New play by Orange County playwright tells a

compelling coming of age story

SANTA ANA, CA, August 20, 2024 – The Wayward Artist, Santa Ana’s own ensemble theatre company, will present Peace Be With You from September 13th through the 22nd at its exclusive theater venue at the Grand Central Art Center in Downtown Santa Ana, 125 N. Broadway #E. This new play was written by Orange County Playwrights Alliance (OCPA) Director Eric Eberwein.

Peace Be With You is the story of Lee who just signed up for the Marines. His mother is aghast. His old girlfriend fears the worst. His boyfriend approves. The journey changes him and their relationships. When deployment takes him into combat, Lee decides he wants out. He comes up with an elaborate plan – a scheme to disappear mysteriously, seize media attention, and resurface to tell the truth about what American troops are doing in the latest war. But will his escape make casualties of those he loves?

“Eberwein has created a complex and emotional story of a young man searching for his purpose and place to be. Something most people can relate to at some point in their lives,” said Director Joe Lauderdale of this coming of age story.  “The actors, currently in rehearsal, are using all their skills to create characters that are fully three dimensional and relatable. The theatrical, rather than fully realistic quality of the play, often with poetic dialogue, is a challenge we are reveling in and we can’t wait to reveal this perhaps tragic story to an audience.”

CAST: PRODUCTION TEAM:

River Ramos as Lee Director: Joe Lauderdale

Aaron Lipp as Patrick Playwright: Eric Eberwein

Gabrielle Mack as Courtney Stage Manager: Aung Khine Min

Rebecca Leeds as Jody Asst. Director/Props: Elli Luke

Lighting Designer: Blake Huntley

Scenic Designer: Marley Oyen

Costume Designer: Kylie Pickering

Projections: Ariya Selakumar

WHERE: WHEN:

The Wayward Artist Friday September  13 at 7:30pm

Grand Central Art Center Saturday September 14 at 7:30pm

125 N. Broadway Sunday September 15 at 2:00pm

Santa Ana, CA 92701 Thursday September 19 at 7:30pm

Friday September 20 at 7:30pm

Saturday September 21 at 7:30pm

Sunday September 22 at 2:00pm

TICKETS:

www.thewaywardartist.org/peace-be-with-you   657-205-6273

ABOUT THE WAYWARD ARTIST:

The work of The Wayward Artist is edgy and unafraid to push the envelope of politeness, political correctness, and propriety. It doesn’t shy away from adult content, language and mature subject matter. It’s about innovation and re-invention and, wherever possible, delight in showing audiences a mirror to challenge pride, prejudices, and point-of-view. Its mission is to be the home for wayward artists – the lost, the naked, the vulnerable and to produce wayward works of a professional quality – works that are new, edgy and reimagined.

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 20, 2024

Latino Theater Company reprises acclaimed
Chicano–noir satire ‘Whittier Boulevard’

WHAT:
Latino Theater Company brings back Whittier Boulevard, the critically acclaimed, ensemble-devised “Chicano Noir” satire that employs the company’s trademark blend of comedy, drama, music, dance and theatrical magic to explore ageism — and the divine that exists within us all. It’s Los Angeles in 2042, and years of fires, torrential rain, anarchy and bloodshed have led to a totalitarian city-state where the elderly disappear, their stories forgotten. When authorities make a surprise visit to the home of faded Chicana starlet Veronica Del Rio on the eve of her 75th birthday, she enlists the help of her loudmouth nurse, a kindhearted policeman-fan, and a down-on-his-luck poet. Will Veronica disappear and be forgotten before she finds true love?

“STAGE RAW TOP 10… a fable-like tale with elements of magical realism, character-driven humor, and an absurdism steeped in the savory flavors of Latino culture…. RECOMMENDED.” —Stage Raw

“EXCEPTIONAL… equal parts terrifying and hilarious… RECOMMENDED.” — LA Theatre Bites

“A TRIUMPH… Sly satire and dry humor infused with a mysterious film noir vibe.” — Arts Beat LA

“VISUALLY STUNNING… a fascinating play with notes of Chicano Noir, Latinx Futurism, magic realism, and a cunning infusion of glamour from the Golden Age of Mexican Cinema.” — Glamgical

“FUN… Latino Theatre Company deploys its “Chicano Noir” lens and the resulting drama pokes fun at itself while trying to weigh the moment we’re passing through.” — 89.3 FM KCRW

“GREAT GOOD HUMOR… dramatic stagecraft, multimedia effects [heighten] the mix of comedy and dark satire.” — Hollywood Progressive

“EXCELLENT… amusing, and thought-provoking… wonderful effects.” — It’s Not About Me

“A FUN-FILLED evening of theatre… a visual feast.” — Joe Straw blogspot

WHO:
• Created by Evelina Fernández, Sal López, Geoffrey Rivas, Lucy Rodriguez and José Luis Valenzuela
• Directed by Jose Luis Valenzuela
• Starring Evelina Fernández, Zilah Mendoza, Geoffrey Rivas, Eduardo Robledo
• Produced by Latino Theater Company

WHEN:
Previews: Sept. 12 and Sept. 13
Performances: Sept. 14 – Oct. 20
(dark Oct. 3 through Oct. 6)
• Thursday at 8 p.m.: Sept. 12 (preview), Sept. 19, Sept. 26; Oct. 10, Oct. 17 (dark Oct. 3)
• Fridays at 8 p.m. Sept. 13 (preview), Sept. 20, Sept. 27; Oct. 11, Oct. 18 (dark Oct. 4)
• Saturday at 2 p.m.: Sept. 21 ONLY (family matinee / child care provided)
• Saturdays at 8 p.m.: Sept. 14 (Opening Night), Sept. 21, Sept. 28; Oct. 12, Oct. 19 (dark Oct. 5)
• Sundays at 4 p.m.: Sept. 15, 22, 29; Oct. 13, 20 (dark Oct. 6)

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

PARKING:
• $8 with box office validation at Los Angeles Garage Associate Parking structure, 545 S. Main St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 (between 5th and 6th Streets, just behind the theater)
• Metered parking available on streets surrounding the theater.
• Take the Metro: nearest stop is Pershing Square (two blocks west of The LATC)

TICKET PRICES:
$10-$48 (except opening night)
• Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays (except opening night, Sept. 14): $38
• Students, Seniors, Veterans and LAUSD teachers: $20 with valid ID
• All Thursday night performances and previews: $10
• Opening night (Sept. 14): $75 (includes post-performance reception)

HOW:
www.latinotheaterco.org
(213) 489-0994

NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

A Noise Within celebrates human indestructibility with
Thornton Wilder’s epically funny ‘The Skin of Our Teeth’

WHAT:
A Noise Within opens its 2024-25 “True Grit” season with the Pulitzer Prize-winning, time-bending comic romp The Skin of Our Teeth. Various cataclysmic events serve as a backdrop for a hilarious and thought-provoking exploration of human resilience by three-time Pulitzer winner Thornton Wilder. After 5,000 years of marriage, George and Maggie Antrobus and their children have faced ice ages, floods and war, but the family perseveres with humor, ingenuity… and a pet dinosaur. This iconic play is a riveting testament to the indomitable spirit of humanity.

WHO:
• Written by Thornton Wilder
• Directed by Julia Rodriguez–Elliott and Geoff Elliott
• Starring Christian Henley, Mildred Marie Langford, Kasey Mahaffy, Trisha Miller, Cassandra Marie Murphy, Ann Noble, Frederick Stuart
• Ensemble: Anthony Adu, Stella Bullock, Julia Chavez, Jacob Cherry, Yannick Haynes, Amber Liekhus, Veronica McFarlane, David A. Rangel, Landon M. Robinson, Micah Schneider, Maya Sta. Ana
• Presented by A Noise Within, Geoff Elliot and Julia Rodriguez-Elliott, producing artistic directors

WHEN:
Previews Sept. 1 – Sept. 6
Performances Sept. 7 – Sept. 29
• Wednesday at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 4 ONLY (Preview)
• Thursdays at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 5 (preview), Sept. 19, Sept. 26 (dark Sept. 12)
• Fridays at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 6 (preview); Sept. 13*, Sept. 20*, Sept. 27*
• Saturdays at 2 p.m.: Sept. 14, Sept. 21, Sept. 28 (no matinee on Sept. 7)
• Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 7 (Opening Night); Sept. 14, Sept. 21, Sept. 28
• Sundays at 2 p.m.: Sept. 1 (preview), Sept. 8; Sept. 15*, Sept. 22, Sept. 29
^*Post–performance conversations with the artists take place every Friday (except the preview) and on Sunday, Sept. 15.
**A one-hour INsiders Discussion Group will take place prior to the matinee on Sunday, Sept. 8 beginning at 12:30 p.m.

Student matinees are scheduled on select weekdays at 10:30 a.m. Interested educators should email education@anoisewithin.org.

WHERE:
A Noise Within
3352 E Foothill Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91107

TICKETS:
• Tickets start at $51.50 (including fees)
• Student tickets start at $20
• Wednesday, Sept. 4 and Thursday, Sept. 5 (previews): Pay What You Choose starting at $10 (available online beginning at noon the Monday prior to that performance, and at the box office beginning at 2 p.m. on the day of the performance.)
• Discounts available for groups of 10 or more

HOW:
www.anoisewithin.org
(626) 356-3100

Rubicon Theatre Company Announces its

2024-2025 Mainstage Season in 

Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District

“DARE TO DREAM”

A Dazzling Lineup of Shows Celebrating the Power of Dreams with Captivating Characters Who Chase Their Dreams with Passion, Courage and Determination

August 19, 2024 (Ventura, CA) – Rubicon Theatre, Ventura County’s not-for-profit professional theatre company, has just announced the schedule for the company’s 26^th season in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District. Rubicon’s 2024-2025 six-show season, entitled “DARE TO DREAM,” continues the company’s commitment to producing innovative professional dramas, comedies, musicals, and outreach programs for the entertainment, enrichment and education of area residents and visitors. Notably, the new season includes three world premieres and a first-time partnership with The Acting Company in New York. 

Says Co-Founder and Producing Artistic Director KARYL LYNN BURNS, “Rubicon Theatre Company’s upcoming season celebrates the transformative power of dreams and features a thrilling and diverse lineup of plays and musicals. Each production delves into the ideas, hopes and reveries that shape our lives, from epic journeys and heartfelt stories, to thrilling adventures and poignant tales.” 

Rubicon Board President DOUG HALTER adds, “We are excited to offer a season where dreams take center stage, inspiring us to believe in the impossible and to chase our aspirations with unwavering commitment and determination.”

Rubicon’s 26th Season kicks off with A COWBOY LULLABY (Dec. 4 – 22, 2024), a world premiere concert by Drama Desk Award Nominee JAMES O’NEIL and LADCC Award-Winner and Tony Nominee DAN WHEETMAN about the truths, myths, lies and legends of the American West, and the poetry of characters with dreams as vast as the open range. The second show of the season, TWO TRAINS RUNNING (Jan. 15 – Feb. 2, 2025), by Pulitzer Prize-winner AUGUST WILSON, is a soul-stirring drama — a profound exploration of courage and struggle set against the backdrop of the Civil Rights Movement. Directed by LILI-ANNE BROWN, the story follows the hopes and dreams of nine compelling characters in a Pittsburgh diner. Co-produced with The Acting Company out of New York, TWO TRAINS RUNNING will tech and open at Rubicon before touring the nation in repertory with Shakespeare’s A COMEDY OF ERRORS directed by DEVIN BRAIN (an add-on to the Rubicon season which will also play in area schools). Poignant and innovative, CONSTELLATIONS by NICK PAYNE (Feb. 19 – Mar. 9, 2025), illuminates the infinite possibilities of love and life in the multiverse. Marianne, a quantum physicist, and Roland, a beekeeper, meet by chance at a barbecue. They hit it off, or not. They go home together, or not. Will a love of honey keep them together? JONATHAN FOX directs. 

Rubicon’s spring offering is the world premiere of CRAZY MAMA: A TRUE STORY OF LOVE AND MADNESS (Mar. 26 – Apr. 6, 2025), based on award-winning memoir by Ojai resident SHARON SCOTT WILLIAMS. Laced with humor and pathos, this profound play follows a young girl’s decades-long dream of reconnecting with the mother she lost to mental illness. One actor plays 16 roles in the play, which will be directed by Golden Globe nominee ANSON WILLIAMS. Next up is the thrilling musical tale of young lovers during the Depression whose hunger for fame and fortune sets them on a high-stakes collision course with the law. BONNIE & CLYDE (Apr. 30 – May 18, 2025) is an exhilarating tale of love, crime and passion with a book by IVAN MENCHELL, lyrics by DON BLACK, and a score that combines rockabilly, blues and gospel by FRANK WILDHORN. SCOTT SCHWARTZ (Jane Eyre and Golda’s Balcony on Broadway/Bat Boy and tick…tick…BOOM! Off-Broadway) returns to Rubicon to helm the production. 

The season ends with the developmental premiere of THE EPIC TALE OF HI’IAKA: A NEW HAWAIIAN MUSICAL (Oct. 22 – Nov. 9, 2025) with book, music and lyrics by ROSLYN CATRACCHIA and MacArthur Fellow PATRICK MAKUAKĀNE. Presented with the Tony winning team from WitzEnd Productions, this spellbinding new musical weaves together an enthralling narrative of love, bravery and the power of the elements. 

New subscribers save 15% off single ticket prices on four-to-six show packages. Other benefits include advance notice of special events, guaranteed seats and flexible exchange privileges. Those who subscribe to Rubicon’s DARE TO DREAM Season by September 7 receive a complimentary ticket to the Tony Award-winning musical Once, the final show of Rubicon’s 25th Season, for a total savings of up to $135. Sure to be a sell-out, Once has already been extended due to popular demand. With a book by ENDA WALSH and music and lyrics by GLEN HANSARD and MARKÉTA IRGLOVÁ, Once follows a street busker who rediscovers his passion for music and his faith in love. The production includes songs from the critically acclaimed film, including the Academy Award-winning song “Falling Slowly.” All subscribers are automatically entered in Rubicon’s contest to win a Dream Trip to Hawaii, which includes a week’s stay in a luxury condo on Maui, round-trip airfare, and lunch with a Tony Award-Winning producer.

To subscribe, or to purchase individual tickets for Rubicon Theatre Company’s DARE TO DREAM Season, visit www.rubicontheatre.org or call Rubicon Guest Services at (805) 667-2900. Tickets may also be purchased at the theatre, located at 1006 E. Main Street (Laurel entrance), from noon to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Saturday. 

Further details about the 2024-2025 Season are as follows:

A COWBOY LULLABY | World Premiere Theatrical Concert

Dec. 4 – 22, 2024  

Written by James O’Neil and Dan Wheetman  

Directed by James O’Neil

Musical Director and Arrangements by Dan Wheetman

Featuring Sylvie Davidson and Trevor Wheetman  

Saddle up for an unforgettable journey through the heart of the Old West with A Cowboy Lullaby, a captivating concert written by Drama Desk Nominee James O’Neil (Lonesome Traveler) and Tony nominee Dan Wheetman (Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues). Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of cowboy culture as our talented singers and instrumentalists weave a rich tapestry of song, story, and frontier spirit. From haunting ballads to foot-stomping anthems, A Cowboy Lullaby celebrates the rugged charm and indomitable spirit of the American cowboy. So grab your hat and join us under the stars for a night of music that will transport you to a place where dreams are as vast as the open range.  

TWO TRAINS RUNNING | Drama   

Jan. 15 – Feb. 2, 2025  

By Pulitzer Prize-Winner August Wilson  

Directed by Lili-Anne Brown  

Produced in Association with The Acting Company of New York  

Step into the soul-stirring world of Two Trains Running, where the vibrant streets of 1960s Pittsburgh serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable journey of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Set in a bustling diner, this compelling narrative weaves together the lives of its diverse characters, each grappling with the winds of change sweeping through their community. With powerful storytelling and poignant dialogue, Two Trains Running explores themes of race, identity, and the resilience of human spirit. Rubicon is honored to partner on this production with The Acting Company, which was founded by JOHN HOUSEMAN and furthered the careers of artists like KEVIN KLINE, PATTI LUPONE, JEFFREY WRIGHT and RAINN WILSON. 

CONSTELLATIONS | Drama 

Feb. 19 – Mar. 9, 2025

By Nick Payne

Directed by Jonathan Fox

Step into the mesmerizing multiverse of Constellations, a captivating exploration of love, fate, and the infinite possibilities of existence. Delve into the surreal landscape of multiple universes as Marianne and Roland’s relationship unfolds in a kaleidoscope of moments, each one branching into alternate realities. As they navigate the twists and turns of their connection, the boundaries between dreams and reality blur, inviting audiences to ponder the profound mysteries of the cosmos and the power of human connection. Join us on this enchanting journey through the stars, where every choice sparks a new constellation of possibilities.

CRAZY MAMA: 

A TRUE STORY OF LOVE AND MADNESS | World Premiere Drama

Mar. 26 – Apr. 6, 2025

Written by Sharon Scott Williams

Directed by Golden Globe Nominee Anson Williams

Sharon races home from school a couple days after her 8th birthday to beat her teenaged brother Spikey to the last slice of birthday cake. When she enters the kitchen, she finds her mother wielding a knife. As the Sheriff escorts her mother away, the deputy tells Sharon that her mama is “not right in the head.” Crazy Mama is a one-woman tour-de-force about Sharon’s decades-long dream of saving her mother from the soul-crushing grip of mental illness. A testament to the steely resilience of the human heart and the enduring nature of hope, Crazy Mama will leave you breathless, moved, and profoundly inspired.

BONNIE & CLYDE: THE MUSICAL | A New Version of the Tony Nominated Musical

Apr. 30 – May 18, 2025  

Music by Frank Wildhorn and Lyrics by Don Black

Book by Ivan Menchell  

Directed by Scott Schwartz (Golda’s Balcony and Jane Eyre on Broadway/Bat Boy Off-Broadway)  

Experience an exhilarating tale of love, crime, and passion reimagined in our thrilling new musical production of Bonnie & Clyde. With an unforgettable score by Frank Wildhorn (Jekyll & Hyde) that combines rockabilly, blues and gospel music, this new adaptation brings the gripping story of America’s most notorious outlaws to life in a fresh and dynamic way. Join Bonnie and Clyde on their infamous journey through the heartland, as they defy authority, chase their dreams, and ultimately meet their tragic destiny. Don’t miss this riveting theatrical event that will leave you on the edge of your seat! 

THE EPIC TALE OF HI’IAKA: 

A NEW HAWAIIAN MUSICAL | Developmental Premiere

Book, Music and Lyrics by Roslyn Catracchia and Patrick Makuakāne

Oct. 22 – Nov. 9, 2025

Production Supervision by Scott Schwartz

Musical Supervision by Brad Haak

Produced in Association with WitzEnd Productions  

This magical new musical follows the shero’s journey of the Hawaiian goddess Hi’iaka, the youngest sister of Pele, weaving together a spellbinding narrative of love and bravery. Audiences will be transported to an enchanted realm where gods and mortals are challenged by the power of the elements. Set against the backdrop of lush landscapes and ancient traditions, this groundbreaking developmental premiere musical comes to Rubicon from the Tony Award-winning producing team of last season’s Dark of the Moon. With authentic Hawaiian dance choreographed by MacArthur genius Patrick Makuakāne, this remarkable experience promises a breathtaking fusion of culture, music, and storytelling.

 ‘Pascal & Julien’

Join us in Paris for a uniquely touching story about
fathers and sons and the birth of a friendship.

(All performances feature Spanish supertitles.)

written by
Daniel Keene

directed by
Debbie Devine

starring
Paul Turbiak
Jude Schwartz  Darby Winn

‘Pascal & Julien’

WHAT:
Multiple award-winning 24th Street Theatre presents a uniquely touching story about fathers and sons and the birth of a friendship. Artistic director Debbie Devine helms the U.S. premiere of Pascal & Julien by Australian playwright Daniel Keene, the story of a closed, isolated middle-aged man whose true self is able to emerge through his friendship with a child. Pascal is a regular at the local café, spending his days huddled over a cup of coffee and a crossword. Thirteen-year-old Julien is on the hunt for a new father to replace his own, who is distant and remote. Julien’s been keeping his binoculars trained on Pascal. Could this awkward, graceless adult be the right one? Audiences both young and old will be enthralled by this bittersweet story of heartache and connection. (Not appropriate for children under eight.) To increase audience accessibility, all performances will feature Spanish supertitles.

WHO:
• Written by Daniel Keene
• Directed by Debbie Devine
• Original music composed by Bradley Brough
• Starring Rick Segall, Paul Turbiak, Darby Winn, Jude Schwartz
• Spanish translation (supertitles) by Jesús Castaños–Chima
• Presented by 24th Street Theatre, Debbie Devine, artistic director

WHEN:
Previews: Aug. 30 – Sept. 7
Performances: Sept. 7 – Oct. 27:
• Friday at 8 p.m.: Aug. 30 ONLY (preview)
• Saturdays at 3 p.m.: Aug. 31 and Sept. 7 (previews); Sept. 14; Sept. 21; Sept. 28; Oct. 5; Oct. 12; Oct. 19; Oct. 26
Saturdays at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 7 (Opening Night); Sept. 14; Sept. 21; Sept. 28; Oct. 5; Oct. 12; Oct. 19; Oct. 26
• Sundays at 3 p.m.: Sept. 8; Sept. 15; Sept. 22; Sept. 29; Oct. 6; Oct. 13; Oct. 20; Oct. 27
• Monday at 7:30 p.m.: Sept. 16 ONLY

WHERE:
24th Street Theatre
1117 West 24th Street
Los Angeles, CA 90007-1725

TICKETS
• Adults: $24
• Under 18: $10
• Family Four Pack (2 adults & 2 children): $40
• Seniors, Students and Teachers: $15
• North University Park residents (with ID): $2.40
• Preview tickets: $5
• Monday Night(s): Pay–What–You–Can

OTHER:
• All performances will feature Spanish supertitles.
• Content warning: fleeting use of profanity.
• Not appropriate for kids under 8.

HOW:
www.24thstreet.org
(213) 745-6516

FOR THE THIRD STRAIGHT YEAR IN A ROW,

LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 

ACHIEVES RECORD-BREAKING BOX OFFICE!

August 16, 2024…La Mirada, CA…The Tony-nominated LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is thrilled to announce that, for the third straight year in a row, its recently concluded “Broadway Series” season — as well as its presentation of one-night specialty acts — broke all-time box office records for attendance, single tickets, and overall revenue!  

For La Mirada Theatre’s “Broadway Series” of musicals, revenues increased a whopping 14% over the previous season thanks to a string of audience favorites:  On Your Feet: The Story of Emilio & Gloria Estefan, Beautiful: The Carole King Musical, the West Coast premiere of Mystic Pizza, Jersey Boys, and Disney’s The Little Mermaid.  All of these shows were co-produced by La Mirada Theatre and McCoy Rigby Entertainment.

Subscriptions for next season’s Broadway Series are already 13% ahead of last season, on their way to yet another new record.

In addition, the venue’s popular one-night presentations (headliners, bands, comedians, holiday shows, etc.) broke all-time records, as well, beating the previous attendance record by almost 20% and the sales record by 28%.  La Mirada Theatre is fast becoming the go-to venue for concerts as well as theatrical events.  The new line-up of exciting one-night shows will be announced in September.

BT McNicholl, La Mirada Theatre’s Producing Artistic Director, is thrilled. “Just when we thought it couldn’t get any better,” he says, “our amazing patrons came out to remind us that there’s no lack of enthusiasm for live performances.  We’re grateful to them, and the City of La Mirada, for their continued support of the arts.”

“These remarkable results speak to the professionalism of our exceptional theatre staff and tremendous partners at McCoy Rigby Entertainment who work hard to bring high quality entertainment to our wonderful audiences,” commented La Mirada City Manager, Jeff Boynton. 

To spearhead the marketing and ticket-pricing for the “Broadway Series,” the City engaged a New York-based firm, Table 7 Strategy.  “They deserve a standing ovation,” says McNicholl, “for their creative and inventive promotional efforts that differentiated our productions and  energized our audiences, delivering unprecedented revenue numbers for the season.  Their Broadway savvy made all the difference!”

LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS & McCOY RIGBY ENTERTAINMENT’s 2024-2025 season of shows are sure to be another record-breaker as it begins on September 21 with the Southern California regional theatre premiere of the much-beloved musical WAITRESS, followed by a November 9 opening of Tony award-winner Jason Alexander starring as “Tevye” in FIDDLER ON THE ROOF directed by Lonny Price, then what could possibly go wrong as we present the hilarious THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG, and omigod you guys, April brings LEGALLY BLONDE THE MUSICAL.  Finally, “the cold never bothered us anyway” as we close the season with Disney’s FROZEN!

ABOUT THE PRICING

Subscriptions and single tickets to this extraordinary season are now available by calling the Box Office at 562-944-9801 or 714-994-6310 or online at www.lamiradatheatre.com.

Subscription prices range from $71.25 to $318.75 (La Mirada Resident Discount prices are $57.00 to $255.00.); single tickets for WAITRESS and THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG are now on sale; FIDDLER ON THE ROOF, LEGALLY BLONDE, and FROZEN single tickets will go on sale Friday, September 13.  

LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS is located at 14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada, near the intersection of Rosecrans Avenue where the 91 and 5 freeways meet.  Parking is free.

 #    #    #

To schedule press interviews, photos, press comps or for additional information, please contact David Elzer/DEMAND PR at (818) 508-1754 or by e-mail at davidelzer@me.com. Photos and press information also available at lamiradatheatre.com.                                

The Tony-nominated LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS has been hailed by the Los Angeles Times as “one of the best Broadway-style houses in Southern California.”  This beautiful state-of-the-art theatre has been presenting quality productions since 1977.  The theatre has produced several national tours and is the recipient of numerous accolades, including Tony, Emmy, and Ovation Award nominations and the L.A. Stage Alliance OVATION AWARD for “Best Season of the Year.”  The theatre is located at 14900 La Mirada Boulevard in La Mirada, California, near the intersection of Rosecrans Avenue.  Parking is theatre-adjacent and free. For further information call (562) 944-9801 or visit 

 www.LaMiradaTheatre.com.

Celebrating its 31^st season at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, McCOY RIGBY ENTERTAINMENT (MRE), is one of the world’s premier theatrical production companies and continues to be grateful to share a wildly successful collaboration with the City of La Mirada.  Headed by Executive Producers Tom McCoy and Cathy Rigby, MRE has produced over one hundred musicals, plays, and concerts featuring some of the biggest stars in the industry today and garnering many Emmy Awards, Tony nominations, and LA Ovation Awards.  

In addition, MRE has launched several Emmy Award-winning and Tony Award-nominated Broadway, international, and national touring productions including: ASIA- Dreamgirls (Japan), Miss Saigon (China), Peter Pan (China), SAUDI ARABIA – Peter Pan (this was the first Broadway Musical to ever play in Saudi Arabia), USA- Seussical the Musical, and Annie Get Your Gun, starring Cathy Rigby; Jesus Christ Superstar starring Carl Anderson and Sebastian Bach, Camelot starring Michael York and Lou Diamond Phillips, Happy Days written by Gary Marshall and Paul Williams, BROADWAY – ‪Frank Wildhorn’s Jekyll and Hyde starring Grammy Award nominee Deborah Cox and “American Idol” and Tony Award nominee ‪Constantine Maroulis, and The Little Mermaid, the Musical.  Peter Pan, starring Cathy Rigby, has made four stops on Broadway and received four Tony Award nominations including Best Revival of a Musical and Best Actress in a Musical.  The A&E TV network premiere of “Peter Pan”received one Emmy Award and four Emmy Award nominations.  La Mirada Theatre productions of A Night with Janis Joplin starring Mary Bridget Davies and Peter Pan starring Cathy Rigby are now streaming on Broadway HD. 

Cast announced for Rogue Artists Ensemble’s
joyful, exuberant ‘Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular’
at Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Renberg Theatre

LOS ANGELES (July 9, 2024) — Romance, stunts… and puppets. Rogue Artists Ensemble, celebrated for creating original, immersive, multi-dimensional experiences known as “hyper-theater,” has announced details for its summer co-production with the Los Angeles LGBT Center and Contemporary American Theater Festival. The world premiere of Rogue Artists Ensemble’s Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular, written by Lisa Sanaye Dring and conceived and directed by Sean Cawelti, will premiere August 17 at the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Renberg Theatre in the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, where performances will continue through September 8. Four preview performances are set for August 10, August 11, August 15 and August 16.

David Ellard, Kurt Kanazawa and Amir Levi star in a story about the professional and romantic rise and fall of two queer, closeted stuntmen in the Hollywood world of faux masculinity. Placing the intoxication of film trickery and its toll on the body and psyche center stage through life-size and miniature puppetry, live video, cinematic illusions and heart-pumping physical acts, this exuberant production is a joyful tribute to the resiliency of the LGBTQIA+ community. Based on true-life stories and direct testimonies, Happy Fall illuminates issues of racial and cultural identity in the industry and uncovers the real price of a love story, unmasking the importance — and danger — of being true to oneself. Rounding out the cast are ensemble members Lucas Brahme, Carlos R. Chavez, Gabriel Croom, Kelsey Kato, Maia Luer, Candy Pain, Tiana Randall–Quant and Jerry Zou.

“As a lover of cinema and how movies are made, I’ve had a life-long fascination with stunt shows,” says Cawelti. “Their mix of humor, strong men and audience participation was a formative theatrical ingredient in my youth, perhaps one that also titillated my dormant queerness. As a young kid, I used to create mini stunt shows with special effects and puppets and tell wild stories. For me, the daring fearlessness of the stunt performer is akin to what it felt like when I was navigating coming out and understanding my own authenticity. This play has truly been a labor of love and is a very personal piece to me.”

As part of the play’s development, Cawelti interviewed over a dozen stunt performers, several closeted, who shared intimate stories about the challenges they faced in an industry that few know much about. The play has had readings sponsored by the City of West Hollywood and the City of Culver City among others, and was recently workshopped at the Skirball Cultural Center.

Coinciding with the production and sure to expand the experience, Advocate & Gochis Galleries, home to the visual arts at the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, will present a visual and mixed media art exhibit titled “Take/Action: Stunts, Spectacle and Queer History in Hollywood.” This exhibit examines the role of the action star through a distinctly queer lens, featuring interpretations of Hollywood and a look at the history of stunts by LGBTQIA+ artists. The gallery will open 45 minutes before each performance and will feature unique interactive photo opportunities, allowing you to place yourself in the movies.

Happy Fall features original music by composer Adrien Prevost, choreography by Cody Brunelle-Potter and fight direction by professional stunt performer Celina Lee Surniak, who also acts as intimacy director. The scenic design is by Keith Mitchell, and Cawelti; the latter also designs video alongside associate video designer Sam Lopez. Other members of the creative team include costume designer Andrew Jordan, lighting designer Soran Schwartz, sound designer Glenn Schuster, properties designer Lily Bartenstein, who also contributes additional scenic design, and pyrotechnician Eric Elias. Puppetry design is by Jack Pullman and Adrian Rose Leonard, with additional design and fabrication by Morgan Rebane, Greg Ballora and Kelsey Kato. Casting is by Jordan Bass, CSA. Camella Coopilton is the production manager, Matthew Richter is technical director, and Deena Tovar is the stage manager. The producer is Zach Davidson.

The production is made possible by the generosity of the Venturous Theater Fund, a fund of Tides Foundation; National Endowment for the Arts; Jim Henson Foundation; City of West Hollywood; City of Culver City; National Performance Network Creation & Development Fund; Perenchio Foundation; Skirball Cultural Center; and the LA New Play Project. Stunt equipment is provided in part by Action Factory, a one-stop action resource company providing equipment sales, rentals, and services to the entertainment industry. Audio and visual equipment are provided in part by Q-SYS. Truss was provided by Killswitch Inc., an ETCP-certified rigging company that specializes in staging supervision, production rigging and gear rental for the greater Los Angeles area. Decking provided by Accurate Staging, specializing in design and stage fabrication for every component in entertainment, production and touring, since 2001. Happy Fall’s cameras are powered by Blackmagic Design one of the world’s leading innovators and manufacturers of creative video technology.

Rogue Artists Ensemble creates “hyper-theater”: original, immersive, multi-dimensional experiences that celebrate the complexity and diversity of Los Angeles. Since 2004, Rogue has differentiated itself through its dedication to creating original work responsive to the stories of its community, and by its commitment to creating design-forward theater incorporating puppetry and multimedia.

The Los Angeles LGBT Center’s cultural arts department curates and produces an annual calendar of events at the Lily Tomlin/Jane Wagner Cultural Arts Center, home to the Renberg Theatre, Davidson/Valentini Theatre, and Advocate & Gochis Galleries. By engaging visual and performing arts to celebrate our community’s stories, Cultural Arts creates moments of joy where LGBTQ+ people gather and thrive.

The Contemporary American Theater Festival in Shepherdstown, West Virginia was named one of the top theater festivals in the world by both The New York Times and American Theatre, and is shaping the future of American theater. Each summer, the Festival produces bold, new plays that spotlight daring and diverse stories in a truly fearless fashion.

Performances of Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular take place August 17 through Sept. 8 on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 3 p.m. Four preview performances take place on Saturday, Aug. 10 at 8 p.m., Sunday, Aug. 11 at 3 p.m., Thursday, Aug. 15 at 8 p.m.; and Friday, Aug. 16 at 8 p.m. A pay-what-you-can understudy performance will take place Sunday, Aug. 25 at 7 p.m.

Special events include: an Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Affinity event on Sunday, Aug. 18, with a “Golden Hour” reception before the performance (2:15 p.m. start time); a pre-show reception (7:15 p.m.) and post-performance discussion hosted by the LA Guild of Puppetry on Thursday, Aug. 22; an interactive stunt demonstration with stunt coordinator Celina Lee Surniak following the 3 p.m. performance on Sunday, Aug. 25; a pre-show (7 p.m.) stunt puppet–making workshop at the Advocate & Gochis Galleries on Thursday, Aug. 29; a pre-show (7:15 p.m.) “Meet-the-Artists” celebration at the Advocate & Gochis Galleries on Friday, Aug. 30, to uplift the visual artists whose work is on display at the “Take/Action: Stunts, Spectacle and Queer History” exhibit; a pre-performance blessing from the Los Angeles chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence followed by a post-show discussion on the history of drag on Saturday Aug. 31; a post-performance Rogue Artists Ensemble VIP Fundraiser celebrating 20 years of groundbreaking new work in Los Angeles on Sunday, Sept. 1 (ticketed event/separate admission; information at rogueartists.org); a post-performance conversation with Happy Fall composer Adrien Provost on Saturday, Sept. 7; and, finally, an Action Star Dress–Up event on Sunday, Sept. 8 — come dressed as your own action star and join Rogue Artists for a special fashion runway with prizes for selected winners.

WHAT:
Romance, stunts… and puppets. Rogue Artists Ensemble, celebrated for creating original, immersive, multi-dimensional experiences known as “hyper-theater,” presents Happy Fall: A Queer Stunt Spectacular in a co-production with the Los Angeles LGBT Center and Contemporary American Theater. Following the professional and romantic rise and fall of two queer, closeted stuntmen in the Hollywood world of faux masculinity, this world premiere play places the intoxication of film trickery and its toll on the body and psyche center stage through life-size and miniature puppetry, live video, cinematic illusions and heart-pumping physical acts. Based on true-life stories and direct testimonies, this exuberant production is a joyful tribute to the resiliency of the LGBTQIA+ community. Happy Fall illuminates issues of racial and cultural identity in the industry and uncovers the real price of a love story, unmasking the importance — and danger — of being true to oneself. Coinciding with the production and sure to expand the experience, the Los Angeles LGBT Center’s Advocate & Gochis Galleries presents a visual and mixed media art exhibit titled “Take/Action: Stunts, Spectacle and Queer History in Hollywood.”

WHO:
• Written by Lisa Sanaye Dring
• Conceived and Directed by Sean Cawelti
• Co-Produced by Rogue Artists Ensemble, Los Angeles LGBT Center and Contemporary American Theater Festival.

WHEN:
Previews Aug. 10, Aug. 11, Aug. 15, Aug. 16
Performances Aug. 17–Sept. 8
• Thursdays at 8 p.m.: Aug. 15 (preview), Aug. 22, Aug. 29, Sept. 5
• Fridays at 8 p.m.: Aug. 16 (preview), Aug. 23, Aug. 30, Sept. 6
• Saturdays at 8 p.m.: Aug. 10 (preview), Aug. 17 (Opening Night), Aug. 31, Sept. 7 (dark Aug. 24)
• Sundays at 3 p.m.: Aug. 11 and Aug. 18 (previews), Aug. 25; Sept. 1; Sept. 8
• Sunday at 7 p.m.: Aug. 25 ONLY

Special events:
• Sunday, Aug. 18: an Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Affinity event with a “Golden Hour” reception prior to the performance (beginning at 2:15 p.m.).
• Thursday, Aug. 22: pre-show reception (7:15 p.m.) and post-performance discussion, hosted by the LA Guild of Puppetry.
• Sunday, Aug. 25: an interactive stunt demonstration with stunt coordinator Celina Lee Surniak follows the performance.
• Thursday, Aug. 29: a pre-show stunt puppet–making workshop (7 p.m.) at the Advocate & Gochis Galleries; create your own puppet and learn how to get involved in the puppetry community.
• Friday, Aug. 30: a pre-show “Meet-the-Artists” celebration (7:15 p.m.) at the Advocate & Gochis Galleries, to uplift the visual artists whose work is on display at the “Take/Action: Stunts, Spectacle and Queer History” exhibit.
• Saturday, Aug. 31: a pre-show blessing from the Los Angeles chapter of the Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and a post-show discussion on the history of drag. Come dressed to express and join in the fun!
• Sunday, Sept. 1: post-performance Rogue Artists Ensemble VIP Fundraiser celebrating 20 years of groundbreaking new work in Los Angeles (ticketed event/separate admission; information at rogueartists.org)
• Saturday, Sept. 7: a post-performance conversation with Happy Fall composer Adrien Provost.
• Sunday, Sept. 8: an Action Star Dress–Up event; come dressed as your own action star and join Rogue Artists for a special fashion runway with prizes for selected winners.

WHERE:
Renberg Theatre
Los Angeles LGBT Center
The Village at Ed Gould Plaza
1125 N McCadden Place
Los Angeles, CA 90038

TICKETS:
$39-$69

HOW:
bit.ly/happyfall24