To Kill a Mockingbird

The first offering in the Production Company's more spacious new venue proves to be a gem. Though Christopher Sergel's 1990 adaptation of Harper Lee's classic novel is imperfect, this rendition flourishes on the strengths of a marvelous ensemble cast and the timeless truths and emotional power of Lee's story. Following an uneven first act, director T L Kolman's production redeems itself in a mesmerizing second half, awash with tense drama, resonantly illuminating Lee's still-relevant themes of social injustice, and her richly atmospheric portrait of life in the 1930s Deep South.

Those familiar with the memorable 1962 film adaptation might be surprised that Sergel's version reassigns the story's narration from a grown-up version of precocious 10-year-old Scout Finch (Brighid Fleming), daughter of widower lawyer Atticus Finch (James Horan), to kindly neighbor Maudie (Ferrell Marshal). Sergel also substantially abridged the narrative, introducing the colorful characters in the first act, thereafter focusing on the judicial-system travesty in which a black man, Tom Robinson (Lorenzo T. Hughes) is falsely convicted of the rape of a white teenager, Mayella Ewell (Margaret Dwyer).

Sergel's literate text and Kolman's assured direction make for a flavorsome and moving portrait, enhanced by interesting characters. As Atticus, a morally upright legal defender and devoted father, Horan deftly projects the man's nobility and quiet strength, which turns into determined aggression in the courtroom. Hughes excels as the railroaded African-American laborer, showing us his dignity as well as his fear and outrage. Three child actors—Fleming as Scout; L J Benet as her sibling, Jem, and charming Patrick Fitzsimmons as their pal Dill—give exceptional performances. Skillfully bringing two unlikable characters to life, Skip Pipo is brilliant as the vile bigot Bob Ewell and Dwyer is equally fine as his lying daughter, protecting her real abuser from prosecution. Additional outstanding work comes from Christopher Carver, playing the ruthless prosecuting attorney and the feared and misunderstood Boo Radley; David Stifel as stern Judge Taylor; Jim Hanna as the admirable Sheriff Tate; Inda Craig-Galvan as the Finches' maid Calpurnia; plus Marshall and Barbara Gruen as local townspeople.

August Viverito's compact but atmospheric set and fine period costumes and Ric Zimmerman's lighting are splendidly rendered.

Presented by the Production Company at the Lex Theatre, 6760 Lexington Ave., Hollywood. Jan. 14–Indefinite. Fri.–Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. Fri.–Sat., 8 p.m.; Sun., 3 p.m. (310) 869-7546. www.theprodco.com.