Review by Amalisha HuEck
The (Mostly) True Story of a
Common Scold, winner of the International New Works of Merit Competition, is the life story of Anne Royall, a strong and brave woman, newspaper editor and an 'itinerant storyteller' - our first female journalist who openly opposed overturning the US Constitution into a Christian Nation. Her involvement in politics almost cost her life. But her fearless and determined decision to beat the Evangelists through writing, figuring out their plans and exposing them, made her a legend. One of the fearless women of the 19
th Century who stood strongly by her beliefs and vision to beat the 'man's world'.
The incredibly talented cast of two women and five men, convincingly take us into the time when it was illegal to teach others to read, when some women carry knives and if you poke the Preacher, he'll show you who he is and the power he possesses. By being resourceful the question between liberty and slavery has been resolved by the liberty of the press. Mike Teverbaugh (Award-Winning Playwright) also 'began his working life editing and writing for newspapers, including the Los Angeles Times, which explains his affinity for the story of Anne Royall, America's first female journalist.'
Strong, powerful writing came to life by equally strong actors; Dendrie Taylor (Anne Royall) with her intense, rich acting ability conquers the main protagonist with ease, and her 'maid' Zuri Alexander is not far behind her. Zuri's beauty and poise, together with her expressed emotions take the audience into the Victorian era leisurely. The 'chemistry' between those two characters is effective and accomplished.
The 5 men portray multiple identities; Satiar Pourvasei (Reverend Stiles, James Web, Townsperson), Tom Waters - Producer (Nicholas Biddle, Sidney Morse, Dr. Bertman, Leader, Townsperson), Scott Parkin (Duff Green, Bo, Townsperson, Constable), Jake O'Flaherty (George Waterson, Henry Tims, Mordecai Noah, Townsperson), and Scott Burkholder (John Eaton, Judge Cranch). Every actor is perfectly cast. The director Natalia Lazarus brings out the best in every actor and the characters are truly alive and well portrayed. Bravo to the entire cast and their creators. This magnificent play with its distinctive ambience is highly recommended!
Common Scold is produced by Tom Waters and the rest of the TEAM are Chris Kooreman (Production & Lighting Design), Amanda Aoki and Shon Le Blanc (Costume Design), Caitlin Ramsey (Production Stage Manager), Gigi Kopinar (Graphic Design), Caitlin Ramsey and Thiago Carvalho (Lighting Technician).
Front of the House is covered by Gigi Kokpinar, Sean Nyambayo, Sonia Rigueras and Gui Salmeronn.
Great job everyone!
'The Los Angeles Performance Productions Foundation. Inc. (LAPAP) is a non-profit organization committed to enriching the Los Angeles community through the arts. Since its founding in 2010. under the guidance of Artistic Director Natalia Lazarus. LAPAP has provided a platform to bring together professional actors, writers, directors, and designers to create dynamic cultural and educational experiences.'
You can see The Common Scold at Promenade Playhouse Theatre (their new location), on 10931 West Pico Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90064 from September 20 - October 27 on Friday 8pm, Saturday 7pm and Sunday 2pm.
The Tickets can be purchased on
https://www.laproductions.org/shows-tickets