What the Butler Saw

Mark Wilding’s “The Goddamn Couple Down the Hall (Oh…. and Merry Christmas!)” serves up a deliciously dark alternative to Hallmark holiday fare. Under Charlie Mount’s direction, this comedy-mystery unfolds in a Pasadena condo, where the Woodruff family’s Christmas gathering collides with the tempestuous relationship of their neighbors. Wilding, known for his award-winning television work, brings his sharp wit to the stage. The play’s premise - a family torn between yuletide cheer and morbid curiosity -... Read more →

Daniel Nakawatase’s approach to “Urinetown: The Musical” at the Studio Theater promises a compelling fusion of social commentary and theatrical satire. The production, set against a dystopian backdrop of water scarcity and corporate greed, challenges us to confront pressing societal issues through the lens of dark comedy. Nakawatase’s 12-year experience in theater arts, especially his focus on leveraging the medium for social change and community engagement, suggests a nuanced interpretation of the musical’s themes. The... Read more →

The rise of AI has fundamentally altered higher education. It offers new ways to personalize learning, increase engagement, and streamline administrative tasks. As it evolves, its use in education has grown, with tools that can identify at-risk students, tailor content, and create more inclusive environments. These benefits come with challenges. AI can deepen existing inequities, raise privacy concerns, and introduce ethical issues around surveillance and bias. Integrating AI into education requires a balanced approach that... Read more →

Artificial intelligence is dramatically reshaping higher education. As institutions grapple with how to integrate AI tools effectively and ethically, many questions remain about the implications for teaching, learning, and academic integrity. To explore these critical issues, I spoke with Ryan Lufkin, Vice President of Global Academic Strategy at Instructure, the company behind the widely used Canvas learning management system. With over two decades of experience in educational technology, Lufkin has a unique perspective on the... Read more →

Harold Pinter’s “One for the Road” finds a provocative staging under Miguel Perez’s direction at the Art of Acting Studio. Perez’s approach, which he terms the “West Coast Style,” forgoes traditional rehearsal methods in favor of a more spontaneous, intuitive performance. This radical departure from conventional theater practice promises a raw, unpredictable experience of Pinter’s exploration of power dynamics in a totalitarian regime. Perez’s decision to forgo blocking and dress rehearsals is a bold gambit.... Read more →

The advent of artificial intelligence has ushered in profound implications for higher education, challenging long-held assumptions about teaching, assessment, and the very nature of learning. AI tools, such as generative models like ChatGPT, have already disrupted traditional educational practices by enabling students to complete assignments with minimal human input, raising questions about the authenticity of student work and the reliability of assessments. This disruption has forced educators to reconsider the metrics used to evaluate student... Read more →

Michael Yavnieli’s directorial approach to Scott Organ’s “Phoenix” promises a nuanced exploration of human connection and personal growth. The play’s premise, centered on a chance encounter between Bruce and Sue, serves as a canvas for Yavnieli to paint a complex portrait of modern relationships. His background in both acting and directing suggests a keen understanding of character dynamics, which could translate into performances that resonate with authenticity. Yavnieli’s choice to stage this intimate two-hander at... Read more →

Tom Chiodo’s “Adventures In The Great Beyond” emerges as a kaleidoscopic voyage of spirituality in the post-Aquarian age. This pop-rock musical, set to premiere at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre, combines themes of reincarnation, karma, and self-discovery. Chiodo’s script, complemented by Joe Nedder’s music, offers a refreshing take on the ever-relevant quest for meaning. The story’s unconventional twist — a mother-guru romance that transcends lifetimes — gives us a provocative lens through which to examine intergenerational... Read more →

Abstract Dr. Alexander "Sasha" Sidorkin, Chief AI Officer at California State University Sacramento and founding Director of the National Institute on AI in Society, discusses the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on higher education. The conversation explores how AI could revolutionize teaching methods, curriculum design, and educational environments. Sidorkin promotes integrating AI to enhance personalized and adaptive learning, while also addressing the practical and ethical issues that arise when implementing AI in education. Artificial intelligence... Read more →

Michael Massey’s direction of “Spy for Spy” at the Whitefire Theatre introduces an innovative approach to storytelling that challenges traditional narrative structures. Under his guidance, the play unfolds as a romantic comedy with an experimental twist: each performance varies based on the sequence chosen by the audience, creating a dynamic experience that mirrors the unpredictable nature of love itself. This format, akin to a shuffled playlist, reflects the complexities and nonlinear aspects of relationships. Massey’s... Read more →

Victoria Lavan’s direction of John A. Goux’s “California Soul: A Descendent’s Story” promises an interesting intersection of historical narrative and contemporary theatrical techniques. Her diverse background, encompassing musical comedy, opera, and cabaret, suggests a director adept at navigating various performance styles. Lavan’s task in this staged reading is formidable. She must breathe life into a narrative that spans generations, balancing the historical content with the need for engaging theater. Her experience with the Betty Garrett... Read more →

John A. Goux’s “California Soul: A Descendent’s Story,” adapted from his novel of the same name, offers a fascinating blend of personal heritage and historical narrative. This staged reading at Theatre West promises to unearth the complex tapestry of California’s founding through the lens of Goux’s familial connections. As a former professor of music and mathematics, Goux brings an interdisciplinary perspective to this stage adaptation of his debut novel. The play’s premise - a young... Read more →

Marlon Hoffman’s debut solo album “Holy Matters” emerges as a powerful exploration of resilience and introspection. Co-produced with Davey Johnstone, the album showcases Hoffman’s raw, outlaw voice against a backdrop of seasoned musicianship. The title track sets a contemplative tone, while collaborations like “Suicide Ride” and “Runnin’ Outta Road” inject a rocker’s energy into the mix. Hoffman’s songwriting, particularly in tracks like “Om Namah Shivaya (Lady in Paris)” and “Grandpa Dave,” reveals a nuanced approach... Read more →

“Demolition,” directed by Max Mayer at the Pacific Resident Theatre, navigates the complexities of masculinity, identity, and personal growth within a deceptively simple narrative. The play juxtaposes Doug, a rugged, blue-collar worker, against Paul, a delicate, introspective young man on the verge of adulthood. Matthew Letscher’s script explores the contrasts between these characters, using their interactions to delve into deeper themes of mentorship and the varied influences on a young man’s development. The dynamic between... Read more →

In “TH IR DS,” director Jessica Aquila Cymerman conjures an alternate historical narrative that examines America’s divisive nature with an incisive lens. Set in a world where the Civil War never occurred, America is split into three distinct entities: The Union, The Confederate States, and The Pacific States. This fractured reality forms the backdrop for a gripping story centered on Catherine Shepard, a powerful water tycoon, who must broker a clandestine deal to provide water... Read more →

Mike Teverbaugh’s “The (Mostly) True Story of a Common Scold” is a fascinating look at American history through the lens of Anne Royall, the nation’s first female journalist. This play delves into the fraught tensions of the Jacksonian era, where the influence of evangelical leaders sought to reshape America’s ideological landscape. Royall, portrayed by Dendrie Taylor, emerges as a powerful figure, determined in her quest to preserve the secular integrity of the Constitution. The narrative... Read more →

Phil Hendrie’s upcoming performance, “The World of Phil Hendrie,” at Theatre West promises a unique blend of satire and character acting. Hendrie’s career has been defined by his ability to inhabit a multitude of voices, each a hilarious caricature of societal archetypes. From the lisping Chris Norton to the self-important Jay Santos, Hendrie’s characters expose the absurdity of human behavior through exaggeration. His radio show’s innovative format, blurring the lines between host and caller, further... Read more →

In Ronnie Marmo’s direction of Sam Henry Kass’ Brooklyn’s Way, we witness an intense exploration of artistic ambition and personal downfall, set against the ever-gritty backdrop of Los Angeles. Marmo, known for his character-driven narratives, brings a nuanced understanding of the complexities within Kass’ script. The play’s dual protagonists—Scoot, a seasoned writer caught in a web of his own making, and Brooklyn, a young, idealistic assistant—are navigated with a sensitivity that highlights their symbiotic yet... Read more →

In “Patient 13,” playwright and actor Gail Thomas delivers a dark comedy that examines the human psyche’s complexities, especially when faced with mortality. Set against the backdrop of an FDA study on psilocybin as a treatment for anxiety and depression in cancer patients, Thomas explores themes of isolation, vulnerability, and the quest for connection. Her portrayal of a single woman, who must confront her deepest fears and insecurities following a terrifying diagnosis, is poignant and... Read more →

Abstract This conversation examines AI integration in education, drawing on Jose Antonio Bowen's insights. It highlights AI's potential for personalized learning and creative projects, while addressing challenges like academic integrity and educational disparities. Bowen advocates for an interdisciplinary approach, emphasizing equal access to AI tools and responsible use. Key considerations include balancing AI-assisted grading with human oversight, developing new assessment frameworks, and fostering critical thinking. The conversation underscores the need for a balanced approach to... Read more →

Marcus Folmar’s new comedy, Chicken Stories, serves up a tasty mix of humor and critical social commentary. Staged as a series of vignettes, it examines the role of chicken in Black American culture. Focusing on themes like Black entrepreneurship, generational value shifts, and cultural appropriation, Folmar’s work transports us way beyond the telling of a funny story. The play features a talented cast, including special guest star John Marshall Jones, who adds depth to the... Read more →

Jon Robin Baitz’s play “The Substance of Fire,” directed by Mike Reilly, dives deep into the tangled web of family loyalty and the relentless pursuit of artistic integrity. Reilly guides us through personal trauma, societal expectations, and commercial pressures. At the heart of the story is Isaac Geldhart, portrayed by Rob Morrow, who embodies both resilience and tragic flaw. Marcia Cross brings depth and power to her role as Marge Hackett, a woman ensnared in... Read more →

“Balancing Act,” written by Frank Salisbury and directed by David Datz, recounts the story of an accountant planning to escape with embezzled money, only to be interrupted by a suspicious colleague on the eve of his departure. David Datz, making his directorial debut at Theatre Forty, brings his rich background in directing, playwriting, and acting to this production. Michael Kerr and Starina Johnson star in the lead roles while Jeff G. Rack provided the set... Read more →

Dina Morrone’s “My Uterus, a Womb with a View” is a searing and humorous exploration of the female experience, delivered through a mix of personal narrative and social critique. Morrone navigates the complexities of owning a uterus, shedding light on the often overlooked and misunderstood aspects of womanhood. Her story blends comedy and pathos in a way that both entertains and educates. The play’s structure allows Morrone to navigate through various stages of her life... Read more →

“Poems for Mary” by Lloyd J. Schwartz, premiering at Theatre West, explores the profound and often uncharted emotional territories within familial relationships. Schwartz, renowned for his diverse work, including “A Very Brady Musical” and “Gilligan’s Island- The Musical,” shows us the subtleties of grief, discovery, and reconciliation. The play’s story revolves around two grown children who uncover their deceased father’s secret poetry, revealing facets of his life and personality previously unknown to them. This discovery... Read more →

Hailey McAfee’s direction of Lisa Kenner Grissom’s “here comes the night” brings a compelling vision to this dark comedic drama. The play revolves around two complex female characters, Olivia and Maggie, who are forced to confront their personal beliefs and friendship amidst the backdrop of a weekend marked by an at-home medical abortion. McAfee balances the themes of reproductive rights and female friendship, presenting them with both sensitivity and a keen sense of dark humor.... Read more →

Lisa Kenner Grissom’s “here comes the night” explores friendship, choice, and social pressures against the backdrop of modern digital life. The story revolves around two women—Olivia, a climate science advocate, and Maggie, a social media influencer—who reconnect during a weekend that challenges their perspectives on reproductive rights and personal agency. Kenner Grissom navigates the complexities of female friendship and the stark contrasts between the characters’ lifestyles and ideologies. The play delivers character development and dialogue... Read more →

Bernadette Armstrong’s direction of “The Seahorse” at Open-Door Playhouse combines subtle storytelling with profound emotional depth. This play, set against the backdrop of an aquarium visit, unfolds a narrative of a father sharing the news of an upcoming addition to their family with his young daughter. Armstrong’s directorial choices enhance the play’s intimate atmosphere, drawing us into the personal and transformative moment shared between the characters. The decision to revive “The Seahorse” during Pride Month... Read more →

Tom Alper’s play “The Pitch” at the Odyssey Theatre dissects the ethical dilemmas and personal challenges faced by a single father in desperate circumstances. The story follows Tom Allen, a widower struggling to support his 15-year-old daughter through a morally dubious job in a boiler-room operation selling machine parts. Directed by Louie Liberti, the production features a mostly new cast, bringing fresh energy to this gripping story. Alper’s script is reminiscent of David Mamet’s “Glengarry... Read more →

Catalina Swinburn’s “Healing Rituals” revalidates the place of women throughout history. Swinburn uses weaving as a metaphor for female expression, a practice that has historically substituted for the silence imposed on women across time. Her works, which she calls “anticipated archaeology,” describe the presence and accumulation of fragments that provide new meaning to the whole. The UV prints on Arches Aquarelle, each 105h x 75w cm, depict heads of female stone, terracotta, and bronze sculptures... Read more →

Bernadette Armstrong’s direction of “Wabi Sabi” highlights the delicate balance between past and present relationships. The play, set in a high school library, serves as a microcosm of the bittersweet nature of reconnecting with friends from the past. Armstrong guides Franco Machado and Whitton Frank through a narrative that questions self-acceptance and the acceptance of others. Her direction realizes the emotional nuances of Rachael Carnes’ script, creating a resonant experience for each of us. The... Read more →

“Psycho Beach Party,” brought to life by Co-Director Tom DeTrinis, blends camp, satire, and psychological intrigue. The play’s fusion of 1960s surf culture and Hitchcockian suspense serves as both a nostalgic homage and a sharp critique of the period’s societal norms. DeTrinis captures the chaotic energy and multifaceted personalities of the protagonist, Chicklet Forrest, whose multiple alter egos navigate a roller coaster of absurdity and profundity. The play weaves comic elements with darker themes, such... Read more →

“Expatriated,” co-written and performed by Candace Leung and Dominique Roberts, offers an exploration of migration and the contrasting experiences of individuals based on racial and socioeconomic backgrounds. Staged at The Broadwater (Second Stage), the play captures the lives of an LA lawyer navigating life in Hong Kong and a Hong Kong lawyer adapting to a new reality in LA. Through a series of poignant and humorous vignettes, Leung and Roberts delve into the complexities of... Read more →

Shelley Cooper’s “Jenny Lind Presents P.T. Barnum” blends historical research and operatic performance to reimagine the story of one of the 19th century’s most intriguing figures. Cooper’s portrayal of Jenny Lind, the Swedish Nightingale, captures the internal conflict of a woman who was simultaneously celebrated and exploited. The production examines Lind’s complex relationship with P.T. Barnum, exposing the moral ambiguities and societal challenges of their era. Cooper’s performance transitions between dramatic monologues and operatic arias.... Read more →

“Expect-Asian,” written and performed by Jeffrey Han and directed by Anne Mesa, explores the Asian American experience, focusing on cultural identity and familial obligations. The narrative follows Jack, a young Asian American, as he navigates his father’s rigorous expectations and societal pressures. This coming-of-age story is both a personal journey and a broader commentary on the challenges faced by many young Asian Americans in their search for self-identity. Mesa skillfully handles the intimacy of a... Read more →

Pam Levin’s “Astrologically Screwed” offers a fascinating look at fate and free will. Through a narrative shaped by a psychic’s ominous prophecy, Levin combines humor and existential dread. The play’s structure, hopping between past events and a foreboding future, creates a tension that mirrors the protagonist’s internal struggle. Levin’s performance is deeply personal and universally relatable, as she navigates themes of destiny, love, and self-determination. Chera Marks’ direction balances mystical elements with grounded human experiences.... Read more →

Matt Ritchey’s direction comes to the forefront in an upcoming audio play written by F.J. Hartland and debuting at the Open-Door Playhouse. The narrative unfolds at a party where two men, played by Matthew Scott Montgomery and Kevin Phan, grapple with conflicting memories of a past relationship. The play’s audio format and its exploration of memory, identity, and truth present challenges and opportunities for storytelling. With over 100 directorial credits, Ritchey’s involvement promises a production... Read more →

Art collective Slavs and Tatars have once again demonstrated their ability to fuse historical narratives with modern conceptual art in their latest exhibition, “Simurgh Self-Help.” Drawing inspiration from Marcel Broodthaers’ pioneering work of institutional critique, “Musée d’Art Moderne: Département des Aigles,” this exhibition translates the secular symbolism of the eagle into the mystical and spiritually significant Simurgh. The Simurgh, a mythical bird from Persianate mythology, represents a metaphysical counterpart to the eagle’s nationalistic and imperial... Read more →

Tom Dugan’s “Irish Goodbye” at Dugan’s Backyard Playhouse reminds us of the power of intimate, site-specific theatre. Set in a small New Jersey pub, Dugan creates a narrative of redemption and unexpected companionship between a disgraced cop and an ex-beauty queen. Their encounter on a cold Christmas Eve transcends the confines of the pub and echoes universal themes of loneliness and human connection. Dugan’s blend of dark comedy with profound emotional moments shows his ability... Read more →

“When He Was Young and Pretty” juxtaposes the experiences of two generations of gay men. The production blends humor with moments of vulnerability. The play’s setting - a modest apartment where an older man prepares dinner for a younger visitor - serves as an intimate backdrop for the unfolding dialogue. Lamb’s direction ensures that the conversation feels organic and deeply personal, drawing us into the characters’ shared and contrasting histories. The production provokes reflection on... Read more →

Mohamed Saleh Khalil’s work explores cultural identity, memory, and the human condition by synthesising traditional and contemporary art practices. His art is distinguished by his meticulous attention to detail, vibrant colour palettes, and the seamless integration of various mediums and techniques. His works transcend visual representation; instead, they invite us to engage in a reflective dialogue about the complexities of modern existence and the enduring impact of historical narratives. His use of traditional motifs and... Read more →

“Serendipitous,” directed by Gary Lamb, examines the shared experiences of LGBTQ individuals. Set in the confined space of a malfunctioning elevator, the play brings together a septuagenarian gay man and a young gay man, whose lives intersect in a moment of unexpected intimacy. The minimalistic setting serves as a crucible for the characters’ stories, revealing layers of vulnerability and strength. Lamb’s direction balances the touching and the comedic, allowing the natural chemistry between Franco Machado... Read more →

Jude Lucas’ direction of “If All the Sky Were Paper” affirms her grasp of theatrical storytelling with its blending historical reverence with innovative stagecraft. With her background in theatre and education, Lucas brings Andrew Carroll’s exploration of wartime correspondence to life with a balance of authenticity and artistic vision. The play looks at the letters written by soldiers and their loved ones and requires a directorial touch that honors the emotional weight of these real-life... Read more →

Tanna Frederick’s “Lion Eyes,” premiering at the Whitefire Theatre, looks at a young actress navigating the treacherous waters of Hollywood. Directed by Levy Lee Simon, this one-woman show uncovers the dark and often exploitative underbelly of the entertainment industry, portraying the stark realities behind the glitz and glamour. Frederick, known for her work in indie arthouse films and notable stage productions, channels this experience into the creation of a character whose life mirrors the chaotic... Read more →

Avery Volk’s “Girl in Reverse: A Feminine Rage Manifesto,” premiering at The Zephyr Theatre, melds the deeply personal with the universally resonant. Volk, both playwright and performer, journeys through the landscape of emotional and sexual awakening with a raw, unflinching honesty. The narrative explores the complexities of identity and desire through the lens of a woman experiencing an unexpected shift in her relational dynamics. The interplay of her inner child, id, higher self, and the... Read more →

Janya Govani’s “Convenience”, making its world premiere at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, explores a modern woman’s psyche. An intimate journey through the tumultuous inner world of its protagonist, it reveals the complexities and pressures that characterize contemporary life. Govani, born in Rajkot, Gujarat, India, brings a rich cultural heritage and extensive training in theatre, dance, and music to this avant-garde performance. The production’s use of multimedia and experimental techniques pushes the boundaries of conventional theatre,... Read more →

Gregg Ostrin’s “The Spy Who Went Into Rehab” is a subversive comic exploration of toxic masculinity through the lens of a James Bond-like character. The play blends humor and social commentary. Set in a rehab center, the story follows a spy who embodies the outdated machismo of the 1960s as he confronts his addiction and behavioral issues. This setting becomes a crucible for transformation. Here, the protagonist must engage with a diverse group of self-aware,... Read more →

Dylan Jones’ solo show, premiering at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, takes a deep look at identity and womanhood. Directed by Amanda McCraven and co-created with Allan Wasserman, the production unpacks the complexities of self-perception and societal expectations through the lens of iconic female figures and mythical sirens. Jones’ invocation of acting legends such as Bette Davis, Barbara Stanwyck, and Greta Garbo serves as a critique of the idealized images of women that have dominated cultural... Read more →

Gabriella DeMarco’s one-woman show looks at ambition, identity, and the transformative power of personal spaces. Directed and developed by Jessica Lynn Johnson, this production merges humor, pathos, and a touch of surrealism. The narrative centers around a high school dropout who aspires to become a real estate mogul and Airbnb Superhost in the desert. DeMarco’s character embarks on a journey filled with obstacles ranging from financial struggles to the chaotic realities of home renovation. The... Read more →

“Foxy Ladies Love Boogie 70’s Explosion!” directed by Fritz Brekeller, is an audacious and nostalgic journey through the 1970s that celebrates the era’s iconic music and formidable women. Premiering at the Hollywood Fringe Festival, this rock musical revue captures the essence of the decade known for its cultural upheavals, musical innovations, and flamboyant fashion. Brekeller navigates through over 70 musical numbers, ranging from the heartfelt melodies of Karen Carpenter to the electrifying disco anthems of... Read more →