A dressy night out at the Music Center to catch a major musical or play with top-notch actors has been a Los Angeles tradition for the better part of a half century. And the Center Theatre Group and The Ahmanson are set to deliver again for the 47th season, which kicks off on Sept. 24.
Leading the way? "The Sunshine Boys," which stirred up all sorts of accolades during its West End run in London. The stars are Richard Griffiths (so funny in the television series "Extras" and about a hundred other things) and Mr. Danny DeVito, a thespian whose work you definitely know. And speaking of funny, this is a Neil Simon showbiz-themed play, so there shall be a plethora of knowing laughs and a few wise and rueful moments, too.
It chortles from Sept. 24 through Nov. 3.
Also on the multi-faceted Ahmanson docket? "Peter and the Starcatcher," which basked in recent Tony love (and, speaking of funny: Dave Barry is behind this one, though count on it delivering far more whimsy than Barry-style ha-ha-ing). "The Gershwin's Porgy and Bess," which wears the mantel of timeless and moving, follows "Peter."
And after that? "We Will Rock You" -- yep, it's from Queen + comedy writer Ben Elton -- is the turn-it-up summer show for July and August of 2014.
"Matthew Bourne's Sleeping Beauty" and "The Last Confession" are also in the mix.
When spring approaches the live-performance lover turns his mind to summer shows, but what's ahead at The Ahmanson come fall is one big exception. There's a lot to look forward to starting a half-year from now, stage people.
