How do you take over a venerated institution and earn respect from the community? Marc Masterson, the new Artistic Director of South Coast Repertory, is well on his way—from my press box, I’d say he’s hit a grand slam in his So Cal directorial debut with “Elemeno Pea,” aplay Masterson gave its world premiere while serving as head of Actors Theatre of Louisville.
Molly Smith Metzler’s frothy comedy pits a pair of sisters opposite each other—earthy Devon and status-seeking Simone—in a beachfront mansion on Martha’s Vineyard where Simone is a personal assistant to Michaela, a tightly-wound trophy wife. Metzler spins her tale (which runs through Feb. 26 at SCR) with wit and originality, and isn’t afraid to wander into a few dark corners when you’re not looking.
In a solid ensemble cast, Cassie Beck takes top honors with her delicious comic timing as Devon, a role she originated in Louisville. Katrina Lenk is a stand out as Michaela, with Melanie Lora providing a nice contrast to both as Simone. Jonathan Nichols (as caretaker, Jos-B) and Jamison Jones (as Simone’s boyfriend, Ethan) are fine in support if scripted more cartoonlike than the ladies. Call 714-708-5555 for tix.
When I finally caught up with Culture Clash a few years ago at South Coast Rep, I wanted to kick myself for missing out on their brilliant, incisive and unique brand of comedy up to that point. While they’re currently under commission at SCR, you’ll have to cross the OC county line to see their latest endeavor, “American Night: The Ballad of Juan José.” It runs through Feb. 26 at La Jolla Playhouse (where I’m headed to see them next weekend) and then Mar. 9-Apr. 1 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City.
“American Night,” written by Clash member Richard Montoya and directed by Jo Bonney (Eric Bogosian’s longtime director), is about a Mexican national who wants to become a U.S. citizen but takes a crash course in American history en route—with teachers like Teddy Roosevelt, Sacagawea, Jackie Robinson and Bob Dylan. If it’s anything like their previous efforts, we can be sure the social commentary—and the humor—is razor-sharp. Call LJP at 858-550-1010 or KDT at 213-628-2772 for tix.
News flash: Longtime Laguna Beach resident Elizabeth Pearson has joined the staff of Laguna Playhouse as Director of Development.
More from Jordan:
Best of OC Theatre 2011
Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo visits Costa Mesa http://shar.es/fG3xg
“Clybourne Park” at Mark Taper, a guide to black Old-Time Radio http://shar.es/flwqq
Mamet's 'Buffalo' loose in OC, 'Orson's Shadow' in Long Beachhttp://shar.es/fWAUp
Where to dine before the show in Costa Mesa—Seasons 52
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