Terrence McNally’s Tony Award-Winning Play “Master Class” at Sierra Madre Playhouse

Sierra Madre Playhouse wraps its captivating multi-week Lunar New Year celebration with Terrence McNally’s Tony Award-winning play Master Class, a gripping theatrical production inspired by the legendary masterclasses presented by iconic opera diva Maria Callas at Juilliard at the end of her career. Directed by Tim Dang and featuring Philippine-born Broadway star Joan Almedilla (Miss Saigon, Les Miserable, The King and I) as Maria Callas, the show runs for 16 performances from February 14 through March 9, 2025, at the historic Sierra Madre Playhouse.

Callas, in the play, commands the stage in a Juilliard masterclass where she offers cutting, humorous, and deeply insightful critiques to her eager-to-please students. While guiding her pupils – each with their own hopes and flaws – Callas reflects on her triumphs and tragedies, from her metamorphosis as a star to her volatile relationship with Aristotle Onassis. Through sharp wit and raw vulnerability, Callas reveals the personal and professional sacrifices required to pursue greatness. Her impassioned teachings and poignant reflections, remind us of the profound impact that art can have on individuals and society.

In addition to Almedilla, the cast includes Korean American soprano Joanna Kim (Sophie; 1st Soprano); actress Francesca Ling (Sharon; 2nd Soprano); opera singer Kurt Kanazawa (Tony; Tenor); composer/conductor/pianist Joshua Foy (Music Director/Manny, The Accompanist); Mexican American singer/actor Ricardo Mota (Stagehand/Tony understudy); Filipina-American vocalist Mariah Rae (Sophie & Sharon understudy); Kit DeZolt (Stagehand understudy).

The show times are Fridays, at 8 pm; Saturdays at 2 pm and 8 pm; and Sundays at 4 pm. (Full schedule: Friday, February 14, 8 pm; Saturday, February 15, 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday, February 16, 4 pm; Friday, February 21, 8 pm; Saturday, February 22, 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday, February 23, 4 pm; Friday, February 28, 8 pm; Saturday, March 1, 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday, March 2, 4 pm; Friday, March 7, 8 pm; Saturday, March 8, 2 pm and 8 pm; Sunday, March 9, 4 pm.)

Tickets ($12 - $45) are on sale now. For tickets and information, please call 626.355.4318 or visit www.sierramadreplayhouse.org. Sierra Madre Playhouse is located at 87 West Sierra Madre Boulevard, Sierra Madre, CA 91024.