Performing Arts Happenings

 In San Diego, L.A County and New York

These first months of the year are coming in strong. In addition to everything else, companies and events are still taking place, bringing smiles and thoughts to our lives. Here are some events that landed in the From Another Zero inbox. If you would like your event to be considered, please email us

San Diego

From movies to stand-up, music, and RuPaul's Drag Race watch parties, the Clark Cabaret at Diversionary Theatre offers drinks and live mostly free, queer-themed entertainment. HOURS: Wednesday through Saturday from 5:00 PM to close, Sunday from 1:00 PM - 7:00 PM. Most events are FREE and have open seating! 

Leandra Ellis-Gaston (Sugar) and Matt Loehr (Joe). Photo by Matthew Murphy.

Tony-Winning Team Brings Some Like It Hot Home! Part of Broadway San Diego's 47th Season, performances will run at the San Diego Civic Theatre from January 28th to February 2.

Set in Chicago when Prohibition has everyone thirsty for a little excitement, SOME LIKE IT HOT is the “glorious, big, high-kicking” (Associated Press) story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. Directed and choreographed by Casey Nicholaw and featuring costume designs by Gregg Barnes—both proud San Diego Junior Theatre alums—this Tony Award-winning duo has made Some Like It Hot the name on everyone’s lips!

Cygnet Theatre Announced the Cast and Creative Team of Other Desert Cities. Performances will run in Old Town from February 5 to March 2

When Brooke Wyeth returns to her family’s upscale Palm Springs home after a six-year absence to celebrate Christmas, she brings more than just holiday cheer. Armed with a tell-all memoir that resurrects a pivotal and tragic event from the family’s past, Brooke draws a line in the sand, daring her parents, brother, and aunt to confront their buried secrets. As the family unravels in the face of this explosive revelation, tensions soar, and loyalties are tested. With biting wit and razor-sharp insight, Other Desert Cities promises a riveting exploration of family dynamics that will leave you on the edge of your seat. The cast features Rosina Reynolds (Angels in America) as Polly, Melanie Lora Meltzer as Brooke, Alan Rust as Lyman, Debra Wanger (Angels in America) as Silda, and Geoffrey Ulysses Geissinger as Trip.

It's an exciting year for Cygnet as they will be moving to a new space in Liberty Station, where their season 21 will take place this coming September. Titles include Follies, Vanya and Sonya and Masha and Spike, A Christmas Carol, Cygnet’s A Magical Holiday: Christmas at The Joan, Somewhere Over The Border, The Lehman Trilogy, and The SpongeBob Musical.


OnStage Playhouse Presents the San Diego Premiere of Alabaster From February 7 to March 2 in Chula Vista.

Starring Amy Dell, Vic Terry, Ray-Anna Ranae, and Jillian Jones, Alabaster follows the journey of June, a reclusive folk artist scarred by tragedy, and Alice, a world-renowned photographer who specializes in capturing the stories of women with physical and emotional scars. As their paths intertwine, both women confront their pain, vulnerabilities, and the transformative power of art and compassion.


Trinity Theatre Company announced its 13th Grown Up Stage (GUS) season under the guidance of Artistic Director Sean Boyd. Titles include The Seussification of Romeo and Juliet, 3rd Annual New Works Festival - 2025, and Monty Python's Edukational Show.

Located in the  Mission Valley Mall at 1640 Camino Del Rio North, Suite 129, San Diego, CA 92108.


Scripps Ranch Theatre Announces the San Diego Premier of WHITE. By James Ijames, the 2022 Pulitzer Prize Winning Playwright of Fat Ham. Directed by Yolanda Marie Franklin. Performance dates: February 14 - March 9.

Gus is a painter who desperately wants to show his art at the prominent and renowned Parnell Museum. Vanessa is an actress with the qualities he needs to make it happen. With the help of his boyfriend, Tanner, and his inner diva, St Diana of Detroit, Gus and Vanessa weave through a comedic story that explores privilege in the art world. White is filled with twists and surprises, subverting expectations as it illuminates contemporary culture. White performs in one act without intermission (Run time 80 minutes). CONTENT ADVISORY: Contains adult themes, strong language, and physical intimacy.

Ivan Hernandez. Photo Courtesy La Jolla Playhouse

La Jolla Playhouse announced Ivan Hernandez (Playhouse’s Zhivago, Broadway’s Dear Evan Hansen) will play President Abraham Lincoln in its upcoming world premiere of 3 Summers of Lincoln, book by Joe DiPietro; lyrics by Daniel J. Watts and Joe DiPietro; music by Crystal Monee Hall; choreography by Jon Rua and Daniel J. Watts; and directed by Christopher Ashley, the Rich Family Artistic Director of La Jolla Playhouse. The production will run from February 18 to March 23 in the Playhouse’s Mandell Weiss Theatre. 

3 Summers of Lincoln is a gripping new musical that tells the inspirational story of one of the most important friendships in our nation’s history and a divided country coming together. Summer, 1862. President Abraham Lincoln must find a way to end the Civil War. Enter powerful abolitionist Frederick Douglass. If he can meet Lincoln face to face, he can help the president cement a vision of the future that ends slavery along with the war — all while preserving the Union. Just three meetings took place between the two men — pivotal conversations between two brilliant leaders that shaped the course of history. This is the sixth Playhouse collaboration between Joe DiPietro and Christopher Ashley (including the hit shows Babbitt and Memphis). Composer Crystal Monee Hall and lyricist Daniel J. Watts complete the multi-award-winning creative team. With an epic original score blending gospel, R&B, and powerhouse anthems, 3 Summers of Lincoln is the next unmissable world premiere from La Jolla Playhouse.



Oceanside Theatre Company shared its 2025 lineup. Once on This Island, Latin History for Morons, and Spring Awakening. I have not seen a local production of the last two titles, which is exciting. OTC will also have a variety of exciting events at the historic Sunshine Brooks Theater,



Los Angeles

community leader Nobuko Miyamoto. Photo credit: Theresa Chavez

About...Productions presents a unique live event featuring plays created by educationally underrepresented 9th through 12th graders participating in the company's Young Theaterworks' Social Justice Residency. The production titled Seeds of Resistance takes place at the newly completed Roosevelt High School Performing Arts Center in Boyle Heights on February 6th.

Students from the Math, Science, and Technology Magnet Academy at Roosevelt High School interviewed four community leaders whose work in social justice movements inspired the creation of these four new student-written short plays that will be fully staged and performed by these students. The teaching artists who mentored students include Carene Rose Mekertichyan, Brandon Rachal, Robert Paterno, Catherine Dee Holly, and Young Theaterworks Program Manager and Lead Teaching Artist Marlene Beltran along with the theater classroom teacher Jo Anna Mixpe Ley, MFA. Beltran and Ley will co-direct the performance.

The Victory Theatre Center presents the world premiere of Four Women in Red, a provocative new play written by Laura Shamas (Chickasaw Nation) and directed by Jeanette Harrison (Onondaga), about the current crisis of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women in the U.S. Opening night is set for February 14 (International Day of Action for #MMIW) at The Victory Theatre Center in Burbank, where performances continue through March 23. Two low-priced previews take place on February 8 and February 9.

Carolyn Dunn (Tunica-Choctaw/Biloxi, Mvskoke), Harriette Feliz (Chumash), Zoey Reyes (Dinéh and Chicana), and Jehnean Washington (Yuchi, Seminole, and Shoshone) star as four First American women desperate to find missing friends and relatives in the face of apathetic sheriffs and dwindling clues. Are their loved ones lost? Were they taken? Are they even alive? This moving new play celebrates the power of community as the four women seek answers against all odds. Their roller-coaster journey involves mystery, grief, prayer, and moments of sudden joy.

Kamal Bolden. Photo by Daniel Reichert

Something wicked this way comes: ‘Macbeth’ opens Feb. 15 at A Noise Within 

Delve deep into the psychological turmoil of a man fighting from a place of loss and tortured by guilt, fate, and the corrupting influence of his own desires when Andi Chapman directs William Shakespeare's final and darkest tragedy. Presented by acclaimed classical theater company A Noise Within, Macbeth runs February 15 through March 9 at the company’s home in Pasadena. Low-priced previews begin February 9.

Set for this production against the haunting backdrop of New Orleans from the late 19th century through the 1920s, Macbeth may be the Bard's most disturbing play: a macabre tale of witches, hallucinations, ambition, power and Shakespeare’s bloodiest couple. Macbeth and his wife thrash against the rise of their own consciences in a gripping psychological and political thriller that follows Macbeth’s transformation from a celebrated battlefield hero to a bloody tyrant, unveiling the profound darkness that resides within the human soul.

Photo courtesy Fly PR.

Adobe Punk: a punk rehearsal in real-time. Theater production and related lobby exhibit of historic photos by Theresa Kereakes.

March 28th through April 13th at Plaza de la Raza’s Margo Albert Theatre.

A brand new iteration of the original theaterwork co-written/directed by mother-son team, Theresa Chavez and Gabriel Garza. Performed in real-time with original music, this brand new iteration of Adobe Punk finds a trio of young musicians squatting in one of L.A.’s oldest adobe homes in early 1980s Bell Gardens. Inspired by the bands X, Bags, and the Minutemen, the group rehearses in preparation for their debut show. Finding respite and repulsion amongst one another, a fire is starting within the group. Will they be able to harness the flame, or will it burn them down? Original songs by Nina Diaz (music) and Chavez (lyrics), and an evocative set and soundscape by Dorothy Hoover and Sage Lewis, respectively. The multi-talented cast features actor/musicians Margarita Brighton, Isaac Cruz, and Sara Runge.

New York

Blue Man Group, original co-founders Chris Wink, Matt Goldman, and Phil Stanton made their triumphant return this month, performing as Blue Men for the first time in years to a sold-out crowd. Their unforgettable performance marked the beginning of a special farewell celebration for the group’s legendary New York residency at the Astor Place Theatre (434 Lafayette Street).

Fans who missed the electrifying show have another chance to witness history as the co-founders will perform again during a special performance on Friday, January 24 at 8:00 PM. Tickets for this highly anticipated event are available now at www.blueman.com

For over 30 years, three bald and blue men have taken millions of people beyond any language barrier, introducing a new imaginative art form through music, comedy, and unexpected elements of surprise. Blue Man Group’s euphoric expression of shared humanity became a cultural icon thanks to the vibrant New York theatre community and the unwavering support for their unique vision.

Blue Man Group’s final performance in New York will take place on February 2. The group remains committed to their unique theatrical spectacles with ongoing residencies in Boston (entering its 30th year), Las Vegas (entering its 25th year), and a new production opening in Orlando in April 2025. 

Thomas Middleditch, Amber Gray, Bill Irwin, Chelsea Yakura-Kurtz, and Jessica Hecht
©Jeremy Daniel
Eureka Day, a play by Jonathan Spector, directed by Tony Award winner Anna D. Shapiro (Broadway: August: Osage County), has been extended for the second time. After opening December 16, 2024, to rave reviews, Eureka Day will now run through February 16, 2025, at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre (261 West 47th Street). Manhattan Theatre Club—Lynne Meadow, Artistic Director and Chris Jennings, Executive Director, were pleased to announce. 

Eureka Day is a private California elementary school with a Board of Directors that values inclusion above all else—that is until an outbreak of the mumps forces everyone in the community to reconsider the school’s liberal vaccine policy. As cases rise, the board realizes with horror that they’ve got to do what they swore they never would: make a choice that won’t please absolutely everybody.

Sam Kissajukian in 300 Paintings © Photo by Carol Rosegg
Vineyard Theatre
, in association with Sally Horchow and Matt Ross, announced that due to popular demand Sam Kissajukian: 300 Paintings, has returned to Vineyard Theatre (108 E. 15th Street) for six weeks after opening this fall to critical acclaim and sold out audiences.

In 2021, Sydney comedian Sam Kissajukian decided to quit standup, rent an abandoned cake factory, and become a painter. Over the course of a six-month manic episode, he created 300 large-scale paintings, unknowingly documenting his mental state through the process. In this hilarious, fascinating, and wildly original show, Kissajukian brings audiences on a rollercoaster ride that explores the ties between art, mental health, and creativity.

The show is accompanied by a curated exhibition of Sam’s acclaimed artwork in Vineyard Theatre’s lobby spaces, which audiences are invited to tour before and after the show.

300 Paintings was a sold-out hit at the 2024 Edinburgh Fringe Festival and winner of 8 Fringe Festival Awards in Australia, including the Sydney Fringe Festival Award for Best Comedy and Directors Choice Award. Currently playing until February 23.

Also from MTC, Cameron Mackintosh’s production of Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friendsstarring two-time Tony Award winner Bernadette Peters and Tony Award winner Lea Salonga, is presented by MTC in association with Cameron Mackintosh and Daryl Roth. Old Friends will open April 8, 2025 at the Samuel J. Friedman Theatre (261 West 47th Street). Previews begin Tuesday, March 25, 2025. Tickets are on sale at Telecharge.com and at the Samuel J. Friedman box office.
 
The Company of Stephen Sondheim's Old Friends in rehearsal at Manhattan Theatre Club
© Matthew Murphy
Newly announced to join Peters and Salonga are Jacob Dickey (Broadway & National Tour: Aladdin, Company) and Kyle Selig (Broadway: Water for Elephants, Mean Girls, The Book of Mormon). The production also stars Jasmine Forsberg, Kate Jennings Grant, David Harris, Bonnie Langford, Tony Award winner Beth Leavel, two-time Tony Award nominee Gavin Lee, multiple-time Olivier Award nominee Jason Pennycooke, two-time Olivier Award winner Joanna Riding, Jeremy Secomb, Maria Wirries, and Daniel Yearwood. The company will also include Kevin Earley, Paige Faure, Alexa Lopez, and Peter Neureuther.
 
Center Theatre Group in Los Angeles will present the North American premiere of Old Friends at the Ahmanson Theatre from February 8 through March 9, 2025 in advance of the Broadway premiere.
 
Old Friends is a great big Broadway show born out of Cameron Mackintosh and Stephen Sondheim’s lifetime of friendship and collaboration. The two of them came up with the idea during the pandemic, drawing on the many shows that they had done together in collaboration with their good friend Julia McKenzie. Once theatres reopened in London and New York in the fall of 2021, Mackintosh was able to visit Sondheim again and this new show remained something they continued to discuss; but, sadly, shortly after, Sondheim passed away in November 2021. It fell to Mackintosh to pick up where he and Sondheim left off, collating their notes, and structuring the show that would initially become a spectacular star-studded gala at the Sondheim Theatre in London’s West End in May 2022 to celebrate Sondheim’s life and work, and also raise funds for the newly formed Stephen Sondheim Foundation. The gala won Best Theatre Event at the 2023 WhatsOnStage Awards and was subsequently broadcast on TV by the BBC.

¿Negocio Redondo o Amor Verdadero?

Pampa Films y The Media Studio Pro Estrenan "Mesa de Regalos" un Filme Protagonizado por Cassandra Sánchez-Navarro y José Eduardo Derbez 

por Alejandra Enciso

Cassandra Sánchez-Navarro yJosé Eduardo Derbez en Mesa de Regalos

El asunto de las bodas es complejo e interesante. Desde el día en el que la pareja se compromete, luego el anunciarlo, fijar una fecha para la ceremonia/fiesta, dependiendo de las creencias y tradiciones, para después crear la lista de invitados de ambos lados, acompañado de presupuesto y visión, pareciera que lo más sencillo es, la mesa de regalos. Escoger un par de establecimientos, los favoritos claro, con sus respectivos productos que van desde el electrodoméstico más dinámico hasta el edredón de plumas. Pero, ¿qué tal, si se le pudiera sacar todavía más provecho a la mesa de regalos redondeando una suma en efectivo? Esta es la gran predilección en la que se encuentran Antonia (Cassandra Sánchez-Navarro) y Nicolás (José Eduardo Derbez) mejores amigos de treinta y quiúbole, el más uno fijo para todas las bodas, con muchos sueños y hasta potencial, pero con una promesa algo relajada. Nicolás también padece de una reincidencia, detonada por su ex novia Natalia (Nicolasa Ortíz Monasterio).

Nicolás trabaja en una tienda departamental y sueña con lanzar su aplicación para citas de perros que lleva años creando. Antonia, de familia adinerada gracias a los negocios de su papá Ramiro (Ariel López Padilla), es abogada de profesión, pero apasionada de la literatura y añora irse a estudiar una maestría a Sevilla bajo sus propios méritos. Cuando a Nicolás le toca atender a unos novios con su mesa de regalos, entiende el gran negocio que puede llegar a ser, y le propone a Antonia, esta rápida solución. 

Los amigos se lanzan a esta aventura nupcial en la que surgen varios descubrimientos como aptitudes, la conveniencia, intenciones reales, y claro, el verdadero amor. Sinceramente, pensé que iba a ser un petardo de los que tristemente han pululado en el cine mexicano donde la imitación del rom-com gringo termina siendo un pésimo refrito chilango. Pero no, Mesa de Regalos dirigida por Noé Santillán-López, es dinámica mostrando varias locaciones como el centro de la Ciudad de México con Bellas Artes de fondo. Curiosamente se filmó en varios estados como Jalisco, Monterrey, León etc. Y a través de la magia del cine, todo aquello se ve uniforme. 

Sánchez-Navarro y Derbez son una verdadera cura que no se percibe ni caricaturesca ni forzada. La química en pantalla se siente orgánica y a mi parecer, hubo bastante improvisación y morcilla que traspasó el guion logrando quedarse en la cinta. El resto del elenco también está muy bien; y después de superar el shock que Ariel López Padilla pasa de los sesenta años y por ende, ya interpreta papeles de papá de hijos de treinta y tantos, el actor comparte una dulce interpretación de un papá que después de enviudar no halla como llevar una relación sana con sus hijas. Verónica Bravo quien interpreta a Regina, la hermana mayor de Antonia, obsesionada con conseguirle pareja, también es muy graciosa y capta acertadamente la mirada que va de la mano cuando se protege a un hermano pequeño. Gustavo Egelhaff es Diego, el esposo de Regina, quien, a pesar de interpretar al yerno convenenciero, le saca jugo al papel, uniéndose también a la ya encarrilada comedia. Irán Castillo con un papel menor como la wedding planner, muy simpática interpreta aquel rol con el que nos ha tocado convivir a varios como invitado o pariente de alguien que se casa. Daniel Tovar es el mejor amigo de la pareja quien inicia el filme con su propia boda, mostrando sospecha inmediata al saber del nuevo compromiso de los amigos, pero, apoyando como debe ser. 

Entre los roomies con los que vive Nicolás, está Alberto, interpretado por Daniel Mandoki. Al trío de compañeros se le suman Carlos Gajardo y José Antonio Toledano e independientemente que las intervenciones sean muy breves pero chonchas aderezadas con un psicotrópico, me dio gusto ver a Mandoki en otra luz, ya que mi introducción a su trabajo fue Presencias. Una película con premisa interesante pero anclada en un guion mal trecho y pésima realización. El caso es que Daniel se me reivindicó con esta participación.

Evidentemente, este género cinematográfico no es para todos pero, varios se verán reflejados en esta cinta, caminarán por un sendero nostálgico, o simplemente disfrutarán de unas buenas carcajadas tras un trabajo ligero con buen contorno y contexto. 

La compañía cinematográfica argentina Pampa Films debuta en México con este proyecto cuya distribución está a cargo de The Mediapro Studio.

Mesa de Regalos está actualmente en cines tras su debut de pantalla este 16 de enero.

North Coast Repertory Theatre Produces San Diego Premiere of "The Heart Sellers"

A Story that Goes Beyond the Immigrant Experience 

by Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti

(L-R) Marielle Young & Jin Park - photo by Aaron Rumley
North Coast Repertory Theatre starts the new year with Lloyd Suh's The Heart Sellers. A play set in 1973 that explores a new friendship between Jane (Jin Park) and Luna (Marielle Young), two women who came to the U.S. from Asia, Luna from the Philippines and Jane from South Korea, through the 1965 Hart-Celler Act, as one of the lines in the play defines "before it, everyone coming to the USA was pretty much from Europe and white people places but, after Hart-Celler, we can come here." Their husbands are in medical school, and the housewives find each other in a supermarket on Thanksgiving after having spotted one another. During the evening, they share experiences about leaving their home countries to be in the U.S. and what is next, along with ideals.

Kat Yen directs the one-act piece with the two actresses attempting to cook Thanksgiving dinner at Luna's studio. The play is slow, which is not bad, as Suh's writing is nicely complemented by metaphors, and Yen allows each breath to have time and space for the audience to take in and let it simmer. Both Jin and Marielle are flawless, and I did not see a dialect/accent coach in the program, but each imprinted feeling, flare, and familiar references. They had a nice, sweet stage chemistry that was moving. It is funny how non-Americans, regardless of their country, often find an echo with others through pop American references like an actor, a famous Hollywood movie phrase, or a song. For example, as a kid, I learned to speak English by watching I Love Lucy... 

Marielle Young on couch & Jin Park - photo by Aaron Rumley

It was also interesting to see this play in 2025 and about to start a new administration, with a story of two housewives finding friendship while their husbands are working all-nighters in a 1970s context with limited choices, having to settle and accept it. -I believe it to be a little nugget Lloyd Suh added on there as part of the seasonings-

Grace Wong's costume design pins down the 70s fashion, especially with Luna in high-waisted jeans and a long-sleeved top. Jane has a button-up checkered dress with black boots, and both ensembles enhance the essence of each character. The hairdo choices are also fitting, as Luna has a back braid that she plays with while talking, and Jane embraced the Farrah Fawcett-like curls in a half-ponytail. 

The set designed by Marty Burnett brought to life the small space and the focus on the kitchen and living room area where most of the plot develops, having Audrey Casteris's props that went from unique mugs to wine bottles and dishes, making each action shine and be enjoyable, with Matthew Novotny's lighting design that rounded out that cozy feeling and Daniella Hart's sound making 1970's airwaves come through as well as soul train like music. 

The initial premise of Heart Sellers is about two immigrant women and the experience that comes in an attempt to assimilate up to the point of Americanizing a name. Hence, it fits better and is easier for the rest. But the story is also about belonging, community, and fulfillment. Something unique to each individual. 

Currently playing until February 2nd. For more information, please click HERE. 

TuYo Theatre kicks off the theatre year with Bernardo Cubria's "The Hispanic /Latino /Latina /Latinx /Latine Vote"

Directed by Patrice Amon, the play dives into the human psyche with interesting juxtapositions.

by Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti

Photo by Josie Gonzales

Here we are again, kicking another year of theatre, and for me, and in this case, personally, what a fantastic way to start than seeing a piece by Mexican playwright Bernardo Cubria. I read somewhere that Cubria is "Houston born," but no. Bernardo is Chilango, directly from Mexico City. I came across his work in 2023 with Crabs in a Bucket, a world premiere produced by Echo Theater Company in Los Angeles. The Rolling World Premiere of The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote happened at Theatricum Botanicum in Topanga Canyon last year. I was happy to learn that TuYo was part of the premiere dynamic, and they had it set for San Diego.

University Professor Paola Aguilar (Alejandra Villanueva), who specializes in LatinX studies, is in great debt from years of fertility treatments. When THE Political Party offers her a position with a hefty paycheck in exchange for helping them navigate The Hispanic/Latino/Latina/Latinx/Latine Vote, Paola sees no option but to accept. The Party advisors led by Kaj (John D. Culver) are Nicola (Nancy Batres), a first-generation American with a Cuban father, Rebecca (Kylie Young), white and WOKE because she learned Spanish in Venezuela, and Bernard (Kevane Coleman), the only African-American LGBTQ+. The group brings Paola up to speed with statistics and desired goals, starting with interviews with community members led by her. As she is navigating hormone stimulation and embryo creation, Paola faces another reality that is filled with stereotypes and truth to re-discover her identity and what she really needs out of life. 

 Photo by Josie Gonzales
Cubria's writing goes deep into the psyche. In this play, the juxtaposition between U.S. elections, politics, and female fertility hints at what has happened since Roe v. Wade was overturned. On the one hand, miscarriages, infertility, and not talking about it are real, so to shine a light on them feels comforting. There is such specificity in the scenes that it made me prompt the now infamous "if you know, you know" phrase by Jlo. On the other hand, race, ethnicity, and labels, topped off with the identity insecurity bow, are also real in this country. The playwright explores these topics through a unique POV, and this type of writing matches well with Patrice Amon's direction style as the subject matters are tender and handled with precision, care, and just the right dose of comedy, along with its flawless timing. There is a balance in having the play written by a man and directed by a woman, as it should be, right? However, in this play specifically, there has to be a balance. 

Happening at Bayfront Charter High School in Chula Vista, the play's set and props by Samantha Rojales consist of a whiteboard, wooden boxes made out to look like cardboard boxes, and a multi-use desk/transformer contraption that displays immaculate carpentry by John Spafford. Some projections complement audience interaction and participation with Alejandra Villanueva, who carries the show with good rhythm and quick ad-libs. Eliza Vedar's sound pumped key moments, enthralling the suspense and sometimes the anxiety. Villanueva was part of The Henry 6 Corps at The Old Globe last year, and it is good to see her in the lead.- It is about time, too-... John D. Culver has good stage chemistry and prompted his fellow actors. Nancy Batres, who was in Pásale, Pásale, last year, has a crescendo in the role of Nicola with a paced start that went full throttle. I would loooove to share why and how, but then I get complaints about spoilers in my views, so... all I can say is that Batres is FUNNY and won the audience over. Kylie Young delivered an authentic Rebecca with ongoing reminders of her Spanish-speaking self and on-point side-eye, having moments with the audience. I could also see these nods from Amon's direction as this play is interactive and constructive, encouraging reflection. Young is a trained performer who sings and dances; I hope we see more of her work this year. The same goes for Kevane Coleman, giving momentum in each line as Bernard while engaging with fellow actors. Roberto Castillo Jr. is the histrionic wild card playing surrounding characters like the doctor, the Gesell chamber interviewees, and donor candidates. Castillo Jr. is fun to watch and gives layer over layer, going from character to character.

 Photo by Josie Gonzales

Carmen Amon's costumes contoured each of the personalities, going from pants and a blazer for Paola to a flowy long skirt with a very cute belt clutch for Nicola, chunky loafers and checkered button-up dress for Rebecca, sweater, and pants for Bernard, and a full suit for Kaj. There is a playfulness with patterns, which was noted and appreciated, as it is always fun to see a good contrast. 

The one-act, no-intermission piece holds many feelings and questions that reach a catharsis. In these times when the new government will start office, the LA fires are happening with speculation and heartache in between; most of it comes down to us citizens. Each person is part of a community and, as a whole, accompanied by the questions, "What are we doing?" and "Is it enough? Or just the bare minimum?".

Currently playing in Chula Vista until January 19th. For more information please click HERE.

From Another Zero's -Best of 2024- in San Diego Theatre

Embracing a varied array of remarkable adaptations and imaginative choices

by Alejandra Enciso-Dardashti

It would seem that each year, this list gets longer lol. I reviewed 75 plays/productions and saw over 100 this year as I saw theatre in Cuba, Mexico City, Los Angeles -of course, my Tijuana- and New York. Whew! that is a lot!

From Another Zero also won San Diego Press Club Awards for the first time, and that was amazing. 

This rich and filled San Diego theatre year included wonderful adaptations, imaginative choices, and variety. Highlighting companies, actors, and creatives' hard work is truly important. The titles are categorized because, in my world, I cannot put a musical piece in with a straight play; I just cannot...

The one-act plays dominated due to budgets, short attention spans, and addicting scrolling. I love it when stand-up comedians have phones in pouches with zero tolerance. I hope theatres can follow...It also has to be said that, according to a report conducted by the University of San Diego, San Diegans donated (time and money) only 13% during the year for Arts and Culture. I will use this as a talking point everywhere I go and I urge you to do the same.

The following hefty list includes From Another Zero's best in theatre for 2024. 

PLAYS

English-The Old Globe. Starting the year strong, The Globe presented the Pulitzer prize-winning piece by Sanaz Toossi filled with soul, heart, and much truth. Set in a classroom outside Tehran in Iran, four students are enrolled in classes in English for a proficiency exam. Createviley resolved between English and Farsi, the one-act play directed by Arya Shahi truly captured the struggle when being different or having an accent when speaking in another language.

A View From the Bridge-North Coast Repertory Theatre. No still or gray moment in this Arthur Miller Play about Italian-American dockworkers. David Ellenstein's direction was straightforward, with the actors delivering each fact and twist tightly weaved in by Miller, with strong performances that kept the audience glued to their seats. Great, gasping theatre that kept the wow factor throughout the two hours. 

Constellations- This is Chalk Circle Collective's second year as a company. They produce one show a year, and for the second time, they mark the theatre year with their staging. Nick Payne's Constellations is the type of play that stays with you after taking your heart out for a spin and giving it back. Chalk Circle did not only do it justice, they took us to its alternate universe too.

Primary Trust- La Jolla Playhouse. Written by Eboni Booth, this play was one of the best of The Playhouse's season. Booth dives into the life of an older adult who grew up in the foster care system, checking the reactions and -apparently- the coping mechanisms, balancing the story with good people and hard-earned success while not making it feel like a fairytale. It was raw and moving. 

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time-CCAE TheatricalsThe Escondido-based company tackled Simon Stephens's adaptation of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, based on the novel by Mark Haddon, with a plot that takes place in a British suburb where Christopher Boone, a 15-year-old on the autism spectrum, is investigating Wellington's (the neighbor's dog) murder. J. Scott Lapp's direction and Blake McCarty's projection design were true artistic synergies as Lapp guided a lovely cast through this multi-layered play.

Outside Mullingar-LAMB's Theatre. Set in mid-Ireland on farming grounds, this one-act play by John Patrick Shanley features fantastic and delicious theatre scenes with beautifully executed transitions that keep audiences gripped to their seats. It was directed by Robert Smyth, Deborah Gilmour Smyth, and Kerry Meads. 

MISERY-Backyard Renaissance TheatreThis company has proven to be a master of the mysterious and rip-roaring. Directed by MJ Sieber, the stage adaptation of Stephen King's novel had thrills, chills, and spills. Well crafted and directed, it also weirdly delivered a fun experience at the theatre. 

Clyde's-MOXIE TheatreClyde's, a hidden gem sandwich shop and trucker favorite, is owned by Clyde (Tanya Alexander) who thoroughly takes advantage of her employees because they are returning citizens/formerly incarcerated. Michael Wogulis's scenic design, in collaboration with Rai Feltmann's meticulous props, created a visual feast that was a star element in this production. Even though there were some racist undertones in Lynn Nottage's playwriting, this was a hilarious piece under the slick direction of MOXIE co-founder and former Artistic Director Delicia Turner Sonnenberg.

Stir-The Old Globe. Written by Melinda Lopez and Joel Perez, the eighty-minute piece with no intermission takes place around the second year of the pandemic with a Zoom call between siblings Mariana (Melinda Lopez) and Henry (Joel Perez). Henry wants to recreate his mom's recipe for refried beans, which he fondly remembers from when he was little and when the family went on camping trips. Rarely is a commissioned play really ready. Usually, there are gaps, loose ends, or plain things that do not make sense being shoehorned in. This commission and world premiere play was rounded, made sense, and hit the marks. It included a cooking lesson with real cooking, making the production immersive and enchanting. In these times of frequent forced diversity, Stir was truly relatable. BTW, I had an interview with the actors that won first place in the 2024 Excellence in Journalism Awards by the SD Press Club. 

Twelfth Night of the Living Dead, or, What You Kill-Loud Fridge Theatre GroupYes, the title alludes to the sixties horror film Night of the Living Dead. Yet, the piece is -practically- all Shakespeare with some zombies here and there...with more to come in a pop makeover that was original, creative, and entertaining. Just from the title alone, you can grasp the creative wit this company put -to the stage- for their season opener, adapting Shakespeare’s Twelfth Night, an endeavor by local playwright A.J. Schaar, directed by Kate Rose Reynolds, Director of Operations for Loud Fridge. 

Your Local Theater Presents: A Christmas Carol, by Charles Dickens, Again-La Jolla PlayhouseAnna Ouyang Moench's world-premiere piece created some local controversy, showing a behind-the-scenes look at the theatre/entertainment industry through the favorite and highly produced A Christmas Carol. It showed visibility through reflection for those who work in theatre and an excellent learning tool for those who do not. Once the point has been proven, Anna has the play dive back into the magic of theatre with a gasping finale.   
Murder on the Orient Express
-The Old Globe. Edit: I had put this under the Touring Productions category but was made aware that it was not. I did not put it in this category because it was a unique co-production done a few years prior... One of Agatha Christie's top ten novels came to life with a stunningly beautiful and enchanting design where the Orient Express appeared on stage to unfold and show the inside of the train rotating to reveal different parts. Paul Tate dePoo III's scenic design is a true work of art. Not only did it complement the stage, but it was also realistic. The audience felt like another passenger. 

MUSICALS

Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812-Cygnet Theatre. San Diego audiences were gifted an authentic Broadway experience with this musical adaptation of part 8 of Leo Tolstoy's novel War and Peace, focusing on romance and the search for the meaning of life. Written by composer/lyricist Dave Malloy, Cygnet's premiere is directed by the company's artistic director, Sean Murray. Patrick Marion was in charge of the musical direction, and Katie Banville oversaw the choreography. The cast was hot, hot, HOT! No weak link in this production as Sean Murray's direction had a strategic blockage that used the entire house, having the actors move around and interact with the audience. 

CAMELOT-North Coast Repertory Theatre. CAMELOT saw the stage in 1960, adapted from British writer T. H. White's novel The Once and Future King, with music by Frederick Loewe, lyrics, and a book by Alan Jay Lerner. The story references how young Arthur, nicknamed "wart," forgot his cousin's sword, and when going back to get it, he finds one in a stone that he pulls with minimum effort, making him the new king of Britain. The cast performed the 17sh song list with new orchestrations by Steve Orich aligned and with harmony. Music director Daniel Lincoln played the piano live on the stage left. 

Midnight at The Never Get- Diversionary Theatre. A West Coast Premiere with Book, Lyrics, and Music by Mark Sonnenblick, was conceived by Sam Bolen, Max Friedman, and Mark Sonnenblick and directed by Stephen Brotebeck. The story was powerful, and the interpretations activated that power with a two-actor cast and a cathartic reveal. 

Next to Normal-Oceanside Theatre Company. The entire cast made their Oceanside debut with this production. Frankie Errington's direction was paced and punctual, guiding the actors to sync in the role, truly articulate each dialogue, and have it set in. A story that takes place with a family of four that is crumbling. And, doing justice to the beautiful music of this piece, OTC took the live route under the musical direction of Dr. Randi Rudolph, who stood out in the background with a lively conduction and piano playing that was visibly being enjoyed thoroughly.

Jersey Boys-CCAE Theatricals. Seeing big blockbuster musicals get a new local flare through our regional theatre companies always warms my heart. With Jersey Boys, it is a unique, full circle moment as the musical was a La Jolla Playhouse debut in 2004. Lindsay Brooks's casting was on point, and Nicholas Alexander is the most realistic Frankie Valli I have seen, from the look to the voice. Taubert Nadalini as Bob Gaudio is also freakishly close. I also liked Stephen Gifford's set as it stayed close to the original and famous two-story design instead of having it stripped down. The musical came back home to San Diego, making it right.

Fun Home-New Village Arts. The Carlsbad-based company gave new breath to the multiple award-winning musical to reach new audiences and give another opportunity to those who know and love it. Based on Alison Bechdel's 2006 graphic memoir, which she chronicles growing up in Pensilvannya, her strong bond, and her relationship with her dad, Bruce, and her mother, Helen, while exploring her sexuality. Kym Pappas's careful direction, along with Kandace Crystal's intimacy direction in delicate scenes, guided the cast members to embrace this powerful work and deliver. 

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate-LAMB's Players. Omri Schein, LAMB'S associate artist, performer, and playwright, adapted Jacqueline Kelly's young adult novel into a musical, writing the libretto and the lyrics along with composer Daniel Lincoln. With a plot set before the turn of the century in 1889, the soon-to-be 12-year-old Calpurnia Tate lives with her family in a small Texan town. Calpurnia is not interested in learning to sew, bake, or play the piano; she wants to be a scientist and explore! Like anything new, world premieres require marinating, getting worked on, and softening the edges, especially with new songs. In the case of Calpurnia', the songs flow and are catchy. 

The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee-LAMB's Players. In New York's Putnam Valley, six unique teenagers compete in the county's spelling bee moderated by former bee champion Rona Lisa Peretti. The competition begins and is a heck of a time with challenging words, recurring lisps, and fierce edges that bring out character and interesting confessions. The mix of the six students is stimulating enough. At the show's top, four actual audience members are chosen to compete in the Bee. The one-act, no intermission piece was lively with amazing rhythm, the improvs were hilarious, and the wrapping of the true message was strongly present. 

TOURING PRODUCTIONS

DUO0471 Acro Physical Theatre-WOW Festival La Jolla Playhouse. From Taiwan, SUN Cheng-Hsueh and HSIA Ling performed an incredible piece with amazing control, strength, and feeling, having flips, twists, jumps, and anything you can think of with LIU Tzu-Chi's music design that framed the experience beautifully. As challenging as it is, showing the level of difficulty and danger, SUN Cheng-Hsueh and HSIA Ling did it gracefully. WoW marked their first time performing in the United States, which made it even more special.

Kimberly Akimbo-Broadway San Diego. Kimberly, about to turn 16, ages four times faster. Her family comprises not-that-responsible or present adults, yet Kimberly aims to make the most out of life and live, live, live, no matter what! Carolee Carmello Is a total gem as Kimberly displays heart while truly embodying a high school girl. The cast is solid, and despite the tears, the show's comedic relief is on point. The score is by David Lindsay-Abaire and Jeanine Tesori, who made history as the first female composer to win two Tony Awards for Best Score. The first was for Fun Home.

OUTSTANDING PERFORMANCES


Frank Corrado as 
Alfieri in A View From the Bridge. His rendition of the keen and endearing lawyer was flawless, with an eloquent and perfectly timed voice that graced the stage in each appearance, showing the seasoned performer he is. 


Daniel Patrick Russell 
as Christopher in The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time was definitely outstanding. The intention, the physicality, and the delivery were perfection.


Megan Carmitchel
in 
How I Learned to Drive. Carmitchel evokes many emotions in her portrayal of Li'l Bit, never letting go of this character's humanity and confusion from childhood to adulthood, giving truly moving work in Paula Vogel's raw and suspenseful story. 

Nathan Madden as Frank N. Furter in Richard O’Brien’s The Rocky Horror Show is fantastic with an energetic, naughty personality that interacts with the audience, flowing through the whole theatre space while rocking Jennifer Brawn Gittings's hot, sexy costume design complete with garters, stockings, thongs, leather, and of course, stilettos. Plenty of stilettos in all sizes and colors (I salivated). Jacob Caltrider as Dr. Scott, the only returning cast member from the 2016 production, was awesome, mastering that wheelchair with a spot-on interpretation and impressive vocals.


Holly Stephenson
as Gloria in Gloria. This is a nail-biting piece by 
Branden Jacobs-Jenkins, who, through the work, is continuously reporting society's flaws. Stephenson plays the title and another "key" role, displaying histrionic contrast and heart-pounding moments. 


James P. Darvas
 as Chuck in The Harvest. When Darvas hits the stage, there is no playing around. With just the simple trace of preparing a cup o' noodles, the scary church leader gave chills, which was pretty amazing. 


Aubriella Navarro as
Calpurnia Tate in 
The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate in her LAMB'S debut did a fantastic job that drew the audience into the story along with the rest of the cast delivering a nice blockage and rhythm as the piece as well as the music, flowed, and was very charming. 



Lena Palke as Small Alison in Fun Home gave a beautiful rendition of "Ring of Keys" with Rae Henderson-Gray where the house just came down as it is such a revealing and powerful song. Palke was lively and articulate, moving everyone's heart.


Nancy Snow Carr as Rona Lisa and Geno Carr as Douglas Panch
in The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee. Nancy had impeccable comedic timing and creative improv skills, with hilarious descriptions on the spot for the guest spellers that just brought laughing tears. She also picked up interaction with the audience and any sneeze, cough, or bathroom break that came about. Geno Carr teamed up with Snow Carr, and the real-life married couple sometimes could not contain the laughs! All the cast was amazing, but the Carrs took the -Spelling Bee- cake.


Nick Daugherty 
as Ray in The Beauty Queen of Leenane. Daugherty had a more set stage work that showed a good balance between accent/dialect, comedy, and rapport. He was really funny as Ray, and with hardly articulating a smile, he truly grasped the role, reflecting the page-to-stage accomplishment.


SAN DIEGO THEATRE EXPERIENCE HIGHLIGHTS.

I am adding this special and new category because there were two unique, new highlights in San Diego this year, and they deserve their own category:

Henry 6-The Old Globe. One of the most ambitious production projects in theatre, a series of three history plays by William Shakespeare condensed into two: One: Flowers and France and Two: Riot and Reckoning. I admit to having serious doubts about this production, but credit where credit is due because not only is this one of the highlights of the theatre year in San Diego, but it is also a milestone that marked the completion of the Bard’s canon at the Globe. Actors and industry personalities came throughout the run, which was a lot of fun. 

MOXIE Theatre enduring repertory venture with a musical and a play. Different formats with contrasting plots. Only a couple of theatres in San Diego have ventured into this stage pilgrimage, and I am definitely here for it as it adds special value. Credit where credit is due to the MOXIEs and these impressive actresses, who not only demonstrated skill, ability, and amazing memory but also showed what badass performance looks like.

We haven't had these types of dynamics since Cygnet's production of Angels in America. It is not an easy task, which is why it was so special. 

HONORABLE MENTIONS


Beautiful
-Moonlight Theatre.
Going to that space alone involves a lovely experience. The production was synonymous with the show title, having wonderful performances, amazing vocals, and even better projections courtesy of Blake McCarty.


Every Brilliant Thing- CCAE Theatricals. A for effort as the company had an alternating cast for this one-person show with a big impact written by Duncan Macmillan and Jonny Donahoe; directed by artistic director J. Scott Lapp with assistant director Yoni Kruvi. The 70-minute no-intermission piece takes audiences through the life of a person with a suicidal parent. Presented in the round, I would have loved to see each actor perform the same role. Still, the production made an impact.

Fiddler on the Roof San Diego Musical Theatre's production of the Timeless Tale, directed by Omri Schein, was captivating with its heartfelt portrayal. SDMT is known for the amazing performance skills of its actors, with an emphasis on choreography, and this production definitely attested to that with challenging numbers that were performed beautifully.

Pásale, Pásale-TuYo Theatre. A very engaging musical where audiences were greeted with a folding chair/shopping cart and five dollars to spend at the different puestos or stands, from pre-loved clothes to raspados and piñatas; the vendors narrate through mostly song, what is happening at the swapmeet with the owner, Señor Muchascosas, who is raising the vendor's fee. This immersive experience included well-written and fitting songs that created a unique and fun experience.