Los Angeles County continues to be in the purple tier, which means that theaters are still not allowed to operate yet for live performances. However, The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center and Playwrights’ Arena have announced the inaugural production of the Center’s innovative new live theatre series, “Garage Theatre” with “March”.

“March” may or may not take place some 25 years in the future. An authoritarian society is once again in the grip of a pandemic. In a world of existential danger, three Trans/Gender Non-Conforming women seek a safe place to hide from The Military. Darkly fearful and incorporating elements of magic realism, March begins its journey to the stage as a suspenseful, starkly political drama of peril and liberation.

The production is conceived and directed by award-winning director and founder of Playwrights’ Arena, Jon Lawrence Rivera. There will be performances at 7:30pm and 9pm every Saturday and Sunday through November 15 at the underground parking structure located below the LGBT Center’s Anita May Rosenstein Campus in Hollywood. Capacity for Garage Theatre is limited to 16 cars at each performance. Tickets are $20 per car and may be purchased online at www.lalgbtcenter.org/theatre.

Other theaters are continuing to offer events online instead. These online events are often available one time only, and are frequently not announced far ahead of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the theater web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

Until we emerge from these trying times, we encourage everyone to stay safe by wearing a facemask and practicing proper social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We also want to thank the Public Relations representatives and our readers for their ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

Los Angeles County continues to be in the purple tier, which means that theaters are still not allowed to operate yet for live performances. Unfortunately, this has taken its toll on some smaller venues, which may not be able to reopen at all.

However, The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center and Playwrights’ Arena have announced the inaugural production of the Center’s innovative new live theater series, Garage Theatre. “March” is conceived and directed by award-winning director and founder of Playwrights’ Arena, Jon Lawrence Rivera.

“March” may or may not take place some 25 years in the future. An authoritarian society is once again in the grip of a pandemic. In a world of existential danger, three Trans/Gender Non-Conforming women seek a safe place to hide from The Military. Darkly fearful and incorporating elements of magic realism, March begins its journey to the stage as a suspenseful, starkly political drama of peril and liberation.

There will be performances at 7:30pm and 9pm every Saturday and Sunday from October 17 through November 15 at the underground parking structure located below the LGBT Center’s Anita May Rosenstein Campus in Hollywood. Capacity for Garage Theatre is limited to 16 cars at each performance. Tickets are $20 per car and may be purchased online at www.lalgbtcenter.org/theatre.

Many theaters are continuing to offer events online instead. These online events are often available one time only, and are frequently not announced far ahead of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the theater web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

Until we emerge from these trying times, we encourage everyone to stay safe by wearing a facemask and practicing proper social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We also want to thank the Public Relations representatives and our readers for their ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

Although the Governor has established a new “tier” rating system for counties, Los Angeles County continues to be in the purple tier, which means that theaters are still not allowed to operate yet for live performances. Unfortunately, this has taken its toll on some smaller venues, which may not be able to reopen at all.

However, The Rubicon Theatre in Ventura is continuing their workaround for the situation with their Safe Distance Drive-In Concert Series featuring live shows in their “Rubicon Goes Retro” series presented at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura where you stay in your car for the performance, and listen to the show on your car radio! Here is more information on the upcoming shows they are offering:

     September 7-9: “MUSIC OF THE KNIGHTS: THE SONGS OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, ELTON JOHN AND PAUL McCARTNEY”.
The Phantom of the Operaphenoms’ TERI BIBB and DAVIS GAINES are slated to appear, as well as two-time Golden Globe nominee TED NEELEY of Jesus Christ Superstar, who brings his rock wail to “Gethsemane” and other songs.

Tickets are going fast, and early reservations are highly recommended. A 15% series discount is available through Rubicon Guest Services. For tickets, go to
www.rubicontheatre.org or call 805.667.2900.

Of course, other theaters are continuing to offer online events instead. These online events are often available one time only, and are frequently not announced very far ahead of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

Until we emerge from these trying times, we encourage everyone to stay safe by wearing a facemask and practicing proper social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We also want to thank the Public Relations representatives and our readers for their ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

As August begins, we are seeing mounting cases of Covid-19 in the midst of reversing the re-opening of local businesses, so there is little chance of Southern California theaters opening again anytime soon. As before, no live stage shows are allowed at venues by mandate from state and local authorities due to the escalating Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.

However, The Rubicon Theatre in Ventura has introduced a new workaround for the situation by creating their Safe Distance Drive-In Concert Series featuring live shows in their “Rubicon Goes Retro” series presented at the Ventura County Fairgrounds in Ventura where you stay in your car for the performance, and listen to the show on your car radio! Here is more information on the upcoming shows they are offering:

     August 3-5: “30th ANNIVERSARY CONCERT OF FOREVER PLAID”
featuring performers from the original New York run (LEO DAIGNAULT, JASON GRAAE, DAVID ENGEL and LARRY RABEN)
August 17-19: “JIMMY MESSINA AND FRIENDS”
with special guests “sittin’ in” – JOHN McFEE of THE DOOBIE BROTHERS on August 17, TIMOTHY B. SCHMIT on August 18 and KENNY LOGGINS on August 19
September 7-9: “MUSIC OF THE KNIGHTS: THE SONGS OF ANDREW LLOYD WEBBER, ELTON JOHN AND PAUL McCARTNEY”
The Phantom of the Operaphenoms’ TERI BIBB and DAVIS GAINES are slated to appear, as well as two-time Golden Globe nominee TED NEELEY of Jesus Christ Superstar, who brings his rock wail to “Gethsemane” and other songs.

Tickets are going fast, and early reservations are highly recommended. A 15% series discount is available through Rubicon Guest Services. For tickets, go to
www.rubicontheatre.org or call 805.667.2900.

Of course, other theaters are continuing to offer online events instead. These online events are often available one time only, and are frequently not announced very far ahead of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

Until we emerge from these trying times, we encourage everyone to stay safe and practice social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We also want to thank the Public Relation representatives and our readers for their ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

Although theaters throughout Southern California continue to be closed to public gatherings as July begins, sadly we are seeing an increase in cases of Covid-19 that will probably mean even more delays until we can return to the theaters. As for now, no live stage shows are allowed at venues by mandate from state and local authorities due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic outbreak.

As we told you the last two months, some theaters are offering online events instead. These online events are often available one time only, and are frequently not announced far ahead of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

Until we emerge from these trying times, we encourage everyone to stay safe and practice social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We want to thank the PR’s and our readers for their ongoing support.

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

This month all theaters throughout Southern California continue to be closed to public gatherings and so they are having no live shows to attend at the venue in May on orders from state and local authorities due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic outbreak, however some are offering online events instead. These online events are usually shown one time only and are not usually announced far in advance of the event, so you will have to visit the venue’s web site to see what is available. Most are free to watch, some are charging a small fee. Here is a list of the web sites you can check to see what they are offering:

In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay safe and practice social distancing at all times when outside in public. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We want to thank the PR’s and our readers for their ongoing support. It is much appreciated!

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

A NOTE TO ALL OF OUR READERS:

We are sad to report that all theaters throughout Southern California are now closed through at least the end of April on official orders from state and local authorities due to the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic outbreak, so we have nothing to list in our event column for this month. Hopefully, this mandate will be lifted soon and things can return to some sense of normality, but when this will happen is, at this point, impossible to say.

In the meantime, we encourage everyone to stay safe and practice social distancing wherever and whenever possible. Our warmest wishes go out to all of you during this crisis! We want to thank the PR’s and our readers for their ongoing support. It is much appreciated!

Sincerely,

Steve Zall and Sid Fish

A MESSAGE TO ALL OF OUR VALUED READERS. PLEASE REVIEW THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION:

Due to the recent Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, all theaters are prohibited from holding performances for the rest of March (at minimum.) Some have informed us of intentions to resume shows in April, but please check the theater’s website or call the box office BEFORE you make any plans to attend any of these shows to make sure that the theater will be open for your enjoyment.

 If you ARE able to attend a production, PLEASE TAKE EVERY MEASURE RECOMMENDED BY HEALTH AUTHORITIES TO ENSURE THAT YOUR HEALTH WILL NOT BE COMPROMISED!

“Barefoot in the Park” Paul and Corie Bratter are newlyweds in every sense of the word. Fresh off a honeymoon at the Plaza Hotel, free-spirited Corie and her buttoned-down husband Paul find themselves struggling to adjust to married life in their too expensive, run-down New York walk-up. Throw in a loopy meddling mother, an eccentric Bohemian upstairs neighbor, and a double date that goes disastrously wrong, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for laughter! Comedy legends Rita Rudner and Paul Rodriguez star. Written by Neil Simon, and directed by Michael Matthews, it runs March 1 through March 14 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets call 949-497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“Home” starts with an empty stage. A house appears from nothing. It goes up fast, choreographed like time-lapse photography. Residents move in, move out, get evicted, burn it down, loot it, rent it, remodel it, get married and divorced in it, grow up in it, die in it, haunt it — and all the while, they live among traces of residents present, past, and future. They throw a party, as if everyone who ever lived there could cohabitate, transcending the logic of time and space. Written by Geoff Sobelle, and directed by Lee Sunday Evans, it runs March 4 through March 8 at the Broad Stage in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-434-3200 or visit www.thebroadstage.org.

“Passion” is based on Ettore Scola’s brooding neo-romantic movie Passione d’Amore (1981), which in turn was based on Fosca, an 1869 Italian novel by Iginio Tarchetti. Passion tells the story of Giorgio, a handsome young army captain in 1860s Italy, who finds himself torn between Clara, his beautiful young lover, and Fosca, the unattractive, sickly woman who challenges his notion of what love is. With an achingly beautiful score, Passion delves into the mystifying tangle of desire, obsession, lust and madness that comprise love. Written by Stephen Sondheim, with music by Stephen Sondheim, and directed by Michael Michetti, it has been rescheduled to open in September of this year at the Boston Court in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-683-6801 or visit www.bostoncourtpasadena.org.

“Death and Other Girly Things” In the play, a young woman takes a road trip with her new … baby … learning about life, death, and everything in between. Written by J Fontaine, and directed by Mitch Rosander & Madylin Sweeten Durrie, it runs March 7 through April 12 at the Loft Ensemble in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.

“Murder Mafia” The party game “Mafia” is the inspiration for this improvisational murder mystery/comedy where the audience is trying to find the murderer. Ten suspects. One of them is a member of the Murder Mafia. Can you find the killer? How good are you at finding a Mafioso (or Mafiosa)? From the producers of Deadventure (the zombie improv show) comes the murder mystery comedy show where the audience tries to catch the killer…. before it’s too late. Directed by Derek Jeremiah Reid., it runs March 7 through March 14 at the Edgemar Center for the Arts in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-392-7327 or visit www.edgemarcenter.org.

“The Serpent” Go ahead – take the apple. A work of experimental theater that explores the biblical Book of Genesis while comparing it to the modern experience, The Serpent remains a prime example of the innovative nature of the period. It was developed in 1968 by van Itallie in collaboration with Joseph Chaikin and the Open Theatre. Written by Jean-Claude van Itallie, and directed by Ron Sossi, it runs March 7 through May 3 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“La Vie en Rose” Her fans can’t bear to say goodbye! Responding to popular demand, Grammy award-winning chanteuse Julia Migenes re-opens her farewell series of concert performances for five additional weeks. Join Migenes for this evening of French chansons by Edith Piaf, Charles Aznavour, Léo Ferre, Jacques Brel, Michel Legrand and others. (All songs performed in French.). Written by Julia Migenes, with music by Victoria Kirsch, and directed by Peter Medak, it runs March 12 through April 5 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“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 has been postponed to a future date at the Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-208-5454 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“Taming the Lion” William Haines acted in 50 films between 1922 and 1934 and was the number one box-office draw at the end of the silent era. He was also the first openly gay movie star, a fact that the MGM studio attempted to conceal, fearing that Haines’ gayness would prove to be box-office poison. Studio executives Louis B. Mayer and Irving Thalberg attempt to force Haines to marry a woman, to please the fans. But Haines is devoted to his male lover, Jimmie Shields. Mayer sends Haines’ best female friend, Joan Crawford, to try and persuade Haines to marry a woman. Mayer gives Haines an ultimatum: marry a woman and continue to be a movie idol, or turn his back on his movie career and lose everything so that he can stay with Jimmie. What will Haines do? Written by Jack Rushen, and directed by Melanie MacQueen, it runs March 12 through March 14 at the Theatre 40, in the Reuben Cordova Theatre in Beverly Hills. It will reopen at a date to be announced. For tickets call 310-364-0535 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Orphée” Orpheus, Eurydice, a trouble-making horse and Death herself converge in this very funny and irreverent reimagining of the Greek myth by surrealist poet, playwright and filmmaker Jean Cocteau. A celebrated poet with writer’s block, Orpheus sequesters himself in the countryside with his wife Eurydice, where he seeks inspiration. Deaf West Theatre views Cocteau’s whimsical, magical and highly visual French play, first performed in Paris in 1926, through a unique lens: translated from the French into Spoken English and American Sign Language, and slated for a run at the True Colors Festival in Tokyo, Japan at the end of April. Described by Cocteau as “part farce, part meditation on death,” the playwright continued to explore the same themes throughout his ensuing career, culminating with his seminal “Orphic Trilogy” of films: Le Sang d’un Poete, Orphée and Le Testament d’Orphee. Written by Jean Cocteau, translated into Spoken English by John Savacool, and directed by Deena Selenow, it has been postponed indefinitely at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 818-762-2998 or visit www.deafwest.org.

“Our Man in Santiago” A comic spy thriller inspired by the true story of a spectacularly botched U.S. attempt to overthrow Chile’s democratically elected leader. In this new political farce, the CIA enlists an inexperienced, unsuspecting agent to follow up with a last-ditch, poorly conceived and wildly dangerous effort to hasten the 1973 Chilean coup d’état. Written by Mark Wilding, and directed by Charlie Mount, it is scheduled to reopen in April at the Theatre West in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-851-7977 or visit www.TheatreWest.org.

“Vanya and Sonia and Masha and Spike” Set in rural Bucks County, Pennsylvania, Vanya and his adopted sister Sonia live a quiet life in the farmhouse where they grew up and cared for their elderly parents, while mourning their lost dreams and missed opportunities. When their often-wrong, fortune-telling maid warns of impending dangers, and their movie star sister, Masha, arrives unexpectedly with her young, sexy, boy toy, Spike, the family is launched into a rollicking weekend of one-upmanship, exposed nerves, and a lot of broken mugs. With wit and absurdity, the toils and troubles of celebrity, social networking, and age combine into a laugh-out-loud comedy that will tickle your funny bone and stimulate your mind. Written by Christopher Durang, and directed by Susan Stangl, it has been postponed indefinitely at the Westchester Playhouse in Westchester. For tickets call 310-645-5156 or visit www.kentwoodplayers.org.

“Poor Clare” A very funny modern spin on the Middle Ages that couldn’t feel more timely. Clare is just a regular noblewoman living in medieval Italy, trying out hairstyles and waiting to get married… until a man named Francis starts ranting in the courtyard. Based on the real story of St Clare of Assisi, a play about what happens when your eyes are opened to the injustice of the world around you, and you can’t look away. Written by Chiara Atik, and directed by Alana Dietze, it is scheduled to reopen in April at the Echo Theater Company Atwater Village Theatre in Atwater Village. For tickets call 310-307-3753 or visit www.EchoTheaterCompany.com.

“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 has been postponed indefinitely at the Morgan-Wixson Theatre in Santa Monica. For tickets call 310-828-7519 or visit www.morgan-wixson.org.

“Worst-Case Scenario” What if you met the person you’ve been waiting for your whole life, just as a nuclear apocalypse was heading your way? Worlds collide in a tiki bar at the edge of Kauai when an aimless Silicon Valley dropout meets the bar’s brassy owner, who has a plan for all worst-case scenarios, except one… finding love. Written by D.M. Conte, and directed by Shana Betz, it runs is scheduled to open in April at the Hudson Comedy Central Backstage Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.brownpapertickets.com.

“Romantics Anonymous” is the unusual love story of Angélique, maker of beautiful chocolates carefully infused with all the emotion that seems to overwhelm her in daily life, and Jean-René, who runs a chocolate factory that is running out of steam, rather like his own existence. Both seek help from the usual sources: Jean-René favors self-help tapes, and Angélique joins a support group, Les Émotifs Anonymes. When she takes a job in Jean-René’s struggling factory, a fragile love affair unfolds. Written and directed by Emma Rice, with music by Michael Kooman, lyrics by Christopher Dimond, it has been postponed indefinitely 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/Romantics.

“Cirque du Soleil VOLTA” is a captivating voyage of discovery that showcases never-before-seen under the Big Top acrobatics in a visually striking world. Driven by a stirring melodic score and inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of street sports, VOLTA is a story of transformation. It is about being true to oneself, fulfilling one’s true potential, and recognizing one’s own power to make it possible. Ultimate freedom comes with self-acceptance, and with the liberation of the judgement of others. Written by Bastien Alexandre, with music by Anthony Gonzalez, and directed by Bastien Alexandre and Jean Guibert, it has been postponed indefinitely at the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. For tickets call 877-924-7783 or visit www.cirquedusoleil.com/volta.

“Hair” In New York City for the first time while on his way to enlist in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, Oklahoma farm hand Claude Hooper Bukowski meets up with a freewheeling group of Central Park hippies led by the irrepressible George Berger. When the unlikely friends meet upper-middle-class debutante Sheila Franklin, sparks fly between the country boy and the city girl, and Berger’s troupe attempts to keep the young lovers together. Written by Gerome Ragni and James Rado, with music by Galt MacDermot, lyrics by Gerome Ragni and James Rado, and directed by Kate Sullivan, it has been postponed indefinitely at the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center Davidson/Valentini Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-860-7300 or visit www.lalgbtcenter.org/theatre.

“Love and Politics” takes on familiar taboos through four passionately divergent characters as they try to make sense of everything from smartphones, to career paths, immigration, love, and, yes, politics. It’s all politics…until it’s personal. Written by Jon Klein, and directed by Maria Gobetti, it has been postponed indefinitely at the Big Victory Theatre in Burbank. For tickets call 818-841-5421 or visit www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org.

“Mamma Mia!” You can dance, you can jive and you’ll have the time of your life when 5-Star stages this massively popular musical for the first time! The impossible-to-resist hits of the Swedish pop group ABBA power this sunny, funny show about a young woman’s search for her birth father. Whether you grew up bopping to the beat of hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Take a Chance On Me,” “Chiquitita” and “Money, Money, Money,” or you discovered ABBA on the big screen, 5-Star’s production will lift you higher than a pair of bedazzled platform boots. Written by Catherine Johnson, with music by Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus, and directed by Richard Israel, it has dates that are yet to be announced at the Kavli Theatre at the Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks. For tickets call 805-497-8613 Ext. 6 or visit www.5startheatricals.com.

Enjoy life more BUT BE SAFE, and see a show tonight!

Here are some of the shows you can see in our local theaters this month:

“The Father” stars Alfred Molina in a tour-de-force role in perhaps one of the most awarded plays of recent times on two continents. André was once a tap dancer. He lives with his daughter, Anne, and her husband, Antoine. Or was André an engineer, whose daughter Anne lives in London with her new lover, Pierre? The thing is, he is still wearing his pajamas, and he can’t find his watch. He is starting to wonder if he’s losing control. Written by Florian Zeller, translated by Christopher Hampton, and directed by Jessica Kubzansky, it runs February 5 through March 1 at the Pasadena Playhouse in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-7529 or visit www.pasadenaplayhouse.org.

“Can’t Pay? Don’t Pay!” Hungry and fed up by rising prices and stagnant wages, humble housewife Antonia joins a revolt of women at the local supermarket. Determined to live with dignity and rejecting an austerity diet of dog food and birdseed, the women’s protest escalates, and looting ensues. As police search door to door, Antonia and her friend Margherita frantically try to hide their ‘liberated’ goods from their husbands and the police. Written by Dario Fo, translated by Cam Deaver, and directed by Bob Turton, it runs February 6 through March 28 at the Actors’ Gang Theater in Culver City. For tickets call 310-838-4264 or visit www.TheActorsGang.com.

“Lady Day at Emerson’s Bar and Grill” The time is 1959, a seedy bar in Philadelphia. The audience is about to witness one of Billie Holiday’s last performances, given four months before her death. More than a dozen musical numbers – including “What a Moonlight Can Do,” “Crazy He Calls Me,” “Easy Living,” “Strange Fruit,” “Taint Nobody’s Biz-ness If I Do,” and “God Bless the Child” — are interlaced with salty, often humorous, reminiscences to project a riveting portrait of the lady and her music. Written by Lanie Robertson, and directed by Wren T. Brown, it runs February 6 through March 1 at the Nate Holden Performing Arts Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-964-9766 or visit www.ebonyrep.org.

“The Manor- Murder and Madness at Greystone” The show is a roman a clef, a fictionalization based on real events with the actual historical characters given new names. To lend authenticity to the presentation, the show is presented in the grand and glorious architectural landmark in which the events of 90 years ago actually took place. Audience members are led from room to room in the lovingly restored marvelous Greystone Mansion as different scenes of the narrative are portrayed, leading up to a shocking and apparent murder and suicide. The Manor- Murder and Madness at Greystone depicts momentous changes in the fortunes of the fabulously wealthy MacAlister Family (fictional surrogates of the oil-rich Doheny Family). Family patriarch and mining tycoon Charles makes an illegal if well-intentioned loan to Senator Alfred Winston (a stand-in for Secretary of the Interior Albert Fall). Both men face imminent disgrace and worse in the oncoming Teapot Dome bribery scandal, which will engulf the Warren Harding administration. A scion of the MacAlister family faces violent death. Written by Kathrine Bates, and directed by Martin Thompson, it runs February 6 through March 1 at the Greystone Mansion, in Greystone Park in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-364-3606 or visit www.theatre40.org.

“Activities of Daily Living” An aging woman receives her Medicare card and is expected to don a cloak of invisibility, in the marginalization that Society will expect her to accept. She’ll have none of that. She’s still vital and more than ready to deal with whatever she may encounter. She has been reading a pamphlet called the Activities of Daily Living. Written by Joanna Lipari, and directed by Beth Dunnington, it runs February 7 through February 23 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets call 626-355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

“A Body of Water” A couple in their 50’s, wake up in an isolated house above a body of water, with no idea where they are or why they are there. The arrival of a young woman with questionable explanations complicates the situation. Written by Lee Blessing, and directed by Nan McNamara, it runs February 7 through March 15 at the Crossley Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-462-8460 or visit www.ActorsCo-op.org.

“Frida- Stroke of Passion” The play begins on July 6, 1954, Frida’s 47th birthday. She will die exactly one week later. The narrative will explore the mysterious circumstances surrounding her death. (There is an official account of her cause of death, but how did she die really?) This is not all, however. It is the story of a woman living as vibrantly as she can despite dwindling health and a world of pain. She attempts to continue painting. Partially anesthetized by a mixture of tequila and painkillers, she is visited by many lovers, male and female, singer Chavela Vargas, movie star Maria Felix, Communist politician Leon Trotsky, entertainer Josephine Baker, Cuban spy Teresa Proenza, photographer Tina Modotti, and Frida’s husband, painter and muralist Diego Rivera. Some are physically present in her room, others are recreated and present in her vivid memory. The relationship between Frida and Diego is deeply complex. Diego is incapable of sexual monogamy, so much so that he practically pushes Frida into the arms of other lovers. Yet their emotional attachment to each other is surpassingly deep and a thing of wonder. Written and directed by Odalys Nanin, it runs February 7 through February 16 at the Casa 0101 Theater in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.eventbrite.com/e/frida-stroke-of-passion-tickets-85497484277.

“In My Minds Eye” Inspired by true events, this memory play chronicles the life and loves of a courageous, legally-blind female public school teacher. It also explores the delicate balance of how a parent can become dependent on caring for a child with special needs. Written by Doug Haverty, and directed by Bruce Kimmel, it runs February 7 through March 15 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-763-5990 or visit www.theGROUPrep.com.

“Bright Star” Inspired by a true story, Bright Star tells a sweeping tale of love and redemption set against the rich backdrop of the American South in the 1920s and ’40s. When literary editor Alice Murphy meets a young soldier just home from World War II, he awakens her longing for the child she once lost. Haunted by their unique connection, Alice sets out on a journey to understand her past—and what she finds has the power to transform both of their lives. With beautiful melodies and powerfully moving characters, the story unfolds as a rich tapestry of deep emotion. An uplifting theatrical journey that holds you tightly in its grasp, Bright Star is as refreshingly genuine as it is daringly hopeful. Written by Steve Martin, with music by Steve Martin and Edie Brickell, and directed by Brenda Dietlan, it runs February 8 through March 14 at the Glendale Centre Theatre in Glendale. For tickets call 818-244-8481 or visit www.glendalecentretheatre.com.

“Never Not Once” follows Eleanor, a young biology student raised by two moms who is curious about her genetics. She comes home from college to introduce her boyfriend to her mothers, and tells them she has hired a private investigator to find her father. As Eleanor continues her journey, unexpected and explosive revelations must be confronted before Eleanor and those around her can move forward. Written by Carey Crim, and directed by Katharine Farmer, it runs February 8 through February 23 at the Rubicon Theatre Company in Ventura. For tickets call 805-667-2900 or visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“Frankenstein” is an exuberant amalgamation of dynamic physical theatre, live music and experiential design that brings the tale to life in a modern take that spotlights the dangers of unregulated technology. Sourced predominantly from Shelley’s novel in conjunction with its 200th anniversary, the production awakens new questions about moral responsibility for each generation. Written by Four Larks After Mary Shelley, with music by Mat Sweeney, and directed by Mat Sweeney, it runs February 12 through March 1 at the Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts Lovelace Studio Theater in Beverly Hills. For tickets call 310-746-4000 or visit www.TheWallis.org/Frankenstein.

“Revenge Song: A Vampire Cowboys Creation” A rousing, romping, music-filled look at the real life of Julie d’Aubigny, a queer 17th century French swordswoman and opera singer, Revenge Song is a heroine’s journey toward self-discovery and acceptance. In this world premiere Geffen Playhouse commission, conversations about gender and sexuality blend together with the outrageous fun and superhero style of the Vampire Cowboys Theatre Company to create a genre unto itself—a hilarious, historical comedy with hip hop, rock and epic fight scenes. Written by Qui Nguyen, with music by Shane Rettig, lyrics by Qui Nguyen., and directed by Robert Ross Parker, it runs February 13 through March 8 at the Gil Cates Theater at Geffen Playhouse in Los Angeles. For tickets call 310-208-5454 or visit www.geffenplayhouse.org.

“Hamlet the Rock Musical” In 1976 Broadway history was made, not because of the well-earned multiple night show ending standing ovations, but because just 11 numbers into the 35 song show, Leata Galloway (Gertrude) received a show stopping standing ovation after delivering a theatre shaking, emotionally driven performance of All My Life. In 2020 Los Angeles will make history again when the 21st Century re-imagined version of Hamlet the Rock Musical premieres at the legendary El Portal Theatre. Written by Cliff Jones, with music by Cliff Jones and Craig Fair, and directed by Bill Castellino, it runs February 14 through February 23 at the El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-508-4200 or visit www.hamlettherockmusical.com.

“Kinky Boots” This big-hearted musical tells the tale of Charlie Price, who is struggling to save his family factory from closure, and Lola the entertainer who tries to help him with wild ideas. The unlikely pair create a snazzy line of stilettos that lights the world on fire, and in the course of it all both learn valuable lessons about compassion and accepting each other’s differences. Written by Harvey Fierstein, with music by Cyndi Lauper, and directed by John Tartaglia, it runs February 14 through March 1 at the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts in Cerritos. For tickets call 562-916-8500 or visit www.3dtheatricals.org.

“Law and Order: The Musical!” A grisly murder has taken place, and cops and lawyers can’t stop screwing up their quest for justice. Who killed the seemingly saintly housewife turned prostitute? Is it mob related? A closeted gay foodie? A pompous doorman? Each twist leads to more absurdity and perhaps some insight into what truly ails our criminal justice system. Think Airplane!… with songs and social commentary. For fans of the original beloved series, there are winks and jokes a plenty. For all the hilarity in the new spoof, however, it’s also an edgy and engaging whodunit that will keep you guessing until the very last scene. The action is scored with ten eclectic and original songs. Written and directed by Ilyse Mimoun, with music by Jeremy Adelman, lyrics by Ilyse Mimoun, it runs February 14 through March 15 at the Broadwater Second Stage Theater in Hollywood. For tickets call 800-838-3006 or visit www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4470025.

“Human Interest Story” A timely drama about homelessness, celebrity worship and the assault on American journalism. Newspaper columnist Andy Kramer is laid off when a corporate takeover downsizes the City Chronicle. In retaliation, Andy fabricates a letter to his column from an imaginary homeless woman named “Jane Doe” who announces she will kill herself on the 4th of July because of the heartless state of the world. When the letter goes viral, Andy is forced to hire a homeless woman to stand-in as the fictitious Jane. She becomes an overnight internet sensation and a national women’s movement is ignited. Written and directed by Stephen Sachs, it runs February 15 through April 5 at the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-663-1525 or visit www.FountainTheatre.com.

“The Winter’s Tale” re-discovers all that was thought to be lost: old friendships restored; families reunited; and star-crossed lovers beating the odds to be together. Even the most impossible miracles become possible through fantastical feats and wondrous magic. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Geoff Elliott, it runs February 15 through April 11 at the A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets call 626-356-3121 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“Found” isn’t just based on a true story, it’s based on hundreds of them! When the lost and broke Davy happens to find a peculiar note meant for someone else on the windshield of his car, it sparks an outlandish idea to collect the hilarious and revealing notes and letters that surround us every day. Along with friends, Denise and Mikey D, they’re quickly swept up into a wild, comedic mission to share them with the world. Inspired by Davy Rothbart’s popular Found magazine, featuring scores of actual discarded notes and letters that have been “found” in the real world by everyday people, this original musical comedy is a raucous exploration of human connection and the beautiful weirdness in all of us. Written by Hunter Bell and Lee Overtree, with music by Eli Bolin, and directed by Moritz von Stuelpnagel, it runs February 20 through March 23 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets call 323-380-8843 or visit www.iamatheatre.com.

“Lucid” tells the story of a group of individuals who join a sleep study, hoping to cure their insomnia. But when an unexpected woman shows up, they find themselves trapped in a bizarre collective dream state that forces them to confront dark secrets and hidden truths. Striking, surrealistic and full of unexpected juxtapositions, the devised physical theater work incorporates movement, imagery, soundscape, live and recorded music, as it asks us to look more closely at the waking lies we tell ourselves, the quiet prejudices we carry, and the role fear has in inflating human ego. Written by the ensemble, inspired by Carol Churchill’s Adaptation of August Strindberg’s A Dream Play and the Poems of Anne Sexton, and directed by Madeleine Dahm, it runs February 20 through March 1 at the Hudson Theatre – Mainstage in Los Angeles. For tickets visit www.bit.ly/2TrZrCD.

“The Andrews Brothers” A USO show is threatened with cancellation when a certain famous trio of singing sisters fails to show up, so it’s left to three earnest and determined stagehands to go on with the show. Mistaken identities, zany adventures, a bit of cross-dressing and the music of an entire generation highlight this valentine to the heroes of World War II. Written by Roger Bean, and directed by Jamie Torcellini, it runs February 21 through March 8 at the International City Theatre Long Beach Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets call 562-436-4610 or visit www.InternationalCityTheatre.org.

“Birthday Wish” All Claire wants for her birthday is for her rocker boyfriend to not break up with her. What she gets instead are crazy dreams, her dead dad, rock n’ roll, and a better understanding of who she wants to be. Written and directed by Victoria Anne Greenwood, it runs February 21 through March 1 at the Loft Ensemble Sawyer’s Playhouse in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-452-3153 or visit www.loftensemble.org.

“Measure for Measure” Sex and hypocrisy abound in William Shakespeare’s dark comedy about the corruption of power and authority, and the true nature of mercy and justice. His world is familiar: sex is a commodity, government is subject to the leader’s moral whimsy, and licentiousness goes head to head with emergency powers to constrain and punish. Written by William Shakespeare, and directed by Armin Shimerman and Elizabeth Swain, it runs February 21 through April 6 at the Kiki & David Gindler Performing Arts Center in Glendale. For tickets call 818-506-1983 or visit www.Antaeus.org.

“Hot Tragic Dead Thing” Bekah, a teenage social outcast recovering from a failed suicide attempt, and Miles, a golden boy with a hidden thirst for violence, are thrust into the same house when their parents try to blend their families after disastrous marriages. Bekah and Miles express their budding attraction and increasing obsession with leaving a mark on the world by plotting a mass shooting at their high school. Written by Ashley Rose Wellman, and directed by Christopher James Raymond, it runs February 28 through April 4 at the Blank’s 2nd Stage Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 323-871-8018 or visit www.theblank.com.

Enjoy life more – see a show tonight!