ART

From l, Bradley Whitford, Roger Bart, and Michael O’Keefe in a scene from “ART” at The Pasadena Playhouse.

A hilarious, yet deeply moving and cerebral look at a trio of long-term male friendships, and the simmering insecurities that bubble underneath the surface … this is a wonderful play! Brilliantly written by Yasmina Reza and translated by Christopher Hampton, the 1988 Broadway production of ART (starring Alan Alda, Victor Garber, and Alfred Molina) won the Tony Award and other theatrical accolades. I had seen this play years ago, with a worthy cast, and enjoyed it … but didn’t fully “get” the gist. This current production sizzles, under the ingenious directorial vision of nine-time Emmy winner David Lee, and starring this stellar trio of seasoned pros. You’ll likely recognize each of these actors from countless award-winning TV and stage roles. As the story goes … Serge (Michael O’Keefe), Marc (Bradley Whitford), and Yvan (Roger Bart) have been best friends for 15 years. When Serge spontaneously spends a fortune on a large and controversial painting, the friendships are challenged in countless ways. Marc is horrified … somehow threatened by the extravagant purchase, and the neurotic, less combative Yvan is caught in the middle, playing referee. Soon, their analytical dissection of the purchase finds them using the canvas to relentlessly criticize each other’s life choices and personal failures. As their arguments become increasingly heated, their once-valued friendships are in dire straights, as the threesome reveals hidden truths and feelings. Funny, soul searching, and laced with the realities of human nature’s dependence on friendships, this is a mesmerizingly delicious script! Perfectly cast … each actor has inspiring spot-lit moments individually, and work together with heartfelt camaraderie! Drawing us in totally, the audience was captivated throughout. A highly entertaining and thought provoking evening of theatre at its finest! Setting the mood flawlessly … Tom Buderwitz’s simplistically gorgeous set design, Kate Bergh’s costumes, Jared A. Sayeg (Lighting), and Philip G. Allen (Sound) must be applauded! An impressive turnout of celebrity audience members on “opening night” gave the production a rousing “standing ovation,” adding to the excitement of the evening. Do yourself a favor … and do catch this one! Running through Feb. 19 at the historic Pasadena Playhouse located at 39 S. Molino Ave. in Pasadena. For seats, call (626) 356-7529 or visit www.PasadenaPlayhouse.org.

My personal kudos to the gorgeous longtime “super publicist” Patty Onagan! This little dynamo really knows how to fill a theatre, and arrange fabulous opening night private parties! This one was held a few blocks away at Bistro 45. Elegantly casual, serving delicious modern American cuisine with a French influence … the food, ambiance, and friendly service was top notch! Robert Simon, the charming owner of 21 years, hosted the affair … and encourages you to stop by and soak in the magic! To learn more … go to www.bistro45.com or call (626) 795-2478.

Back next week with two new reviews for your consideration. Love this weather, huh? Only in L.A.!

From l, Paris Perrault, Albie Selznick, Patrick Rieger, and Nicole Farmer star in The Road Theatre Company‘s L.A. premiere production of “The Water’s Edge,” written by Theresa Rebeck, directed by Sam Anderson and now playing at the Lankershim Arts Center in North Hollywood.

The Road Theatre troupe, one of the best in Los Angeles, never fails to astound their audiences with their script choices. Whether humorous, dramatic, shocking, or mind-boggling … one can always expect to be entertained here, as they peer in on the offbeat, outer edges of life. The performances, direction, and technical visions are always top notch. This dark, involving look at family dynamics and human frailty is no exception. David Elzer’s press note states: “… a searing family drama about loss, grief, revenge … with a shocking twist.” It is all that and more! On a stunningly beautiful set, by Desma Murphy, the story unfolds. Written with soul searching realism, by Theresa Rebeck, this is a mesmerizingly haunting family drama. Under the edgy and focused direction of Sam Anderson, this gifted cast soars! An absentee father returns home to his ex-wife and grown children after 17 years of no contact in a remote and woodsy lakeside area of Massachusetts. Albie Selznick brilliantly portrays the wealthy father. Bringing along his much younger girlfriend, Lucy (a heartfelt performance by Lauren Birriel), he drops a devastating bombshell: He wants his childhood home back! Angrily greeted by his family after years of absence, the long lived emotional results of his abandonment explode. Paris Perrault is ferociously feisty as his angry daughter, Erica; Nicole Farmer is sizzling perfection as Helen, the rejected wife; and Patrick Rieger, in an award-worthy performance, is gutwrenchingly effective, as his emotionally unstable son, Nate. Behind the scenes, kudos to Kathi O’Donohue (lighting), Jocelyn Hublau (costumes), and David B. Marling (sound). I won’t tell you more, in fear of spoiling your experience … but I highly recommend that you book seats for this compelling drama, today! Running through March 10 at The Road Theatre located at 5108 Lankershim Blvd. in NoHo. For seats, call (866) 811-4111.

Plane Talk

From l, Mackenzie English, Bob Rusch, and Frank Ensenberger in “Terminal 1” in “Plane Talk.”

SkyPilot Theatre is currently offering their second annual set of “one-act plays” in one grounded location. Written, directed, and performed by their company members … each get a creative opportunity to “shine.” Taking place in an American airport terminal, this diverse collection … (some stronger than others) showcases 10 situations and conversations. The evening takes us into the private lives and personal challenges of a variety of characters, played by 29 actors. This type of production is tricky for a reviewer to cover, due to column length requirements. I can’t possibly summarize every act, and mention each contributor … so my only option is to credit my “favorites.” Some of the scenarios are a bit “heady” and confusing to follow … but the acting all around is worthy of praise. Linked by several recurring solo scenes titled “On My Way,” hilariously played by Dante Dumas, and written/directed by Jeff Goode … a variety of people meet and/or connect, while waiting to board a plane. Some scenes are funny, some serious, some sweet, and some “trippy.” My favorite was called “Reel People” (the only musical scene) — written flairfully by Chana Wise and Jonathan Price, who also directs. We view two mouthy “entertainment biz” types, hyping their own importance. The bored, unimpressed woman sitting between them cleverly beats them at their own game. Fun! Well played by Ashley Fuller, Amelia Rose, and Jason Kobielus. “Diane Miller, Please Press ‘9’ on the Red Courtesy Phone” — written by Julianne Homokay and directed by Morry Schorr. It was undeniably difficult to fully follow this Twilight Zone-esque piece … but Chera Holland’s performance was excellent, supported by Amelia Rose and Kareem Cervantes. “Terminal 1” – written by Brett Neveu and directed by Eric Curtis Johnson. Bob Rusch (“SkyPilot’s” Artistic Director) is a swishy riot in a wheelchair, flying back home with his boyfriend, after prostate surgery (Frank Ensenberger). Mackenzie English was a constant delight as the flight attendant in “this” and other scenes! “Don’t Believe the Truth” – eerily written by Mike Rothschild and directed by Dave Florek. A shrill and manic woman (Jennie Floyd), threatens the ticket agent with a bomb (Joanna Kalafatis), demanding to speak with an airport official (J.R. Esposito). An entertaining evening of quirky airport stories overall … Fly to your telephone … and book a first class seat! Running through Feb. 26 at T.U. Studios located at 10943 Camarillo St. in North Hollywood. Call (800) 838-3006.

There you have it…. My personal gems of creative opinion…. As always, more to come soon. A self-titled “Chatty Patty,” one thing I never run out of is words!

Absolute Black

From l, Kelby Cross, Carolyn Hayver, Melissa Gentry, and Kyle Devero out on the town on a hot double-date in the 1940s just before a mysterious murder changes their lives forever in “Absolute Black,” now playing at Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group in North Hollywood. For reservations call (818) 202-4120.

A fun lovin’ whacky murder mystery spoof, loaded with deceptive twists ‘n turns and romantic dalliances … this stylish “old tyme” romp is a lot of fun! Cleverly written and playfully directed by Vanessa Cate, in a 1940s film noir style, this vintage “whodunit” kept us guessing throughout. Commendably, this is Cate’s first professionally produced play, after numerous “community theater” projects in Ventura County. I look forward to her next theatrical offering. Kudos! Performed on an intimate black box stage, nine young actors take us on a delightful “magical mystery tour.” The sassy and eye appealing period costumes and makeup, designed by Natalie Hyde, set the nostalgic tone flairfully. The play opens as two affectionate couples on a movie date celebrate the success of Minnie’s acting career. Soon the flirtatious fun turns dark, as Minnie is found dead, and the others become suspects. Carolyn Hayver (Minnie), Melissa Gentry (Mabel), Kelby Cross (Frank), and Kyle Devero (Jack) all turn in wonderfully worthy “golden era” performances! Willie Romano-Pugh is fun as the Private Eye conducting the murder case, assisted by his duo of offbeat officers (Tyler McAuliffe and Andrew Hansen). Jeff Cowan is delightfully dashing as Minnie’s film co-star, and Irina Costa sizzles as his glamorous and suspicious wife. There’s plenty of “fooling around” going on between these larger than life characters … as we try to figure out who the murderer really is … but I won’t say much more, for fear of spoiling your fun. Carmelita Thomas and Joshua Kranz original songs offered some cute moments too. A deliciously melodramatic murder mystery, with plenty of chuckles sprinkled in … kooky and ambitious performances, and eye appealing 1940s attire … you’ll get a kick out of this one! Do try to catch it! Plan to have dinner or cocktails afterwards in one of NoHo’s eclectic night spots, as this is only a one-act, one hour long, action-packed experience. Running weekends at 8:30 through Feb. 11 at Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group located at 4850 Lankershim Blvd. in NoHo. Tickets are only $15. For seats, call (818) 202-4120.

Mark Your Calendars

Plane Talk

Presented by Sky Pilot Theatre Company, at Theatre Unlimited (T.U.) Studios in NoHo. An evening of ten “one acts,” all taking place in an airport terminal. Some acts are funny and some are serious … with one musical tossed in the mix. All are written and performed by Sky Pilot resident members … showcasing their collective talents. For early booking, call (800) 838-3006.

Many of you I’m sure watched the 69th Golden Globes Awards Show this past weekend. I did … and loved every moment! Home alone with a home-cooked meal, a glass (or two) of wine, in my P.J.’s … I enjoyed every speech, gorgeous gown, award, and accolade given to those creative artists who’ve spent their lives entertaining the world! Ricky Gervais hosted again, and got his share of hearty laughs. Last year, his hilarious but caustic “celebrity bashing” caused a huge Hollywood uproar … and the show’s producers were said to be furious! The TV ratings, however, were “over the moon,” so of course they ended up asking him back. Undeniably, he toned down the insults this time, but he was still a riot! George Clooney and Meryl Streep took the top Actor/Actress awards … and I ended up with a gigantic list of “Must See” movies to catch. So much to do in life … so little time!

See you next week….

Absolute Black

A world premiere written by Vanessa Cate. The press release promises … “Love. Lust. Betrayal. Murder.” in this 1940’s film noir inspired thriller. A cast of nine, decked out in vintage 1940’s costumes, spin the story of a private eye’s diligent search for the killer of Hollywood’s leading lady. Opening Jan. 13 at Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre. For early booking, call (818) 202-4120.

The Water’s Edge

Written by Theresa Rebeck, and directed by the highly respected actor Sam Anderson. Billed as “a searing family drama about loss, grief, and revenge … with a shocking twist” … it is sure to be spellbinding! The productions at this theatre are always unique, thought provoking, and expertly presented. Opening Jan. 20 at The Road Theatre. For early booking, call (877) 369-9112.

Finding Fossils

Written by Ty De Martino, and running in rep at The Road Theatre with The Water’s Edge. An estranged father and his gay son reunite, due to the death of a family member. Hashing over their rocky past, the undeniable ties between a sibling and a parent reawaken. It is billed as “sorrowful, yet funny, entertaining, and deliciously human.” Opening Sunday, Jan. 29, at The Road Theatre. For early booking, call (866) 811-4111.

Art

An acclaimed international hit written by Yasmina Reza, and starring three successful and recognizable actors … I look forward to this one! When one of this trio of best friends, purchases a costly and controversial painting, it spurs debate and conflict between them … that threatens to destroy their friendship. Opening Jan. 24 at The Pasadena Playhouse. For early booking, call (626) 921-1161.

Sidetracked

Written by Sharon Michaels. Set in Hollywood’s Golden Age, this film noir “whodunit” focuses on five boarding train passengers at L.A.’s Union Station … all potential suspects in a murder. Billed as a “gripping dramedy” paying homage to an earlier era … while still feeling modern … each passenger just happens to have a motive for the murder. Opening Feb. 3 at Macha Theatre. For early booking, call (323) 960-7724.

If We Are Women

Written by Joanna McClelland Glass’. We peer into the unique bond of three generations of women … their failures and successes … while pondering the subjects of race, class, non-traditional families, and inner happiness … seen through the lens of “modern” women. This one will run weekends, in rep with Lee Blessing’s Cobb, a chronicle on the personal life of 1930’s baseball legend Ty Cobb. Women opens Feb. 10. Cobb opens Feb. 17. For early booking to either of these plays, call (818) 763-5990.

So, it looks like I’m going to be pretty busy in the next few weeks. I hope you’ll keep up on my column, and see the plays that interest you. It’s a whole new world to ponder … every time the lights go down in a theatre.

“If We Are Women” is playing at the Lonny Chapman Theatre from February 17-April 7.

On a different note….

If one of your New Year’s resolutions is to finally clean out your closets … and you have men’s or women’s vintage clothing, costume jewelry, or accessories, to unload … I’m your gal! As the 28 year long owner of “Hubba Hubba!”, I purchase 1930’s thru’ 1960’s wearables to stock in the shop. They must be in good condition and reasonably priced. Give me a call and we’ll talk!

(818) 845-0636. Have a great 2012!

Only aged all-natural choice meats.

If you live in the area and have never shopped at Handy Market, you are missing out on one of life’s little pleasures. A top notch, full service neighborly grocery store, family owned since 1970 … the necessary chore of marketing just doesn’t get any better than this!

A well stocked selection throughout, with just about anything your appetite could desire … if they don’t have what you need, they’ll try to get it for you. The fresh fruit and vegetable selection, always stocked daily, is an eye poppingly colorful and appealing delight!

The expansive meat department is the best in town! The expert manager, Bill Roberts, and his efficient and chatty staff, are there to serve and cut the finest quality meat … just exactly how you want it. They also make delectable sandwiches daily, loaded with whatever you request (voted Burbank’s “Best Sandwich” by the Burbank Leader 15 years in a row) and offer daily hot dinner specials, for those days you’re too tired to cook ($6.99).

They will fully cater your “any occasion” party, and deliver your order promptly. They constantly supply the local film and TV studios with whatever their creative little hearts desire. Add to that a fine liquor and wine selection, and a friendly staff to help you find what you need, and share a laugh … it’s a joy to shop here!

Great wine selections and great prices.

Now … let’s talk about an American passion … Barbeque! All day each Saturday, people line up outside to order and take home delectable meats right off the grill (ribs, sausages, chicken, tri-tip, sweet corn, etc.) and enjoy friendly chit-chat while waiting their turn. I happen to live right across the street, and the enticing wafting aroma of the “barbeque” is part of my Saturday “insanity” every single week. Year after year, during the holidays, tons of folks line up in front of my house to pick up their full dinners for family celebrations: ham, prime rib, turkey, etc., with all the usual side dishes. Yummy and affordable!

Owner Alan Arzoian is loved by all! A friendly, down home “good guy,” who always has time for a chat, efficiently operates a “gold mine” of a business! He is always open for suggestions and requests, to keep the neighborhood happy and well fed. If you somehow haven’t yet discovered this wonderful old tyme market … you must! The overall “vibe” here is always buzzy and positive … as folks meet and greet in the aisles. I’m convinced that “business deals” and “new romances” have bloomed in this little jewel of a grocery store. You just never know who you might run in to here, from the hunky local firemen, to your kid’s teacher, to local LA celebrities (Jay Leno often stops in)…. A full service market with a small town atmosphere … what’s not to love?

So trust me on this one, and check out this Burbank landmark. You’ll be glad you did — I promise! Open from 7 a.m. till 8:30 p.m. seven days a week, Handy Market is located at 2515 W. Magnolia Blvd. in Burbank. For more information, call (818) 848-2500. See you there!

Bananas! A Day in the Life of Josephine Baker

Sloan Robinson starring in “Bananas!”

A rousing and highly entertaining one-woman show, I enjoyed every moment of this one! Loaded with history, humor, recognizable songs, “food for thought,” and countless fabulous costume and wig changes … this is a mesmerizing and factual solo performance show. Allowing us to peer into the remarkable life of this “gutsy” African American vocalist, also known as “The Duchess of Europe,” we get to know this lady from the inside-out! Powerfully and poignantly written and flawlessly performed by Sloan Robinson … she has received raves and multi-awards around the country, for previous runs of this show: This diva can sing! Accompanied impressively on piano, by Aeros Pierce, while changing elaborate costumes onstage repeatedly (by Naila Sanders), she tells the story of a woman with strong beliefs … and the courage to live by them. Opening in France in 1961, in her Paris hotel suite, her journey unfolds as she speaks from the heart to a photo of her dearly departed mother. Revealing her life from her humble beginnings in St. Louis, to her international fame in France and worldwide, she shares the story of a “dynamo,” with a passion for life and equality. Her refusal to perform for segregated audiences, and her selfless adoption of 11 children from various nations with her fourth husband, prove the inner strength of her convictions. A moving retrospective slide show overhead at the end of the show, with real clips of Baker’s life, was a wonderful choice (by Leroy Richardson III). Josephine Baker was a civil rights activist, a humanitarian, an exciting performer, and a vigilant voice for African Americans! Do start off the new year, by catching this inspiring, high energy production! Dark for the holidays … it will reopen on Jan 6 and run through Feb. 29 at J.E.T. Studios located at 5126 Lankershim Blvd. in the heart of NoHo. For seats, call (818) 358-3453.

Footnote:

This is a lovely new NoHo theatre space, nestled behind the “cutting edge” NoHo Art Gallery—LA. The theatre is owned and run by actress Judith E., and the attached gallery is run by Daniel DeBevoise…. The eclectic combination here, of art and “live” theatre has a decidedly New York “vibe.” A worthy addition to the thriving North Hollywood theatrical scene … Go check it out!

It always takes a couple of weeks after the manic holidays, for theatres to offer new productions … but I have booked three promising play “openings” for review in January. In the meantime … I do hope you’ll add catching some local “theatah” to your list of 2012 New Year resolutions! Thanks also to the readers who have sent in letters of praise and appreciation of my column throughout the year. That means a lot to me!

My Three Angels

From l, Garrett Marshall, Robert Gallo, Lloyd Pedersen, and Chris Winfield in “My Three Angels.”

A highly entertaining comedy, with plenty of laughs, a lot of heart, and some wonderful performances, this one is a must see! In 1955, the play, written by Sam and Bella Spewack, was adapted to film, under the title of We’re No Angels, starring Humphrey Bogart (in a rare comedic role) and again in 1989, starring Robert De Niro. The insanity takes place in Cayenne, French Guyana, in 1910. Directed skillfully, with fun-loving and heart-touching fury by Larry Eisenberg … there’s never a dull moment! We are in the home of the mild-mannered, inept shopkeeper Felix Ducatel (Doug Haverty), his wife Emilie (an impressive Julia Silverman), and their lovestruck, overly exuberant daughter, Marie Louise (Kelsi Zahl). It is Christmastime and three convicts on a work-release program have been employed here as roofers. This colorful trio of prisoners steps into the Ducatel’s home and personal lives, to help their kindly employer out of a dire predicament. The result for all involved spurs a Christmas not soon to be forgotten! Felix nervously awaits the arrival from France of his uppity cousin Henri to audit his business books … which are a total mess! As the snooty and mean-spirited Henri, Chris Winfield is delightfully despicable! As Henri arrives with his nephew, the handsome object of Marie Louise’s affection (Daniel Sykes), our shrewd convicts are spurred to action. The trio of prisoners nearly steals the show, with riotously brilliant performances! There’s Jules, prisoner #6817, who murdered his wife (Robert Gallo); Joseph, #3011, a clever conman embezzler (Lloyd Pederson); and Alfred, #4707, who abruptly ended his stepfather’s life with a poker (Garrett Marshall)…. Yikes! With kindly hearts, a devious plan, and a little help from their pet snake … they save the Ducatel family from disaster! In smaller roles, Hersha Parady is hysterical as Madame Parole, a snooty lady with a taste for cognac … and Max Bungell is dashingly cocky as the Lieutenant (this role is alternated by three young actors). A light-hearted lark, with romance and redemption at its core … I loved every whacky moment! The flawless set design (Chris Winfield), gorgeous period costumes (Angela Eads), lighting (Jazmin Lopez), and sound (Steve Shaw) … perfectly set the tone! Do venture out and catch this one! Running through Jan. 15 at Lonny Chapman Theatre located at 10900 Burbank Blvd. in North Hollywood. For seats, call (818) 763-5990. Note: Co-Artistic Director Larry Eisenberg announced their upcoming season of six plays … and it looks pretty exciting! Ask about their “full season pass,” available for the cost of $75. That’s a lot of entertainment for well under a hundred bucks … and would make a fab Christmas gift to someone you love!

Bob Cratchit & Mr. Tightwad – A New Twist on an Old Tale

From l, Chas Mitchell and Foster Walker in “Bob Cratchit & Mr. Tightwad” at Secret Rose Theatre.

Each holiday season, a variety of “visions” of Dickens’ A Christmas Carol pop up around LA, and I try to catch one of them each year. This one, offered by “Put the Kettle On” Productions, is a musical version, charmingly adapted with new music and lyrics by Katrina Wood. Masterfully directed by Trace Oakley, a talented and focused cast takes us once again into the magical transformation of the miserly and heartless Ebenezer Scrooge. The mood is haunting, and the songs range from fun loving to inspiring … as “good wins over evil,” and Scrooge sees the error of his ways. The lively choreography (Colette Brandenburg), lovely period costuming (Taylor Moten), hair/wigs (Raymond Klarich), and seamlessly changing set design by art director (Aaron Glazer) depicted the Victorian vibe beautifully. A duo of excellent lead performances were mastered by Foster Walker as the kind and mistreated Bob Cratchit, and Chas Mitchell who was colorfully captivating as the stingy and heartless Scrooge. Jim Cox was deliciously creepy as Marley’s Ghost, and young Zachary Rice was adorable as Tiny Tim. Touching portrayals by Claudia Wit as Mrs. Cratchit and Robert Keasler as Norman the Ragpicker. As the infamous “ghosts”… Billy Giampaolo was quirky fun wearing a red fez (Past), Athena Rose was feisty as a rock ‘n’ roll goth chick (Present), and Jennifer Potell in a wordless role, was silently animated in a harlequin-esque costume (Future). Rounding out the cast as Scrooge’s long lost love, Nell … Emily Bridges (Beau’s daughter) was heart touching. The vocal performances throughout were chilling, and the production overall was simplistically sensational! Suitable for the entire family … Why not put this one on your “To Do” list this holiday season? Running through Dec. 29 at the Secret Rose Theatre located at 11246 Magnolia Blvd. in NoHo. For seats, call (800) 838-3006.

That’s my story for this time … More to come next week! Get in the spirit … catch a holiday show this season as a gift to yourself. You don’t even have to wrap it!

Yo Ho Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas

The Company of “Yo Ho Ho! A Pirate’s Christmas.”

A joyous romp for “kids of all ages!” What better holiday gift to the children in your life, than to expose them to the imaginative awe of “live” theatre? An invaluable “present” that will open their minds to other lifestyles and possibilities … for ever after. A magical local Christmas tradition, this is the sixth year here of this fun loving and uplifting holiday musical fantasy. Undeniably aimed at the inquisitive minds and innocent hearts of children, there is also plenty of subtle innuendo to entertain the adults who escort them. I was there for the very first season, and figured it was time to catch it again! Loved every zany moment! Written and directed with playful pizzazz by James J. Mellon … music and lyrics by Mellon and Scott DeTurk … the “tongue in cheek” swashbuckling fun is nonstop! The play opens at Christmastime, as seven year old Eve, a highly imaginative child, is being tucked into bed by her parents … destined for “pirate” dreams. Danielle Soibelman as Eve is perky perfection, and Janet Fontaine and Gary Livingood are delightful as her Mom and Dad. Eve’s dreams take her to The North Pole (Santaland) where a band of quirky misguided pirates have landed. The pirates, having never seen snow, are freaked out! This scene is hilarious! Of course Santa and his elves have never seen pirates either, and are feeling frightfully invaded. The dashing Jonathan Zenz in the lead role as the Pirate Captain, “Black-Eyed Johnny,” is loveably larger than life, and his pirate cohorts are kolorfully kooky! Romping through the audience, and flying overhead on ropes … the kids in the audience shout out repeatedly, warning the North Pole citizens. Half the fun for me was witnessing their loud and passionate verbal reactions, and mesmerized faces. The entire large cast … all fine actors/singers … touched our hearts and tickled our “funny bones,” as they involved the entranced kiddies throughout the shenanigans. The wonderful songs, eyepopping set (Dove Huntley), creative costumes (Curtis Jackson), moody lighting (Luke Moyer), and crisp sound (Jonathan Zenz) created the mood magically! Yo Ho Ho and a bottle of fun … a great time was had by all! So, round up a group of youngsters this holiday season … and take them to discover how Eve saves Christmas! Running through Dec. 31 at The NoHo Arts Center located at 11136 Magnolia Blvd. in NoHo. Bonus Tip: Kids under six get in for free with one paying adult. For seats, call (818) 508-7101 ext. 6.

Mark Your Calendars (Two Upcoming Holiday Shows I’ll Review)

My Three Angels – Opening Dec. 9 at Lonny Chapman Theatre

This one is billed as “a sweet Christmas show built on murder and mayhem,” taking place on Devil’s Island. As three convicts working as roofers, on a work-release program, get involved in their employer’s problems … they find he needs their help with more than “roofs.” Humphrey Bogart starred in the film version in 1955, under the title of We’re No Angels. For early booking, call (818) 763-5990.

Bob Cratchit & Mr. Tightwad – Opening Dec. 9 at The Secret Rose Theatre

A new telling of Dickens’ classic A Christmas Carol, with modern day twists and turns…. The miserly Scrooge, Bob Cratchit, and the infamous trio of ghosts will appear … but not as we’ve seen them in the past. Sounds like fun! For early booking, call (800) 838-3006.

Although I’m not voicing an opinion on the recent “Occupy LA” circus … I heard a wonderful line, said by one of the protestors, which resonated deeply with me … “You can’t evict an idea.”

See you next week….

Sweet Charity

Coney Island: Adam Silver as Oscar and Brooke Seguin as Charity Valentine in “Sweet Charity.”

Presented by “Secondline Productions,” this is their full scale musical debut. A cast of 25 high energy actors/singers, performed this long revered musical with exuberance, under the direction of Robert Marra. Shirley MacLaine, “delicious” in the role of Charity in the 1969 film version, scored an Oscar nomination. It was written by Neil Simon (book), Cy Coleman (music), and Dorothy Fields (lyrics), and first produced as a Broadway stage show, conceived, directed, and choreographed by Bob Fosse, and starring Gwen Verdon. An ambitious showcase effort preview of “things to come” from “Secondline,” this production, tho’ uneven in places, and quite lengthy… (2 hrs. 45 minutes) offered sassy fun, over a dozen songs, and a happy ending. In the lead role of “Charity,” the optimistic and kooky dance hall hostess, in search of “true love,” Brooke Seguin is heart-touchingly sweet. What she may lack in brilliant vocal skills, she makes up for in comedically ditzy and infectious charm! Loveably goofy, and innocently naïve … everybody loves Charity Hope Valentine! Highlights … eye poppingly notable acting, dancing, and singing performances by Leslie Stevens as Nickie, and Elvira Barjau as Helene … a duo of explosive dance hostess “firecrackers”! Fun and clever bedroom scene between Charity and Vittorio, a European playboy actor (Ben Goldsmith) as they hide from Ursula, his lover (Girstin Berquist) and in a smaller role, Beth Robbins shines as Herman. The strongest and most loveably memorable performance for me was given by Adam Silver as Oscar … the nerdy “nice guy,” in pursuit of Charity’s heart. The stage lit up with hilariously touching magic, every time he appeared! The elevator scene finding him and Charity stuck between floors … was priceless! The remainder of the large cast (too many to mention), worked very hard and seemed to be having a ball! Under the musical direction of James Lent (keyboards), a spirited backstage band rocked the show! Justin Robertson (drums), Courtney D. Jones (trumpet), and Eric Jacobs (various horns). Kudos to the technical team! The eye appealing costumes (David Schifilliti), ever changing set design (Rocco Ambrosio), lighting (JC Gafford), and sound (Joseph “Sloe” Slawinski) … effectively create the bawdy tone! If this zany production entices you … act quickly, as it only runs one more weekend, at The Knightsbridge Theatre located at 1944 Riverside Dr. in Los Angeles. For more info and to book seats, go to www.brownpapertickets.com.

Experience NoHo 2011

I spoke to my friend Nora Feldman (one of L.A.’s hardest working and most reasonably priced publicists) to see how the first annual Festival of the Arts turned out on the weekend. Fully in charge of “spreading the word” on the event, she was beyond thrilled with the success and involvement of both the enthusiastic public and the artistic and creative participants and theatres (…especially since it was a gray and rainy day). Offering art exhibits, dance performances and classes, “live” onstage bands, a fashion show, film shorts, and 40 minute play excerpts in 14 NoHo Theatres … a great time was had by all!

Don’t miss it next year!

Sorry I’ve been “missing in action” throughout October, Halloween time kicks my bum every single year! Back soon with my “chatty” theatrical “pearls of wisdom”…