Macbeth by Shakespeare. Dany Margolies – ArtsinLA Are we, as an educated audience, expected to know exactly when Macbeth “turns”— when the pathologically evil ambition overtakes his soul? Or must the change in him be left open to interpretation? The answer may determine which cast to see in this double-cast production of Shakespeare’s “Scottish play,” illuminatingly directed by Jessica Kubzansky. Read … Read more
The Exorcist by John Pielmeier. Pauline Adamek – ArtsBeatLA The Geffen Playhouse have commissioned John Pielmeierto adapt author William Peter Blatty’s legendary horror story to the stage for a world-premiere presentation, and it’s difficult to comprehend why. Why take a sensational novel that was cleverly parlayed into a hit movie to great effect and then – almost forty years later … Read more
Stoneface by Vanessa Claire Stewart. Pauline Adamek – ArtsBeatLA Be advised – Vanessa Claire Stewart’s wonderful play about Buster Keaton is not a barrel of laughs. Dealing largely with the latter, dismal years of the legendary silent film comedy star’s career and failed marriages (two), many of the dramatic scenes are truly heartbreaking. That’s thanks to superbly subtle and emotional performances … Read more
War Horse by Nick Stafford. Pauline Adamek – ArtsBeatLA War Horse, the spectacular stage show that captivated Steven Spielberg, is now playing at the Ahmanson Theater in Downtown LA until July 29, 2012. A unique theatrical experience that combines intense drama with elaborate staging and dazzling puppetry, War Horse is essentially a love story between a boy and his horse. At the heart … Read more
At a May meeting of the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle, David C. Nichols was chosen as the Circle’s president for a one-year term. Nichols, who writes for the L.A. Times and other local publications, had previously held that office from 2008 to 2010. Outgoing president Bob Verini, who has held the office since 2010, will take over as Awards Chair for the LADCC Awards ceremonies … Read more
Finally I Can Talk About…. by Bob Verini As an LADCC member, I see many more shows during the year than I could possibly review in Variety. In 2011 I caught 120 attractions in the LA area alone, not counting productions in San Diego, San Francisco, NY, Chicago and London. I don’t want any more of 2012 to go by … Read more
Recap by Sharon Perlmutter. I’m always pleased when I see a show that lives up to its hype. I’m even more pleased when I see a show that had no hype at all, but just knocks me off my feet. There were both in 2011. I came late to Ebony Rep’s production of A Raisin in the Sun. (Hell, I came … Read more
Prize recipients, nominees, critics, publicists, theater practitioners and aficionadi all mingled in the foyer of A Noise Within’s glamorous theater in Pasadena following the 43rd Annual Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards event, which was held on Monday, March 19, 2012. For a full list of the nominees, go here. You can now follow theLos Angeles Drama Critics Circle on twitter via @LADramaCC. Enjoy this photo … Read more
A grand time was had by all who attended the 43rd Annual Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards event. This group of professional theater critics, theLos Angeles Drama Critics Circle (LADCC), annually gives awards for excellence in theater. The ceremony took place Monday, March 19, 2012 at A Noise Within’s glamorous theater in Pasadena, and was co-produced by LADCC members David C. Nichols and Sharon Perlmutter. The fun-filled show … Read more
The Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle has announced the winners and special awards for excellence in Los Angeles and Orange County theater for the year 2011. You can now follow the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle on twitter via @LADramaCC. The 43rd Annual Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Awards ceremony took place Monday, March 19, 2012 at A Noise Within in Pasadena, and was co-hosted by Lesli Margherita and Jason … Read more