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At the Beverly Hills Playhouse
Review by
Francesca Leigh
This dramatic and
inspiring production explores the lives of five extraordinary female
comedians as they navigate the tough world of standup comedy.
Attempting to make an
audience laugh, with their own lives in such chaotic disarray, is why this
play works so brilliantly.
Watching these stellar performers unravel their grief and despondency
backstage in the green room to a stage hand is heart wrenching.
Never seen a play with so many stand out performances. Comedy and
tragedy at it’s very finest.
PERFORMANCE DATES AND
TICKETS
At the Beverly Hills Playhouse
254 S Robertson Blvd, Beverly Hills CA 90211
Opens April 22nd – Closes May 22nd, 2022
Fridays / Saturdays at 8pm and Sundays at 7pm
Tickets are $30.00 and available at:
www.crimsonsquare.org/buy-tickets
Maria Proios, Cameron Meyer |
Mia Christou |
Mia Christou, Isabella Olivas |
Maria Proios, Jeffrey Sun, Diana Murphy |
James Fahselt, Phoebe Pearl |
Review by
Francesca Leigh
From a group of 20 street performers at it’s
beginnings in 1984, Cirque du Soleil now has 1,400 artists from 50 different
countries and over twenty different productions globally.
I have seen several of their past shows and have always been impressed by
it’s magnitude and sheer spectacle.
VOLTA, the latest
production in Los Angeles, did not disappoint, neither did it’s profound
message running throughout, ‘Freedom being the ultimate achievement’.
The creators of VOLTA
drew inspiration from the spirit of adventure that permeates the world of
street sports and acrobatics. From lightning speed double-dutch rope
skipping, to death defying BMX bikers performing stunts on six massive
ramps.
The storyline revolves
around WAZ , a boy full of dreams and aspirations who has slipped into the
invisible doldrums of the GREYS, who are workers settled into routine and
repetition, misguided and glued to their cell phones and screens.
His life changes when he meets the
FREESPIRITS, formerly GREYS, who broke free and escaped inertia. They are
not bound by rules and expectations, and are driven by a free-spirit and the
acceptance of everyone.
Benevolent and
life-loving, they strive to live in a world with no walls or barriers,
expressing their creativity and love for everything they see.
Ela, the archetypal FREESPIRIT sees the untapped potential in WAZ and
others and tries to rouse them from their apathy.
Woven together in a
dazzling display of acrobatics, dancers, roller skating, musicians and
aerial stunts, the story shows WAZ’s journey as he eventually breaks free
from mediocrity, and finds his true path to freedom.
I absolutely loved
VOLTA’s positive message, exploring themes of celebrating differences and
unique qualities in a world where technology isolates people from one
another rather than freeing them.
CIRQUE
DU SOLEIL
VOLTA
DODGER STADIUM
UNDER THE GRAND CHAPITEAU
1000 Vin Scully
Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90090
Performing January 18th
– March 8th 2020
Telephone: (702) 796-9999
or
contact@cirquedusoleil.com
905 Loma Vista Dr
Beverly Hills, CA
Review by
Francesca Leigh
One of L.A theatre’s longest running success stories, now in it’s 14th hit season, and the most unique theatrical experiences in town. "The Manor", a murder mystery suspense thriller simply cannot be missed!
The majestic Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills is the setting of this truly extraordinary production by playwright Kathrine Bates where audience members are led from room to room as different scenes of the play is performed.
The story revolves around Charles MacAlister who builds the opulent Greystone Mansion in 1928 as a gift for his only son and heir, and who has to deal with a shocking political scandal before tragedy and grief leaves him a broken man in the gripping finale.
Just being present in Greystone’s lavish interior and imagining a bygone era when flappers reigned and prohibition was the law of the land creates an overwhelming sense of intimacy.
Playing now February 6 – March 1, 2020
For reservations call (310) 694-6118
Or visit www.Theatre40.org
Greystone Park and Mansion
905 Loma Vista Drive
Beverly Hills CA 90210
(click on photo to enlarge) | |||
The Secret Rose Theater
11246 Magnolia Blvd., North
Hollywood, CA
Review by Francesca Leigh
I attended a live theatrical performance
of a musical based on the life on Dorothy Dandridge, and was astounded at
the sheer brilliance and talent of it’s leading lady Wanda Ray Willis, who
portrays Miss Dandridge on her final day of life on September 7th,
1965.
Willis wrote the script
and all of the songs, directing, singing, and choreographing herself in a
truly remarkable one-woman-show.
There were so many firsts about the real Dorothy Dandridge that I was
not aware of. She was the first
black actress on the cover of Life Magazine, the first black actress to land
a three-year movie contract with 20th Century Fox, and the first
black actress nominated for an Academy Award in a leading role.
For my research I
watched early footage of Miss Dandridge, and I can honestly say, Wanda Ray
Willis is more than an impersonator, but a triple threat, simply born to
portray this great legend who died at age 42, and left an indelible mark on
the world of film and entertainment.
For ongoing
performances throughout the year and for more information:
www.dorothydandridgeonewomanshow.com
www.wandaraywillis.org
(click on photo to enlarge)
Wandy Ray Willis |
Dorothy Dandridge | Dorothy Dandridge |
Wandy Ray Willis |
Samuel Goldwyn Theater
8949 Wilshire Boulevard
Beverly Hills, CA, 90211
Curated and hosted by Betsy Baytos
Review by Francesca Leigh
It
was fast and energetic, wild and fearless, frenzied, comical and simply
dazzling to watch.
A quite accurate description of ‘ECCENTRIC’ dance, an artform which traces
it’s origins to ancient times with roots in many cultures.
But perhaps no place did it flourish more than in the movies, particularly
from the 1930’s to the 1950’s. Think of rubber-legged Ray Bolger in The
Wizard of Oz, George M Cohan played by James Cagney in Yankee Doodle Dandy,
and the gravity-defying Nicholas Brothers, Fayard and Harold, whose leaps
and astonishing splits were the high points of many musical numbers.
On Monday I attended ‘The Choreography of Comedy: THE ART OF ECCENTRIC DANCE
at the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences in Beverly Hills, which
featured film clips of some of the greatest eccentric dances, including home
movies of the Nicholas Brothers introduced by Fayard’s son Tony, and an
appearance by Shirley MacLaine as special presenter.
The live performances were impressive and inspiring, mixed with a
vaudevillian theme, with frenetic acrobatics, tap and even break dancing to
show a very obvious connection at how eccentric dance has evolved and
influenced the art of dance today.
The Choreography of Comedy: THE ART OF ECCENTRIC DANCE. Samuel Goldwyn
Theatre, 8949 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. Info: Oscars.org Tel:
310-247-3000
The Choreography of Comedy-The Art of Eccentric Dance Video Clip
(click on photo to enlarge) | ||
James Cagney "Yankee Doodle Dandy" |
Nicholas Brothers Fayard & Harold |
Ray Bolger "The Wizard of OZ" |
FEATURING (in alphabetical order)
Julien Ari, Arthur S. Brown, Wendy Hammers, Danielle Kay, Jeffrey Lesser
by Francesca Leigh
There’s
a lot to like about ‘Old Jews Telling Jokes’.
Firstly, it DOES make you laugh. And secondly, the laughter and smiles don’t
stop until the performers take their bows.
Billed as an evening in the Catskills, with jokes, skits, song and dance,
this five-actor troupe of comedic talent brought us all laughter and tears
in a 90-minute production that pays tribute to the era of Jackie Mason, Alan
King and other legendary greats, with a modern twist that’s very relatable
and very funny. Direct from New York and running through till June 16th at
The Colony. Call for tickets now 1-855-448-7469
www.PlayhouseInfo.com Free
parking The Colony Theatre 555 North 3rd Street, Burbank CA 91502
E-Mail: kenwertherpr@gmail.com
Desk: (323) 845-9781
Cell: (213) 716-0878
Website: www.kenwerther.com
Twitter: @KenWertherPR
by Francesca Leigh
Having lived here
in Los Angeles for a number of years now, I imagined that there was nothing
quite like The Hollywood Bowl for live outdoor performances. That was until
I had to review a July 4th Celebration
Concert With Fireworks event.
I asked myself,
what was such a hidden gem doing hiding, in of all places, plain old
Burbank.
But there,
nestled, high up in the mountains, was another equally as impressive outdoor
amphitheatre called The Starlight Bowl. Amidst
a breathtaking backdrop, this utterly charming venue was a true delight,
with comfortable seating, and a large grassy picnic area for weekend
concerts throughout the summer.
The biggest
surprise was the magnitude of the fireworks display, and a heart-pounding
rendition of The Star Spangled Banner sung by Oscar G Lopez Jr.
The City of Burbank produced an exceptional show, with The United
States Air Force in attendance, music from The High Street Band, a military
aircraft flyover featuring a P-51 Mustang, all ending
with a 3-D fireworks bonanza!
I ditched my glasses, and still it
was one of the most dazzling displays I have seen in a very long time.
Visit
www.StarlightBowl.com
for ticket and parking information.
click on photo to enlargeclick on photo to enlarge
Santa Monica
by Francesca Leigh
The
Herb Alpert Foundation and California Institute of the Arts recently awarded
five exceptional mid-career artists at a luncheon in Santa Monica on May
18th, 2018.
The 24th Annual Herb Alpert Award in the Arts recognize artists working in
Dance, Film/Video, Music, Theatre and the Visual Arts, with each recipient
receiving $75,000.
Arthur Jafa, Courtney Bryan, Okwui Okpokwasili, Michael Rakowitz and Robert
O’Hara were truly deserving in their chosen fields for being risk takers
using their talent, vision, and ingenuity to create exceptional works
exploring race and social justice.
The luncheon in Santa Monica, hosted by Herb Alert and wife Lani Hall, was a
delightful afternoon filled with tears, laughter, performances and inspiring
speeches.
It was an honor to shake hands with Mr Alpert and thank him for all the good
his organization has so far accomplished, and for making a positive
difference in the lives of artists and audiences globally.
For more information about the Awards :
HerbAlpertAwards.org
HerbAlpertFoundation.org
For Herb Alpert Foundation Media Requests contact : Caroline
Graham at C4 Global Communications
Email: caroline@c4global.com
Tel: 310-899-2727
Photo by Francesco Da Vinci
Sierra Madre Playhouse
by Francesca Leigh
They say that everybody needs a therapist sometime in
their lives. Last night in Sierra Madre Opening Night of ‘The Immigrant’ was
THAT time. Yet where was a therapist when I needed one, to hold my
hand and rock me back to sanity? And how could one play, with such an
excrutiatingly snail pace and mundane dialogue, drive me up the wall, and
send me in a strait jacket to Bellevue’s mental asylum. I had hoped all my
years of yoga and spiritual meditation would provide me a sense of calm and
tolerance. It didn’t. Perhaps the reception after the ordeal
would brighten up my spirits. No such luck. White mini bread rolls with a
slice of cold meat, and nothing much else. Perhaps I could drown my sorrows
on fizzy pomegranate juice since I don’t drink alcohol. It helped.
So, now I’m driving home starved and dazed. Perhaps the long
drive home to L.A. would make me think clearly.
Yes! Some positive thoughts were ignited. I did like the acting performances
from the four leading players, and the opening was dynamic and impressive
due to Matthew G Hills outstanding set design. And a very relevant
play for today’s times, Russian-Jewish immigrant couple lands in Texas and
befriends Christian couple who helps them offering shelter and work.
The finale moved me, and i saw the light. And did I mention Matthew G Hills
extraordinary set design throughout this production because it sure dazzled
the hell out of everybody that night.
SIERRA MADRE PLAYHOUSE Currently running until May 26th, 2018.
Reservations (626) 355-4318
www.sierramadreplayhouse.org
Written by Mark Harelik. Directed by Simon Levy. Produced by
Christian Lebano for Sierra Madre Playhouse.
|
Brickhouse Theater
by Francesca Leigh
The Untold Tales of Bibi Osterwald has been turned
into a dynamic one-woman show currently playing in Hollywood. This
entertaining production stars her grand-daughter
Elise Arndt who sings, dances and acts out her grand mother’s 60
years in show business accompanied by a live band and a giant video screen
showing old footage of past shows. For everyone attending opening night last
week it was a wonderful shout out to the Golden Age of Broadway and
Hollywood reminiscent of Debbie Reynolds,
Judy Garland, etc. This delightful triple threat performer has all
the star quality and magical charisma to keep an audience completely
captivated.
Running through April 8th at The Brickhouse
Theatre, 10950 Peach Grove Street, N Hollywood CA 91601
performances of ‘Sing Bibi Sing’ are Friday, Sat
and Sun at 8:00pm, and 4pm matinee on April 7th, 2018.
(click on photo to enlarge) | |||
El Portal Theater
by Francesca Leigh
I was fortunate to have attended three great productions, staring three great men, all in the span of one short month. The first was a fascinating musical portrayal of one of Hollywood’s leading men in Cagney The Musical. Direct from New York, it follows the life of the legendary James Cagney , from the streets of New York to his rise from a vaudeville song and dance man to becoming one of Hollywood’s original tough guys. Robert Creighton playing the title role leads a cast of six that tap dances through such classics as ‘Give my Regards to Broadway’, ‘You’re a Grand Old Flag’, and ‘Yankee Doodle Dandy’. Highly entertaining and highly recommended. For tickets visit CagneyThe Musical.com or call 866-811-4111
Theatre68
The second production was a fascinating one-man-show staring actor Ronnie Marmo portraying the life and death of controversial comedian Lenny Bruce. Like a boxer, Lenny Bruce took the punches for excercising his First Amendment Rights, and his ‘freedom of speech’ in his shows landed him in jail on many occasions, blacklisted, and fighting numerous lawsuits for his profanity. The talented and charismatic Ronnie Marmo does an excellent job portraying the outspoken comedian who tragically dies of a drug overdose at age 40. Tickets available at Theatre68.com or call 323-960-5068.
‘I am Not a Comedian – I’m Lenny Bruce’, is directed by Joe Mantegna and is now extended thru Dec 30th by popular demand.
Photo by Doren Sorell
David Henry Hwang Theatre
Last but not least, actor Danny Glover reprises his 1999 role of James Washington, a retired military man and former amateur boxer in ‘Yohen’ currently playing at David Henry Hwang Theatre.
After 37 years of marriage Sumi Washington, (played by the delightful June Angela) kicks him out of the marital home so he can begin dating her again. Hostilities unravel culminating in a shocking confession of why she never wanted children, and why he frowned on adoption. Very relatable, addressing many marital problems, but with a shocking twist. Opening night performance had several fluffed and garbled lines from Glover, but with Mel Gibson in the house to support his ‘Lethal Weapon’ co-star, and the fan and press attention of Glover at the after-party reception, I’d say Mr Glover had earned his stripes, flaws and all. Ticket info (213) 625-7000
Santa Monica Playhouse
by Francesca Leigh
Not normally a fan of ‘one actor shows’ I
ventured out to the other side of town last night to catch a performance of
‘‘I’m Not Famous’’ at the Santa Monica Playhouse starring Barbara Minkus.
On arrival i began judging almost immediately. Ok, small theatre, small band (1 keyboard player), let’s see where this one goes. --- Talk about never judging a book by it’s cover, I was literally swept away in another time zone, watching this petite powerful performer, sing her heart out, cry her heart out, and watch the audience gasp in delight as large video screens played her performances singing alongside legendary icons such as Danny Kaye, with numerous spots on The Tonight Show, The Merv Griffin Show, and more.
Susan Morgenstern (Director & co-author) has done a phenomenal job on staging this gem of a production, which has more heart and soul packed into it’s 85 minutes you’ll wish it didn’t end.
Now playing at the Santa Monica Playhouse (310) 394-9779 www.SantaMonicaPlayhouse.com
(click on photo to enlarge) | ||
Photos: George J. Viennes III |
Walt Disney Concert Hall
by Francesca Leigh
The traditional New Year’s Concert of the Vienna Philharmonic Orchestra takes place every year on Jan 1st in the Golden Hall of Vienna’s Musikverein. Austria’s rich cultural heritage and classical music and dance has been brought to Walt Disney’s Concert Hall and has now been performed here for the last 22 years.
‘Salute To Vienna’ evokes the legacy and music of Waltz King Johann Strauss. Take in the sights, sounds, and flair of Vienna’s Golden Age with beautiful music, spectacular costumes, and Europe’s finest singers, dancers and conductors.
Dec 29th – January 1st, 2017
WALT DISNEY CONCERT HALL
SaluteToVienna.com
Pantages Theater, Hollywood
by Francesca Leigh
‘White Christmas’ the musical (based on the Paramount Pictures 1954 film) opened at the Pantages Theatre earlier this month. Music and lyrics by Irving Berlin, with it’s memorable and uplifting score, this joyful spirited musical will always remain a magical and timeless classic.
Tel: (866) -755-2929
HollywoodPantages.com Group Sales (866) 755-3075
by Francesca Leigh
One of L.A theatre’s longest running success stories,
now in it’s 14th hit season, and the most unique theatrical experience in
town.
‘The Manor, a murder mystery suspense thriller
simply cannot be missed!!! The majestic Greystone Mansion in Beverly Hills
is the setting of this truly extraordinary production by playwright Kathrine
Bates where audience members are led from room to room as
different scenes of the play is performed.
The story revolves around Charles
MacAlister who builds the opulent Greystone Mansion in 1928 as a gift
for his only son and heir, and who has to deal with a shocking
political scandal before tragedy and grief leaves him a broken man in
the gripping finale. Just being present in Greystone’s lavish interior
and imagining a bygone era when flappers reigned and prohibition was the law
of the land creates an overwhelming sense of intimacy and authenticity.
Playing now until Feb 5th. For reservations call (310) 694-6118
Or visit www.Theatre40.org
Greystone Park and Mansion; 905 Loma Vista Drive,
Beverly Hills; CA 90210
(click on photo to enlarge) | |||
by Francesca Leigh
Want to experience a real ‘Hollywood Movie Premiere’ up close and personal?
Then ‘Hollywood Premiere Party’ is for you. A cast of colorful and over-the-top character actors intermingling with the guests and acting out small vignettesque type skits while including you in their ‘story’ as they gather to celebrate their movie premiere party.
Watch red carpet interviews, cast performances, a live 6-piece band, and paparazzi photographing YOU on the red carpet as you enter. In town for just another week.
Written and directed by Kerry Logan.
Production runs Oct 7th-Nov 5th at :
MANOR on VINE
1718 Vine Street
Los Angeles, CA 90028
Every Fri and Sat at 6:30pm.
For more info: www.HollywoodPremiereParty.com
El Portal
Theatre
by Francesca Leigh
The El Portal Theatre presents another theatrical gem! - A rip roaring British Comedy ‘Cash On Delivery’ will have you in stitches from beginning to end. Set in present day London we watch Eric Swan’s (Jim Mahoney) welfare scam unravel before our eyes as he desperately tries to keep his wife, tenant, friends and officials in the dark to his very troubled past. The insane theatrics and brilliant writing with the whackiest of characters stays with you long after the curtain falls.
Writtten by Michael Cooney
and directed by his father Ray Cooney who plays Uncle George in the show,
it is a truly terrific team effort and a modern ‘Faulty Towers’ at
it’s best.!!!
CASH
ON
DELIVERY runs
through
until
Dec 20th, 2015
at the historic EL Portal Theatre.
For tickets call 818-508-4200 or visit
www.elportaltheatre.com for more information.
The
Matrix Theatre
by Francesca Leigh
Musical Theatre has to have the entire
package to be a hit and ‘SERRANO’ The Musical currently playing in
Hollywood’s Matrix Theatre has it all and more! - It is rare for a musical
comedy to be this good with so much going for it. And it’s show stopping
entertainment has more heart and soul at it’s core making this an absolute
stand out hit! - Whether that’s due to the brilliant direction of Joel Zwick
who’s best known for directing ‘My Big Fat Greek Wedding’, the highest
grossing romantic comedy of all time, or due to the superbly talented cast
and it’s comical choreography and clever staging, I can’t say.
All I know is trying to find a show
to top this will be tough. - The
hilarious mob boss theme running throughout works beautifully
with the love torn ‘Serrano’ played by Tim Martin Gleason in trying
to keep his sanity whilst trying to win the heart of Rosanna Spumonte played
by Suzanne Petrela. Every single
character seems to have been born to play their role thanks to Joel
Zwick’s genius and meticulous casting that I cannot recommend it
highly enough.
SERRANO THE MUSICAL
Performances run Thurs, Fri, Sat at 8:00pm Sunday at 3:00pm
Tickets are available online
www.SerranoTheMusical.com
or by calling 323-960-7774
The Matrix Theatre,
7657 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90048
Tel: (323) 960-7735
The
Matrix Theatre
by Francesca Leigh
Downton Abbey meets the swinging sixties in this superbly
decadent, clever and witty production of Noel Coward’s ‘The Vortex’
currently playing at the Matrix Theatre in L.A. Revised and set in the mod
London of 1965 it’s a true feast for the eyes as the play opens in all it’s
gloriously flamboyant fashion as Nicky Lancaster brings his elegant fiancée,
Bunty, home to introduce her to his famous mother, stage actress Florence
Lancaster. The games begin with delectable on stage chemistry as the
dramatically passionate revelation is unraveled in it’s dynamic
climatic finale. Secrets and lies, troubled relationships, drug abuse,
infidelity and more. Noel Coward became an overnight sensation when ‘The
Vortex’ his very first play opened in 1924, & the plays scandalous subject
matter didn’t hurt ticket sales either.
The Matrix Theatre,
7657 Melrose Avenue
Los Angeles CA 90048
Tel: (323) 960-7735
Runs thru December 14th, 2014 - Thurs-Sunday - 8PM and Sunday performances
at 3PM.
Tickets can be purchased online at:
http://www.plays411.com/vortexwww.plays411.com/vortex
Running time 1 hour 25mins
(click on photo to enlarge) | |||
Theatre 68
by Francesca Leigh
Theatre 68’s new production ‘The Afflicted’’ delivers a
colossal dose of hilarious mayhem and madness. RUSH to see this zombie
spewing, blood spurting, completely over the top comedy by playwright Leif
Gantwoort and performed by an immensely talented group of actors.
With the many zombie based movies currently topping the box office, any fans
of this genre will be thrilled to be up close and personal with some of the
most outrageous and terrifying zombies on an LA stage!!!
Hold on to your seats! And definitely expect the v. unexpected!
Produced by artistic director and founder of Theatre 68, Ronnie Marmo who
has directed and produced over 50 theatrical productions in New York and Los
Angeles.
Directed by Danny Cistone who is also set designer and sound engineer and
who holds an impressive list of credentials, including Katy Perry and
‘Pink’s’ European tours.
The Brits are Back in Town in the sensational new
musical ‘Mod Rock’. Set in the vibrant, swinging London of 1965,
‘ModRock’ depicts a time when England was the center of music, fashion,
culture and lifestyle – and where Mods & Rockers clashed – and where England
produced some of the best songwriters and bands of all time. The songs
are the ‘STARS’ in 20 classic hits by The Who, Beatles & more all
performed by a superbly talented cast of ‘’Americans’’ with one authentic
Brit! Yes, the accents were comical, but the music of the times, cleverly
woven into a very British love story, make this a truly entertaining
show!
EL Portal Theatre, 5269 Lankershim Blvd, N Hollywood CA 91601 – June 23rd
Thurs & Fri Evenings at 8pm, Saturdays at 3pm & 8pm,
Sunday 2pm and 7pm
Tickets now on sale
www.modrockmusical.com or by calling (818) 508-4200
(click on photo to enlarge) | ||
THEATRE 68
by Francesca Leigh
There’s a tremendous amount of good quality theatre being produced at Theatre68 –
the latest being ‘Crumble Lay me Down Justin Timberlake’. I know. I felt the same when I heard the title but it’s way deeper than the Backstreet Boys! It’s one of the most unique plays I have ever seen with some valuable life lessons everyone can certainly relate to.
An outstanding lead actress Shelly Hacco and brilliant stage direction from Ronnie Marmo.
THEATRE 68 5419 Sunset Blvd, Suite D, Hollywood CA 90027 www.Theatre68.com
NOW EXTENDED THROUGH MAY 31ST, 2013 Fri & Sat. 8PM Tickets - $25.00
For Reservations call (323) 960-5068 Reserve online at www.plays411.com/crumble
DOMA Theatre Co
by Francesca Leigh
The
Tony Award Winning ‘DREAMGIRLS’ is back in town, and ready to inspire,
uplift and truly entertain you in this latest production from Doma Theatre.
Travel back in time to the swinging 60’s and the Motown era as an unknown
girl
group from Chicago succeed to the pinnacle of fame, fortune and
success.
DOMA Theatre Company, 1089 N Oxford Ave, Los Angeles CA 90029
Please call for tickets 323-802-4990 or visit :
www.domatheatre.com
-------- PERFORMANCES RUN FROM MARCH 8 – APRIL 14TH, 2013 ------------
Production Photo by Michael Lamont (click on photo to enlarge)
Celebrate this happy festive season by catching a performance of ‘Christmas MY WAY’at the El Portal Theatre. Four dynamically gifted singers perform a musical tribute to the legendary Frank Sinatra in this hugely entertaining production.
Filled with Christmas duets , and such classics as ‘Fly
me to the Moon’, ‘New York New York’, ‘I’ll Be Home for Christmas’, ‘That’s
Life’, ‘Witchcraft’, ‘Chicago’ and many more great hits.
And always emotional for me to witness the audience in tears, and in this
show it came at the very moving finale classic, ‘MY WAY’.
For those of us who could stand , the enthusiastic
ovation with thunderous applause was truly well deserved.
‘CHRISTMAS MY WAY. A SINATRA HOLIDAY BASH’ – is now
playing at El Portal Theatre.
For Tickets call (818) 508 4200 or order online at:
www.ELPORTALTHEATRE.COM
Directed by the highly acclaimed Vincent Paterson, Tony nominee and director of two world tours (Michael Jackson and Madonna) comes this new musical L.T.S.T. And it’s simple and deep message was not over-shadowed by it’s evidently star studded performers, Grammy Award winning music icon Jon Secada, Grammy winning R&B pop star Jody Watley and dozens of Emmy and Tony winning cast members. --- Kindness, compassion, generosity, love and spiritual evolvement through adversity is the lesson and thread woven through this high energy and wonderfully uplifting show.
SHRINE AUDITORIUM 665 W. Jefferson Boulevard, Los Angeles CA 90007
For more information please contact: www.ShrineAuditorium.com
Staples Center, LA
by Francesca Leigh
BATMAN
LIVE, the world touring production, is a remarkable theatrical experience
that combines amazing sets with incredible pyrotechnics, state of the arts
digitals,
and impressive circus trained acrobats that make up it’s talented cast.
An enormous 100ft LED screen cut into the shape of the Bat insignia, makes
BATMAN a theatrical experience on a jaw droppingly grand scale!
Stand out sequences include the hydrogen fuelled Batmobile (a futuristic
Formula 1
race car), a huge hot air balloon that bursts into flames on stage, and the
spectacle
of a stage that transforms into a glittering Gotham City, to a
mansion, a batcave and
even a mental asylum with hanging corpses. BATMAN LIVE is loaded with
enjoyable theatrics, tons of laughs, and characters which makes this
extravagant British production extraordinarily impressive & a joy to watch.
STAPLES CENTER L.A. for a limited run.
(click on photo to enlarge) | |||
DOMA Theatre Co
by Francesca Leigh
Guaranteed laughs in this amusing roller skating musical about following your dreams. Based on the 1980 cult film the show has performed on Broadway in 2007 running for 500 performances with Tony nominations for book & musical.
XANADU runs on Friday & Saturday @8pm and Sundays @3:00pm.
Call for tickets and info 323-802-4990. www.DomaTheatre.com
Production Photo by Michael Lamont (click on photo to enlarge) |
|||
Ford Amphitheatre
by Francesca Leigh
‘Dance in the USA’ at Hollywood’s Ford Amphitheatre was a superbly glossy and glitzy production. --- Performed by Pacific Ballet Dance Theatre, audiences were treated to the daring swing dancers of the Big Band era, Charleston of the Roaring Twenties, 70’s Disco, and much, much more. --- A great Tribute to American Music and DANCE!
www.PacificBalletDanceTheatre.org
DOMA Theatre Company
by Francesca Leigh
I
felt like I was seated at the Ahmanson – in the first few opening moments.
The extravagant costumes, powerful vocals and someone very extraordinary.
As a critic I don’t often single out one particular performer. And when I do
it’s
for very good reason. That name is Chris Kerrigan playing the character of
Dr. Henry Jekyll and Edward Hyde. An extraordinary superstar
born to perform!
Cassandra Nuss as the prostitute Lucy has such an unbelievable vocal range
it’s
worth the price of a ticket just to hear her sing one number!
This show needs to
be taken in it’s entirety right onto the stages of the Pantages Theatre!!!
Jekyll & Hyde – the Musical’’ – The Tony Award-nominated musical adaption of
Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale. Presented by
DOMA Theatre Company.
July 6th-July 29th. Fri-Sat 8pm; Sunday 3pm.
www.DomaTheatre.com for tickets.
Production Photo by Michael Lamont (click on photo to enlarge) |
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Lillian Theatre, 6322 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90038
by Francesca Leigh
Arthur
Miller’s 60th Anniversary Production of THE CRUCIBLE is now being
performed in Los Angeles with a very fine cast of extremely skilled actors.
Riveting and explosive!
Lillian Theatre, 6322 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles CA 90038
www.plays411.com/crucible
DOMA Theatre Company
by Francesca Leigh
‘TOMMY’ – the Tony Award Winning Rock Opera based on music by ‘The Who’ has opened at Hollywood’s MET THEATRE for a limited run. - Thrilling fans for over forty years, the British band has scored great success from the hit 1969 single, which went on to become a film in 1975, to eventually landing on the Broadway stage in the early nineties as the first ‘Rock Opera’. The story of the ‘deaf, dumb and blind kid who sure plays a mean pinball’. Need I say more. Thoroughly entertaining ! --- Directed by Hallie Barran.
The Who’s TOMMY, presented by DOMA Theatre Company. Plays Fri-Sat. 8pm; Sun 3pm. Through April 15th. Tel: (323) 465-0693. www.domatheatre.com
Production Photos Michael Lamont (click on photo to enlarge) |
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Theatre Asylum - Hollywood (1/13/2012)
by Francesca Leigh
A charming and delightful adaptation of Quentin Tarantino's Pulp Fiction, Her Majesty Secret Players, bring you PULP SHAKESPEARE - now playing at Theatre Asylum - Jan 12th - March 4th, 2012.
Set in Elizabethan England, this amusing comedy will entertain and impress as actors tackle the complicated oration with effortless ease.
For Shakespeare lovers and Pulp Fiction cult fans.
Thurs/Fri and Sat at 8pm - Sun at 2pm
6320 Santa Monica Blvd Hollywood CA 90038 Reservations (323) 960-7612
Production Photo by Rich Clark (click on photo to enlarge)
(L to R) Aaron Lyons & Dan White |
The MET Theatre - Los Angeles (11/20/2011)
by Francesca Leigh
THE
PLAYGROUND currently playing at
the MET THEATRE and described as
a ‘street rock musical’ is that, and so much more, in this harrowing
production based on the true life stories of
homeless youth.
The subject matter is very
disturbing, but very realistically portrayed by it’s talented cast members
who leave little out in the harsh world of living on the streets.
One is vaguely reminded of
West Side Story, In the Heights and RENT, but it’s originality and memorable
tunes makes this a stand out show entirely on its own!
GREAT SETS!
OUTSTANDING VOCALS!
FABULOUS ORIGINAL SONGS!
Now playing thru Dec 18th,
2011. THE MET THEATRE
1089 Oxford Ave Hollywood CA 90029
Friday, Saturday shows at 8PM Sunday 7:00PM
Call now for tickets 323-960-7745
Production Photos by Michelle Young Photography (click on photo to enlarge) | |||
Cast Members |
Lindsey Gort Elwie Apor Harris Erica Katzin |
Keli Price |
Michael Leoni Keli Price |
Martix Theatre Company - Hollywood (11/12/2011)
by Francesca Leigh
The
Tony Award Winning ‘ALL MY SONS’
by Arthur Miller is now being performed by the
Matrix Theatre Company
in Hollywood.
Producer Joseph Stern and
Director Cameron Watson have cleverly adapted Arthur Miller’s classic play
using a multi ethnic cast – and has scored a phenomenal victory in the
process.
Miller’s gripping tale of
corporate greed and it’s tragic consequences will leave you astounded at
it’s sheer brilliance with this extraordinary and exceptional cast of
actors.
THE MATRIX THEATRE
7657 Melrose Ave, Hollywood CA 90046
www.matrixtheatre.com
Runs thru December 18th 2011
- Thurs, Fri, Sat
performances at 8Pm – Sunday 2PM
Production Photos by Karen Bellone (click on photo to enlarge) | |||
Musical Theatre West - Los Angeles (11/11/2011)
by Francesca Leigh
Three more days until the curtain falls on one of the most
ENTERTAINING shows of the year!
Rush to see the Tony Award winning ‘HAIRSPRAY’ the
Musical - for this weekends final few performances. The entire
charismatic cast will have you cheering as these Triple Threat show stoppers
weave their magic into this dazzling new production from M.T.W.
Musical Theatre West - Carpenter
Performing West Arts Center 6200 E Atherton Street Long Beach CA
90815.
www.Musical.org (562) 856 –
1999 ENDS Nov 13th 2011
Kodak Theater in Los Angeles (9/4/2011)
by Francesca Leigh
IRIS – A JOURNEY THROUGH THE WORLD OF CINEMA – currently playing at the
KODAK THEATRE in Hollywood is the latest production from Cirque Du Soleil.
Having seen most of Cirque du Soleil’s shows,
I walked in expecting nothing but
extraordinary, and I wasn’t disappointed.
A spectacular, dazzling and
breathtaking journey into the world of motion pictures and the magic of that
evolvement from silent pictures to the present. Danny Elfman, composer,
is a musical genius at what he has created with his hauntingly
beautiful score. Moving and
epic. Brilliantly directed
and artistically staged, IRIS is the latest smash hit in town you won’t want
to miss.
KODAK THEATRE
Book Review
by Francesca Leigh
Francesca’s following review was printed in
the book titled ‘Forks Over Knives’
which has been on the New York Times
Bestseller list for over 65
weeks +
‘’The powerful message running through this
movie should be enough
to stop the poisonous drugs running through
America’s veins’’.
Forks
over knives
is a
profoundly huge
wake up
call –
Inspiring
and educating
the world
to change
our lives
in
a relatively
simple way.
WITH DIET
instead of
scalpels.
Those
who fail
to heed
it’s message
will ultimately
become
a
statistic.
While the
rest of
us can
smile –
knowing we
took
control over
our precious
lives.
- Francesca
Leigh
The MET Theater, Los Angeles (10/7/2011)
by Francesca Leigh
Tick Tick BOOM – currently playing at the MET Theatre in Hollywood, and presented by the Doma Theatre Company, is an absolute musical delight. It is Jonathan Larson’s autobiographical tale of a young composer on the brink of falling into oblivion, and the tenacity it takes to follow your dreams. Performed by a talented and passionate cast, any fans of Larson’s smash hit RENT will be curiously driven to hear about this extraordinary composer who lost his life before he found success. A truly unforgettable cast.
Tick Tick BOOM plays October 7th –October 23, 2011.
Reserve online at :
http://www.plays411.com/ticktick (323) 960-7770
Performances are Friday
and Saturday at 8PM. Sunday at 3pm & 7pm
THE MET THEATRE
1089 N. Oxford Ave
Los Angeles
CA 90029
Hudson Backstage Theater, Los Angeles
by Francesca Leigh
RENT
the musical - currently playing at the Hudson Backstage Theatre
From the moment the show opens you are struck by the superior vocals of all
of these triple threat performers who never fail to keep you
entertained.
Jonathan Larson's award winning musical depicts the struggles of eight young
The Hudson Backstage Theatre - 6539 Santa Monica Blvd Hollywood CA 90038
For Tickets and Info: http://www.jericaproductions.com Or www.plays411.net
Tel: 323 - 960 - 7822 Now playing through
April 23rd 2011 Tickets selling fast!
Hudson Theater, Los Angeles
(12/10)
by Francesca Leigh
The Hudson theatre's production of PIPPIN is a must see for musical theatre
lovers everywhere. With it's dazzling show stopping opening to its closing
emotional ending it never fails to deliver.
The story follows the young prince Pippin as
he searches for the meaning of life through an amazing tapestry of human
emotions played out in song and dance.
Originally produced on the Broadway stage
and directed by Bob Fosse, this all singing all dancing troupe of talented
artists is what makes this production such a joy to experience. The
glittering costumes make up and artistic staging is reminiscent of old
vaudevillian burlesque theatre in its heyday.
Hudson Backstage Theatre
http://pippin.domatheater.com 323-960-5773
PIPPIN will soon be staged for an indefinite
run at the MET Theatre in Hollywood.
Stay tuned for further details or visit the above
website for more information.