Did you know Los Angeles has theater? And it’s really good? (Well, in fairness, it’s hit-or-miss, but you can say that of any town.) My first love is the stage and I came up in LA doing 99-seat shows in black boxes and skits in locations that put the “sketch” in comedy. And though theater took a beating after the passing of AB5 and the pandemic, it’s that time of year where we get to celebrate the medium with the Hollywood Fringe Festival!
And in news that doubles as self-promotion, I’m chuffed to have written my first story for the Los Angeles Times on this very subject. I have no chill about still seeing my byline in beautiful print, and absolutely love how this story turned out. You can read all about the over 500 plays taking place through June here.
Now I know theater can be Russian Roulette - I’ve both suffered through and created my share of Social Obligation Theater to know there is little worse than a self-indulgent or underprepared or just plain bad live show. To quote Homer Simpson about a terrible movie: “I’ve seen actual plays that are better! Plays!”
But it’s important to support theater, especially in your own community. I could write a TED Talk on why but we all know it’s true. And I empathize - I know we’ve all been That Person who worries when taking the time and money to check out a show and often decide to just not do it. In an effort to help you not be That Person, here’s a few things to bear in mind that should help ease your theater anxiety:
Shows are short! Most are under an hour, some even under 30 minutes. So even if it’s not your thing, you can sit quietly for less than an hour, right? I know a lot of you binge watch “Bridgerton” without moving for four hours.
Prices are relatively cheap. Usually the cost is under $20 for a show and there are always discounts available. Go to show pages and social media channels to look for codes.
Lots of artists are using Fringe to workshop or figure out what their show is going to be. Imagine if you could say you were in one of the first audiences of “Fleabag” or “Baby Reindeer.” Also, they are genuinely looking for feedback to help shape a show - your response will be truly valued.
If a show is terrible, it can be a great time. Some of my favorite memories and bonding moments have occurred commiserating over what the hell was that we just saw???
Trust me, the good outweighs the bad. There is nothing better than discovering a new show or talent, sitting there in a dark theater surrounded by a community, and experiencing something truly sublime. It’s worth the risk.
However, if a show opens like this, my only advice is RUN.
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