This review was originally published in the Long Beach Post, a nonprofit news organization, on May 21, 2026. From left: Amanda Karr (Eleanor) and Noah Wagner (Henry) in "The Lion in Winter" at Long Beach Playhouse. Photo by Mike Hardy. If you think your family is a piece of work, wait until you experience the dysfunctional royal household in “The Lion in Winter” in Long Beach Playhouse’s stellar production. Featuring a king, queen, three princes and a mistress holed up in a F

Henri Lubatti (King Berenger) in "Exit the King" at A Noise Within (Photo by Craig Schwartz) A play called “Exit the King” seems perfect now when democratic values and personal freedoms are under threat by a president who seems to have monarchical ambitions. Eugène Ionesco’s 1962 play, currently on stage at A Noise Within, does skewer tyrannical behavior, but also makes clear that the tyrant is each of us. Translated from the French by Donald Watson and directed by Michael Mi

Cast of "Made in Brasil: Solo Works" at Highways Performance Space (Photo courtesy of the show) Created and produced by Leopold Nunan and directed by Bia Oliveira, “Made in Brasil: Solo Works” at Highways Performance Space is more than just a night of solo performances. It is an immersive celebration of Brazilian artists, culture and identity that begins the moment one walks in the doors. Before the first act even begins, the production sets a tone that feels intimate, commun