Happy Fall Theatre Friends! Fall is by far my favorite season, and there is something about it that makes me more excited to see some theatre. Here are a few I am looking forward to this month!
*shows with asterisks are produced by companies that have signed the LA Anti-Racist Theatre Standards, encourage your favorite company to sign the standards today! Companies that have signed the standards get prioritized on these roundups!
A Girl Grows Wings by the Latino Theatre Company* part of the Encuentro 2024 Festival.
Oct 10 - Nov 10
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.
Why I am interested: Latino Theatre Company has been producing excellent shows this season, and this Encuentro festival is jam-packed with some incredible and diverse shows (including an immersive show that takes place completely in the dark!)
August Wilson’s The Piano Lesson produced by A Noise Within*
Oct13 - Nov 10
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.
Why I am interested: I have seen several August Wilson plays at a Noise Within and have loved every single one of them, I can't wait for this production. "The Piano Lesson" film is released in theaters on November 8th, so it is a great chance to see the play and movie within the same month!
Green Day’s American Idiot Center Theatre Group* Produced in collaboration with Deaf West Theatre
Oct 2nd - Nov 16
Through powerful performances and immersive staging, the show explores themes of identity and rebellion while amplifying the voices of Deaf and multi-cultural communities. With nods to contemporary culture, this electrifying interpretation pushes boundaries and celebrates the diversity of human experience. Join us for a bold and reimagined take on a modern-day classic like you’ve never seen—or heard—before.
I saw it! - Would Recommend! I am excited to see Snehal Desai's directorial debut with Center Theatre Group as the new artistic director. I am also a huge Green Day fan. Also, after I missed their Spring Awakening production, I vowed never to miss another Deaf West show.
The Importance of Being Earnest produced by Antaeus Theatre Company*
Oct13 - Nov 18
When bachelors Jack and Algernon both create alter egos, the lies quickly spiral into chaos, hilarity, cucumber sandwiches, and Victorian handbags.
Oscar Wilde’s “Trivial Comedy for Serious People,” with its sparkling wit, quotable lines, and unforgettable characters promises to be just the antidote for our own troubling times. Antaeus Company member Gigi Bermingham (You Can't Take It With You) helms this delightful high farce.
Why I am interested: I love this show, and have been a fan of Antaeus productions for a while, so I am excited to see their take on this classic.
Fiddler on the Roof at La Mirada Theatre
Nov 8 - Dec 1
Jason Alexander as “Tevye.” Overflowing with musical hits you know and love, including “Tradition,” “Sunrise, Sunset,” “If I Were A Rich Man,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and “To Life (L’Chaim!),” Fiddler on the Roof is the heartwarming story of fathers and daughters, husbands and wives, and life, love and laughter. Our beautiful production will introduce a new generation to this uplifting celebration that raises its cup to joy! To love! To life!
Why I am interested: This classic musical is very important to my partner's family, so I am excited to see a new production of it in a gorgeous theatre like La Mirada. Also, I love that Jason Alexander is bringing this production to life (L'Chaim).
Pacific Overtures by Stephen Sondheim produced by East West Players*
Nov 7 - Dec 1
1853, and it’s the end of the world. Commodore Matthew C. Perry intends to open the gates of isolationist Japan. When Samurai Kayama and America-loving fisherman Manjiro are tasked with meeting the American gunboat docked on the coast of Kanagawa, little could they know that they would irreversibly change the “Floating Kingdom.”
Why I am interested: This is one of the biggest musicals East West Players has done in years. This is also the first official production under the new leadership of Lily Tung Crystal. This is also a Sondheim show I have never seen, and I am excited to see it through the lens and direction of Tim Dang.
La Cage aux Folles produced by Pasadena Playhouse*
Nov - Dec 15
Beautiful. Bawdy. Bizarre. Welcome to La Cage aux Folles, the hottest drag club in St. Tropez and one of theater’s all-time biggest hits. Experience the groundbreaking musical comedy with a heartfelt score by Jerry Herman (Hello, Dolly!, Mame) and a hilarious script by Harvey Fierstein (Torch Song Trilogy). The Tony Award-winning musical comes to life in this all-new Playhouse extravaganza.
Why I am interested: SAM. PINKLETON. Respectfully, I am obsessed with this man. He did the choreography for my partner's favorite show "Natasha, Pierre, & The Great Comet of 1812" and the choreography for my favorite show "Here We Are." He also directed the wonderfully absurd "Pasadena Playhouse Holiday Spectacular." I am extremely excited to see his direction of "Oh Mary!" on Broadway in December and feel confident I am going to love this production of "La Cage aux Folles".
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