LA Theater Review

'Neverwhere' Conjures a Dank, Fantastical Netherworld

Robert Kauzlaric’s inventive adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s 1996 fantasy novel “Neverwhere,” from Sacred Fools, sweeps us into a bizarre alternate world below London’s streets.

'The Beaux’ Stratagem' Makes for a Merry Romp

A Noise Within’s hugely entertaining rendition of Thornton Wilder and Ken Ludwig’s version of George Farquhar’s 1707 comedy “The Beaux’ Stratagem” is an utterly charming evening.

'Billy & Ray' Tells of the Birth of Film Noir

Mike Bencivenga’s “Billy & Ray,” directed by Garry Marshall for Falcon Theatre, dramatizes the creation of Billy Wilder and Raymond Chandler’s screenplay for “Double Indemnity.”

'Years to the Day' Indicts the Digital Age

“Years to the Day,” Allen Barton’s rant-filled bromance from Skylight Theatre Company at the Beverly Hills Playhouse, is talky, often static, and full of predictable moments.

Philosophical ‘Smokefall’ Lacks a Dramatic Through Line

Noah Haidle’s “Smokefall,” at South Coast Repertory in a co-production with Chicago’s Goodman Theatre, is a loosely sketched comment on the randomness of an unforgiving universe.

'Mad Forest' Proves Denser and Madder Than Ever

Open Fist delivers a solid production of Caryl Churchill’s 1996 play “Mad Forest,” a fascinating look at Romania’s 1989 revolution, thanks to Marya Mazor’s terrific direction.

'Orange Flower Water' Is Inadequately Realized

The Creative Collection’s production of Craig Wright’s “Orange Flower Water,” which depicts the shattering effect of adultery on families, is diminished by a few weak performances.

Antaeus Company's 'Mrs. Warren’s Profession' Carefully Avoids Stereotypes

At the Antaeus Company George Bernard Shaw’s controversial classic “Mrs. Warren’s Profession” gets a new lease on life by focusing on how little has changed in the last 120 years.

'Lunch Lady Courage' Puts Brecht Inside an L.A. Public High School

In Cornerstone Theater Company’s “Lunch Lady Courage,” a cast of high school students, community members, and professional actors addresses social issues in this Brecht adaptation.

Jefferson Mays Gives Tour de Force in ‘A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder’

In Robert L. Freedman and Steven Lutvak’s delightful new musical “A Gentleman’s Guide to Love and Murder,” at the Old Globe, a commoner murders his way up the ranks of the aristocracy.