October 2024

Those days of extreme heat seem to have finally ended, but folks can still escape the daily grind of everyday life by visiting one of the area’s local venues to experience the magic of live theater. It’s an awesome experience that people won’t want to miss!

   COVID protocols continue to be dictated by each individual venue so bring a facemask to wear during the show in case the venue requires it. It’s a good idea to check with the theater before attending a show to find out what is their current policy.

The information presented in this column is the latest available at the time of printing; however, it should be verified with the theater before definite plans are made.

Here are the shows that have announced opening dates for this month or are already running:

Opening

“Robert Dubac’s The Book of Moron” Robert Dubac returns to Laguna Playhouse with “The Book of Moron,” his newest Off-Broadway hit described as one of the most “Hilarious” “Intelligent” and “Scorching” satirical attacks on idiocracy since Mark Twain. For those tired of adolescent comedies generated by the mediocrity of television, this fast-paced satire comes to life with precision and wit. It’s comedy on steroids. Think your funny bone can handle it? Robert Dubac’s “The Book of Moron” is recommended for ages 13-plus.

Written and directed by Robert Dubac, it runs Oct. 3 through Oct. 4 at the Laguna Playhouse in Laguna Beach. For tickets, call (949) 497-2787 or visit www.lagunaplayhouse.com.

“¡Pasaje!” The riveting coming-of-age story explores themes of identity, belonging and community through the eyes of Andy on the eve of his 18th birthday. He discovers that everything he believes in – his ethnicity, his family, his upbringing – are lies that have been told to him since birth. These lies lead Andy to South El Monte where he meets a beautiful dancer, Marcelina, and the community patriarch, Don Miguel, who help him unearth long-buried secrets, propelling him to a poignant revelation about the Latin American diaspora and ultimate acceptance of his true self. In the end, he discovers his family is both flawed and redemptive.

Written by American J. Quiroz, with music by Asdru Sierra, and directed by Benjamin Perez, it runs Oct. 4 through Nov. 3 at the Sierra Madre Playhouse in Sierra Madre. For tickets, call (626) 355-4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org.

“Crevasse” Filmmaker and Nazi propagandist Leni Riefenstahl meets Walt Disney in this world premiere. In 1938, German filmmaker Leni Riefenstahl went to Hollywood to find American distribution for her award-winning film “Olympia.” Only one studio head would meet with her: Walt Disney. Ann Noble and Leo Marks star in an astonishing true story of betrayal, Nazi propaganda and cartoons.

Written by Tom Jacobson and directed by Matthew McCray, it runs Oct. 4 through Oct. 27 at the Victory Theatre Center in Burbank. For tickets, visit www.thevictorytheatrecenter.org.

“Little Shop of Horrors” Seymour Krelborn is a meek and dejected assistant at a floral shop who happens upon a strange plant, which he affectionately names Audrey II after his crush at the shop. Little does he know that this strange and unusual plant will develop a soulful R&B voice, a potty mouth and an unquenchable thirst for human blood!

Written by Howard Ashman, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, and directed by Brian Kite, it runs Oct. 4 through Oct. 20 at the Scherr Forum Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets, call (805) 449-2787 or visit www.5startheatricals.com.

“The Orphans’ Revenge” In this wickedly smart musical, we find a selfless heroine sacrificing herself to keep an orphanage from being recycled into a saloon. Originally produced by The Group Rep, this was one of the most successful productions in its 50-year history, eventually wending its way to the Ford Theatre in Washington, DC. It is tongue-planted-ferociously-in-cheek with music that is imminently hummable and lyrics that are wickedly whip smart.

Written by Suzanne Buhrer and Gene Casey, with music by Gene Casey, Suzanne Buhrer and Jan Casey, and directed by Stan Mazin, it runs Oct. 4 through Nov. 10 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets, call (818) 763-5990 or visit www.thegrouprep.com.

“Phoenix” When Bruce and Sue meet four weeks after an uncharacteristic one-night-stand, Sue has this to say to him: One – I had a great time with you that night and two – let’s never see each other again. Thus begins a 4,000-mile journey well beyond the confines of their carefully structured worlds. Bruce is fueled by an overwhelming but undefined compulsion to join her in Phoenix. Sue is reluctantly charmed by his persistence but steadfast in her resolve to keep him at bay. Both are forced to consider a whole new world of possibility though not one free of difficulty and loss. A dramatic comedy about courage.

Written by Scott Organ and directed by Michael Yavnieli, it runs Oct. 4 through Oct. 19 at the BROADWATER BLACKBOX in Los Angeles. For tickets, visit www.eventbrite.com/e/phoenix-by-scott-organ-presented-by-aegis-theatre-company-tickets,-1008626036627?aff=oddtdtcreator.

“Trouble in Mind” The play tackles the harsh truths of racism of the ’50s and ’60s in American theatre. Set during rehearsals for a Broadway show, the story centers on Wiletta Mayer, an African American actress who has long been cast in stereotypical roles. As rehearsals progress, Wiletta’s fight for dignity clashes with the realities of the industry’s racial biases, threatening her career.

Written by Alice Childress and directed by Kimberly Hébert Gregory, it runs Oct. 4 through Nov. 10 at the Actors Co-op’s David Schall Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets, call (323) 462-8460 or visit www.actorscoopboxoffice@gmail.com.

“Heading Into Night: A clown play about …[forgetting]” A clown ode to loss and remembrance is brought to the Odyssey stage, exploring the unexpected humor and discoveries to be found in the loss of memory and deeply honoring the experience of people whose memories are fading.

Written by Beth F. Milles and Daniel Passer, and directed by Beth F. Milles, it runs Oct. 5 through Nov. 17 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (310) 477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“Just for the Record” An intimate evening of behind-the-scenes stories of the greatest songs of rock ‘n’ roll from the composer and arranger who was there in the recording studios. You will hear songs and stories about sessions with Barry Manilow, Dionne Warwick, Louis Armstrong when he recorded “What a Wonderful World” and so many more! You will hear his composition of Barbra Streisand’s “Here’s to Life” as you have never heard it before. Hear these famous hit songs that shaped his musical career. It’s the soundtrack of your life! It is truly a night you’ll always remember, an experience you will never forget!

Written and directed by Artie Butler, it runs Oct. 5 through Oct. 6 at the Debbie Reynolds Mainstage – El Portal Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets, call (818) 508-4200 or visit www.elportaltheatre.com.

“Norwid’s Return” A keen thinker and fervent moralist, Norwid’s work only gained world recognition long after his death. Classical music by the great composers, performed by pianist Łukasz Yoder, illuminates the Norwidean darkness and the complexity of his mind.

Written by Kazimierz Braun and directed by Marek Probosz, it runs Oct. 5 through Oct. 6 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (310) 477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“The Errors Tour starring Varla Jean Merman” Drag icon and award-winning singer and comedienne Varla Jean Merman will return to Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood with her new show The Errors Tour for two performances only.

Written by Jeffery Roberson, Ricky Graham and Jacques LaMarre, and directed by Michael Schiralli, it runs Oct. 8 through Oct. 9 at the Catalina Jazz Club in Hollywood. For tickets, visit www.CatalinaJazzClub.com.

“The Life and Music of George Michael” This dynamically staged concert-style show, which chronicles George Michael’s remarkable musical journey and his deep connection with fans, will tour over 25 cities in the U.S. Audiences will join a true celebration of this icon and experience live renditions of early hits from Wham! as well as George Michael’s illustrious solo career that made him a legend.

Written and directed by Dean Elliott, with music by George Michael, it runs through Oct. 9 at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. For tickets, visit www.BroadwayInThousandOaks.com.

“160 Years of Walking: 1865-2025” charts a harrowing journey from the brutal shackles of slavery to the complex realities of contemporary society through the lens of a single bloodline. The show seamlessly blends traditional dramatic elements with innovative forms like hip-hop and stream-of-consciousness creating a truly immersive theatrical experience that resonates with audiences on multiple levels. The bold fusion of historical fact and imaginative storytelling creates a powerful and thought-provoking tapestry that is both deeply personal and profoundly universal.

Written by David Lee Lindsey and directed by Justin Lord and Veronica Thompson, it runs Oct. 11 through Oct. 27 at the Stella Adler Academy of Acting and Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets, visit www.townestreetla.org.

“Robbin, From the Hood” In this re-imagined classic tale, corporate greed dominates the deceptive game of capitalism. Robbin Woods, a 17-year-old math genius, is given the opportunity to enter that seemingly unattainable world. Once inside, she recognizes the massive inequities that exist and creates a plan to level the playing field because sometimes you have to do the wrong thing for the right reason.

Written by Marlow Wyatt and directed by Chuma Gault, it runs Oct. 11 through Nov. 10 at the Road Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets, call (818) 761-8838 or visit www.roadtheatre.org.

“A Girl Grows Wings” Inspired by testimonials and essays written by young, undocumented immigrants known as “dreamers,” “A Girl Grows Wings” poignantly depicts one girl’s journey as she navigates the fallout her status inflicts on her hopes and dreams. The daughter of undocumented immigrants who fled violence in their home country, Alma’s parents cross the border when she is just an infant. At the age of 18, Alma begins to navigate the world of possibility in the only country she’s ever called home. However, learning of her undocumented status presents new challenges and betrayals. Alma goes on a journey to reconnect with her fractured cultural identity and her familial roots. Triumphing over adversity, she grows her wings in a touchingly beautiful and imaginative style.

Written by Marisela Treviño Orta and directed by Rocío Carrillio, it runs Oct. 12 through Oct. 20 at the Los Angeles Theatre Center in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (818) 761-8838 or visit www.latinotheaterco.org.

“The Wisdom of Eve” an engrossing tale of an unscrupulous ingenue’s rise to Broadway stardom through lies, cheating and blackmail.

Written by Mary Orr and directed by Bryan Rasmussen, it runs Oct. 12 through Nov. 23 at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks. For tickets, call (818) 687-8559 or visit www.whitefiretheatre.com.

“I, Daniel Blake” A powerful, timely and poignant story about people coming together in the face of a Kafkaesque government bureaucracy that refuses to see them as human beings. Daniel is a caring, warm-hearted middle-aged man who suddenly finds himself unable to work. Katie hopes for a fresh start for herself and her teenage daughter. Together, they attempt to navigate the nightmarish unemployment and public housing system while clinging to their dignity and humanity. We are all Daniel Blake.

Written by Dave Johns, adapted by Paul Laverty, and directed by Simon Levy, it runs Oct. 13 through Nov. 24 at the Fountain Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (323) 663-1525 or visit www.FountainTheatre.com.

“I’ll Be With You Shortly” Welcome to the afterlife. Take a number. Carrie has been in a car accident. Becoming aware of her immediate surroundings, she concludes that she’s probably dead. She’s not in Heaven, and she’s not in Hell; she’s in some kind of waiting area. When she inquires, she’s told that it’s “Reception.” While she waits, an assortment of individuals parades ahead of her. Some are directed to a Heavenly paradise. Others will go straight to some level of the Inferno. Has Carrie been a good person or a bad person? She’ll learn her ultimate fate and destination. She’ll be in for two big surprises that neither she nor the theatre audience can expect.

Written by Michael Merton and directed by Carol Becker, it runs Oct. 15 through Nov. 7 at the Loft Ensemble Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets, visit www.neoensembletheatre.tickets,pice.com/ill-be-with-you-shortly.

“Four Top” is a relationship comedy about the sometimes confused, sometimes desperate and sometimes farcical search for love and meaning, and the realization that it is better to have loved and lost than never to have been bitten by a ferret at your ex’s engagement party.

Written by Michael B. Kaplan and directed by Kathleen R. Delaney, it runs Oct. 17 through Nov. 24 at the Lonny Chapman Theatre – Upstairs Stage in North Hollywood. For tickets, call (818) 763-5990 or visit www.thegrouprep.com.

“Ain’t Misbehavin’ – The Fats Waller Musical Show” Audiences will journey back to the dynamic New York jazz scene of the 1920s and 1930s that celebrates the essence of the Harlem Renaissance and the Black musicians whose unsurpassed talents illustrated the era’s cultural landscape.

Written by Murray Horowitz and Richard Maltby Jr., with music by various composers and lyricists, and directed by Paul David Bryant, it runs Oct. 18 through Nov. 3 at the Carpenter Performing Arts Center in Long Beach. For tickets, call (562) 856-1999 or visit www.musical.org.

“Being Piaf” Actress, singer and writer Eleanora Owen channels the “little sparrow,” sharing her life story and repertoire with the audience. Tim Byron Owen directs this original solo play with music that highlights Piaf’s joie de vivre, resilience and triumph over a life of abject poverty and despair.

Written by Eleanora Owen and directed by Tim Byron Owen, it runs Oct. 18 through Oct. 27 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (310) 477-2055 Ext. 2 or visit www.OdysseyTheatre.com.

“The Civil Twilight” A twisty thriller, “The Civil Twilight” takes place over a single night during a once-in-a-century storm when a popular radio personality winds up trapped in a motel room in the Midwest with his biggest fan and a deadly game of trust and recrimination is played.

Written by Shem Bitterman and directed by Ann Hearn Tobolowsky, it runs Oct. 18 through Nov. 24 at the Broadwater Studio Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets, call (818) 761-8838 or visit www.theciviltwilight.ludus.com.

“Murder on the Links” When Christie’s most famous detective, Hercule Poirot, arrives in France in response to an urgent summons from Paul Renauld, he finds he’s too late – M. Renauld now lies dead, face down in a grave on the edge of the golf course he was building. Certain facts do not add up … and when a second body is found, it’s been stabbed in a seemingly impossible way.

Written by Steven Dietz from the novel by Agatha Christie, and directed by Todd Nielsen, it runs Oct. 18 through Nov. 3 at the International City Theatre in Long Beach. For tickets, call (562) 436-4610 or visit www.InternationalCityTheatre.org.

“The Piano Lesson” A captivating story about legacy, identity and cultural heritage unfolds in 1930s Pittsburgh where a brother and sister are locked in a bitter dispute. At the center of their debate is a precious family heirloom – a piano with the faces of their ancestors carved into it. While one sees an important history worth preserving, the other sees the key to unlocking a brighter future. In Wilson’s enthralling prose, this Pulitzer Prize-winning play weaves together elements of history and spirituality, creating a haunting story about reckoning with a complicated past.

Written by August Wilson and directed by Gregg T. Daniel, it runs Oct. 19 through Nov. 10 at A Noise Within in Pasadena. For tickets, call (626) 356-3100 or visit www.anoisewithin.org.

“A Streetcar Named Desire” The Streetcar Project presents Williams’ complete, unabridged text with just four performers, no props and no set. By stripping bare to the bones one of the greatest pieces of American drama ever written, The Streetcar Project has established itself as a genuine underground sensation throughout the past year by astonishing audiences in private homes, a SoHo fashion boutique, movie theatres, churches, barns, warehouses, art galleries and factories in and around New York City. As the ghosts of Williams’ New Orleans prepare to haunt Los Angeles, West Coasters will now have the chance to grab the ticket for which New Yorkers have been clamoring.

Written by Tennessee Williams and directed by Nick Westrate, it runs Oct. 28 through Oct. 30 at an airplane hangar overlooking the LA River in Frogtown (2415 Eads Street) in East Los Angeles. For tickets, visit www.thestreetcarproject.com/tickets,.

Continuing

“Once” On the streets of Dublin, an Irish busker who has lost faith in love and music meets a Czech immigrant who reignites his passion and inspires him to dream once more. Over the course of one fateful week, an unexpected friendship and collaboration quickly evolves into a beautiful but complicated love story, underscored by compelling emotionally rich music.

Written by Enda Walsh, with music by Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, and directed by Michael Michetti, it runs through Oct. 6 at the Rubicon’s Karyn Jackson Theatre in Ventura. For tickets, visit www.rubicontheatre.org.

“Standing By” Through a chance meeting Jeffery, a rambunctious, free-spirited television writer, and Ellen, a concert flutist who is more private and reserved, fall deeply in love despite their differences. But their blossoming romance is cut short by Ellen’s leukemia relapse. Forced to confront their deepest fears and past wounds, they learn the true meaning of love and courage.

Written by Norman Barasch and directed by Wolfgang Bodison, it runs through Oct. 6 at the Playhouse West – Magnolia Studio in North Hollywood. For tickets, visit www.onstage411.com/standingby.

“Demolition” Doug, a blue-collar worker at a family owed construction company, is charged with training Paul, the boss’ gentle, secretive, college-bound son, during the course of a summer renovation project. Their exchanges begin with Doug’s bawdy advice that is comically at odds with Paul’s shy nature. But soon it becomes apparent that Paul is struggling with something far beyond Doug’s purview and experience. This new play is about identity, truth and the courage it takes to break things apart in order to become your own kind of hero.

Written by Matthew Letscher and directed by Max Mayer, it runs through Oct. 13 at the Pacific Resident Theatre in Venice. For tickets, call (310) 822-8392 or visit www.pacificresidenttheatre.org.

“Little Shop of Horrors” The wildly popular story of down-on-his-luck Seymour, who pines for his beautiful co-worker Audrey, at Mushnik’s Skid Row Florists – not knowing the feelings are mutual. When he stumbles across a strange and interesting new plant, it looks like Seymour may get everything he’s ever wanted. But first he’ll have to tackle the sneaky succulent’s unquenchable thirst for human blood in this thrilling creature feature bursting with the sounds of doo-wop and Motown. For Seymour to reap the benefits that his voracious plant promises him – love, fame and fortune – he has to keep the plant alive – with blood.

Written by Howard Ashman, with music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Howard Ashman, and directed by Jenn Thompson, it runs through Oct. 19 at the South Coast Repertory in Costa Mesa. For tickets, call (714) 708-5555 or visit www.scr.org.

“A Going Away Party Play” is a celebration of multicultural identities and an exploration of what it means to leave or lose your home country. The story centers on Mina, who is throwing a party for her closest friends – and the audience. Over the course of the party, the friends play games, reflect on the current American socio-political landscape and discover truths about the story of Mina’s parents falling in love and staying in love while fleeing the Iranian Revolution.

Written by Keyanna Khatiblou and directed by James Fowler, it runs through Oct. 27 at the Boston Court Pasadena in Pasadena. For tickets, call (626) 683-6801 or visit www.bostoncourtpasadena.org/events/agoingawaypartyplay.

Steve Zall, Publisher
Sid Fish, Co-Publisher & Editor