lagunaplayhouse.com
L.A. Chamber Orchestra	www.laco.org/laco-at-home
L.A. Theatre Works (fee & free)	www.latw.org/black-voices www.latw.org/broadcasts www.latw.org/hd-screenings www.latw.org/setting-stage-learning
Loft Ensemble	www.loftensemble.org
Long Beach Opera	www.longbeachopera.org
“Lovers and Other Strangers”	www.showtix4u.com/event-details/52157
Morgan-Wixson Theatre	www.morgan-wixson.org www.youtube.com
Moving Arts	www.movingarts.org
Odyssey Theatre	www.OdysseyTheatre.com
Pepperdine University	www.arts.pepperdine.edu
Robey Theatre Company	www.therobeytheatrecompany.org
Rogue Artists Ensemble	www.rogueartists.org/rogue-lab
Rubicon Theatre	www.rubicontheatre.org
Sacred Fools	www.sacredfools.org
Santa Monica Playhouse	www.santamonicaplayhouse.com
Segerstrom Center for the Arts	www.scfta.org
Shakespeare Center LA	www.shakespearecenter.org
Sierra Madre Playhouse	www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
South Coast Repertory	www.scr.org
The Actors Gang “We Live On”	www.theactorsgang.com
The Blank Theatre (fee) The Blank Theatre (free)	www.patreon.com/TheBlankTheatre www.youtube.com/TheBlankTheatreCo
The Broad Stage	www.thebroadstage.org
The Geffen Playhouse (fee)	www.geffenplayhouse.org
The Latino Theatre Company	www.latinotheaterco.org
The Road Theatre Company	www.roadtheatre.org www.youtube.com
The Soraya	www.thesoraya.org
The Victory Theatre Center	www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org
The Wallis Center for the Performing Arts The Wallis Studio Ensemble	www.thewallis.org www.thewallis.org/streaming
Theatre 40	www.theatre40.org
Theatre 68	www.youtube.com/68centcrewtheatre
Theatre West	www.theatrewest.org

Our best wishes go out to all of our readers as always, and we want to wish everyone a Happy Mother’s Day this month! We also want to send heartfelt thanks to our Public Relations representatives who supply us with this great information, and to our editors who continue to publish these columns. We hope this year will be a safe and healthy one for theatergoers, reviewers, and everyone everywhere.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher and Editor