Hot Off the Press—Gala Entertainment Update

Tracy Kirwan and Sarah McElroy

SCR Associate Artistic Director John Glore and Gala Executive Chair Sally J. Anderson

Audrey Greenfield and Barbara Cline

Cuisine, Decor & Entertainment and Hospitality Committee member Jane Taylor shows off a dinner napkin.

There’ll be music galore during SCR’s “Stagestruck!” Gala at The Westin South Coast Plaza on Sept. 10. Here’s the scoop from the Gala Committee’s June luncheon meeting.

• A lively ensemble … to provide the beat for the Galleria reception.
• A big band … to entice guests into the ballroom.
• A hip DJ … to select dinner tracks

Later, the band will be back—for dancing the evening away. And for those who linger into the wee hours, the DJ won’t leave until the last note has sounded.

Musical names are still under wraps, but the Gala Committee is ready to announce the big entertainment news—SCR’s “Stagestruck!” Gala headliner will be Nicole Parker, “MADtv” and Wicked star (and SCR Theatre Conservatory grad).

She’ll sing, of course, do a little standup, as is her wont, and reminisce about the years at South Coast Repertory, where she got her start as a member of the Young Conservatory Players.

“I believe my entire childhood was shaped by SCR,” Parker says, “starting with classes when I was seven years old until my last show at age 12. Those were truly formative years.” And they are years filled with fascinating memories that Parker will share when she headlines the SCR Gala.

Meanwhile, SCR Associate Artistic Director John Glore joined the Gala luncheon to fill everyone in on Nicole’s career and share some memories of his own. They include the first time he saw her in rehearsal for Wind of a Thousand Tales—Folk Tales From Far-Away Places, which Glore wrote for the Young Conservatory’s 10th anniversary.

“I had limited expectations for a nine-year-old actress, especially one who hadn’t even completed SCR’s Young Conservatory training, so I was astonished when Nicole took on the lead role in my play," Glore relates. "She was like this pint-sized professional, entirely natural on-stage while also projecting a huge personality and heart in the role. What a gift she was to me in my first venture as a playwright, and again in the follow-up a year later. I certainly wasn’t surprised when she went on to stardom on television and on Broadway.”

Learn all about Parker here.

Words by Peter Shaffer, Music by Mozart, Production by SCR

On May 13, the glorious music of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart wafted from stage to terrace as theatregoers—their rousing ovation ended—gathered at the Cast Party for Peter Shaffer’s Amadeus, the final production of the season.

To put the play in historical perspective, Amadeus opened the 1983-84 season at South Coast Repertory to rave reviews. This revival, more than three decades later, marks another auspicious occasion—SCR’s 500th production.

At the celebratory party, golden balloons, shaped as 500s, flew above while below, partygoers congratulated the actors—who had shed their wigs and Classical costumes, donned 21st-century outfits and joined the fun.

Everyone agreed that the theatrically splendid Amadeus, with its cast of 14 inimitable players was an impressive choice to end the 2015-16 season.

Honorary Produce Sandy Segerstrom Daniels led the praise, saying: "Amadeus was incredible! The cast performed as though they had been playing these roles for months. I hope to come back and see it again!"



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Office Hour" Opens to Cheers at South Coast Repertory

If a curtain had fallen on the final scene of Julia Cho’s new play on the Julianne Argyros Stage, the first line of Party Play would be, “World Premiere sets curtain call record at South Coast Repertory.”

But, since there is not a physical curtain on the Argyros Stage, here’s what happened on the April 15, First Night of Office Hour: the lights went down as the play ended and, after a moment to catch collective breaths, First Nighters rose to their feet spontaneously and applause turned to cheers as the cast took bow after bow…after bow.

During the Cast Party on Ela’s Terrace, thoughtful words from Honorary Producers Tim and Marianne Kay said it all. “Office Hour grabbed us and didn’t let go. Julia Cho’s script and Neel Keller’s direction made the play ‘pop’ in a way you can only understand by seeing it. The topic is something that wrenches many hearts. Julia’s play gives us the ability to consider different possibilities. Sandra Oh and Raymond Lee captured the audience.”



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

Read the Los Angeles Times Sunday Conversation with Sandra Oh
Read the LA Times’ review of Office Hour

Sally at the Helm

SCR Trustee Sally Anderson has been named Executive Chair of SCR’s 2016 Gala, “Stagestruck,” (scheduled for Saturday, September 10 at The Westin South Coast Plaza). And she’s off to a sensational start, assuming the mantle with aplomb and adding Underwriting Chair to her title.

At their kick-off luncheon meeting on March 31, Gala Committee members agreed that Sally is ideally suited to the double-whammy title and all that it entails. A retired business executive, she was managing partner of Ernst & Young’s Orange County practice, and she’ll draw on that successful career in the business world to lead the Gala’s fundraising efforts.

According to Sally, being an SCR Trustee was the perfect segue to leading the Gala. “I enjoy working with all the people associated with SCR because they’re so much fun!”



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Future Thinking" Separates Fantasy from Reality

Or does it?

On First Night of Future Thinking, after an enthusiastic standing ovation, Peter and Chiara headed to the dressing room to step out of Comic Con costumes and into Cast Party clothes—as actors Arye Gross and Virginia Vale. Along with fellow cast members Heidi Dippold, Enver Gjokaj and Jud Williford, they joined the party, hosted by Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar at the Avenue of the Arts Hotel.

There, touches of fantasy abounded—in the gold linens sparkling in candlelight, inspired by Chiara’s “Odyssey” costume, in the “Red Priestess” signature cocktail and even in the “dragon wings” (fantasy-inspired chicken wings) which were among the scrumptious delicacies offered in elaborate displays by the restaurant in its third consecutive season as Cast Party sponsors.

As for the accolades, they were very real.  Among them, these offered by members of Playwrights Circle, Honorary Producers of Future Thinking …

Tod and Linda White: "We loved Future Thinking!  It confronts the "happiness versus success" dilemma with an effective balance of humor and pathos. An important question is addressed with great writing and great acting.  Everyone involved with Future Thinking should be very proud."

Talya Nevo-Hacohen: “So moving to watch the characters move fluidly between reality and fantasy, from desperation to hope.” Bill Schenker: "A wonderful play using comedy to actually tell a much deeper story: people just want to be accepted for who they are.

Alan Slutzky: "The hotel room scenes with Arye Gross and Virginia Vale were brilliantly funny, sad and poignant. The ending left much to the imagination about what happened next, but I enjoy Eliza’s writing so much I would prefer she write a sequel."



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Going to a Place where you Already Are": A Heavenly Evening at SCR

At South Coast Repertory on Friday, March 11, there were lots of funny moments, a surprise or two, some serious discussions and a few tears—onstage and off, when playgoers relived what they had just seen: the world premiere of Going to a Place where you Already Are, a touching new play about the here and the hereafter.

Were any beliefs confirmed or minds changed? Maybe. Maybe not. But either way, there was much to talk about on the stroll to The Westin South Coast Plaza, co-host of the Cast Party.

Playgoers gathered in the refurbished Catalina Room, where they honored Playwright Bekah Brunstetter, Director Marc Masterson, and Honorary Producers Damien and Yvonne Jordan and Betty and SL Huang. Post-show tears finally were wiped away in time to greet the cast—Founding Artist Hal Landon Jr. and his stage wife, SCR favorite Linda Gehringer; another SCR favorite, Rebecca Mozo, and her stage boyfriend, Christopher Thornton; and an angel, that is, a stage angel, played by Stephen Ellis.

Sampling “heavenly” food and drink, First Nighters and their guests lingered into the evening to enjoy the camaraderie and conversation. Among the most enthusiastic were the play’s underwriters.

Damien and Yvonne Jordan: "We love how Bekah interwove so many different themes: importance of family, how to treat people daily, whether living or dying, the impact of believing in something bigger than ourselves—with moments of laughter and tears—which is what life delivers to us. Incredible performances from the entire cast and so beautifully directed by our own Marc Masterson—we could not have been more proud and inspired to be involved with this production."

SL and Betty Huang: “This was another memorable experience for us! From the first reading to watching the play on stage was such a thrill. It was such a joy to watch all of the talented and passionate people who worked together, from the playwright and director to the actors and designers and others. The costumes, set design, lighting and more all were wonderful. Most important to us was watching the play SCR's devoted and supportive audiences, all under the same roof. It was so touching and emotional!"



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

Party Play: Seeing (and Applauding) "Red"

On January 29, First Night of Red on the Segerstrom Stage, the immediate and rousing standing ovation was led by Individual Honorary Producers Sophie and Larry Cripe and Jean and Tim Weiss.  When the applause died down, First Nighters and their guests made their way to the Cast Party, hosted by Room & Board at its South Coast Village store.



Nibbling hors d’oeuvres as they waited for the artists to arrive, guests took advantage of the opportunity to browse the store, which is now featuring the 2016 collection of American-made furniture and accessories, prior to The New Collection Open House held on Saturday and Sunday. 



On the central stairway, young painters, from the mural painting and design classes in Santa Ana College’s Fine and Performing Arts Division, created a painting in tribute to Rothko. As guests admired the work, Professor Darren Hostetter explained that the students had spent the past week painting in the style of the great abstract impressionist—arranged by Room & Board, just for this occasion.

Midway through the party, the Rothko painting was peeled back to reveal another work of art, the students’ painting of Mark Harelik and Paul David Story, who portrayed Rothko and his assistant, Ken.

The party took on an extra jubilance, as guests surrounded the actors and their director, SCR Founding Artistic Director David Emmes, to offer words of praise, led by the Cripes, who said that the eloquent script, masterful directing and dynamic acting captured the tension between an artist and his work to “create a beautiful shade of Red.”

Rothko—and the art scene in general—was what impressed Tim Weiss.  “It seems to me that Rothko was looking for relevance in an ever-changing world. The fact that Rothko's work ultimately became amazingly important and popular seems to have a certain irony, but a good reminder that you just never know what impact, small or large, you have on the world… Red serves as a great reminder that change is important and good.”



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

“Madwoman”—A New Role for Sandra Tsing Loh

On Friday, Jan. 8, 2016, when The Madwoman in the Volvo had its world premiere at South Coast Repertory, Sandra Tsing Loh added “playwright” to her credits which already include NPR commentator, adjunct professor (at the University of California, Irvine), stand-up comic, performance artist and bestselling author.

The First Night audience was with Loh all the way along her bumper car ride through midlife “madness” and all it entails. So were her two sidekicks (who popped up in many guises, both male and female), Caroline Aaron and Shannon Holt.

After the show, the three women—plus an important fourth, director Lisa Peterson—were the stars of the Cast Party, co-sponsored by Seasons 52 at its South Coast Plaza restaurant. The play’s desert setting (minus the Burning Man) was duplicated in the decorations that included delicate touches of sand and succulents arranged throughout the restaurant.

Along with scrumptious hors d’oeuvres, guests were treated to the restaurant's signature “mini indulgence” desserts. Enjoying the food, drink and atmosphere—and leading the cheers for Sandra and the other Madwoman artists—were Individual Honorary Producers Steve and Laurie Duncan.

“We were so impressed at the ability of Sandra and her costars to take her very personal story, and share it with us in a warm, entertaining and funny manner,” said Steve. “The show generated a wide range of emotions that both men and women can relate to and appreciate!"



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

SCR's 2015 Gala: Taking an (Almost) Final Bow

SCR’s 2015 Gala season officially came to an end on Thursday, October 29 with a wrap-up and thank-you luncheon for Chair Socorro Vasquez and her “Encore!” committee, hosted by David Yurman at Marché Moderne in South Coast Plaza.

On hand to offer their thanks were SCR Artistic Director Marc Masterson and Managing Director Paula Tomei. Gift bags at the celebratory event included a (beautiful) jewelry box from David Yurman; and a (beautifully-framed) photo of the committee, along with a split of Le Grand Courtage champagne, from Socorro.

So much to unwrap!  But everyone agreed that the party highlight was watching Socorro unwrap her gifts—a hand-dyed silk jacket and matching enamel necklace and a commemorative book of photos, which she held up for everyone to admire, page by page.

Did we say that the Gala officially ended at the luncheon?  Our mistake!  On November 12th from 6 to 8 pm (just in time for the holidays) Yvonne and Damien Jordan will host a special in-store shopping spree at David Yurman, with a portion of the proceeds going to SCR’s education and outreach programs.  Tell your friends—and shop ‘til you drop!

Finally, Socorro reminded everyone to get set for the next Gala, coming up on Saturday, September 10, 2016. Details to follow!



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

Opening Night Audience Cheers Reprise of Beth Henley’s "Abundance"

At South Coast Repertory on Friday, Oct. 23, playwright Beth Henley was in the audience for the revival of her western drama, Abundance. When she was introduced from the stage, the clapping turned to cheers that finally brought Henley to her feet to acknowledge the welcome for her and for the fiercely funny play that had its world premiere on the same stage 26 years ago.

After the show, Henley and Founding Artistic Director Martin Benson, who directed Abundance, joined theatregoers at the Cast Party, co-hosted by The Center Club.

“I’ve always loved this play and wanted to do it,” Benson said. Then, with a nod to the playwright, he added that directing Abundance was “every bit as delightful as I expected.”

Modern bluegrass music wafted through the autumn flower-filled room as First Nighters and their guests sampled all-American delicacies, including fried chicken and biscuits, and—prepared with a nod to the play—cornbread, lemon pound cake and pumpkin pie bites.

But the conversation centered on Abundance, with past SCR trustees chiming in.

“It was filled with twists and turns—just like life,” said Betty Huang.

“I really liked it, and the acting was incredible,” added Wylie Aitken.

Carl Neisser was impressed with “the juxtaposition of nature’s players.” His remark drew chuckles from his friends, but they all agreed that the characters were well defined and portrayed superbly.

Barbara Roberts summed it up. “A wonderful play, and leave it to Martin—he always comes through with a great production.”



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Vietgone" Opens to Laughter, Tears and Praise

At South Coast Repertory on Friday, Oct. 9, murmurs of surprise were followed by stunned silence, followed by peals of laughter, a few tears and then more laughter—and at the end, a standing ovation. All the emotions a playwright hopes to elicit from an audience were just what Qui Nguyen achieved with Vietgone, his new play that officially opened the season on SCR’s Julianne Argyros Stage.

As theatregoers gathered at the Cast Party, co-hosted by AnQi, there were words of praise for the director, actors and artisans. All were well deserved, it was agreed. But the playwright's new work was what everyone talked about.

And the superlatives flew, led by Honorary Producers Marci Maietta Weinberg and William Weinberg, who have been associated with Vietgone since they first saw it in a staged reading at SCR's Pacific Playwrights Festival.

(Emeritus Trustee and First Nighter Olivia Johnson guessed right when she said, "I bet they feel like proud parents.")

"When Marci and I saw the play at PPF, the minute the lights went down, it was like an electric shock," William said. "We knew it was going to be a hit—and tonight it is."

Guests lingered into the night, sampling Asian fusion delicacies in the restaurant’s captivating red setting.



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

SCR’s 52nd Season Opens With Music and Mayhem

At South Coast Repertory on Friday, Sept. 18, there was pandemonium all around, with food flying, pants dropping, bosoms heaving and identities switching. The occasion was First Night of what has been called “the funniest play on the planet”—One Man, Two Guvnors.

As the skiffle band’s (known as The Craze) sounded it's last note, the Cast Party began, taking its theme (and its food, clothes and hairdos) from the Swingin’ Sixties in Brighton, England. To the beat of the British Invasion (early Beatles), with Union Jacks waving above, guests sipped cocktails and nibbled very “Brit” hors d’oeuvres, including bangers and mash, fish and chips and English tea biscuits.

All the while, pausing only to get their pictures snapped in the photo booth with fun 1960s props, playgoers couldn’t stop talking—and giggling—about the fractured farce they had just witnessed.

Honorary Producers Joan and Andy Fimiano found the show to be “unexpected fun, exciting talent and the skiffle band entertained from beginning to end. We had so much fun and it kept us energized all night.”

Mike Lewis, Regional Manager, Southern California Region of Corporate Honorary Producer US Bank agreed, saying "The play was a non-stop roller coaster of laughs. The main character was an amazingly talented and physical comedian!"



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Encore! Encore!"—Revisit the Dazzle of the 2015 Gala

Guests stepped onto a colorful runway as they arrived at South Coast Repertory’s 2015 Encore! Gala last weekend. Treated to lively jazz music played by Jet Set Quintet in the park, followed by a sumptuous meal and swanky sounds of NOVA Music LA in The Westin’s Plaza Ballroom (where the Bling Divas literally kicked things into high gear), the evening wrapped with dancing in Club Encore! on The Westin’s rooftop.

Costume vignettes at the ballroom entrance greeted guests. The costumes, bright shades of blue, came from SCR’s 1998-99 production of Tartuffe; and that was paired with an “encore” costume from the 2013-14 production of Tartuffe. Many guests enjoyed taking pictures with the costumes.

The beautiful teal and fuchsia colors of the event complimented the array of colorful black ties and exquisite gowns. The evening began as guests sipped on Le Grand Courtâge champagne and signature cocktails created by Tito’s Handmade Vodka and enjoyed tantalizing hors d’oeuvres, such as caviar-topped purple potato crisps and petite lamb chops. Stunning floral centerpieces on the dinner tables were custom creations from Floral Creations by Enzo. The three-course dinner featured a duet of filet mignon and rosemary-skewered shrimp, capped by a decadent trio of desserts that included a pomegranate sorbet and flourless chocolate cake with white chocolate truffle garnish.

During the dinner, cheers erupted when Gala Committee Chair Socorro Vasquez announced that the Gala had raised a projected net of $350,000 to support SCR’s education and outreach programs.

Not to be outdone, Club Encore! on The Westin’s rooftop glittered and rocked as guests danced into the night, with conga and line dancing only part of the fun. Laser lights, Extreme DJ mixing tunes, sweet treats and endless libations made for a memorable affair. Clubbers lounged on the stylish and comfortable furnishings courtesy of Room & Board, indulged in mouthwatering macarons by ‘Lette and cooled off with gelato from Mangiamo Gelato Caffe.



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

See even more photos here.

Rising to the Occasion with "Encore!"

Question: When does the encore come before the show?

Answer: When the show—SCR’s annual Gala (this season, theatrically named “Encore!”)—is preceded by a Patron Party to honor its major donors.

On Aug. 12th, the Patron Party was hosted by SCR Emeritus Trustee Tod White and his wife, Linda, at their bayside home in Newport Beach. The buzz that summer evening was all about the upcoming “Encore!” Gala, which traditionally opens both the social and theatre seasons in Orange County.

Board President Sophie Cripe, Gala Chair Socorro Vasquez, Managing Director Paula Tomei and Artistic Director Marc Masterson spoke briefly to the gathering, applauded the Gala Committee and thanked the generous supporters, who included Bluewater Grill’s Jim and Julie Ann Ulcickas, generous donors of wine for the Gala; Room & Board, providing luxury furniture vignettes at Club Encore!; Diptyque, sponsor of the Gala favors; and David Yurman, host of the Gala wrap luncheon and site of a shopping spree to benefit the Gala, hosted by Yvonne and Damien Jordan on Nov. 12.

Then, as the sun set over the bay, it was time for partying. To music by singer/guitarist Mike O’Bryan, guests sipped Tito’s Handmade Vodka Martinis, sampled hors d’oeuvres—and admired the White’s home with its stunning art collection, much of it by Linda, who works in several media, and keeps a studio in their home.

Everyone agreed that the art-filled setting the perfect place for thanking the Gala Committee and supporters of “Encore!” which will be held in three venues around, inside and atop The Westin South Coast Plaza on Saturday, Sept. 12, 2015.



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

Parties Parties Parties—Revving Up for Gala Season

The Committee: (l. to r.) Jan Seitz Jashinski, Sue Murphy, Sarah McElroy, Patricia Ellis, Sue Hecht, Laurie Smits Staude, Elaine Krajanowski, Socorro Vasquez, Barbara Cline, Mimi Holcombe, Shannon Kennedy, Monica Guillena, Beth Phelps

On Wednesday, July 29, SCR’s always exuberant Gala Committee members got together as a group for the final meeting (and a quick photo) before the official Gala season begins.

And what a season it will be, starting on August 12 with a Patron Party to honor major donors at the beautiful bayside home of Emeritus Trustee Tod White and his wife, Linda.  Exactly one month later (September 12), Orange County’s most fun-loving movers and shakers will congregate around, in and atop The Westin South Coast Plaza for the big event itself, “Encore!,” SCR’s 37th annual Gala.  And that’s not all.  The official “wrap” luncheon—a fun party itself—will be hosted by David Yurman’s South Coast Plaza jewelry store (October 29).  And—specially for Gala committee members in the mood for a shopping spree—Yvonne and Damien Jordan will host an in-store event at David Yurman’s on November 12 to benefit the Gala.

All of this celebratory news was shared with the Committee at its final meeting, which featured lots to ooh and aah about, including Tom Buderwitz’s designs for cocktails in the park, dining and entertainment in the plaza ballroom, and lounging and dancing in the pavilion and under the stars.

For 36 years SCR’s Gala has opened the social and theatrical seasons in Orange County, and the 37th shows signs of eliciting the most applause of all—that’s why it’s called “Encore!” 

Creative Sparks For SCR’s “Encore!” Gala

On June 17, SCR’s always exuberant Gala Committee members got together as a group to riff on everyone’s favorite subject “Encore!”, the Season-opening Gala, planned for Saturday, September 12. According to Chair Socorro Vasquez, while much work on the event takes place at sub-committee meetings, when everyone gathers at the theatre to share plans and brainstorm new ideas, a special synergy ignites.

And there were lots of great sparks at the recent meeting. Leading off, Designer Tom Buderwitz showed his preliminary designs for the three spaces—the cocktail reception area in Plaza Park with colored elements overhead and the SCR building as a backdrop, the elegant ballroom for dining and dancing, and the vibrant rooftop pavilion and pool deck, dubbed “Club Encore,” where guests will enjoy an after-hours club.

Among the exciting news briefs, Socorro announced that South Coast Plaza’s David Yurman will be a Gala sponsor, hosting the traditional wrap luncheon in the fall, as well as a special in-store event in November. Hosted by Yvonne and Damien Jordan, a percentage of the event’s proceeds will benefit the Gala—just in time for holiday gifts!



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

First Nighters Sail Away With "Peter and the Starcatcher"

On Friday, May 15, First Nighters and their guests went on an imaginary voyage. Joining a boy named Boy, they sailed the Seven Seas along with crafty villains, dancing mermaids, fighting prawns and … well, you name it.  The occasion was First Night of Peter and the Starcatcher, the final play of SCR’s 2014-15 Season, and what a night it was!



As Boy flew away (to began life anew as Peter Pan) the audience stood and cheered, the rain stopped and the party began—a tribute to the director, designers, actors and musicians who brought the fantastical play to life.



Ela’s Terrace gleamed with sky blue lights and shimmering sea blue linens amidst a nautical scene. The more adventurous were sighted wearing stick-on “staches” and sipping “Set Sail,” the evening’s signature cocktail (vodka, with cranberry and orange juices). 



Everyone enjoyed sampling fare from Sally Ann Catering and went back for seconds to the cart hosted by Mangiamo Gelato Café.



But the conversation was all about Peter and the Starcatcher, made possible in part by a large and enthusiastic support group that included four individual honorary producers, two associate corporate producers and a media partner.

And what did they have to say about the show?

• Wylie Aitken, Honorary Producer with his wife, Bette: “Mesmerizing! Wonderful! Incredible directing and an extremely talented cast, working with a brilliant script. The whole package!”
• Alan Slutzky, Honorary Producer with his wife, Olivia: “The story is fantastic; fast and funny. The cast looked like they were genuinely having fun up there. Also loved how imaginative the production was; it really allowed the crowd to go along for the ride. Can't wait to bring the kids!”
• Rick Smetanka, representing Corporate Associate Producer Haskell & White LLP: “This was a great way to end a great season. I thought the script was very clever, and I loved how the production left so much to our own imaginations.”
• Joan Kaloustian, representing Corporate Associate Producer MUFG Union Bank: “… A charming and beautifully produced night at the theatre.”
• Mary Marcus, representing Media Partner KPCC:  “Superfun.”

Critics agree! LA Splash magazine called the production “Brilliant!” Read the full review.







Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.



Pacific Playwrights Festival Attracts SCR's Most Fervent Supporters

The most successful weekend in history of the Pacific Playwrights Festival (PPF) officially began on Thursday, April 23rd with a group shot of all the participants—artists, artisans and staff—to commemorate their weeks of work The next day, Honorary Producers and Friends of SCR joined a throng of theatre professionals who came from across the country to see (as advertised!) “seven plays in three days!”

Among the most enthusiastic were the four couples who helped underwrite the weekend of plays, programs and parties: Yvonne and Damien Jordan, Sue and John Murphy, Tom Rogers and Sally Anderson and Tod and Linda White. They led the applause after each reading and didn’t miss a moment of the fun. But they weren’t alone.

Fervent supporters of PPF over the years were back in force. Among them, Vicki de Reynal, whose specially-made “I love SCR” t-shirt was the favorite fashion statement, second only to another de Reynal t-shirt emblazoned with the Hirschfeld drawing of Founding Artistic Directors David Emmes and Martin Benson—who were also there, in the flesh.

Two former board presidents were spotted with their wives: Tom Sutton (with Marilyn) and Tom Phelps (with Beth), and one current board president with her husband, Sophie and Larry Cripe. Board members (present and past) were everywhere, including Sam Tang, new to the board this season, with his wife Tammy; Olivia Johnson who never fails to miss an SCR-sponsored event; and Laurie Smits Staude who misses very few. Nola Schneer drove in from her home in the desert and Barbara Roberts was joined by her daughter Brooke, visiting from Florida.

Barbara Van Holt (who once acted at SCR) brought her friend Carolyn Weinberger and former SCR Marketing Director Marcia Lazer came down from San Francisco. Other Friends of SCR included Hedda Marosi and her son Marc, Jene Witte and Diane and Chimo Arnold.

And those were only the ones we got pictures of. If you were also at PPF weekend and plan to attend in the future, let us know—and we’ll take your photo next time!



Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Mr. Wolf" Dramatically Closes the Season on the Julianne Argyros Stage

After the applause died down on April 17, First Night of Mr. Wolf, everyone walked quietly out to Ela's Terrace, sharing thoughts about the moving psychological drama by Rajiv Joseph.

Carl Neisser, SCR emeritus trustee and member of the Playwrights Circle (the group of underwriters who helped produce the world premiere), summed up his feelings. "When the first act of this marvelous drama was ending, you could hear a pin drop, because we were all on our chair's edge. Mr. Wolf was one of the best plays in the 51 years I have attended SCR."

During the evening, First Nighters and their guests gathered at tables draped with white linen to sup late night fare by Crème de la Crème. White lights, wrapped around trees and twinkling overhead, created an atmosphere reminiscent of the play's celestial sphere. Soon, the actors and other artists joined the party to accept the playgoers' heartfelt praise, which was echoed through the weekend by reviewers.

"Tears at the fabric of deep emotions—and of the universe." — OC Register

"Joseph's script...possesses a multilayered dimensionality which matches the brilliance of the actors." — LA Splash


Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.

"Of Good Stock": A Compelling Family Drama Touches Hearts of Playgoers

On Friday, April 3, Of Good Stock elicited from the audience lots of laughter, a few achingly felt tears—and, in the end, a boisterous standing ovation.

Helping salute the playwright and artists in grand fashion was The Silver Trumpet Restaurant and Bar at the Avenue of the Arts Wyndham Hotel. As the management and staff have done so beautifully in the past, they threw a theme party that both echoed the play’s Cape Cod setting and satisfied the appetites of First Nighters.

Among the treats, lobster rolls, New England clam chowder and Boston cream pie. And the signature drink? A Stockton Smash, made, of course, with good scotch, which the play’s three Stockton sisters (and their significant others) would have appreciated.

The play “buzz” throughout the restaurant included these overheard phrases: “Love, love loved it!” … “I’m still laughing—and crying!” … “One of the best new plays I’ve ever seen!”




Having trouble viewing the slideshow? Try watching it here.