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

Odyssey Theatre’s ‘Thresholds of Invention’
performance series presents ‘108 Stitches’

One performance only: Saturday, Aug. 3

WHAT:
Odyssey Theatre Ensemble’s Thresholds of Invention series of first looks at pieces-in-progress by prominent L.A. visionaries presents 108 Stitches, written and performed by Ernie Silva. Silva unveils his latest solo project, a wonderfully seriocomic story about a father who struggles with his own sordid past in America’s pastime as his young son now decides to play the game we all know and love. Directed by Mary Joan Negro and featuring original music composed by Lucas Tamaren.

WHO:
• Written and Performed by Ernie Silva
• Directed by Mary Joan Negro
• Music composed by Lucas Tamaren
• Series curator: Tony Abatemarco
• Produced for the Odyssey by Beth Hogan and Tony Abatemarco

WHEN:
One performance only:
• Saturday, Aug. 3 at 8 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

NEWS RELEASE

Rogue Machine at the Matrix Theatre, 7657 Melrose Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90046

Los Angeles, CA (June 30, 2024) – Laughter takes center stage at Rogue Machine in July as renowned writer and performer David Dean Bottrell returns with the Los Angeles premiere of his latest/greatest production, “Dear Mr. Bottrell, I Cannot Possibly Accept This,” which will be playing in rep with encore performances of The Death of Me Yet. Known for his wit and attributes as an engaging storyteller, Bottrell’s return engagement promises to bring delight to audiences during these memorable comedic performances.

“Bottrell’s storytelling is a mesmerizing journey, unveiling subtleties and deep humor even in the darkest moments. Brings brilliance to the boards” – Broadway World

Buckle up for two fast-moving, compelling performances as Bottrell (Frasier, Modern Family) shares a set of, unfortunately, true stories in “Dear Mr. Bottrell, I Cannot Possibly Accept This,” about life’s traumatic turning points which include tales of ill-advised singing lessons, over-enthusiastic weight loss, and trying to keep one’s sister out of prison. In The Death of Me Yet, he presents an uplifting evening about biting the dust. David examines the topic of mortality with a refreshing blend of humor and warmth. Through his anecdotes about potluck funerals, encounters with chatty EMS personnel, and an exploration of unconventional burial options, he recounts his personal experiences with “the big “D” in a life-affirming storytelling theatrical event.

For “Dear Mr. Bottrell, I Cannot Possibly Accept This,” Bottrell explains that, “after receiving a letter from a highly revered producer, I realized that I’d become part of a huge, embarrassing misunderstanding that could never be corrected. There was absolutely no way to fix it, but out of that weird incident this new show emerged about painful, hilarious, scary and wonderful moments in life when you realize that there’s no going back. The road has forked and now it’s up to us to move forward and invest in whatever this new path is going to be!”

Bottrell continues, “The Death of Me Yet is about something much bigger, I honestly think it came into being because of the pandemic. “We were all trapped in some form of isolation, and constantly being warned about how much danger we were in and to stay away from each other. It gave me a lot of time to think about how I want to spend my time from now on. I kind of think that all of my shows are about the search for honesty, even when it’s embarrassing or reveals me to be the unprepared clod that I am.”

“RAW & UNFILTERED… If you have never had the privilege of seeing David Dean Bottrell tell a story, caution: you may need to bring an extra pair of pants.” – Metrosource Magazine 

David Dean Bottrell is an actor/storyteller/writer whose first solo show, David Dean Bottrell Makes Love, had a sold-out run at Rogue Machine in 2011 (LA TIMES – “Hysterical. Well-structured writing … deeply consoling”). Nominated for Best Spoken Word Show (Broadway World Awards) and a recipient of a Best Solo Theatre Performance Award (Stage Scene LA), David’s additional credits include numerous stage appearances in sketch comedy and storytelling shows at NYC’s Joe’s Pub, Dixon Place, Comedy Central Stage, and Acme Comedy Theatre. TV credits include the 2023 reboot of Frasier, Modern Family, Law & Order SVU, Blacklist, NCIS, Criminal Minds, Mad Men, Justified, True Blood, Castle, Bones, Ugly Betty, Days of Our Lives, and Boston Legal. He wrote the screenplay for Searchlight Pictures hit comedy Kingdom Come.

Rogue Machine is the only company to receive the Los Angeles Drama Critics Circle Award for “Best Season” three times (2023, 2016, 2011). Additionally, they won the Ovation Award for “Best Season” (2017) and in the last 9 years the company has won three Ovation Awards and four LADCC awards for “Outstanding Production of the Year.” Rogue Machine produces new plays, primarily by Los Angeles based playwrights, and important contemporary plays not yet seen in Los Angeles. Nine of their productions have been published by Samuel French, Dramatists Play Service or Broadway Play Publishing, and six of the productions have had subsequent stagings at significant theatres, including Off Broadway, major regional houses and the Donmar Warehouse in London. Four world premieres, Razorback, Small Engine Repair, Lone-Anon, and One Night in Miami… were made into feature films, and playwright Kemp Powers was nominated for an Academy Award. In recognition of its artistic achievement, administrative strength, development of new work and other significant contributions to the field of professional theatre in the United States, Rogue Machine is supported by the Shubert Foundation, The Ralph M. Parsons Foundation, The David Lee Foundation, The City and County of Los Angeles, The Ahmanson Foundation, and The Richenthal Foundation. RMT is a recipient of the American Theatre Wing’s 2014 National Theatre Company Grant.

David Dean Bottrell Returns in Rep at 8pm Wednesday, July 10 and runs through July 21, 2024. Check website for performance schedule. Rogue Machine, in the Matrix Theatre located at 7657 Melrose Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90046. Tickets are $45 (Seniors $35, Students $25). Reservations: https://www.roguemachinetheatre.org/ or for more information 855-585-5185.

Schedule:

EVENT DETAILS FOR CALENDAR: Run time is approximately 80 minutes (no intermission)

WHAT: “David Dean Bottrell Returns in Rep with:

DESCRIPTION: Buckle up for these two fast-moving, compelling performances as David Dean Bottrell (Frasier, Modern Family) shares a set of, unfortunately, true stories in “Dear Mr. Bottrell, I Cannot Possibly Accept This,” about life’s traumatic turning points which include tales of ill-advised singing lessons, over-enthusiastic weight loss, and trying to keep one’s sister out of prison. In The Death of Me Yet, he presents an uplifting evening about biting the dust. David examines the topic of mortality with a refreshing blend of humor and warmth. Through his anecdotes about potluck funerals, encounters with chatty EMS personnel, and an exploration of unconventional burial options, he recounts his personal experiences with “the big “D” in a life-affirming storytelling theatrical event.

WHEN: Opening at 8pm on July 10, 2024

Closing: July 21, 2024

HOW MUCH: Previews $45

Tickets are $45 (Seniors $35; Students $25)