WillCall Home

BECKY'S NEW CAR by Stephen Dietz
How Becky came by her new car, is at the heart of this delightful vehicle you won't want to miss. Becky (Joanna Daniels) is married to a roofer, Joe (Jon Eric Preston) and lives in Seattle with their parasite of a grown son Chris (Nick Rogers). She's employed by a car dealer and, one night while working late, an unexpected customer . wealthy Walter Flood (Brad Greenquist), drops in, ready to buy a fleet of cars for his employees. Although still mourning his deceased wife, he is immediately smitten by the startled Becky and sweeps her off her feet with his offer of a glamorous, new life of unaccustomed luxury. To elaborate further, would spoil the entertainment value of a story that is loaded with laughs, full of surprises in a La Ronde sort of way and exquisitely acted by this ideal ensemble. Daniel projects just the right nuance of bewilderment and purpose. One can hardly imagine anyone else in the part. Preston, every inch the blue collar Joe, is the trusting husband, a good man, happy in his work. Rogers does very well as the hyper Chris, ceaselessly spouting psychobabble (he is a student of psychology and you wouldn't want to land on HIS couch). Walter, the billboard tycoon personified by Greenquist, has unassuming charm and boyish enthusiasm. One can well imagine any woman being captivated by his gentlemanly demeanor. Another worthy member of the cast is Christopher Shaw as Steve, a sad sack car salesman whose mobile face and unintended humor rev up every scene. Excellent performances are also delivered by the beautiful, raven-haired Jules Willcox as Walter's daughter and by Suzanne Ford as Ginger, a nouveau pauvre socialite at the finish line of her inheritance. William Wilday's multi-purpose set and lighting work wonders to transport us to four different locations. Under the direction of Michael Rothhaar, this sprightly production purrs along like a well lubed engine, with sparkling dialogue and amusing audience involvement. Do take the drive in Becky's new car - definitely not a lemon!.

Pacific Resident Theatre, 703 Venice Boulevard, Venice. Thursday -Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $20 - $25, senior and student rates available. Parking lot in rear. (310) 822-8392 or www.pacificresidenttheatre.com. - 8/15

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: No more than five minutes away is THE TASTING KITCHEN, which used to be called A.K. Restaurant. Same ownership but a new chef, Casey Lane, have made it the current fave of the local foodies but they'll squeeze you in before show time. A good looking restaurant, with a buzzing bar scene, contemporary furnishings, a communal table in the center and an olive colored tile wall that houses a slim, rectangular fireplace. The noise level here is in the upper register, I warn you. The menu is in constant flux, on my night there were three entrees, halibut $28, a 35 oz. rib eye $65 and lamb with grapes $22. We went with four small plates, ample for two and all delectable. Paté, a coarse, country style delight, comes with a puddle of grainy mustard and two slices of deli quality dill pickle, $12. Butter lettuce salad with fresh tarragon, served upright like a lovely, green rose, is sprinkled with blue cheese, $11. A tiny portion of beef carpaccio has some olive tapenade and on the perimeter of the plate, daubs of thistle honey, not, in my opinion, the ideal garnish for this savory dish and a steep $15. Finally, an order of clams in an unusual but wonderful sauce of tomatoes, fresh fennel and little chunks of crisp chorizo, with garlic toast for dipping, was well worth the $15. No room left for dessert, $8. We had a smart, helpful and amiable waitress and a glass of Chardonnay each, which cost $13. Wine prices here are way out of line, even by the bottle but, as Emile Zola once said, "a day without wine is like a day without sunshine" and one wouldn't want to be guilty of that in our part of the world.

The Tasting Kitchen, 1633 Abbot Kinney Blvd., Venice. Full bar. Valet parking $5. (310)392-6644.

HURRICANE SEASON 2010 (THREE SHORT PLAYS INDIVIDUALLY RATED)
Playwrights from all over the country compete for cash prizes in this annual competition. Three blocks of plays, each of which runs for two consecutive weekends, will include one finalist, selected by a jury. Non-cash prizes for playwright, production, actors and directors will be voted on by the audience. On my night, the wind blew in the following plays:

THE LAST SACRAMENT OF BELLE by Jason Britt and Kerr Seth Lordygan
This takes place in a little shop of horrors that sells dead things. What the playwrights had in mind, I imagine, was a screwball comedy with a touch of the macabre but the result is a Grand Guignol attempt that's not very scary and not very funny, either. The shopkeeper (Erin Treanor), whose gum chewing interferes with her lines, is the offspring of Bill's (Kevin McKim), who arrives with his other daughter Belle (Rebecca Lane), a grown woman dressed in a tutu who talks and bawls like a three year old. I won't tell you what happens to her, nor the fate of the hapless Buelah (the excellent Beth Ricketson) but this is a store where many enter but few emerge. Cody Kopp is the managing facilitator, Chelsea Sutton directs.

APPLEBLOSSOMTIME by Joan Eyles Johnson
Pretty Lily (Angela Landis) expects her husband's return from his four year U.S. Navy duty in the Pacific, in World War II. Meanwhile, however, the slightly demented Lily is hot and heavy in a dalliance with the volatile Angus (Scott Reynolds). Their love/hate relationship keeps being interrupted by visions of hubby' sudden appearances. John Haegele as the young sailor, is a standout in his role as a man torn between suspicion and desire. Landis' mannerisms are thoroughly distracting, as she is so busy waving her arms like a ballerina (perhaps at director Zhenya Che's request?), that her face remains virtually expressionless,most of the time. On the plus side, the play's dramatic power is impressive and keeps the audience on its toes.

THE OPENING by Bilal Dardai
This is basically an anti-war piece, a thought provoking exercise on the lust for power, world domination and a reinforcement of the theory that man is from Mars and woman from Venus. A petty bureaucrat, Web (Brad Wilcox), is deep into red tape paperwork while chatting with a good natured,middle aged librarian Julianna (the wonderful Taylor Ashbrook). They are interrupted by the earth shaking appearance of a Neanderthal-like hunk (monosyllabic Anthony Cutolo), who identifies himself as the God of War. Web interrogates him forcefully, in a heavy Texas drawl and we soon surmise that this U.S Defense Department drone has much loftier ambitions. But gentle Julianna knows exactly where HER strengths lie.... Directed with panache by Cassandra Vincent, with effective lighting by John Dicky and sound design by Sean Kozma.

Schedule: The Last Sacrament of Belle, Appleblossomtime and The Opening will play July 30 - August 1st. The Confession by Lissa Ray Richardson; The Limp by John Lane and the other finalist, Grunge is Dead by Katharine Sherman plays August 6th to 8th. All three finalists, including The Opening, Blonde Alibi by Robert Taylor and Grunge Is Dead. plays August 2th to 22nd.

The Eclectic Company Theatre, 5312 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, between Magnolia and Chandler, Valley Village. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. $18, senior and student discounts available. Street parking, (818)508-3003 or www.eclecticcompanytheatre.org. -8/22

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: On the same block, just a few doors away, is the recently remodeled DACHA (pronounced Datsha), a Russian-Ukrainian garden restaurant with food that'll make you r mouth water like the Volga. In a setting at tables with burnt orange cloths and beige napkins, beneath flowering bougainvillea trees or breezeway shaded seating, terrazzo-tiled floors and a fireplace with cushioned easy chairs, a treasure trove of Russian delicacies beckon. The menu is not quite War and Peace but does have pages and pages of the usual (all manner or kebabs $12.99, chicken Kiev $14.99, beef Stroganoff $16.99, stuffed cabbage $12.99) and the unusual vareniki (Russian ravioli) from $7.50 to $14.99, stuffed pig for parties and even a foray into Romania with mamalyga.

The authentic Ukranian beef-beet-cabbage borscht, redolent with fresh dill, is good to the lat drop. We asked for two spoons and shared, $5.50. Being on an adventure, we ordered pork stew, cubes of boneless pork in a dark, heady, red wine sauce plus the unexpected appearance of prunes. A little sweet but still very good, $11.99. Even better and highly recommended is rabbit in a heavenly sour cream sauce, sprinkled with dill. Luckily this was one bunny that didn't get away, $16.99, really excellent and meaty. Entrees include choice of baked or mashed potatoes, fries or kasha (buckwheat, pick that). Plates are decorated with a pretty, carved carrot flower and a little scoop of red cabbage slaw. Service is charming. Silver buckets are supplied for your B.Y.O. wine. Weekends are very popular for banquets, so make your pre-curtain reservations early.

Dacha, 5338 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, Valley Village. Lunch and dinner, weekend brunch $35. No alcohol. B.Y.O.B. (no corkage fee). Catering service. Parking in rear. (818)509-5828

UPDATE; Del Shores' play YELLOW at the Coast Playhouse, 8325 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, has been extended through September 5th, due to sold out houses. (See review) (800)595-4849.

PROCREATION by Justin Tanner
After last year's smash success of "Voice Lessons" at the Zephyr Theatre, Justin Tanner is back in his usual milieu, that of the bottom feeding, trashy proletarians about whom he scored mega hits with Pot Mom, Coyote Woman, Party Mix and many others. The relatives in this play are just as outrageous, if not as hilarious as expected. The premise is similar to Del Shores' "Daddy's Dyin' Who's got the Will", where kinfolk come together for a funeral. This bunch assembles to celebrate the birthday of mom Ruby (the svelte Danielle Kennedy), who bring along her new cougar catch Perry (the lanky Jonathan Palmer). The party takes place in the dump of a home (realistic set by Gary Guidinger), owned by daughter Hope (Melissa Denton), her husband Bruce (Andy Marshall Daley) and their pathetic, overweight son Gavin (Kody Batchelor). The assorted relatives, including a very effeminate sounding grandpa (Tom Fitzpatrick), Patricia Scanlon, Brendan Broms and Danny Schmitz and friends, played by Mical Halpin, Cloe Taylor, Cody Chapel and Gary Holland. These are mostly unsympathetic characters, rather, coarse caricatures actually, who revel in insulting each other. It's as if the playwright incorporated every conceivable human foible and frailty, ad nauseam: alcoholism, obesity, halitosis problems, men in and out of the closet, bed wetting, kleptomania, lousy parenting - have I left anything out? Probably. Granted, there are funny moments and situations but the humor seems contrived rather than spontaneous,in spite of David Schweizer's solid direction and the adroit performances of the entire ensemble. In any case, you'll leave on a positive note, your own people, even your in-laws, will suddenly seem pretty cool, by comparison.

Odyssey Theatre, 2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd., near Olympic, West Los Angeles. Friday 9 p.m., Saturday 7 and 9:30p.m., Sunday 7 p.m. $25 - $30. One hour and twenty minutes, no intermission. (310)477-2055 or www.odysseetheatre.com - 8/15

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: Two blocks west of the Odyssey is THE BLUE MARLIN, squeezed into a crowded mini-mall. The area is called Little Asia West, with dozens of restaurants serving the exotic, but now familiar, cuisine of the Orient. Blue Marlin specializes in Vietnamese food, so get started by sharing their traditional spring rolls, goi cuan. These are thin rice paper wrapped around shrimp, tender beef strips and vermicelli. Sliced for easy pick up, you dip them into peanut sauce, $5.50 an order. The menu is huge and multi cultural and the most interesting dishes are found on the last page under "entrees". Jidori chicken, really succulent meat (from the thigh, I imagine), boneless but skin on, with yummy citrus-ponzi and
demi glace sauce. It comes in a bowl over steamed vegetables, bok choy, broccoli, carrots, potatoes and cauliflower, some crisper than others, a hefty portion for $12.50.. A very pleasant surprise is their pork cutlet, described as stuffed with oba mint and mushrooms. It's served on a wooden plank, in a hot skillet and looks like a Wiener schnitzel alla Italiana. The boneless pork is top quality, lightly breaded and sliced, in a red sea of fabulous, Bolognese style, lightly tomato flavored sauce and melted cheese. Most enjoyable and a steal at $13.50. Both entrees include a big bowl of sticky rice. The place is a plain, little store front but very clean with silverware and napkins in a box on the bare table. Sake and wine from $4.50. Service is, shall we say, not exactly Swiss Hotel School caliber. For example, entrees include miso soup with tofu cubes and seaweed as well as a tossed salad of greens and shredded carrots in peanut dressing. The soup was brought on at the same time as out appetizer. We were still busy dipping our spring rolls when the waitress came with the salad AND the chicken. Very annoying but not unforgivable and I know you'll like the food and prices.

Blue Marlin, 2121 Sawtelle Blvd.., West Los Angeles. Attendant parking (for tips) in Sawtelle Centre, in front. (310)445-2522.

OPUS by Michael Hollinger
Behind the ethereal strains emanating from a chamber music quartet, lurk a clash of artistic egos, a lack of harmony and a faded romance, as depicted in this riveting play. The musicians, facing a vacancy in their ranks, struggle to keep their place in the competitive world of classical music. They have been enormously successful, won Grammy Awards and recording contracts and are destined to perform Beethoven rather than Pachelbel, at a concert for the President, leaving not a dry eye in the White House. But it's the exploration of the personalities behind the instruments and the witty, intelligent repartee that impresses us most. If you're a music lover, this is manna from heaven but even if you're not, you'll savor the human element of professional relationships whose problems are universal.

As the play begins, the Lasara Quartet is auditioning a talented, young Asian woman to fill the spot left by the departed violist, the volatile Dorian (Daniel Blinkoff), whose friction of a very personal nature with the head violinist, the imperious martinet Elliot (Christian Lebano), has caused dissonant notes among the sweet sounds. We also learn more about the problems of the cellist Carl (Gregory C.Giles) and get to know the affable Alan (Cooper Thornton). Simon Levy briskly and knowledgeably directs the production. Beside the fine acting, a good part of the success of this opus is due to the incredible sound created by these "virtuosi", a trompe l'oreille accomplished with the musical advice of Larry Sonderling, a violinist with the L.A. Phil and Roy Tanabe, a new retired forty-one year member of our orchestra and, of course, the skill of sound designed Peter Bayne. Another stroke of genius is Frederica Nascimento's set, enhanced by Ken Booth's expert lighting. One glance at the gracefully curved stage bathed in provocative shades of red and black lattice shadows, open instrument cases at the ready on the floor and soaring background melodies by a string quartet, and you just know you're in for a treat, up to the usual high standards of the Fountain Theatre.

Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Avenue at Normandie, Los Angeles. Thursday - Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. (dark July 29 to August 1st) $25 - $30, seniors $23. Attendant parking in adjoining lot $5. (323)663-1525 or www.fountaintheatre.com - 8/29

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: Less than a five minute drive east, at the corner of Vermont, is RAFFALLO'S, a venerable spot that looks like all Italian restaurants did, thirty-off years ago. Dark as a cave, booths with high partitions, red leather upholstery, vintage photographs, faux Tiffany lamps - you get the picture. All around the room lined up like soldiers on parade, are full wine bottles, presumably for decoration, not storage. The menu is simple and inexpensive. Pizza from $12.35 (small) to $19.85 (gigantic), leads the list. Sandwiches $4.95 to $6.20, dinners, mostly pasta preparations, $8.75 for spaghetti with meat or marinara sauce to $11.75, the high ticket, for chicken parmesan. Meatballs over angel hair pasta is your basic I remember mamma dish, a nostalgic plateful, including garlic bread, $9.35. Their homey lasagna with choice of beef (mine), chicken or spinach, is very good, draped with strands of melted cheese and lots of thick, fresh marinara sauce, a real filler-upper, $10.95. These entrees come with a nice salad of chopped greens, red cabbage, slivered carrots and a slice of tomato. Our total, with half a carafe of house wine amounted to less than $30 before tip. We had a cute, young Russian waiter who is in the country to learn English (not to spy, he assured us). Desserts, cheese or chocolate cake or tiramisu go for $3.75.

Raffallo's, 4708 Fountain Avenue at Vermont, Los Angeles. Beer and wine. Parking in minimal corner lot. (323)660-8506.

GRACE & GLORIE by Tom Ziegler
These are heady days for theatre fans living in the Greater Los Angeles area. By my standards, no less than three Three Star productions are currently running (Geffen's Love, Loss and What I wore, Theatre West's The Socialization of Ruthie Shapiro and now, this gem. The two women on the stage are poles apart socially and intellectually and would never meet under ordinary circumstances. And what a pity that would be. Grace (Beth Grant), is a ninety year old hillbilly at the end of her hard life. She resides, all alone, in a remote, ramshackle abode (great set by Stephen Gifford), in the hills of Virginia. Gloria (Melinda Page Hamilton) is a successful lawyer, a smartly turned out New Yorker in a less than ideal marriage who, for reasons not to be revealed here, has become a volunteer for a hospice organization that assists the terminally ill. She descends upon Grace's cottage, determined to tackle the task of helping the sick but feisty nonagenarian, who has a mind of her own and wants nothing to do with this intruding city slicker. The situation is wonderfully entertaining, rife with priceless tidbits of dialogue, thoroughly amusing as well as extraordinarily touching.

Beth Grant as the crusty Grace, is no stranger to local audiences. She won an L.A. Drama Critics Circle and many other awards as the unforgettable lead in Del Shore's The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Trash Housewife and there may well be some more on the horizon for this juicy part. Her voice and diction crackle with authenticity, her grandmotherly shuffle and facial expressions will have you laughing, crying and applauding like crazy.

Melinda Page Hamilton is also excellent. She displays her comic flair as a fish out of water in the unaccustomed, primitive kitchen. A bit of a T.O.B. (take-over broad), she's efficient but never obnoxious. And, as a woman who has borne her share of grief, she wins our hearts, as well. This is a play suitable for all ages, directed by Cameron Watson. It's funny, sad and bittersweet - just like life itself.

Colony Theatre Company, 555 N. Third Street at Cypress, Burbank. Thursday -Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m.. $20 - $40, senior and student discounts available. (Dark July 4th weekend} Free pArking in building garage in front of the theatre. (818)558-7000 ext. 15 or www.colonytheatre.org. - 7/18

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: We should all frequent POMODORO because it's a staunch supporter of the Colony. There's always a deal for theatre patrons on the last page of the program. Besides, the food is molto bene, as they say in Italian (very good), reasonable and you can't beat the convenience of dining in the same building.

Among the appetizers, the star has to be the Gamberi, shrimp in a tomato-garlic-chili sauce with just the right, provocative bite, $8.75, good for sharing. Salads start at $3.50 for a side order, pasta from $8.75 to $11.50 (for lasagna). Dinner salad with chicken are $8.75, with salmon or steak $10.50. You'll love their entrees. Chicken Marsala, made with dry not sweet, Marsala wine, sauteed mushrooms and spinach for $10.75 is outstanding. Bistecca, a thinly sliced, tender steak, comes with fresh arugula, Pecorino cheese and Tuscan beans in a light tomato sauce, is a delight, $15.95. Veggie lovers will cheer the Verduro, a mix of farm fresh produce cooked au pointe, including Brussels sprouts so crisp and flavorful, there'd be more fans of this much maligned vegetable if our mothers hadn't always boiled them to death, $8.50 Add shrimp for $3.75, chicken or farro, a grain, for $2.95 extra. Wine by the glass from $3.75. Service is fast and friendly. Now that summer is here, settle in on their patio where there are heaters to keep you comfortable in case of an unwelcome breeze. Desserts are a bargain as well, a warm chocolate souffle cake is yours for $5.50 or, if you just need a sweet bite, a mini portion of tiramisu goes for $1.95. So, live it up a little, then head for Level 4 for this heartwarming play.
Pomodoro, Burbank Town Center, 201 E. Magnolia Boulevard, street level, Burbank. (818)559-1300

SUMMER NIGHTS AT THE FORD are i full swing, in this miniature version of the Hollywood Bowl, which is across the Freeway. Performances continue until the middle of October and are as diverse as our neighborhoods. In July (2nd and 3rd) at 8:30 p.m., there's Phillipine Folk Art and Dance. Gypsy Flamenco Dancing on the 23rd and 24th. In August on the 7th, at 8 p.m., you can attend a Koffeehouse Music Production celebrating singers and songwriters. On the 15th at 7 p.m. is the Alohafest, Polynesian songs and dances, on the 12th at 7 p.m., the Irish are doing their annual Celtic Concert. Brazilian Night takes place September 26th at 7 p.m. and on the 9th at 8:30 the Keshet Chaim Dance Ensemble showcases Jerusalem Soul. There's jazz, classical and soul music - something for everyone is not just a cliche here. Picnic diners can be ordered in advance and enjoyed on the premises. Parking is stacked and a bit of a pain but there's free shuttle service operating every fifteen minutes to and from a non-stacked lot at Universal Metro Station. Get your own, detailed brochure at www.fordtheatres.org. Tickets: (323) 461-3673. Box Office hours are noon to 5 p.m. Tuesday -Saturday.

Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Boulevard East, Hollywood.

THE SOCIALIZATION OF RUTHIE SHAPIRO by Barbara Nell Beery
Everybody who is now or has ever been the parent of a pre-teen, the sibling of one and of course, a pre-teen him or herself, will absolutely love this play. It's about that pre-real life period when one hates everything, including oneself, wants desperately to fit in, yet be an original.

Ruth Shapiro (Claire Partin), now a grown woman, takes us back to the late sixties when she was a twelve year old in junior high, in Los Angeles. She comes from a family that's Jewish "lite", that is, they don't go to temple nor celebrate Jewish holidays but they know who they are. Dad is a traveling salesman always on the road and her stay at home mom Nadine (Constance Mellors), is of a time when being a housewife was considered a full-time job. Big brother Ronnie (Nick McDow}, by sheer willpower, has become a star athlete, just so he can earns the respect and admiration of his peers. Our heroine Ruthie, is brainy but awkward, unpopular and lonely. She manages to hook up with another misfit Loretta (Heather Keller), a recent transplant from Dallas, who has a twangy Texas drawl and is extremely gangly and tall, in the hope of becoming each other's BFF.

The cast's acting is so natural and unforced, you almost forget that you;re watching people on stage. Partin, as a girl at the awkward age, is letter perfect, as she encounters her first taste of disappointment and prejudice. Teenage McDow is rebellious and resentful and considers his sister an embarrassment to his social life. Thanks to the much awarded playwright's skill, the excellent Constance Mellors is portrayed as a wise, cAring and sympathetic mom, not the stereotypical, overbearing, Jewish mother. The performance prize, however, must go to Keller, who possesses both comic and dramatic talent to spare and is adroitly cast as the ditzy Loretta. The always reliable Jeff G. Rack is responsible for the workable set, which, thanks to lighting by Yancy Dunham and sound by Matt Hoffman, glides from porch to school yard to Ruthie's bedroom without the interruption of pauses for set changes. Susan Morgenstern directs this delightful production with the utmost empathy and it should be seen by every theatre lover near or freeway far.

Theatre West, 3333 Cahuenga Boulevard West, Universal City and Studio City Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m,. (dark July 4th) $22- $25 Reduced prices for seniors, veterans, current military, KCRW mambers and students (with ID). Free parking in lot across the street. (323)851-7977 or www.theatrewest.org... -7/11

Pre-Theatre Dining Suggestion: On the same block, just a few steps south, is CALIFORNIA CANTEEN, allowing for that blissful, one-time parking situation, so treasured in the Southland. The name might imply a veggieburger/hot dog counter but it's actually a charming French bistro with a tempting menu and fair prices. Decor is whimsical and abundant, in the style of a Parisian brasserie and then some. You've got your Spanish toreador placards, garlands of garlic and dangling Chianti bottles as well as vintage French cabaret posters, indicating the type of cuisine you might find here. Over the bar hang a dozen clocks, none of them working, set for eight fifty, commemorating the time the first customer walked through the door nineteen years ago,
.
Starters lean towards France:escargots $9;\.25, moules mariniere $11.50, salade Niçoise $14, quiche with salad $9.75. Italy is represented via pasta and risottos from $10.95 to $14.95. From Spain we tried the paella, really excellent and generous, rife with scallops, shrimp, calamari, thinly sliced Spanish sausage, chicken, Mussels etc., mingled with saffron flavored rice and the pre-requisite green peas, $20.75, the highest priced entree among stuffed chicken paupiettes $17.75, lamb osso buco $18.25, veal Marengo $18, baked salmon $19.50 and more. For $17.50 they do a marinated skirt steak topped with a mountain of sauteed shallots. You'll have to do some trimming but the flavor of the meat and sauce are first cabin, with a hint of fennel due, perhaps, to a splash of Pernod. Alongside is a heap of crisp, skinny french fries which you'll have to guard with your life against theft from the others at your table. Wines from $6.75 per glass. Pleasant service.
Cahuenga Blvd. West, Universal City and Studio City. Full Bar. Catering. Lunch and dinner daily, Saturday and Sunday brunch.Parking in rear. (323)876-1702

THE CLEAN HOUSE by Sarah Ruhl
The stage is set in a sleek, ultra modern living room, done in white and very pale, grey, quite appropriate to set off the colorful personalities that will inhabit it. A couple, Charles (Don Fischer) and Lane (Colette Kilroy), both physicians, have hired a live-in, Brazilian maid, the temperamental Matilde (Elizabeth Liang), affectionately called Machildi, who comes from a long line of comedians and aspires to be one herself. She tells a passel of jokes in Portuguese, a language hardly anyone in the audience understands but by her gestures, you can tell they're all X-rated. Trouble is, Lane hired her to clean the house which is something Matilde doesn't really like to do. To the rescue comes Lane's sister Vigrinia (D . J.Harner) alternating with Shawna Casey), who is an obsessive/compulsive cleaning freak, a Bryn Mawr graduate, who gets off on dusting, vacuuming and scrubbing. Perhaps you can imagine what happens next.

Meanwhile, unfortunately, Dr. Charles has fallen for one of his middle-aged patients, Ana (Denise Blasor), from Argentina, who is very ill but spunky, whom Charles considers his Beshert (soul mate). Even though he's not Jewish, he heard that in the Jewish faith, a Beshert is the only one meant to be one's life partner and about the only thing that doesn't involve Jewish guilt. These kooky people are actually very likable and the remarkable bonding these women achieve is quite believable and touching. The multiple award winning playwright Sarah Ruhl, proves that even the most serious situations can elicit laughter under the right circumstances.

Liang as the maid ever in search of the world's best joke, is delightful. D.J. Harner (on my night) is an accomplished scene stealer whose facial expressions and body language are fascinating. Furthermore, her character is the sort of friend every woman wishes she had. Don't bother springing for a fancy lunch - just gibe her the treat of letting her tidy up your place. Watching Kilroy soften from a hard-nosed professional to an angel of mercy, iilluminating. Blasor is the most sympathetic" other woman" you'll ever see in any story and the sole male, Don Fischer, gets to display his talent for farce in the second act. . The astute direction is by Stefan Kruck, sets, including a stunning balcony scene, designed by Frederica Nascimento, aided by Kathi O'Donohue's lighting. There are English titles frequently projected on stage which are amusing but unnecessary. What would really be a public service would be a translation of those dirty jokes...

The Odyssey Theatre Ensemble, 2055 S.Sepulveda Blvd..,West Los Angeles, one block north of Olympic Blvd.. Thursday -Saturday 8.pm. Three Wednesday performances June 2, 9 and 16 at 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. (Sunday June 6 and 27, 7 p.m. only. $25 - $30, students and seniors $5 off, except Saturday. (310)477-2055 or www.odysseytheatre.com - 7/3

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: It's only a hop, skip and jump to HOP WOO, which is one block south. You could park at the Odyssey and walk,since the spaces At the little corner mini-mall seem to be in high demand. The entrance is about as imposing as your local take-out joint but when you see those ducks hanging up, you know they're serious here. And, when you see the dining room with its mirrored wall, eggshell cloths and green napkins, gold filigree chandelier and live fish tank, you notice many Asian faces, always a sure sign of Chinese culinary authenticity. If you've brought a few people, you could sit at one of the round tables and order up delicacies like crab i n ginger-green onion or black bean sauce (market price). The food is good but if you're watching you or sodium, ask them to go easy on the salt; we found everything very salty and the spicy dishes not spicy enough. Tender beef is black bean-chili sauce has onions and firm bell peppers $9.95. Likewise the spicy shrimp in garlic sauce, $11.95. Fresh string beans are green and crisp as just printed dollar bills, $9.95. Sesame chicken is coated in a sweet-sour glaze, more sweet than sour, same price. Portions are generous, service efficient but unsmiling. This restaurant is very popular and busy. I saw several people feasting on the lobster special $13.95 per pound and the barbecued duck half $8.95.

HOP WOO BBQ and Seafood Restaurant, 11110 Olympic Blvd. at Sepulveda Blvd. West Los Angeles. No alcohol. Tough parking in mini-mall. Open daily 11 a.m. to 10 p.m,., (310) 575-3668

BAGELS by Art Shulman

Is there sex after Social Security? In this play, if you can believe, these seniors are hornier than high school kids and, if you are of a certain age, you'll be amazed and perhaps envious of the goings one. At Jake's Brooklyn apartment (set by Chris Winfield, the bedroom, which we mercifully never see, has more fun and games than your rec room and Jake Goldberg (the droll Morry Schorr), in spite of his old grey head and considerable pot belly, is quite the ladies' man. Having just men Rachel Fine (L. B. Zimmerman) on the Internet, he is not content with just a good night kiss on their first date. She plays it coy but not to worry, she's frequently in heat - and I don't mean hot flashes. He's addicted to bagels which affect him like an aphrodisiac. Who needs Viagra when some carbs will do the trick? He is also hotly pursued by an old flame, Karen Weil (Diane Frank), who uses every ruse not known to man to get him back. But, she's the perennial second fiddle in this romantic entanglement. To further spice up the story, certain past indiscretions raise their sexy head, involving a successful photographer played by Patrick Shelton, a tall, handsome man with the sort of good looks that are generally complemented by eye candy, half his age, on his arm. Yet, he too is an admirer of mature beauty in the raw, which makes every older woman in the audience feel good and gives every man something to look forward to.

Even though the acting is uneven and the play has all the depth of a sitcom, there are chuckles and surprises that have filled the house successfully for months, prompted extensions and yet another run, opening this month. The prolific playwright (Misconceptions, The Rabbi and the Shiksa, Boxcar and Eugene etc.) also directs, with original music by Jan Alejandro.

Secret Rose Theatre, 11246 Magnolia Avenue, 1 1/2 blocks west of Lankershim, North Hollywood. Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m., $22, senior $17, students $10. Street parking. (818)782-4254 or www.secretrose.com. -6/27

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: You can park and walk a few blocks to SPUMANTE a popular Italian restaurant, formerly located in Studio City. The congenial welcome and service as well as the uncrowded table spacing in the carpeted room, make for pleasant dining, convenient to the many small theatres that dot NOHO. In the exhibition kitchen, the activity bubbles like Asti Spumante, its namesake. To start, why not split a Caesar salad (no extra charge), $7.95 and nibble on the complimentary little bruschetta, while checking out the menu of familiar favorites. There are chicken preparations, salmon, steak and lots of nightly specials, smilingly recited. I recommend the veal piccata, tender and tasty, topped with capers and sauced in lemony butter, lusty as a tarantella, accompanied by al dente carrots, broccoli florets and potatoes, for $23.95. The pork chop is only $17.95, nice and thick but cooked a lot longer than I requested, to be honest. Apple sauce and a generous heap of crisp french fries included.

Spumante, 1194 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood Full bar. Valet parking $3.50. (818)508-7716.

SARAH SARAH by Daniel Goldfarb

The West Coast Jewish Theatre has found a home for its productions, in the beautifully refurbished former Century City Playhouse, The theme explored in this play, actually two related plays, is what it means to have been an orphan in the Old World versus how customs have changed as people reach across continents to find - and give, love.

Act I is set in Toronto in 1951. A jewish matron , Sarah Grosberg (Cheryl David), banters and bickers, in heavily accented English, with her housekeeper and fellow immigrant, Vincent (Bart Braverman), who wears a shmatta befitting a cleaning lady. Don't ask me why. Her son Arthur (Patrick Raffery), a nerdy looking student, is in love with and engaged to Rochelle (Robyn Cohen) a timid, pretty young woman, who is invited to tea by his mother. To say she gives her the third degree is an understatement. In the guise of the gracious hostess, she soon emerges as a vicious battle axe of a prospective mother in law, determined to break up the relationship. To her, the most important attribute of a future wife is her background and she brags authoritatively about her own "good family". She doth protest too much, as we shall see when the secret of her origin comes to light.

The second act takes place in a hotel room in China (set design by Jeff G. Rack), forty years later. Skipping a generation, Sarah's grand daughter Jennifer (also David), a single woman whose biological clock stopped ticking quite a while ago, is in the harrowing throes of adopting a Chines infant from an orphanage. She's accompanied by her dad Arthur (Braverman), the same actor who earlier played the cleaning "woman". It's a bit confusing to tie these characters characters together but the actors skillfully bridge the gap and we begin to realize the emotional connections between this mispocha. The playwright also introduces a young couple, Maggie and Miles (Cohen and Rafferty, again), who have successfully weathered the adoption process, two gratuitous personages, really, except to demonstrate the pair's histrionic versatility. As a matter of fact, the ensemble's acting skills, directed by Howard Teichman, consistently soar above the material.

Pico Playhouse, 10508 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles. Thursday, Friday and Saturday at 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. $27 - $30, seniors $25 - $28, Students $20. Street parking. (323)821-2449 or www.wcjt.org -6/27

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: You could easily park and walk the two blocks west to THE SIX, or drive a couple of minutes to this terrific restaurant. The coffeeshop-like former Jack Sprat's Grille, has morphed into a hot, new brew pub with fantastic food that transcends the customary pub grub. There's six of this and six of that, appetizers $8 - $12, six sides, six entrees $18 - 23 and as for the six pizzas, Chef David Gussin may soon dethrone Woldgnag Puck as the King of the Inventive Pizza, $13.

Among the entrees, there's steak, short ribs, salmon, ravioli etc., and if you read the descriptions, you'll see that each dish is in excellent company, tailored to fit like a good, custom-made suit. The organic Jadori chicken, half a bird cut into thirds, freshly roasted to order (allow 30 minutes), is so juicy and delicious, it reaches a whole, new level or chickendom! It comes with crisp sugar snaps, grilled spring garlic that resembles scallions and daubs of sorrel puree on the pretty plate, $18. My halibut, crusty on the outside, moist within, had a garnish of shiitake mushroom caps, fava beans, fresh English peas and a mound of wild farro, each and every one of these cooked to the magic point and to bump up the flavors, some fragrant mushroom just, $22.

Desserts are only $6, so indulge in their chocolate pudding, home made, which you probably haven't tasted since grandma discovered the instant product. It's positively orgasmic, in its glass filled with real whipped cream, sprinkled with nuts. We were to busy oooing and ahhhing, I almost forgot to notice the decor. But there's a center-of-the-action bar serving a fine selection of beers, ale and wines, not extravagantly priced, a corner T V, unusual, cute light fixtures with a few recognizable faces thereon, a high ceiling with whirring fans and a convivial atmosphere. Discover this place for yourself and six may well become your lucky number.

The Six, 10668 W. Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles. Open daily for lunch and dinner, weekend brunch. Parking in rear. (310)837-6662

SOMETHING HAPPENED by L. Trey Wilson

Something certainly does happen, almost at the beginning of this play,which has an impact on the families of two teenage boys who are caught in, shall we say, a "compromising position". This is a moment that sends a shock wave and audible gasps of "Oh, my God" through the audience. Yet,this story does not dwell on the prurient elements of their relationship but looks into the consequences. How will parents deal with a problem that can either tear them apart or bring them closer?
A well to do couple,Deanna (Mashari Laila Bain) and Doug Piper (William Christian), break the fourth wall and address the audience in a forthright manner, unwittingly prompting us to ask ourselves how WE would handle the revelations that come to light in this excellently staged piece. It features an all Black cast, with each of the participants given the opportunity to develop their characters to the fullest. We have the Brennans, Tom (George Watson) and his glamorously attired wife Hosanna (Lisa Canning), as the Pipers' good friends. The Taylors, are the neighboring couple, a few social notches below the elegant Pipers. Christopher Guyton is the jovial but rough Bernard and his wife, the boisterous Melanie, whose loud voice could crack a few light bulbs (the hilarious Fuschia!). They are the mom and dad of the "other" boy, Raymond (Rob Nelson), who displays his versatility by being the meek, obedient son at home but assumes the personality of Rashid, a do-rag wearing, trash talking gangsta type, when he's on his own. Allan Lonis impresses with his mellifluous tones and genteel demeanor, as an old friend, Gary. The most stunning performance though, is delivered by Eric B Anthony as Donovan, a seventeen year old with the maturity of an adult, self-assured and comfortable in his own skin, yet vulnerable beneath his 'tude of resentment toward his parents. The playwright's direction is impeccable, the sharp, functional set is designed by Darcy Prevost. Credit for the absolutely perfect costumes goes to Daniel Kruger. This is a sleek, new venue and a coup for the South Bay theatre scene. Even more ambitious plans are afoot, so stay tuned.

Pacific Stages, 2041 Rosecrans Avenue #170, El Segundo in the Beach City Plaza that houses the Pacific Theatres movie complex. Walk past P.F. Chang, turn left at the courtyard and follow the signs. Thursday - Saturday 8 p.m. Saturday matinee at 3 p.m.,Sunday at 5 p.m. $34.99,students $25. (310)868-2631 or www.pacificstages.org ---5/16

Note: Do not park across the street, $12 and no validation. Drive to the structure on the same side of Nash as the theatre,just north of the movie house. Park free on the 3rd, 4th or 5th floor.

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: It's about a ten minute drive from the CHEF HANNES restaurant to Pacific Stages and I have a confession to make. There are lots of restaurants within walking distance (mostly chains) but I had heard a few years ago, that an Austrian chef opened a place on the charming Main Street in El Segundo and have been dying to try it ever since. Had my mouth set for Wiener Schnitzel, veal goulash and other Viennese delights. What did we find? Italian food, albeit very good and not overpriced. The disappointment lasted only until the first bite of fresh bread dipped into a pest-like spread, made with spinach, garlic potatoes, fresh herbs and olive oil. Quick consolation also came with osso buco braised in a light red wine sauce, the veal not exactly falling off the bone but nicely seasoned, with potatoes and a potpourri of Farmers Market fresh vegetables for $18, the most expensive item on the menu. Crisp scampi in a garlic-citrus sauce, lively as a Rossini overture with rice and veggies is a fine choice at $15.95555. The Italian version of cassoulet, here called casserole, with Italian sausage in a vegetable, rice and bean mixture, is hearty and satisfying, $14.95. Further, there are two chicken preparations $12.95 and $14.95, a grilled pork chop and a salmon dish $14.95 each and pasta from $10.95. Caveat: it's smart of inquire the price of the nightly specials which tend to be more expensive, to wit: the Chilean sea bass showed up on the bill for $24.95. Service is most accommodating, "no substitutions" not in their vocabulary. The restaurant is simple but appealing, the rooms pleasantly decorated with artwork on the butter colored walls. There's a small patio out back. Desserts include strudel $4.95 and the only other Austrian item is Gosser Bier, Austria's favorite brew, $3.50. There's a small, well chosen wine list, from $6 per glass. It's close to the airport (LAX), so if you want to avoid airline food, for which they now dare to charge, keep Chef Hannes in mind.

Chef Hannes, 411 1/2 Main Street, El Segundo. Closed Sunday. Street Parking (310)640-0164.

THE DRAWER BOY by Michael Healy

This home spun tale, primarily an example of true friendship, takes place on a Canadian farm in 1973. We see a well lived-in kitchen and a beat up barn exterior alongside the house (set by resident designer Jeff G, Rack). Angus (the amazing Daniel Leslie), a slow witted looking man, presumably in his early seventies, sits slack-jawed at a table. His friend Morgan (Robert Mackenzie), an energetic fellow of about the same vintage, cater to him patiently while laboring seemingly around the clock. It becomes clear at once, that Angus has memory problems, not the symptoms of dementia but the result of a head injury sustained in Europe during World War II. Into this milieu comes a young man, Miles (Kris Frost), a member of an acting troupe, in town to put on a play about farmers. Striving for authenticity, Miles volunteers his services to help with the chores, in exchange for live-in privileges so he can research, first hand, how farmers go about their workaday lives. He gets more than he bargained for but his curiosity is rewarded when long held secrets are revealed, primarily in the weaker second act. Many lies are told here, most of them white, none vicious.

Frost, as the earnest, young actor trying to be a useful farm hand, is extremely appealing as he shows his humanity in dealing with the child-like Angus. In the latter part, Leslie is never out of character, whether temperamental and petulant or good-humoredly trying to please. He is the Drawer Boy of the title, who might have become an architect if al;l had gone well. Mackenzie masters the gruff exterior that hides a proverbial heart of gold. Life on this farm is laborious and financially perilous but the genuine, long term friendship of these two old bachelors, who have each other and very little else, makes for a heartwarming story, suitable for all ages. Direction is by Melanie MacQueen.

Theatre 40, Reuben Cordova Theatre, 241 Moreno Drive, off Little Santa Monica on the Beverly Hills High School Campus, Beverly Hills. Wednesdy - Saturday 8 p.m. Sunday 2 p.m. $23 - $25. (310)364-0535 or www.theatre40.org.
- 4/25
Free parking in building garage, adjoining the theatre.

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: It takes two minutes (by the car clock), to drive from JOSS CUISINE to Theatre 40. This lovely shoe box of a restaurant exudes Oriental tranquility, with beautifully set tables, quality china, a shoji ceiling and soft lighting. They serve, what they call Chinese haute cuisine. The menu is quite fascinating, with several unusual entrees, I hope to try another night when we can round up a few friends. Meanwhile, variety can be enjoyed even for two, with their fantastic appetizers. No fried shrimp and egg rolls here! Artistically assembled small plates come trotting out of the kitchen: Peking duck Quor Tehr, four little bundles of joy, crisply pan fried crepes wrapped around strips of duck, cucumber, scallions and lightly plum sauced; Japanese eggplant rounds topped with chopped eggplant, seasoned with yu-shiang sauce plus rokmaine lettuce boats which you load up with exquisite minced chicken with pine nuts andChinese celery, $7.50 each of the above. We also lovoed a hot number, won tons filled with fresh Dungeness crab meat, served in a bowl with spicy Szechuan chili-garlic sauce, $9.50. Chinese desserts have never sounded tempting until the waiter mentioned a lichee nut Napoleon, a wonderful confection of crisp phyllo dough layers and cream $7.50, rich enough to share. There's a rather pricey wine list, by the glass from $10 for a California Sauvignon Blanc. Swift service, important for curtain time schedules.

Joss Cuisine, 9919 Little Santa Monica Blvd.,Beverly Hills. Wine, beer, sake. Catering service. Street parking. (310)277-3888.

THE CHARM OF MAKING by Timothy McNeil *

Fans of Tennessee Williams will revel in this swamp of Southern decadence about a Mississippi family trying to live down their past legacy of murderous and suicidal ancestors. Elvin (Thor Edgell), is a closeted, cross-dressing gay man, fascinated by Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet and tormented by his state as a forty year old virgin. His slob of a sister Morgan (Bonnie McNeil), swigs gallons of bourbon, casts magic spells and likes to walk naked through the town. She delivers her sarcasms in a well-deep, Southern drawl. His brother Samuel (Jon Boatwright), is a self-doubting Babtist minister, addicted to Pepto Bismol, with a mouseburger of a wife, Jenny (T.M. Rawlins). Elvin and Morgan have a live-in old aunt Lottie (May Quigley Goodman), given to to long reminiscences, peppered with compulsive profanities. Instead of fascinating dialogue, this bunch dwells heavily on dream recitations and death, as we wait for a ray of sunshine amidst the gloom or even a breath of comic relief.

One cannot fault the actors, who give their all in excellent performances, including Matthew Oliva as Morgan's ardent lover, Nicholas Hargous as Cameron, a shy, young man caught in a difficult situation and Alfredo J. Orrego, the diminutive Frenchman Paul, whom Morgan brings home as her gift to Elvin, presumably to deflower him. Have I left anyone out? Yes, there's the playwright himself, the rouged Timothy McNeil, as an apparition of Romeo & Juliet, who minces through several scenes quoting and paraphrasing the Bard - a superfluous role is there ever was one. Milton Justice directs, set design by Alain Villeneuve.

Stella Adler Los Angeles Theatre, 6773 Hollywood Boulevard near Highland, Second Floor. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 7 p.m. $20 (323)960-7735 or wwwPlays411.com/thecharm. Parking $2 in underground garage in back of the Hollywood-Highland Complex, off Highland Avenue, turn at Johnny Grant Way (opposite Yucca). Show them your ticket/program upon leaving and allow at least ten minutes prior to curtain time upon arrival. -4/25

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: The opening of STREET caused quite a stir among local foodies, as one of the Two Hot Tamales, SusanFeniger, went solo. Her place, only a five minute drive from the theatre, is a lively spot with a pub-like front room, chic, all black furniture and a dramatic staircase. But most of the action is out on the orange umbrella-covered patio with its cute drawings on orange or mustard colored walls; heaters and blankets (if necessary), provided. The idea is to present street food from around the world,without having to chase the wagons or shoo the flies. Fanciful cocktails and international ine, starting at $9 per glass for a Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand. Among the edibles, we tackled six little Burmese lettuce boats, filled with crunchy peanuts, greens and lentils in a sesame-ginger dressing, $7. Same price for olive bread toast triagnles on which you pile anchovy butter, refried white bean puree and bits of roasted black kale. From the hot section, we chopsticked our way through Thai rice noodles, shaped like fettuccine, with slightly sweet pulled pork, chopped Chinese broccoli, Thai basil and a hefty dose of red hot chili, $15. Each and every one delicious and plenty for two, pre-theatre. There are goodies from India, Russia etc, in small portions but big enough to share among two consenting adults, as well as entrees from a wood-fired oven, priced in the lower to middle twenties. The mood is light, the food is fun, service is wonderful and Chef Susan makes the rounds and chats up the customers. You'll love it!

Street, 742 N. Highland, near Melrose, Los Angeles. Lunch and dinner daily. Street or valet parking. Handicapped parking in rear. Full bar. (323)203-0500.

YELLOW by Del Shores
Del Shores' latest opus is the sort of experience that can make an avid theatre fan out of a casual playgoer. It has everything: love, humor, heartbreak, fury, forgiveness and a cast of characters for whom you feel an immediate affinity. Contrary to Shores' usual theme of Southern white trash in hilarious situations (Sordid Lives, Daddy's Dying Who's Got the Will, The Trials and Tribulations of a Trailer Trash Housewife etc.), this absorbing drama involves a Mississippi family in seemingly ideal circumstances and shows that an unexpected illness can tear it asunder, virtually over night.

The dad, Bobby Westmoreland, (on my night, the excellent understudy Robert Lewis Stevenson), is a successful high school coach who dotes on his football star son Dayne (Luke McClure). Mom Kate (Kristen McCullough), a therapist, is well educated and a devoted wife and mother. They bravely put up with their daughter Gracie (Evie Louise Thompson), a bratty, rebellious teenager, determined to become a Broadway star. She has a razor sharp tongue and an almost unbearable attitude, brought on by sibling rivalry with her super jock of a brother. Stephenson plays Bobby as a father knows best type, until tragedy strikes like a bolt of lightning which brings out his impassioned, spellbinding performance. McCullough is impeccable as a woman wracked by guilt. The spunky, mouthy Thompson displays a dynamite stage presence in each of her bitchy outbursts. Her friend and fellow aspiring actor Kendall (the adorable Matthew Scott Montgomery), excels as a gentle, sweet-tempered, gay young man, who is taken into the family to escape his ranting, über-Christian mother (Susan Leslie). Leslie, spewing fire and brimstone, is so realistic, you want to get out of your seat and stuff a sock in her mouth. Luke McClure is perfectly cast as the golden boy around whom most of the story revolves and is an integral part of this immensely talented ensemble, directed by the author. Robert Steinberg's set design and Cathi O'Donohue's lighting add to the appeal of this remarkably well written play, which I loved - and so will you.

The Coast Playhouse, 8325 Santa Monica Boulevard, three blocks east of La Cienega, West Hollywood. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 and 7 p.m. $34.99 (800) 595-4849 or www.yellowbydelshores.com - 7/25

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: Less than a five minute walk west, is HUGO'S, which aspires to be a health food restaurant. But the menu is so kaleidoscopic, you can indulge in whatever regimen you currently favor. For starters, deciding among ginseng chicken soup $4.75, mac & cheese (significant for the play you are about to see) $8.10 or calamari in spicy marinara sauce $7.85, you may want to opt for their Asian spring rolls, Vietnamese style rice paper stuffed with assorted veggies, very fresh tasting, with a nice sesame-chili dip sauce, intense but not spicy, great for sharing, $7.60.

There's an international flavor to the sandwich/burger section starting at $12.60 for avocado-hummus wrap, $12.85 for a Cuban sandwich or the Hugo burger of ground beef or turkey. Pasta, $12.65 to $15.65. They serve mung beans, tofu, lentils and organic this 'n that. We kept it simple by ordering from the entree section where the choices are no less intriguing. You have your Indian inspired tikka masala veggie patties, your grilled tenderloin with Argentinean chimichurri, Hugo's shepherd's pie and from South of the Border, tres tacos with chicken, steak, organic tofu or sauteed vegetables, $12.65 to $15.50. My Moroccan stew with chicken breast cubes, described as being in a slightly spicy, exotically flavored Moroccan sauce, was a bland affair but helped considerably by the addition of the mound of quinoa with a topping of harissa. This looks like a daub of harmless ketchup but is usually so incendiary, smoke can blow out of your ears. This version is much, much more tame but it served to give a kick to the broth, chock-a-block with soft veggies and too many potatoes, $12.65, with chicken or tofu $3 extra.

Much more appealing is the Asian stir-fry, broccolini, snow peas, mushrooms, tomatoes etc., nicely seasoned with chili-sesame sauce, enhanced with chicken breast cubes or marinated tofu and your choice of rice,quinoa or, what they call kelp noodles. I suggest the latter, which are our old friends known as glass or silver noodles, which are not only very tasty but come to find out, low in carbs, fat and gluten free - so much the better, $13.95. Hugo's is a large hall of a place, with windows looking out at the frantic traffic. They attempt to improve the ambience with little votive candles on every table but nobody comes here for the hot, romantic dinner. Dress code is non existent, the guys at the next table wore tank tops and one of them never did take off his straw hat. Service is fine and a glass of organic wine starts at $6.50.

Hugo's 8401 Santa Monica Boulevard at King's Road, West Hollywood. Lunch and dinner daily. Parking in rear. (323)654-3993.

LAGUNA's MIDSUMMER MAGIC - If you've never attended the PAGEANT OF THE MASTERS in Laguna Beach, put this event on top of your "to do" list. And, if you've enjoyed it before, you'll certainly want to see it again, especially this year, when the theme is "Eat, Drink and Be Merry" - right up our alley. In addition to the amazing tableaux vivants - living pictures posed by local volunteers to create masterpiece paintings, vintage posters, sculptures and other objets d'art on stage, each is accompanied by appropriate music from a live orchestra and every summer they add something new and different. There's a little sing-along and a spectacular food parade honoring the cuisine of New Orleans. The show opens with a giant, scrolling mural of a festive table loaded with exquisite edibles and you'll be happy you stopped for dinner before the show (see below)

Pageant of the Masters, Irvine Bowl, 650 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach. Nightly at 8:30 p.m. From $15 to $65 (on weeknights, slightly higher on weekends). Note: Held outdoors, dress warmly, bring a seat cushion, binoculars and blankets (available for rent on the grounds). Pageant admission includes the Festival of Arts, a first class exhibit of original art from every genre, on the premises all summer.
A special fundraising gala will be held on August 28 which includes wine, hors d'oeuvres and music, from $50 to $100. For $350, you get dinner and the best seats in the house for the show. Tickets and information (800)487-3378 or www.pageanttickets.com. - 8/31

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: It's an easy walk from the festival grounds to LUMBERYARD. The former, charming Cedar Creek Inn is now a huge, monochromatic tavern with lost of dark wood and lots and lots of customers. On my Tuesday evening it was packed to the rafters. The all-American menu includes chicken pot pie and meatloaf $16, steaks $22 (skirt) to $32 (filet mignon), pasta from $15, fish $22 (King salmon) to $29 (Alaskan halibut. But if you want a deal, and we always do, don't we. get there on a week night before 6:30 p.m., grab a seat in the bar area and order up some of their "Bites", $6 each. We shared four and couldn't even finish them, that's how generously portioned they are. And nicely presented, too. Crispy calamari, ever so lightly crumbed, comes with two dip sauces. Mixing them together is even better. Caesar salad with freshly shaved parmesan is really big. The dip trio consists of three different hummus creations with crudites and toast slices. Hot wings, skin on, unfortunately, have just enough spice to make you take another sip of whatever you're quaffing. Wine by the glass starts at $8. Other Bites are sweet potato or regular fries, spinach-artichoke dip, barbecued, pulled pork sliders, fried zucchini or a house salad. Terrific service, great vibes.

Lumberyard, 384 Forest Avenue, Laguna Beach. Lunch and dinner daily. Sunday brunch. Full bar. Two hours validated parking in rear. Note: For $10 you can park and sty until after the performance). (949)715-3900.

HOYA HO, WAGNERITES! All of you wo spent your hard earned bucks on the Three Ring - make that - Four Ring Circus at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, should have been at Los Angeles Lyric Opera's (LOLA) production of Wagner's first opera DIE FEEN (The Fairies), at the Pasadena Playhouse last week, where there were none of Achim Freyer's misbegotten, ugly masks nor any other of his atrocities. And they didn't spend thirty million dollars.

This plucky Company known for their motto "Uncommon Opera", under the leadership of Laura Sage, enlisted young, but according to their program bios, experienced, singers and put on a nice, little show. directed by Aleta Braxton. In the lead as Ada, the fairy in love with a mortal, Margaurite Mathis-Clark has all the makings of an indefatigable, full-throated Wagnerian soprano, built to last. There was also some impressive singing by Venezuelan baritone Bernardo Bermudez, as the dashing Morald and by Amber Erwin and Leslie Dennis as two fairy attendants. The charming Harriet Frazer and lively Jay Stephenson were delightful and sounded especially lovely in their Drolla/Gernod duet. Rick Zeeb as Harald was vocally uneven but had good diction. In fact, most of the singers were of the Joan Sutherland school of text pronunciation, that is to say, they might as well have sung in Mongolian. Except for Canadian Connie Dykstra-Smith as Lora, whose German approached perfection. She possesses a beautiful, well modulated voice, displayed elegant phrasing and good acting skills. A real talent! Tenor Josh Shaw as the hero Arindal, is an attractive, young man and a convincing actor. However, he has a tremolo that rates a 9 on the Richter Scale. If he can overcome the wobble, he will have a fine operatic future.

Robert Sage, lovingly conducted the orchestra, small by Wagnerian standards but quite suitable at this venue. The chorus sounded remarkably good, throughout. The melodies in Die Feen are absolutely beautiful and you will recognize some familiar strains of future operas. Wagner wrote this work when he was only twenty, long before he decided to demand that his singers out-bellow his gorgeous orchestrations.

In the past, LOLA has staged seldom heard masterpieces like Cendrillon by Pauline Viardot, Abu Hassan by Weber and Manon Lescaut by Auber, all of which I saw and liked. If this is the type of opera that appeals to you, keep an eye and ear out for their future plans and you can be sure they're not going to play it safe by mounting another Butterfly or hiring megalomaniacal directors.

You can reach LOLA at (877) LOLA-OPERA

SKYLIGHT by David Hare
Here we have the story of a relationship, a complicated one in every respect. She's an idealist; he's a smug, financially successful restaurateur. They once had a torrid, six year affair while he was a married man. Now that his wife has died, he hopes to rekindle the old flame. To continue the synopsis would take the edge off this talky play, which deals with two strong,opinionated people, their conscience, their view of class distinctions and the life style they have chosen.

Kyra (Erin Shaver), lives in a modest, chilly flat in North London (set design by Joel Daavid), the poorer section of that city, teaches underprivileged children and has found fulfillment in her profession and spartan existence. Tom (Stuart W. Howard), is comfortable in middle age, accustomed to luxury, selfish to the core but desperately yearns for the passion he once shared with this much younger woman. He is also somewhat estranged from his teenage son Edward (Benjamin Scott Perry), a sweet kid whose appearance in the first and last scene adds a much needed ray of sunshine. Director Ken Meseroll keeps the actors in almost constant motion which is essential to balance the abundant, rapid-fire dialogue. They never resort to "bleeding heart" and "capitalist pig" name calling but have grown poles apart. Performances are impressive, on opening night not a single line was flubbed and the highly charged emotional level artfully sustained. Sir David Hare won a Tony for this play. He also wrote the screenplay for the Academy Award and Golden Globe nominated film The Reader in 2008, for which Kate Winslett took home the Oscar.

Fremont Centre Theatre, 1000 Fremont Avenue, at El Centro, South Pasadena. Thursday - Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 3 p.m. $25, students and seniors $20. Ample parking on the street and in adjoining lot. Note: The theatre is almost as cold as the flat - so bring a wrap. (866 811-4111 or www.fremontcentretheatre.com - 6/20

Pre-performance Dining Suggestion: No more than a seven to ten minute drive, just north of the 110 Freeway, is CARMINE'S, an old fashioned dinner house in the style that's become an endangered species with a dark interior, Formica topped tables, live, luscious hanging plants that seem to thrive on the aroma of marinara sauce and excellent values via retro pricing. Garlic-cheese topped focaccia bread is quickly brought, cocktails are available and a glass of wine goes for $5 and up. Service is based on teamwork, the entire staff pitches in to fulfill your every wish.

Most entree prices are kept below $20 and that includes soup or salad! There's lentil soup or minestrone or a nicely put together tossed salad of greens, tomatoes, black olives, mushrooms and grated cheese. You can score a veal scaloppine of good quality for $16.95 and you've probably paid close to double that, elsewhere. It has a perfect, creamy, white wine sauce with dozens of button mushrooms and a side of pasta with a blanket of sauce, red as Sicilian blood. Chicken Carmine are little slices of white breast meat, a little on the dry side but delicious when mixed with the red bell pepper strips and the lemon-garlic sauce. It comes with pasta and very fresh broccoli and cauliflower, $16. They've been in the same spot for many years and don't lack i loyal customers.

Carmine's 424 Fair Oaks Avenue, South Pasadena. Full bar. Parking lot. Open daily for lunch and dinner. (626)799-2255.

LOVE, LOSS AND WHAT I WORE by
Nora Ephron and Delia Ephron

If you're a woman and you are reading this, postpone whatever you plan to do next and get yourself a ticket to this most entertaining show. On stage are five chairs occupied by five formidable actresses who are splendid, individually and as an ensemble. Notice I use the word actress instead of the p.c. "actor". What's wrong with being an actress or a waitress, for that matter? And what are they going to use for mistress? But, I digress....

The women describe various personal experiences, some of them serious,most of them hilarious, with which we can readily identify, having lived through similar ups and downs. Men who are not too macho, who admit that they have enjoyed some of that talented Nora Ephron's semi-chick flicks (When Harry Met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle, You've Got Mail etc.) will like it, too. Here she collaborates with her sister Delia, also a successful writer. But nothing beats this show for a girls' night out.

Carol Kane starts out by reminiscing about her wardrobe with the help of fashion drawings. She uses her smallest voice in a monotone but shines when she imitates others and comes up with spot-on accents. Caroline Aaron, whom I have admired since seeing her solo show "Call Waiting", is her usual expert comic self, as she ruminates on her purses - the $$$$ model versus the $26.95 one etc. etc. Rita Wilson in thigh high boots, looks gorgeous, in spite of slightly mismatched hair extensions and is particularly moving as she recounts a mastectomy story. Vivacious Tracee Ellis Ross displays a fiery Latin temperament and is truly sensational. Natasha Lyonne has a dry sense of humor and a knock-out delivery that brings down the house, Each one has her moment in the limelight and I'm tempted to quote some of the priceless lines but I want you to experience them first hand. Subjects under discussion are mother/daughter relationships, dressing room terror, bra ordeals, bridal fittings, the blessing and beauty of black (they're all wearing it} and, of course, shoes (they're all in heels}. The gist of the play is that, going through your closet can be like looking at a photo album filled with memories. Don't miss this wonderful production, directed by Jenny Sullivan. And, don't sip too much wine or coffee beforehand and you won't even notice that it runs one hour and forty minutes, without an intermission.

Geffen Playhouse, Audrey Skirball Kenis Theatre, 10886 Le Conte Avenue, Westwood. Tuesday - Friday 8 p.m., Saturday 3 and 8 p.m., Sunday 2 and 7 p.m. $69 - $74. Parking in adjoining garage $7. (310) 208-5454 or www.geffenplayhouse.com Note: A cast change takes effect June 8th. - 7/4

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: If you can't make it to the Wine Country anytime soon, check into the attractive NAPA VALLEY GRILLE and pretend you're there. If you need visual aid, sit in the room with a huge mural of a vineyard, with fresh grapes being picked. There's a lovely wine list, glasses from $7. Focaccia bread and a hummus dip are complimentary but if you need more than a nibble before imbibing, try their flatbread, similar to a rectangular pizza, with zucchini and summer squash, eggplant, melted Buretta cheese and spicy tomato puree, large enough for splitting, $11.75. Entree possibilities range from $14 for a burger to $55 for a mammoth, thirty-two ounce rib eye. We settled on the Dover sole, a succulent, mild fish with a crisp top and frisée sprigs, plus salmon bacon bits, which give a nice, smokey flavor, a dill scented creme fraiche sauce and toasted Israeli cous cous round out the beautiful presentation, $24.75. Diver sea scallops come in two portions $14.50 and $29, plump as little pillows, lightly seared, accompanied by maitake mushrooms, pancetta bits and potatoes, with puddles of fava bean cream, yum! If you've saved room for dessert, pastry chef Manuel Ortega offers cookies $8 and assorted creations such as blueberry crême brulée, lemon panna cotta and more, $7.25 to $8.75. Cheese plates available. Napa Valley Grille has multiple locations. I tried their San Diego branch last year and was not disappointed. Service is first class and they validate parking.

Napa Valley Grille, 1100 Glendon Avenue at Lindbrook Avenue, Westwood. Full bar. Two hours validated parking in adjoining Westwood Center Garage (enter on Glendon) $4. (310)824-3323

TURKEY DAY by Jeff Folschinsky

The sun is shining, the birds are singing. It's a beautiful Thanksgiving morning in Buffy (Laura Lee Bahr) and Bruce's (toothy Fuz Edwards) modest home, as they get ready to have the family over for the traditional turkey dinner. And that's about the only tranquil moment, Love Muffin and Pookie Bear, as they call each other, will have all day. It erupts into chaos, encompassing blackmail, an illicit romance, sibling rivalry, fisticuffs (with kitchen knives), a disappearing corpse and questions of paternity and much more. First to arrive are the ratched-mouthed mom (Darcey Shean) and dad (Bill Wiff), not the genteel, loving couple that normally represents the older generation. They are followed by Buffy's sister Beatrice (Erin Treanor), who looks like a tough biker chick in torn jeans and her social faux pas committing hubby Ernie (Mark Bate). Their young son Oscar (Tyler Stevens alternating with Justin Tinucci), wants to be called Edgar, after his idol Edgar Allan Poe and whose sole conversation consists of the poet/writer's classic language, which his mother refers to as "speaking in tongues". Contributing to the botched festivities is the voice of Mark T. Burford, as the unseen neighbor Bobby Ray, occasionally hollering opinions and advice from next door.

As directed by Taylor Ashbrook, there's never a dull moment on this stage, as the perennially distraught hostess gets a respite from one minor catastrophe, another is on its way. You'll get laughs out of the pandemonium, primarily because it's not happening at YOUR house. Thanksgiving is months away but wait - there's the Memorial Day get-together, followed by the 4th of July Family Picnic, so en garde!

The Eclectic Company Theatre, 5312 Laurel Canyon Boulevard, between Chandler and Magnolia, Valley Village. Friday and Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 7 p.m. (no intermission). $15 Street parking. (919) 508-3003 or wwweclecticcompanytheatre.com -5/16

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: Across the street, a block west is TANG CAFE, well hidden in a corner strip mall. A neat, tiny spot with spring green walls, decorated with little objets d'arts, a shoji screen and real live plants. They specialize in Asian food, which means they cook mostly Chinese but offer a few Thai dishes. We went for Mainland China all the way and enjoyed a small order of pork in black bean sauce, quite generous for $7.50. Also available with different meats, tofu etc. Another hit was the spicy, sliced lamb with bamboo shoot strips, onions and green peppers in a torrid chili sauce, $11.99. You can have a milder preparation with ginger, same price. Their string beans in garlic sauce $9.99, are stir-fried to the perfect point of crispness and can also be done in a spicier version, with red chili paste. The only disappointing dish, hot braised shrimp, at least a dozen good textured crustaceans, speckled with green peas and carrot bits, were drowned in a sweetish, bright red, ketchup-y tomato sauce that looked more Neapolitan Provincial than Cantonese or Szechuanese. You may like them as is, but we took them home, gave them a good rinse and marinated them for several hours in bottled oyster sauce, not a total loss for $11.25. The menu is quite extensive, small and large portions of soup from $3.99 to #11.99, salads $6.99 to $7.50, curries $7.75 to $8.75, noodles $7.95 to $9.75, rice dishes $7.25 to $8.95 and house specialties from lemon chicken $10.25 to fried shrimp with honey glazed walnuts $14.25, tops. Service is prompt and pleasing ad you certainly can't beat it in the one sport parking department.

TANG CAFE 5219 1/2 Laurel Canyon Blvd.., behind B of A, Valley Village. BYOB (no corkage) Open daily. (818)769-7669.

THE PSYCHIC by Sam Bobrick

A fun-filled show, lighter than Springtime, by the author of the classic hit "Norman, Is That You?" An impoverished writer, Adam Webster (Jeffrey Cannata), lives in a bleak basement (set designed by Jeff McLaughlin). In an effort to raise rent money, he hangs out a home made sign "Psychic Readings $25". He lacks not only psychic skills but story ideas, as well. Luckily, the sign does attract a few customers, all of whom offer decorating ideas before they even seek his advice. There's Laura (Dana Green), unhappily married to Roy (Cyrus Alexander); his on-the-side squeeze Rita (Bridget Flanery). who's also got a hot romance going with an unsavory guy named Johnny Bubbles (Richard Horvitz). This droll cast of characters, most of whom seem bent on knocking each other off, inspire Adam to write an "art imitates life" murder mystery novel, with the whodunnit question to be solved by Detective Coslow (Phil Proctor).
Alexander, as the philandering husband with more vices than virtues, all give spot-on performances. As the buxom, dimpled blonde Rita, Flanery channels Judy Holliday to a T. Horvitz typifies the B-movie gangster in bearing and lingo and Proctor is amusing as the smart New York cop. The sharp direction of this world premiere is by Susan Morgenstern, costumes by Joanie Coyote and, yes, there's a reason Laura never changes her outfit.....This is a chockfull of chuckles comedy. The second act sags a little in the middle - who doesn't - but is ultimately rescued by a socko, surprise ending.

FalconTheatre, 4252 Riverside Drive, Burbank. WEdnesday - Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 4 p.m. (dark April 4 but there are performances at 4 and 8 p.m. on April 3) $32.50 - $40. Parking lot. (818)955-8101. -4/18

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: The little stretch of Riverside Drive, just a few blocks from the Falcon, seems really quiet these days, except for the bustling DON CUCO, whose decorative frontage and fliower laden patio look inviting. The interior is bathed in bordello red light, has romantic booths decorated with Spanish tile, a deliciously kitschy cactus chandelier, good Mexican food and is only a two minute drive from the theatre. Besides Margaritas and beer, there's a short wine list, including a Kendall-JacksonChardonnay for $7.50 a glass.

You can have your burritos, enchiladas, combinaciones etc., shrimp entrees are $14.95, carne asada is the most expensive for $15.50. Grilled chicken breast, marinated in tequila, lime and garlic is quite delightful and can even be livened up with spoonsful of their spicy salsa, $14.75 with rice and beans. Those who are not enamored of standard Mexican dishes should try their orange roughy baked in foil with savory herbs and a fragrance better than Chanel #5 for the culinary attuned. Comes with rice and fresh vegetables, firm carrots and overcooked zucchini, $14.95. Both plates are garnished with an avocado slice and include choice of salad , mostly crisp iceberg lettuce or their mighty tasty albondigas soup. Our waiter's command of English was on a par with my Spanish (virtually non-existent), plus a he had a few senior moments but it all worked out in the end.

Don Cuco, 3911 Riverside Drive, Toluca Lake (818)842-1123

THE BALLAD OF EMMETT TILL

In 1955, Emmett Till, a young, black boy of fourteen, was beaten to death in Mississippi for committing the "crime" of whistling at a white woman. If this weren't a historical fact, I would not give it away at the beginning of a review - but it won't lessen the shock of the ending. Because it happened a long, long time ago and, most importantly, fueled the Civil Rights Movement and the welcome change that has taken place in the political and racial attitudes of America, it is bearable, even for African-Americans to watch this story, so masterfully enacted in this production.

Emmett (the fabulous Lorenz Arnell), lives in Chicago, brimming with life, cocky, self-assured, strutting his stuff and geared for adventure, as he visits his relatives in the South for a working vacation. A remarkable performance. A bevy of friends , family and neighbors, all convincingly played by only four other actors,who amaze with their versatility. Karen Malina White, as the pretty and courageous mother, transforms herself into a little boy with equal ease. Adenrele Ojo is Emmett's grandma as well as a demure, young churchgoing girlfriend. Bernard K. Addison portrays the bearded Uncle Mo and several other characters. Rico E. Anderson, with just a pair of glasses, becomes a shy, young man; with a flashlight and a baton, a (white) Southern sheriff. The costume designer is Naila Aladdin-Sanders but the cast uses body language, facial expressions and vocal inflections as easily as a chameleon changes color. Speaking of vocal inflections, some of the heavy jargon, especially the humorous lines, were for me, difficult to understand as was some of the overlapping dialogue. Furthermore, because this is an all black cast, the role of the white shop girl, whose complaint provided the catalyst for this tragedy, is also taken by Karen Malina White, who, I wish, had donned a blonde wig to lessen some confusion. Otherwise, the direction by the award-winning Shirley Jo Finney, is flawless. The Ballad, told in almost operatic style, with snatches of music, dance moves and a chorus of voices, dramatically very effective and moving. The simple set is designed by Scott Siedman, lighting by Kathi O'Donohue and the expert contribution of sound designed David B. Marling.

This West Coast premiere was a pet project of the lat Ben Bradley, the soul and face of the Fountain for so many years, who was brutally murdered just a few months ago. One would like to think that he's looking down upon it and smiling.

The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Avenue near Normandie, Los Angeles. Thursday - Saturday 8 p.m., Sunday 2 p.m. $25 - $28 Students $18, seniors $23 on Thursday and Sunday only. No intermission. Parking in adjacent lot $5. (323)663-1525. -4/3

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: It's easier to slurp your noodles than to remember WAT DONG MOON LEK, a casual store front, five minutes' drive drive from the Fountain. Named after a district in Bangkok, the Silverlake locals refer to it simply as the Thai noodle joint. Don't be put off by the "B" in the window. The place looks spotless and very cute, with blonde wood tables and chair and an artistically rendered menu, drawn on a blackboard wall, interspersed with celebrity faces. Ever wondered how YOUR kitchen would rate? I have...
Since they're famous for their noodles and we're crazy about silver (also called glass) noodles, the larb (#39, is a great beginning. A salad that tingles with spice, is bedecked with ground pork (or meat of your choice, sliced, red onion etc. If the lime dressing has trickled beneath the lettuce doily, spoon it over, $6.99. The popular pad Thai (#27) with a garnish of beans sprouts also has glass noodles plus chopped egg, peanuts and choice of chicken, beef, tofu or pork, it $7.99 and slightly sweet. Sprinkle some Thai fish sauce (at table), which is not fishy and belongs to the misnomer club, together with sweetbreads (not sweet) and eggplant (no eggs). It is a condiment like soy sauce to Chinese food and Tabasco for Mexican dishes. But it isn't spicy. They have all the usual Thai selections including an assortment of curries. We picked the mild green curry with sliced chicken and a mound of white rice (#42), for $7.99. All very tasty and affordable, plus you can BYOB (no corkage charge). Charming service.

Wat Dong Moon Lek, 4356 Fountain Avenue, near Sunset Boulevard., Los Angeles. No alcohol. Park in Centre Plaza Lot, in front. (323)666-5993.

FORGIVENESS by David Schulner

"The form of love is forgiveness" - Reinhold Niebur.

So says a line in your program. But it's not all that easy, as you will see, in this potent play. A young couple, Jill (Emily Bergl) and her fiance Ben (Peter Smith), are on their way to meet her folks, always a challenging undertaking but, in this story, there are despicable family secrets that come to light, which are especially hard to swallow. The questions that this play poses are: can you see it in your heart to pardon someone who has deeply hurt the person you love? Can those who have committedunpardonable acts ever redeem themselves?

Jill's father Sam (Morlan Higgins), is now married to his second wife Penny (Lee Garlington). They have a daughter, Jillian, a typical, fast-talking teenager (Kendall Toole). In addition to carrying heavy baggage, they are both recovering alcoholics and born again Christians, whose new found faith in Jesus, has allowed them to absolve themselves of past sins. Daughter Jill supports their belief but Ben, who is Jewish, finds their self-cleansed state difficult to accept. The cast is brilliant. Higgins, an award-winning actor, well known to local audiences, in a demanding and ambiguous part, is excellent. Garrington shines as the acerbic, yet wise, stepmother and the young lovers exude charm and talent, as they wrestle with ghost of the past while embarking on a future together. The skeletons in the closet rattle loudly throughout this intermission-less play and will affect you in the most profound way, involving your own level of tolerance and a fair amount of soul searching. Matt Shakman directs this expertly written world premiere with skill and care. The three tiered set is designed by Kurt Boetcher. Highly recommended.

Black Dahlia Theatre, 5453 W. Pico Blvd., Los Angeles. Thursday -Saturday 8 p.m,. $25. Street parking (800)838-3006. - 3/28

Pre-Performance Dining Suggestion: Park your car and walk a block west, to CHIC, a serendipitous find, conveniently close, quite charming and reminiscent of a Parisian brasserie. There are French movie posters and an entire blackboard wall with wine listings from around the globe. They have bottles from Italy, Australia, Argentina, France etc., but not a single white wine from California, sacre bleu! You'll also notice that their reds stored behind the counter, are standing upright, not resting comfortably on their side, as is customary. But why quibble, when the food is so tasty and prices are in the comfort zone? There's New York steak, lamb osso buco, home made ravioli, chicken and pork, between $14 and $18. I can vouch for the black cod, fresh as a breeze, in a light saffron broth, chockfull of grilled artichoke hearts, baby squash, butternut puree and fingerling potato halves, $18. The beef Bourguignonne is exceptionally tender and generous, if a little fattier than I would have preferred, in a hearty, heady, red wine sauce with fresh string beans and a timbale of garlic mashers with that wonderful, lumpy, home made texture, $14. They don't serve bread, which is a good thing, because it leaves room for dessert. The people sitting next to us raved about the rosemary-olive oil cake but we played it safer with a fabulous almond meringue praline cake $5, and worth every calorie. Excellent coffee, $2.25. Wine from $7 per(water) glass - no stemware, here. Leisurely but pleasant service and the perfect prelude to a memorable evening.

Chic, 5545 W. Pico
Blvd., Los Angeles Covered sidewalk terrace. Beer and wine. (323)525-0234.