Best of LA theater 2024: A Critic’s Top Picks
Choosing the best theatrical experiences of the year is always a challenge, given the sheer volume of astonishing productions gracing Los Angeles stages. But after countless nights immersed in the magic of live performance, I’ve compiled a list of the most emotionally resonant and unforgettable shows of 2024. This selection focuses on productions that left a lasting impact, those that linger in memory long after the curtain falls. for those who missed my individual reviews, you can find them on the Entertainment pages of Culver City news and Gardena Valley News.
Spotlight on Outstanding Productions
This year’s highlights spanned a diverse range of genres and venues. The musicals alone offered a captivating spectrum, from the classic charm of “Fiddler on the Roof” at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts to the contemporary energy of “American Idiot” at the Mark Taper Forum.The plays were equally diverse, showcasing both established and emerging playwrights.
- Musicals: Once Upon a Mattress, Funny Girl (Ahmanson Theatre); American Idiot (Mark Taper Forum); Mrs.doubtfire, Back to the Future, Company (Pantages Theatre); Fiddler on the Roof (La Mirada Theatre); The Life and Times of Michael K (The Wallis); Pacific Overtures (East West Players); Footloose, The Troubies: Duran duAnthony and Cleopatra, The Troubies: Home Alone-ly Hearts Club band (The Colony); it’s All your Fault, Tyler Price (Broadwater Backstage Theatre); reefer Madness (The Whitley Hollywood); First Date: A Musical Comedy (Zephyr Theatre).
- Plays: Fatherland (The fountain Theatre); Crevasse (The Victory Theatre); A Good Guy (Rogue Machine); A View From the Bridge (The Ruskin Group); The Bespoke Overcoat (Pacific Resident Theatre); The Civil Twilight (Broadwater Studio Theatre); The Witness Room (Whitefire Theatre); Mercury (The Road Theatre).
- Solo Shows: Sugar Daddy, Dragon Lady (The Geffen Playhouse); Kristin Chenoweth wiht LA Opera Orchestra (Dorothy Chandler Pavilion); DIVA the Play (Zephyr Theatre); My Mother Doesn’t Know I’m Kinky (The Broadwater Second Stage).
- Staged Reading: Tesla: A Radio Play for the Stage (Cal Tech)
“It’s always difficult for me to select my favorite plays each year since there are so many I really enjoyed,” I admit. “But I limit my “Best Of” list to those that stick in my memory for the overall emotional impact of being present in the audience for the live performance.”
Let’s raise a glass to a fantastic year of theater in Los Angeles! To ensure the continued vibrancy of our local arts scene, please support your favorite theaters by purchasing tickets. For budget-conscious theatergoers,consider subscribing to Sold Out Crowd at https://soldoutcrowd.com. Stay updated on local theater news by signing up for daily eBlasts from Broadway World los Angeles at https://www.broadwayworld.com/los-angeles.
And remember, anyone who doubts L.A.’s status as a theater town simply hasn’t experienced the incredible artistic talent flourishing in our city.
A look at the Best of LA Theater in 2024
This year brought a diverse range of phenomenal theatrical productions to Los Angeles, offering audiences everything from classic revivals to groundbreaking new works. We sat down with theater critic and cultural commentator,Jessica Rosen,to discuss some of the most memorable shows of 2024.
Choosing the “Best”
World-Today News senior Editor: Jessica, your annual “Best Of” list is always a highly anticipated guide for LA theatergoers. You saw a tremendous number of productions this year. How do you go about narrowing down your choices?
Jessica Rosen: It’s certainly a daunting task! Choosing my favorites feels a bit like trying to pick a favorite child. Every production brings its own unique elements and resonates with audiences in different ways. But ultimately, I focus on those shows that leave a lasting emotional impact, the ones that continue to linger in my thoughts long after the curtain falls. There’s a certain magic that happens when brilliant storytelling, skilled performances, and innovative direction come together on stage.
Standout Performances
World-Today News Senior Editor: Any particular musicals or plays that truly wowed you this year?
Jessica Rosen:
Oh,there are so manny! I was completely swept away by the emotions of “Fiddler on the Roof” at the La Mirada Theatre. Jason Alexander’s poignant portrayal of Tevye was truly remarkable.On the contemporary front, “American Idiot” at the Mark Taper Forum cleverly captured the angst and energy of a generation.
World-Today News Senior Editor: You mentioned diversity in your list. Can you elaborate on that?
Jessica Rosen: Absolutely! This year showcased a fantastic range of voices and perspectives. From the powerful social commentary of “Fatherland” at the Fountain Theatre to the thought-provoking “Crevasse” at the Victory Theatre, audiences were challenged and moved in profound ways. I was also delighted to see so many exciting new plays by emerging writers, which further solidifies LA as a vibrant hub for theatrical innovation.
Supporting Local Theater
World-Today News Senior Editor: what message would you like to leave with our readers about the importance of supporting local theater?
Jessica Rosen:
There’s simply nothing like experiencing live theater! Investing in theatre means investing in our community. Access to the arts enriches our lives, encourages dialog, and helps us connect with shared human experiences. I encourage everyone to explore the diverse offerings of our local stages.
