Non-Registered Critics: Ingrid Wilmot
SMART LOVE
It’s got surprises, comedy mixed with some drama and a generous sprinkling of science fiction. Letscher has written a story that is, perhaps, dystopian but feels right of the moment.
Directed by the accomplished Elina de Santos, the actors are in top form and always in character.
Hir
Well respected Bart DeLorenzo directs an immensely talented cast whose performances alone deserve your attendance.
Last Call
The solution to the dilemma may prove controversial but it’s realistic. Long ago we have come to the conclusion that the world of medicine has succeeded in prolonging life but has failed to help maintain the quality of life. This is a reminder.
Pick of the Vine
This year’s bumper crop is filled with humor, eclecticism, poignancy and surprises, so sit back and enjoy, like a glass of nice California Red, White or Rose.
It Is Done
In short, Alex Goldberg has created a play that will, from start to finish, surprise, fascinate and grab you by the throat. Go!
Desert Rats
The talented playwright credits his technical team, Ivan Robles (sound), Jakelinne Gonzales (costumes),Cameron Mock and Emily MacDonald (set and lighting design) for a large part of the production’s success. But he’s being modest because his authorship of this fine work deserves all the kudos!
I am Sophie
If you know the language, you’re going to enjoy this show a lot more than if you don’t. If you know the language, you’re going to enjoy this show a lot more than if you don’t.
A Christmas Cactus
Here’s a Christmas confection for you from the good folks at Little Fish Theatre. It’s not too sweet, very light and easy to digest… Think of A Christmas Cactus as a respite from shopping, rushing, cooking and other stress-related holiday activities.
Finks
Michael Pressman, the son of black-listed parents, directs with a firm and knowledgeable hand and moves the play seamlessly through various locations, utilizing every nook and cranny of the stage. Throughout, Richard Levinson, a successful composer in his own right, is at the keyboard and entertains with appropriate music.
Steambath
There are some scattered laughs here but it was probably funnier and more provocative the first time around, some five decades ago. Paul Rodriguez is one of my favorite stand-up comedians but seems a little out of his element as the Deity. Anthony Rutowicz has a bit as a longshoreman and Shay Denison dances in and out of a scene in Act II so swiftly – blink and you’ll miss her. Gary Guidinger’s set is fabulous and so realistic that when you walk in, you feel like doffing your clothes and grabbing a towel. Sound and lighting are in the capable hands of Christopher Moscatiello and Chu-Hsuan Chang, respectively. I have to say that some of my older acquaintances have held up better than Steambath. Go and see it for its nostalgic value.
Cost of Living
Pulitzer Prize winning , Polish-born playwright Majok is a master of capturing emotions. She writes so well, the audience immediately develops genuine affection both for the disabled and the people who look after them. The cast is extraordinary, under the sensitive direction of John Vreeke.
Radiant Vermin
The cast is exemplary… Sound and lighting design by Chris Moscatiello and Bosco Flanagan, respectively, are first rate.
A Splintered Soul
The entire cast does remarkable work, astutely and knowledgeably directed by Marya Mazor and it all adds up to a soul-searching but never morbid, experience.
UK Underdog
Not only will you be supporting a wonderful cause, START an animal rescue operation but you will be rewarded by eighty minutes of talent in motion. Steve Spiro narrates his life story in a way that will have you open mouthed at his versatility as he creates dozens of characters from his past, with only his voice, body language, facial expressions and attitude.
American Hero
Director James Eckhouse keeps this L.A. premiere lively and watchable. His cast also serves as the stage crew, quickly handling props and furnishings during the frequent black-outs. He presents a lamentable topic in an upbeat production.
On Clover Road
Directed by Holly Baker Kreiswirth with her usual, impeccable style, this is a theatrical straightjacket that wraps up the audience and never lets go. Unfortunately, the ending, which promises to be spectacular, is anti-climactic. But, perhaps Dietz, the much admired playwright, wanted it that way. He does have a message for us: Men Are Beasts.
Native Gardens
Native Gardens will have you grinning throughout our Indian summer. It’s a major upper, works wonders for your disposition and is perfectly legal. Enjoy it soon!
The Man Who Saved Everything
The play is well staged and directed by Michael Van Duzer, if a bit repetitious. There are two cleverly costumed (by Maxine Etchison) “helpers” who glide around in silence, arranging furniture, props etc. But the reason to catch this show is to applaud the performance of David Mingrino, who throws himself into the role of the tormented man with all his heart and soul.
YELLOW FACE
Impeccably directed by Robert Zimmerman (a man who has worked with the best) inspired this amazing ensemble, with only chairs on the bare stage, to rise and shine as they portray dozens of characters, sans costumes or props, utilizing only their talent, vocal inflections, facial expressions and gestures to pull it off… Theatre lovers will sink their teeth into this production, which ends up surprising and enlightening us as to who our real enemy is.
Jews, Christians, and Screwing Stalin
Audiences disinterested in provocative material or think pieces a la Pinter and Albee are tailor made for this show. We’re talking light, lightweight content here, some chuckles but no rolling in the aisles. It also helps to be Jewish, as Yiddish expressions flow like matzo ball soup before and after Yom Kippur.
