By Eva Trieger
SOLANA BEACH, California — Where to start? So many great shows, so many legendary writers and time-tested directors. I, for one, cannot wait for this new season to open. Unbelievably, David Ellenstein, artistic director of my intimate neighborhood theater, has created a veritable feast for the thespian in all of us. I almost don’t want to share the offering for fear of finding my seats sold out! But, having taken an oath of reporting all newsworthy items, I must share this delicious groaning board so we can all share in the bountiful repast.
In September of 2016, North Coast Rep will be toasting The Cocktail Hour. Bottoms up, as we share this comedy, written by A.R. Gurney and directed by our marvelous Rosina Reynolds. This witty show will depict a family reunion with honesty and humor. The heartwarming and provocative play will run through October 2nd.
Neil Simon’s work will, once again, grace the stage as Geoffrey Sherman takes the director’s chair for Laughter. This script recalls Simon’s days of working with Sid Caesar, Mel Brooks, and Carl Reiner. It’s seriously some of his best comic stuff!
In January, North Coast Rep will take on a drama that has been wowing New York and Los Angeles’ audiences. Marjorie Prime will open on January 11, 2017. This San Diego premier is directed by our favorite, Matthew Wiener, and will explore artificial intelligence in a play penned by Jordan Harrison.
David Ellenstein, will direct the next exciting show, written by Tony Kushner, whom this reviewer only knew of from his articles in the Washington Post! This play, The Illusion is reported to provoke laughter and tears, resulting from its witty and artistic language and delivery. As a Kushner fan, I have no doubt that it will do just that.
In April we are treated to a Graham Greene tale, adapted by Giles Havergal, and directed by Ellenstein. Travels with my Aunt is a universally relatable tale, depicting an eccentric aunt and her nephew. Why is it that families are so complex? As everyone has a crazy aunt, everyone should see this show!
An emotional film provides the content for the June selection. The Spitfire Grill as a musical, under the direction of Jeffrey Moss, will tug at your heartstrings. The music will, no doubt, fill you with the complex and varied sensations experienced by each actor. This inspiring tale and the attendant music will have you leaving the theater feeling whole and content.
The final offering of Season 35 is a San Diego premiere. Another beloved director, Andrew Barnicle, is returning to bring us, At This Evening’s Performance. This “uproarious comedy” is about a theater company and the drama that goes on behind, as well as, onstage. Romance, politics and scandal will keep you laughing.
Make it a point to see these shows. This gem of a theater is worth discovering, and I promise, once you’ve been there, you’ll return! For ticket information contact boxoffice@northcoastrep.org or 858.481.1055.
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Trieger is a freelance writer specializing in coverage of the arts. She may be contacted via eva.trieger@sdjewishworld.com. Comments intended for publication in the space below must be accompanied by the letter writer’s first and last name and by his/ her city and state of residence (city and country for those outside the U.S.)