Orange County Theatre Reviews

February 4, 2023 | fullerton, interview, Theater, Uncategorized Comments (1) |

SURREALISM OF THE HEART : Fullerton Playwright Matthew Hayashi

(photo credit: Matthew M. Hayashi and Gennie Kauper)

Written by Patrick Chavis 

I reviewed the World Premiere of Sustained Release at the Larking House somewhere in Anaheim in early December — December 8th, if I’m remembering correctly. It was opening night, and I was aware the play was taking place in a garage and not some theater, not even a small theater. This is where someone eats and sleeps, and you must be guided to the bathroom before the show. I sat down in this garage, the lights went off, and there it was – a new place, a new story, and the best seat in the house. Continue Reading

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January 31, 2023 | fullerton, Maverick Theatre, Review, Theater, Uncategorized Comments (0) |

Misery @ Maverick Theatre in Fullerton – Review

photo credit: Jessica Peralta

Written by Patrick Chavis

Stephen King is one of today’s most prolific and successful horror writers. His influence on pop culture, film, television, and even theatre, is undeniable regardless of whether you enjoy his work. Despite a vast catalog of work, Misery stands out as a high watermark in suspense and drama. Misery is not a play you can take lightly. It’s incredibly challenging material, especially as related to the lead role of Annie Wilkes (Alli Maier). There are echoes of greatness in this production, but it ultimately settles for good with a performance that lacks the intensity this character sorely needs. Continue Reading

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January 29, 2023 | Review, Santa Ana, The Wayward Artist, Theater, Uncategorized Comments (0) |

Ju1ce One Act Plays by OC Playwrights @ Wayward Artist – Review

Photography: Francis Gacad!

Written by Patrick Chavis

JU1CE, for one weekend only, is a theatrical event where eight — yes eight — unique plays are presented by different Orange County, California playwrights. Orange County isn’t the only connection. The event has a theme, and the theme is communication in the past, present, and future. While these are eight independent stories, it’s bundled as one night of theater. So, I will score each play individually and take the overall average of the night.

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January 24, 2023 | Costa Mesa, Review, Theater, Uncategorized Comments (1) |

Clybourne Park @ Costa Mesa Playhouse – Review

Written by Patrick Chavis

(photo credit: Kerrin Piché Serna)

This 2011 Pulitzer Prize-winning and 2012 Tony Award-winning play, Clybourne Park, is now playing at the Costa Mesa Playhouse from Jan 20 – Feb 12, 2023. Continue Reading

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January 10, 2023 | News, Press Releases, Theater, Uncategorized Comments (0) |

How can you support small indie Orange County theater in 2023?

(photo credit: Matthew M. Hayashi and Gennie Kauper)

In the region of Orange County, there are multiple places to catch theatrical production in the area.  While the number of theaters pails in comparison to our next-door neighbor Los Angeles, some smaller theater companies are working hard to expand access to future playwrights and artists in the area supporting new works.  Here’s a list of smaller theaters and companies supporting new works in the community and how you can support them.       Continue Reading

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January 10, 2023 | Press Releases, Uncategorized Comments (0) |

THE WAYWARD ARTIST AND ORANGE COUNTY PLAYWRIGHTS ALLIANCE present JUICE One Act Plays by Orange County Playwrights

This elevated evening of theatre represents some of Orange County’s finest playwrights. After a selection process, eight finalists were selected to participate. These delightful 10-minute plays explore the complexities of communication past, present, and future. In collaboration with OCPA, The Wayward Artist and its resident artists have created a wonderfully cohesive and theatrical evening of storytelling. You don’t want to miss this incredible showcase of new work. Taken from the website.

Jan 27 -29,2023

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