Author Archive: Glamour

CHANGE THE GAME

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Acclaimed musical debuts at the Hollywood Fringe Festival

CHANGE THE GAME

Los Angeles, CA. May 6, 2024. “Change The Game” tackles the concept of diversity in the LA/Orange County area. This compelling musical production is set to take the stage at McCadden Place Theatre as part of the Hollywood Fringe Festival on June 9, 14, and 16. The production of “Change the Game” was presented and well-received by critics and audiences alike at the Laguna Cultural Center, the Chance Theater in Fullerton, and the Maverick Theater in Anaheim in 2023.

The narrative kicks off as the First-generation, Low-Income Partnership student group witnesses their community succumbing to gentrification. Seeking guidance, they turn to political philosophy professor Adam Herow. Together, they resolve to field a candidate for office. Club President Brenda soon finds herself in conflict with her overly ambitious boyfriend, Channing, who wants to play hardball politics. As the campaign gains traction, the temptation to compromise their principles looms large. Unraveling the solutions might emerge from the pages of their academic readings, as the student finds core messages that can guide them on their mission. Perhaps winning elections isn’t the ultimate goal; rather, it’s about reshaping the rules of the game.

Original music

WHERE: McCadden Place Theater – 1157 N McCadden Pl, Los Angeles, CA 90038

WHEN:
Sunday, June 9th at 1:00pm (Preview)
Friday, June 14th at 8:30pm
Sunday, June 16th at 7:30pm

TICKETS: $ 15.00 The Hollywood Fringe Festival – change the game

Admission: 10+; Play runs 2 hours plus an intermission

The ensemble cast embodies the characters in the play with a spectrum of races, showcasing diversity as strength. Through their performances, they confront and embrace the differences that society might view as disadvantages, transforming them into sources of empowerment. Their lived experiences breathe life into the play’s themes and ground the ideas in reality and authenticity.

“In my decades as a competitive academic debate coach, I’ve learned that diversity isn’t about numbers; it’s about drawing on our varied strengths to create something greater than ourselves,” states Dr. Bruschke. “Through embracing philosophical and cultural exploration, we transformed bureaucratic questions into personal experiences and managed to find both competitive success and transformative education. This musical takes that story of collaboration across identities, marginalizations, and privileges, and how you can forge lifelong relationships and a powerful message for the world.”

Trailer: Change the Game – Promo on Vimeo

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION

Dr. Jon Bruschke (Writer, Producer, Director) Dr. Bruschke served as an award-winning coach of the nationally renowned CSU Fullerton debate team for over a decade.  He has combined the lessons from that experience with his passion for music to produce a tale that follows a group of students navigating their way through the often-ugly field of contemporary politics.

 

Andrew Howat (Musical Arrangement).  Andrew is a professor of Philosophy at Cal. State Fullerton and an accomplished guitarist, coming from a musically adept family background that brought a deep education in music theory and performance.  His first love is progressive rock, and he has played in a number of bands in California and his native Edinburgh, Scotland.

Stephanie Williams (Vocal Development).  Miss Stephanie is the owner and chief proprietor of the Los Angeles Voice Studio.  She moved to California from Texas to complete her education and received a B.M. in Music Performance with Vocal Emphasis at Chapman University, studying under opera diva Carol Neblett.   Stephanie has performed on the opera stage in roles such as Cherbino in Le Nozze di Figaro and frequents the stage of the Los Angeles based opera companies such as The Industry and Pacific Opera Project. She also has performed with several jazz ensembles and rock bands.

Tyrone Stokes (hip-hop lyrics).  Tyrone is the owner of the Dope Spot Studios and fronts the group Dope By Design that has pioneered the hip-hop style Lyrically Twisted, a genre that seeks to twist lyrics to encourage listeners to “dig deeper” to really understand fully experience the meanings.  He has been featured in Voyage LA.  He earned his BA degree from Cal. Poly Pomona and is a core member of the Artists United to End Homelessness collective.

For additional information: Change The Game — The Musical – Set in Orange County, about changing politics everywhere (wordpress.com)

Photography by: Freddi Bruschke

VENTURA LIVE! Music, Laughter and Magic

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Rubicon Theatre Company of Ventura

Kicks off First Week of New Special Event Series

VENTURA LIVE! 

Music, Laughter and Magic

Featuring One-Night and Short-Run Concerts, Jam Sessions, New Play Readings, Magic Nights, Comedy, and Much More

 

10 Events! May 11 – June 15 at Rubicon Theatre in Ventura

 

May 7, 2024 (Ventura, CA) – Rubicon Theatre Company, celebrating its 25th Anniversary Season this year, announces the launch of its exciting new special event series, “VENTURA LIVE! Music, Laughter and Magic, ”featuring one-night and short-run concerts, jam sessions, new play readings, magic nights, comedy, and much more. The series runs from May 11 – June 15, 2024. From a reading of a new rock-and-roll musical to a side-splitting comedy and soulful tributes, this diverse series promises something for everyone. Rubicon is also thrilled to open a new outdoor patio for patrons to enjoy just in time for the VENTURA LIVE series (and beyond), featuring food trucks and specially crafted themed cocktails. Food trucks and cocktail service starts 2 hours before showtime and goes through intermission. Guests are encouraged to arrive early. All events will take place at Rubicon’s home, The Karyn Jackson Theatre in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District, 1006 E. Main Street. For tickets, go to www.rubicontheatre.org or call (805) 667-2900.

 

“We are thrilled to launch our new series ‘VENTURA LIVE!’ an exciting milestone for us,” says KARYL LYNN BURNS, Producing Artistic Director of Rubicon Theatre Company. 

 

“The ideas came from a desire to make the theatre more of a community hub,” continues Burns, “and to welcome new audiences to our venue.”

 

“Our goal is to produce and present events between our mainstage theatrical productions and on off-nights at the theatre,” continues Burns, “and to expand our offerings with a diverse range of live entertainment that will bring more music, joy and laughter to audiences of all ages at an affordable price. (Most events are between $20 and $40, with some free.) With such a diverse lineup of talent and entertainment, VENTURA LIVE! has something for everyone to enjoy.” 

This Weekend’s Lineup:
 

Sat., May 11 @ 7 pm 

MAKE YOUR OWN KIND OF MUSIC  

Celebrate Mother’s Day Weekend with Hit Songs by Iconic Women in Music of the ’60s and ’70s 

Tickets: $39.50  

Starring HEATHER YOUMANS

Featuring Special Musical Guests RAINEE BLAKE, THERESE CURATOLO, MALYNDA HALE, AND STEPHANIA POURGOURI

Directed by DAN FISHBACH

Musical Direction by BRENDAN COYLE

 

HEATHER YOUMANS  (from Dark of the Moon at Rubicon), an all-star band and special musical guests from “The Voice,” and “American Idol,” as they celebrate the hit songs and stories of the most iconic women in music from the 1960s and 70s, including CAROLE KING, JONI MITCHELL, TINA TURNER, DIONNE WARWICK, ARETHA FRANKLIN, OLIVIA NEWTON-JOHN, STEVIE NICKS, KAREN CARPENTER, DIANA ROSS & The Supremes, LINDA RONSTADT and more! Journey through the “golden age of popular music” — from Laurel Canyon folk songs and Woodstock rock anthems to the rise of disco and protest songs that empowered a generation. 

Featured Food Truck: INDULGIA EATS will be serving mouthwatering food from 5 pm through intermission. A blend of ‘Indul’gence and Nostal’gia’, Indulgia’s cuisine is a celebration of traditional Indo-Global eats paired with a SoCal flair, lending a unique culinary journey that engages all the senses. 

 

Sunday, May 12 @ 3 pm (Mother’s Day)
 

FROM BROOKLYN TO BROADWAY

Tony and Emmy Award-Winner Lillias White in Concert

Tickets: $39.50

Music Director ABDUL HAMID ROYAL 

 

Star of 16 (count ‘em, 16!) Broadway shows, including her recent triumph in Hadestown on Broadway, divine diva LILLIAS WHITE brings her special blend of charisma and star-power to the Rubicon stage for a special Mother’s Day Concert to perform some of Broadway’s best-loved songs. White is internationally recognized for her work on both the stage and screen. Her performance in Cy Coleman’s Broadway musical The Life won her the TONY® Award for Best Featured Actress in a Musical. She was nominated for a second TONY® Award for her brilliant work in Fela! Additional Broadway credits include Barnum, Dreamgirls, Cats, Carrie, Once on This Island, How to Succeed in Business Without Really Trying, and Chicago. Rubicon audiences will remember White for her ovation-winning roles in The Best is Yet to Come (also Off-Broadway, Drama Desk Award), and for Gem of the Ocean. In addition to several Broadway cast albums, White has recorded the critically acclaimed albums “Get Yourself Some Happy!” and “From Brooklyn to Broadway.” 

 

The VENTURA LIVE! Series is produced by ANTHONY M. COLOMBO and JULIA DONLON for Rubicon, and JAY PONTI for Be the Revolution.                                                             

 

To purchase tickets online, or for more information about VENTURA LIVE!, visit www.rubicontheatre.org.Tickets are also available by phone at 805.667.2900, or may be purchased in-person at Rubicon Theatre Company’s home, The Karyn Jackson Theatre, located at 1006 E. Main Street, Ventura, CA  93001 (Laurel entrance). Guest Services is open from Noon to 6:00 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays.  

 

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About Rubicon Theatre Company 

Rubicon Theatre has been described as “the rising star of the Southern California cultural constellation.” The not-for-profit professional regional theatre company has reached more than 540,000 attendees and more than 53,000 students. Rubicon serves area residents and visitors with innovative productions of classic and contemporary plays, as well as a wide array of educational programs and events. Acclaimed by critics and industry professionals, the company has received the L.A. Drama Critics Margaret Harford Special Award for “Sustained Excellence,” Drama Desk Awards for the Off-Broadway productions of The Best is Yet to Come and Daddy Long Legs and has won more than 20 Ovation Awards from the L.A. Stage Alliance. 

 

Just prior to the pandemic, Rubicon transferred three shows to New York (Wiesenthal – Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk Award nominations; Lonesome Traveler – Outer Critics Circle and Drama Desk Award nominations; and Daddy Long Legs (Drama Desk Award). Rubicon has welcomed a steady stream of high-profile actors and directors to the stage, including BRUNO and ODISEO BICHIR, ALISON BRIE, SUSAN CLARK, DANA DELANY, CONCHATA FERRELL, BONNIE FRANKLIN, HAROLD GOULD, JOEL GREY, LARRY HAGMAN, BILL IRWIN, STACY KEACH, JACK LEMMON, AMANDA McBROOM, TED NEELEY, LAUREN PATTEN, PAUL PROVENZA, LINDA PURL, RONDI REED, JOHN RITTER, JOE SPANO, BRUCE WEITZ, LILLIAS WHITE and others. Company members are GEORGE BALL, JOSEPH FUQUA, JOE SPANO and JENNY SULLIVAN. 

 

Based in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District, just blocks from the Pacific Ocean, Rubicon resides in a 185-seat historic church built in the 1920s. In this renovated historic landmark, audience members are never further than 10 rows from the stage on the main floor.

 

True to the company’s name and the vision of artistic directors KARYL LYNN BURNS and JAMES O’NEIL, Rubicon has created an environment where commitment and risk are encouraged, and where artists are nurtured and respected. As a result, the company has gained a reputation for producing invigorating interpretations of the classics and for supporting the development of new works. Rubicon presents at least one World Premiere each season, as well as readings of works-in-progress. 

 

Deeply rooted in the region it serves, Rubicon offers extensive outreach programs, including daytime matinees for high school students, after-school and weekend programs for at-risk youth, and summer musical theatre, drama, and technical theatre camps. 

A board of directors of prominent social and civic leaders governs Rubicon under the leadership of President DOUG HALTER and Honorary Chair Rosa Lee Measures. The company is also supported by an advisory group of regional ambassadors and a volunteer auxiliary.                                 

 

Rubicon Theatre Companys is located in The Karyn Jackson Theatre at 1006 E. Main Street in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District. 

 

For more information about Rubicon Theatre Company, or to purchase tickets, call (805) 667-2900 or go to www.rubicontheatre.org. 

 

Ugly Lies The Bone

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UGLY LIES THE BONE

Comes to life at the Hollywood Fringe Festival.

Los Angeles, CA. May 7, 2024. Grim Abbey Productions proudly presents Lindsey Ferrentino’s drama, “Ugly Lies the Bone,” at this year’s Hollywood Fringe Festival. Directed by award-winner Lulenoxx and featuring a talented and diverse cast, this production will captivate audiences with its exploration of resilience, love and the human spirit. Opens June 8th for six performances at McCadden Place Theatre.

The play deals with the life of Jess, a soldier returning home from her third tour in Afghanistan, scarred both physically and emotionally by the horrors of war. With severe burns from an IED explosion and PTSD from the trauma she experienced at war, Jess embarks on a journey of rehabilitation and self-discovery. Through the innovative use of Virtual Reality therapy, she navigates the challenges of her new reality, confronting the changes in her hometown and reconnecting with loved ones who struggle to understand her pain.

“Ugly Lies the Bone” is a poignant exploration of deep emotions and dark themes, infused with moments of comedy and hope. Jess’s journey is one of resilience and determination, as she confronts her anger and sarcasm to embrace the possibility of a new life. The play sheds light on the complexities of disability and the ways in which individuals and communities navigate unfamiliar terrain.

The moment Gabrielle Archambault encountered Ferrentino’s powerful script, she was compelled to bring it to life on stage. “ This piece is perfect for anyone who has ever felt lost, in pain, or like no one around them can understand the turmoil they are going through,” she exclaims, “We hope to share this piece and empower those who are struggling with physical or emotional pain to seek help and guidance, through Jess’s story, we aim to inspire hope and resilience, reminding audiences that no matter the obstacles they face, there is a way forward.”

WHO: Presented by: Grim Abbey Productions Directed by: Lulenoxx Cast includes: Gabrielle Archambault, Sheer Aviram, Carver Folkes, Suni M!, and Hans Heilmann.

WHERE: MCCADDEN PLACE THEATRE – 1157 N. McCadden Place, Hollywood, CA 90038.

WHEN:
Sunday, June 08, 3:30 PM
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 PM
Saturday, June 22, 11:30 AM
Sunday, June 23, 8:30 PM
Friday, June 28, 8:00 PM
Sunday, June 30, 2:30 PM

TICKET PRICE: $15 – The Hollywood Fringe Festival – ugly lies the bone

Admission age: 16+ / Running time: 90 minutes.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION TEAM:

Gabrielle Archambault (Producer) is drawn to projects surrounding trauma recovery. A female, queer, actress, producer, and writer, she is passionate about telling stories that help people feel that they are not alone in difficult experiences, and that they can get through to the other side. With a degree focus in Musical Theatre and practical experience as a filmmaker, she is looking forward to getting back to her roots and hitting the stage again. Film and TV experience include supporting roles in the feature film No Tears in Hell and the new tv show Second Chances. As a writer she is currently pitching several features and a pilot based off the book Amish Vampires in Space. ga

Lulenoxx (Director (they/them)) is a queer, non-binary screenwriter, director and creator. As a theater maker, they have over 10 years of directing, writing and devising experience at the professional and educational level, with a focus in new work, especially opera. Lulenoxx is a member of the She-Collective and is an Alumni of Lincoln Center’s Director’s Lab. Lulenoxx is also an award winning filmmaker, winning CineStory Foundation’s 2024 LGBTQIA+ Scholarship, PANO’s Marilyn Horowitz Screenwriting Award (2nd Prize) and has received development opportunities and fellowships from Stowe Story Labs and Athena Film Festival’s Writers Lab (Finalist for the Chinonye Chukwu Emerging Writer Award). Their primary goal as a storyteller is to tell the truth, in whatever form it manifests. They are currenting working on their first feature film, Pairs to the Floor, with Unseen Films Oregon.

Instagram: @ grimabbeyproductions

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CALENDAR LISTING INFORMATION

May 2023

WHAT: Theater Play: “Ugly Lies the Bone” by Lindsey Ferrentino

DESCRIPTION: The play deals with the life of Jess, a soldier returning home from her third tour in Afghanistan, scarred both physically and emotionally by the horrors of war. With severe burns from an IED explosion and PTSD from the trauma she experienced at war, Jess embarks on a journey of rehabilitation and self-discovery. Through the innovative use of Virtual Reality therapy, she navigates the challenges of her new reality, confronting the changes in her hometown and reconnecting with loved ones who struggle to understand her pain.

WHERE: MCCADDEN PLACE THEATRE – 1157 N. McCadden Place, Hollywood, CA 90038

WHO: Presented by: Grim Abbey Productions Directed by: Lulenoxx Cast includes: Gabrielle Archambault, Sheer Aviram, Carver Folkes, Suni M!, and Hans Heilmann.

WHEN:
Sunday, June 08, 3:30 PM
Saturday, June 15, 6:30 PM
Saturday, June 22, 11:30 AM
Sunday, June 23, 8:30 PM
Friday, June 28, 8:00 PM
Sunday, June 30, 2:30 PM

TICKET PRICE: $15 – The Hollywood Fringe Festival – ugly lies the bone

Admission age: 16+

Running time: 90 minutes

Theatre Review: Ghost Waltz

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Latino Theater Company presents the world premiere of Ghost Waltz. Written by Oliver Mayer. Directed by Alberto Barboza. Music directed by Alberto López. Produced by Latino Theater Company.

Attesting to the revival of magical realism, Playwright Oliver Mayer incorporates this genre into Ghost Waltz, a sublime play that imagines the traveling life of one the greatest Mexican composers of the 19th century, Juventino Rosas (Quetzal Guerrero), in his meteoric ascend to international success.

Of humble origins, Rosas was an Otomí born in 1868. He started playing music at an early age and was able to join the Mexico City National Conservatory. Eventually, he traveled to the US, playing in cities such as New Orleans and Chicago. In the play, Rosas is invited to the Conservatory by Professor Zeiss (Cástulo Guerra). Rosas’ father is played by Eduardo Robledo.

In Mayer’s story, Rosas meets soprano Ángela Peralta (Nathalie Peña–Comas) at the Conservatory, falling madly in love with her. In real life, Peralta, known as The Mexican Nightingale, was also a Mexican native who reached international recognition as an opera singer. Known in Italy as angelica di voce e di nome, meaning angelic by voice and by name, she performed in the prestigious La Scala in Milan and formed her own touring opera company. The achievements of Rosas and Peralta in the play highlight the success of these two figures of humble origins in the Mexican elite of the 19th century, dominated by Europeans and people of European ancestry.

But the rejection experienced by Rosas from Peralta is also a symbol of the conflictive relationship between Mexicans and their indigenous past. Peralta wears white makeup and a white dress to symbolize the effort to mask her native identity, avoiding the tragic destiny of the natives in Mexico, a life of invisibility.

Another relevant character is Scott Joplin (Ric’key Pageot), also known as the King of Rag. In the fictionalized world of Ghost Waltz, Joplin and Rosas meet in New Orleans and Rosas has a romantic relationship with Joplin’s companion, Bethena (Ariel Brown). The relationship between Rosas and Joplin implies the search of an identity through music. Rosas’ compositions gave Mexico an identity in the sophisticated and elitist world of waltz, a music inspired by German Romanticism.

Joplin started experimenting with different rhythms to achieve an African American musical identity that could be danceable but sophisticated at the same time, something like waltz. According to Marcello Piras, a distinguished music history professor, Joplin was inspired by Rosas in his search for that Black identity.

The Creole clairvoyant Marie Leveau (Monte Escalante) is the link to both cultures. Voodoo, a combination of religion, myth, practice and superstition, has an important influence in music. Both Rosas and Joplin found inspiration in the mystic Caribbean rhythms. Joplin in New Orleans and Rosas in Cuba and the many Cuban musicians that worked in Mexico at the time. These layers of connections and subtexts show Mayer’s creativity and sophistication as a playwright.

Guerrero, a classical-trained violinist, infuses his character with the sensibility of a talented artist and the determination of a man who refuses to give up pursuing his dreams. Peña–Comas shows the reason her career is ascending in the international scene. She has performed in the most prestigious stages around the world. Her captivating voice is an elegant touch to the production and adds depth to the performance. Pageot, a musician who has played with major acts internationally, demonstrates his extensive musical experience and plays his character with the ambition of a young artist eager to leave a mark.

Director Alberto Barboza extracts the spirit of the text and offers a magnificent production with an amazing score, talented performers, and impressive set design, all in coordination to express the magic of the short and fascinating lives of three characters that left a permanent impression in the world of music.

Juventino Rosas died of spinal myelitis in Cuba in 1894 at the age of 26.  Ángela Peralta died of yellow fever in Mazatlán in 1883 at the age of 38. Scott Joplin died of syphilic dementia in 1917 in New York City at the age of 48. In real life, Rosas played for Peralta during her last national tour. As a peculiar note, their remains are both resting in Mexico City’s Rotunda of Illustrious Men.

Ghost Waltz

The Los Angeles Theatre Center
514 S. Spring Street
Los Angeles CA 90013

Performances: May 4–June 2
• Thursdays at 8 p.m.: May 9; May 16; May 23; May 30
• Fridays at 8 p.m.: May 10; May 17; May 24; May 31
• Saturdays at 8 p.m.: May 4 (opening); May 11; May 18; May 25; June 1
• Sundays at 4 p.m.: May 12; May 19; May 26; June 2

Tickets: latinotheaterco.org

Written by Oliver Mayer. Directed by Alberto Barboza. Music directed by Alberto López. Produced by Latino Theater Company.

Cast: Ariel Brown, Monte Escalante, Cástulo Guerra, Quetzal Guerrero, Ric’key Pageot, Nathalie Peña–Comas, and Eduardo Robledo.

Creative team: Production designers Cameron Jaye Mock and Emily Anne McDonald (set, costumes and projections), lighting designer John A. Garofalo, and sound designer Nathan Davis. The assistant director is Giovanni Ortega. Production stage manager Yaesol Jeong is assisted by Gina DeLuca.

Theatre Review: H*tler’s Tasters

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Rogue Machine Introduces L.A.’s First Run of H*tler’s Tasters. Written by Michelle Kholos Brooks. Directed by Sarah Norris. Produced by Guillermo Cienfuegos and Lexi Sloan.
A Rogue Machine Production.

Based on Margot Wölk‘s account, H*tler’s Tasters is the little-known story of the girls used by Hitler to taste his food. Afraid to be poisoned, he recruited young girls of good German stock to try the same food he was about to eat. During a time of famine in Germany, eating three times a day wasn’t that bad after all. But at what cost?

Hilda (Olivia Gill), Anna (Ali Axelrad), and Liesel (Paige Simunovich) are inside a room waiting for the food to arrive. To fight boredom, they take selfies, sing, and talk about the guards. For Playwright Michelle Kholos Brooks, the use of cell phones is a way to make these characters feel more present.

Hitler was vegetarian, so the girls didn’t eat meat, an apparent benefit for their weight control. Brooks incorporates other elements to connect the characters to their function. For many women, their relationship with food is complicated, especially for the younger crowd. Food is a basic impulse, but due to the relationship with weight control and consequently with their looks, it becomes emotional. For the characters in Brooks’ story, eating vegetables with rice and pasta is not only a devoted service to the Reich but also a benefit to their health. But again, that relationship is complicated, so the girls also crave meat.

The stress is not only related to the fact that one meal could be the last one. There are many more things in the story that reflect German society during the Third Reich. Anna for example, talks about her relationship with a Jewish family, something with which Hilda takes issue. As a result of the divisive environment and the narrative of a superior Aryan race imprinted in the Nuremberg Race Law, a relationship with a Jew was seen as a betrayal. According to the Nazis, those relationships were suspicious. That created a web of informants that turned people in to the Gestapo for questioning, torture, imprisonment, and maybe even death. In the play, Anna’s fate becomes an open question.

Even though there are very little historical details about the real life tasters, Brooks gives a face to those girls. They each have a unique background and personality. Hilda is the daughter of an officer and she is the staunchest supporter of the Reich. Anna was used by a soldier for sex and to be recruited as a taster. Liesel has a relative that moved to Pittsburgh and tells her about American movies. And then there’s Margot (Caitlin Zambito), a girl who thinks she was recruited to work as a typist. She’s upbeat and replaces Anna. All of the characters show their admiration to Hitler and even fantasize about a relationship with him. Eventually, however, reality sets in.

The acting is on point. The actresses do a great job delivering their lines convincingly. Zambito gives a shot at another interesting role (she also did a fantastic job in The Thin Place) and creates a character with hopes and joyfulness typical of a young girl that ends up succumbing to the institutionalization of her mind and body.

With talented actresses and an intriguing subject matter, Director Sarah Norris delivers an entertaining production that blends drama, music, and comedy. The choice of stage goes well with the subject as well. It’s intimate and claustrophobic, reflecting the nerve-wracking ambient in which the girls wait for the next meal that could be the last one, every single time.

H*tler’s Tasters

Rogue Machine (Upstairs at the Henry Murray Stage in the Matrix Theatre)
7657 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

April 27, 2024 – June 3, 2024

8pm Fridays, Mondays; 5pm Saturdays; 7pm Sundays
(no performances on Monday, April 29, May 13)

Tickets: roguemachinetheatre.org

Written by Michelle Kholos Brooks. Directed by Sarah Norris. Produced by Guillermo Cienfuegos and Lexi Sloan.
A Rogue Machine Production.

Cast: Ali Axelrad (Anna), Olivia Gill (Hilda), Paige Simunovich (Liesel), Caitlin Zambito
(Margot).

Creative team: Joe McClean and Dane Bowman (Scenic & Lighting Design), Ashleigh Poteat (Costume Design), Christine Cover Ferro (Costume coordinator), Chris Moscatiello (Sound consultant), Carsen Joenk (Sound Design), Ashlee Wasmund (Choreographer), Emmy Frevele (Choreography for Rogue Machine).

“PURE CINEMA”

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TWO HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS. ONE PSYCHO MEETING

“PURE CINEMA”

TWO HOLLYWOOD LEGENDS. ONE PSYCHO MEETING.

Los Angeles, CA. May 2, 2024. David Neipris’s ‘Pure Cinema’ explores the intriguing and unexpected dynamic between Alfred Hitchcock and Mel Brooks. It’s 1977 and Hitchcock is in the twilight of his career when he invites Brooks to discuss the younger director’s idea for a new comedy. But what unfolds is the creation of ‘High Anxiety,’ a film that satirizes Hitchcock himself. Not a project The Master of Suspense finds particularly beneficial at this pivotal moment in his life. Loosely based on the lunch meetings between two Hollywood legends, Pure Cinema explores their search for accountability, forgiveness, and tolerable hard boiled eggs. Opens as part of the Hollywood Fringe Festival at the Broadwater Black Box, June 8th.

“Money and accolades are certainly desirable, maybe even achieving a masterpiece or two if we’re that fortunate. But our legacies are ultimately shaped by our conduct towards others,” Neipris said. “Failing in our humanity has the potential to overshadow a lifetime of achievements. So this play looks at how two vastly different Hollywood icons confront their major missteps and deepest fears. We’re juxtaposing the unique voices of Hitchcock and Brooks, as well as their creative inclinations and markedly different attitudes towards women, both in their personal lives and on set.”

WHO: Featuring Bill Chott, Aaron Caponigro, and Lindsay Seim; Written by David Neipris; Directed by Matt Ritchey; Produced by Matthew Quinn of Combined Artform.

WHERE: Broadwater Black Box | 6322 Santa Monica Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90038

PERFORMANCE DAYS
Saturday June 8, 11:00 am – PREVIEW
Friday June 14, 10:00 pm
Friday June 21, 5:00 pm
Saturday June 22, 7:00 pm
Thursday June 27, 6:30 pm

TICKETS: $15 – tinyurl.com/purecinemahff

Admission 13+; Running time | 90 minutes.

ABOUT THE PRODUCTION
David Neipris (Writer) David started as an actor, graduating from NYU’s Experimental Theater Wing and performing on and off Broadway. He brought his play Big Wyoming, starring Michael Stuhlbarg, to The New York Stage and Film Festival. Strange Gods was a Finalist for The Princess Grace Award. Other work, including April Escapes and Glass Eye, was developed at The New Group, The Cherry Lane Theater, Naked Angeles, Hourglass Group, and New Jersey Rep. Previously workshopped at Electric Lodge, Pure Cinema is David’s first Hollywood Fringe show.

Matt Ritchey (Director) Writer and Director of ANGEL’S FLIGHT (2016 Hollywood Fringe Best Cabaret/Variety Winner) and BLACKBOXING (2019 Hollywood Fringe Best Cabaret/Variety Winner) returns to the Fringe to direct.

Matthew Quinn (Producer) ​has been involved in theater production and venue management for over 25 years in San Francisco and Los Angeles. He created Combined Artform, as a production company in 1998 with Producer Bertha Rodriguez and has produced, co-produced, presented, booked and promoted hundreds of shows. He has been an active player with the Hollywood Fringe Festival since its onset in 2010

as an advisor, venue manager, producer, and a scout for the Soho Playhouse, New York City.

Bill Chott (Actor) is a Broadway Award winner for playing Fred Mertz in I Love Lucy Live at the Greenway Court. This is Bill’s second Fringe show, having performed in Escape From Godot, the award-winning immersive piece. Chott can currently be seen in Dahmer: Monster on Netflix as the Milwaukee police commissioner. He is best known as “Mr. Laritate” on Disney’s Wizards of Waverly Place and played “Thomas” in the Farrelly Brothers film The Ringer.

Aaron Caponigro (Actor) is a Chicago native and has been acting and improvising since the turn of the century. He is a mainstage ensemble member at ComedySportz LA where he also coaches its high school league and he performs regularly at the Pack Theater. He’s a real big fan of ice cream.

Lindsey Seim (Actress) is a Nebraska native, recognized for her roles in prominent productions like James Wan’s Insidious: Chapter 2 and Darren Lynn Bousman’s St. Agatha, has made a mark as an actress, writer, and producer. She notably starred alongside Tim Heidecker on Adult Swim’s Decker and voiced Claire in Netflix’s acclaimed series Lupin. Seim received an L.A. Stage Alliance Ovation Award nomination for her role in Salsa Saved the Girls and won a Hollywood Fringe Festival Producer’s Award for the original comedy Spirit Wheel. Honored as a Distinguished Alumnus of the University of Nebraska-Lincoln’s Johnny Carson School of Theatre and Film, she also enjoys crafting MadLibs for Penguin Random House.

It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price!

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Emmy Award winner Ben Decter and Tony Award nominee Kristin Hanggi
present
It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price!,
a new musical featuring
music and lyrics by Ben Decter,
book by Ben Decter and Kristin Hanggi,
directed by Kristin Hanggi
Performances begin November 7, 2024 and run to December 15, 2024,
with the opening on Thursday, November 14,
at The Hudson Theatre in Hollywood
The world premiere production is supported by UCB
LOS ANGELES, CA (May 1, 2024) – Emmy Award winner Ben Decter (Operation Homecoming, Netflix’s Lucifer) and Tony Award nominee Kristin Hanggi (Broadway’s Rock of Ages, Los Angeles and Off-Broadway’s bare, a pop opera) are pleased to announce and present It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! The new musical features music and lyrics by Decter, book by Decter and Hanggi, and directed by Hanggi. Performances for the six-week limited engagement will play at The Hudson Theatre (6539 Santa Monica Blvd.) in Hollywood, from November 7 to December 15, 2024, with the official opening night on Thursday, November 14.
It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! follows Jackson, a middle school boy with big feelings who’s in big trouble after punching his bullying classmate, Tyler Price, for mocking his sister, Lucy, after she sings about wanting a bat mitzvah. Lucy attends the same school, but in the special day class. She has epilepsy and related learning challenges – lots of them. Jackson’s principal insists Jackson explain himself to the entire school in order to avoid expulsion. With music he steals from his composer dad, Jackson stages a scrappy, heartfelt musical. Through each family member’s bravery, we watch healing begin for all.
“When my family was in crisis – my little girl, diagnosed with Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome, was having 100 seizures a day and we felt so isolated – I never imagined a musical would grow out of it. Writing these songs helped my family have difficult conversations and come together,” said Ben Decter. “It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! is a fun, irreverent look at a family going through a really hard time – that everyone can relate to.”
“This musical is a true passion project for us. It’s about dealing with struggles in our families and how challenging it is to be seen by those closest to us. Through art, our characters learn to explore uncomfortable feelings — things that can be difficult to share or admit,” added Kristin Hanggi. “We can’t wait for Los Angeles – where I’ve gotten the opportunity to launch other new musicals – to see our show!”
Kristin Hanggi is best known for directing the smash-hit Rock of Ages, for which she received a Tony Award nomination for Best Direction of a Musical. Ms. Hanggi also developed and directed the original Los Angeles and Off-Broadway productions of the acclaimed pop opera bare. Other past stage productions include Off-Broadway’s Accidentally Brave; Off Broadway’s Clueless (New Group); Seattle 5th Avenue’s Romy and Michele’s High School Reunion; and Pussycat Dolls Live at the Roxy with Christina Applegate, Gwen Stefani, Christina Aguilera, and Charlize Theron. As a film director, Kristin directed the film version of Accidentally Brave (produced by Steven Soderbergh), Naomi & Ely’s No Kiss List, Grantham & Rose, and the musical film Dear Dumb Diary, which she also co-wrote. She also directed on Netflix’s musical series Julie & the Phantoms. In June 2013, Kristin returned to her alma mater to receive the UCLA School of Theater, Film, & Television Distinguished Alumni Award.
Ben Decter is an Emmy Award-winning composer and songwriter, who has created a diverse body of music for TV, theater and film. Scores include Netflix’s “Lucifer,” ABC’s “Bless This Mess,” FOX’s “Lethal Weapon,” ABC’s “Off the Map” (Shonda Rhimes). His writing has appeared in Hippocampus, Months to Years, Kaleidoscope and HuffPo. Born in Manhattan, and raised in New Jersey, Ben graduated from Harvard University, where he met his future wife, Jackie Sloan, when they performed onstage together in Godspell. Since then, they have been writing songs (as Paley Jones), exploring Los Angeles, and raising two stellar kids.
It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! is supported by UCB, a global biopharmaceutical company focused on creating value for those living with severe diseases. For three decades, they have been committed to people living with epilepsy and rare epilepsy syndromes and their families to support them navigating the moments in their lives that matter most. As a leader in the space, UCB is more invested than ever in profoundly improving the lives of the communities they serve.
Community Partners for It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! include Epilepsy Foundation, Epilepsy Foundation Los Angeles, and Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) Foundation.
The full cast and creative team for It’s All Your Fault, Tyler Price! and the ticket on-sale date will be announced later. For information on the production visit www.tylerpricemusical.com.
ABOUT EPILEPSY
Epilepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by recurring, unprovoked seizures, with at least one million people in the United States living with uncontrolled epilepsy. It ranks as the fourth most common neurological disorder globally. Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) is a severe epilepsy syndrome that develops in young children and often leads to lifelong disability. Nobody is born with LGS. It develops over time. LGS is a rare disease (approximately one person in every 2,000). About 50,000 people in the United States and 1 million people worldwide have LGS. Visit the Epilepsy Foundation or Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome (LGS) Foundation for more information.

Holly Near in Concert

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NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 30, 2024

Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum presents
‘Holly Near in Concert’

One performance only: June 13 

WHAT:
Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum presents Holly Near in Concert. After 50 years of bold work, singer-songwriter-activist Holly Near remains a consistent voice for change. Her work is loving, challenging, funny, thought provoking and rooted in the global community. An outspoken singer and ambassador for peace, Holly will be joined by Tammy Hall on piano; Jan Martinelli on bass; and Pat Humphries and Sandy O on vocals.

WHEN:
Thursday, June 13 at 7:30 p.m.

WHERE:
Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Topanga CA 90290
(midway between Pacific Coast Highway and the Ventura freeway)*
*Please note: Topanga Canyon Blvd is currently closed between the theater and PCH;
until further notice, exit the 101 at Topanga Canyon Blvd. South to access Theatricum from the Valley.

TICKETS:
$32

OTHER:
Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum is an outdoor space terraced into the hillside of the rustic canyon. Audience members are advised to dress casually (warmly in the evenings) and bring cushions for bench seating.

HOW:
theatricum.com
(310) 455-2322

Thresholds of Invention

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NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 29, 2024

Odyssey Theatre’s ‘Thresholds of Invention’
performance series presents
‘In Some Dark Valley:
The Testimony of Reverend Brand’

One performance only: May 5 at 5 p.m.
WHAT:
Odyssey Theatre Ensemble’s Thresholds of Invention series of first looks at pieces-in-progress by prominent L.A. visionaries presents In Some Dark Valley: The Testimony of Reverend Brand, written and performed by Robert Bailey. One moonlit night, Reverend Brand, a fiery 19th century circuit preacher, emerges from the shadowy mountains of Appalachia and our collective history to weave a tale of religious fervor set against a landscape scarred by war, poverty and disease… a story that also shines a light on rare moments of tender and resilient redemption. Embodying multiple characters while also singing gorgeous traditional songs handed down through generations of Southerners, Bailey grapples with the inevitable clash between an unyielding vision of moral rectitude and the tragic personal destruction it leaves in its wake, transporting the audience to a land and era that is haunting and illuminating in its relevance to today.

WHO:
• Written and Performed by Robert Bailey
• Series curator: Tony Abatemarco
• Produced for the Odyssey by Beth Hogan and Tony Abatemarco

WHEN:
One performance only:
• Sunday, May 5 at 5 p.m.

WHERE:
Odyssey Theatre
2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles CA 90025

PARKING:
FREE in the on-site parking lot

TICKETS:
$25

HOW:
www.OdysseyTheatre.com
(310) 477-2055 ext. 2

The Godmother

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WHAT: Theater Performance: “The Godmother,” Inspired by the life of Griselda Blanco.

DESCRIPTION:  Melina Farahani, the dynamic British-Persian actress, storms onto the Hollywood Fringe scene with her electrifying solo performance, “The Godmother.” Inspired by the notorious life of Griselda Blanco, this gripping drama explores the blurred lines between villainy and heroism, love and morality. In a tale of power, sacrifice, and the indomitable bond between mother and son, Farahani brings to life the complexities of Griselda Blanco’s world, challenging audiences to question their perceptions and delve into the depths of human nature.

WHEN:
Saturday, June 8, 9:15 pm
Sunday, June 16, 4:45 pm
Friday, June 28, 8:00 pm

Show runs 30 minutes.

WHERE: Stephanie Feury Studio Theatre, 5636 Melrose Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

TICKETS: $15 The Hollywood Fringe Festival – the godmother
(Admission age: 16+); Show runs 30 minutes.

WHO: Melina Farahani (Writer/Performer/Producer) Farahani is a British-Persian actress, dancer, social media Figure, based in L.A. is a current student The Stella Adler Art Of Acting conservatory in L.A. Her previous Training includes Sylvia Young theatre School London, London Academy of Music & Dramatic Art and she is a member of the National Youth Theatre London.