This Spotlight focuses on Andrea Stradling, a Los Angeles-based actor formerly in health care public relations who fully understands and appreciates the dedication and sacrifices being made by those on the frontline treating patients in the Covid-19 pandemic. And like so many other actors, the show in which Andrea was performing had to end its run earlier than expected, opening up unplanned time in her schedule to fill with online theatrical opportunities.
There are certain stories that stand the test of time. This is especially true of Louisa May Alcott's novel, a?oeLittle Women,a?? which, although published in 1868, has themes and messages that have remained relevant for many generations.
Now in its third year, California School of the Arts a?" San Gabriel Valley (CSArts-SGV) is gearing up for a sensational season of performances, showcases and special events. Throughout 2019-2020, each of CSArts-SGV's 10 arts conservatories will spotlight the talents of the school's aspiring young artists through more than 60 nights of musicals, exhibits, concerts and more.
Christian Lebano has written his own stage adaptation of Little Women specifically for this production. It combines a cast of established professionals in the adult roles, with emerging young performing artists from California School of the Arts - San Gabriel Valley in the roles of the March Sisters.
Last season's acclaimed, Ovation recommended production of The Gin Game, directed by Christian Lebano at the Sierra Madre Playhouse, will be re-staged outdoors at Will Geer's Theatricum Botanicum, with real life husband and wife team Alan Blumenfeld and Katherine James reprising their roles.
I have a special appreciation for artists who really learn their craft; that surround their entire lives dedicated to observation, listening, learning, searching then discovering, creating, improving, perfecting and twerking it a bit to make it organic and unique. When you have experienced performers who have done it all in their careers in key roles putting together a musical production of this type, it is quite apparent in the outcome. With the esteemed team that is at the 'helm' of this production, Director Josh Finkel, Choreographer Jeffrey Scott Parsons, Costumes Designed by Shon LeBlanc, Lighting Design by Derek Jones, Artistic Director of the Sierra Madre Theatre Christian Lebano, and Live One-Man-Orchestra Sean Paxton; (Google all!) it is full tilt ahead and all aboard for an evening of superb and satisfying entertainment.
Ruby gets off the bus from Utah with 'nothing but tap shoes in her suitcase and a prayer in her heart.' As fate would have it, she is immediately cast in the chorus of a Broadway show. When the theatre is forced to close, Ruby's songwriting sailor boyfriend persuades the Captain of his ship to allow the show to move on deck. Voila! Dames at sea! When the show's lead gets seasick, Ruby may have to go on for her. Will Ruby come back a star? Do you need to ask?
Each year, Sierra Madre Playhouse presents a show especially for young audiences. In 2019, the show is Stuart Little, innovatively staged with puppets, projections and original music. Performances for school field trips start on March 11 with over 3000 tickets sold, but the Playhouse will present a limited number of performances to the general public as well, with an official public opening on March 16. The play is ideal for audience members aged 4 to 10, but their entire families can enjoy it as well.
Ninety-five years ago, writer and activist Upton Sinclair was pulled off a podium, arrested, and thrown in jail for reading aloud the First Amendment to the Constitution at a rally. This violation of the bedrock of American democracy led to the founding of the American Civil Liberties Union of Southern California, now a legal and activism powerhouse.
D.L. Coburn's Pulitzer Prize winning The Gin Game with its focus on two elderly people in a run down nursing facility circa 1977 is rarely if ever revived in Los Angeles. Why? I'm not sure. It requires great actors, but LA does have them. Maybe it's the theme. Too depressing? No excuse! The play is a brilliant, thought-provoking work of art. On the surface it's exceedingly funny but underneath, a seriously disquieting potboiler for seniors. Loneliness, and insufficient finances for decent old age care create a bleak outlook. Currently onstage at the Sierra Madre Playhouse through October 6, real life husband and wife Alan Blumenfeld and Katherine James beautifully play Weller Martin and Fonsia Dorsey under the meticulous direction of Christian Lebano.
