by Shirley Lorraine

60’s Get Revisited in Simi

A welcome trip to nostalgia-ville is in store for all at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center. Currently running is Beehive, the 60’s Musical, a fast-paced trip back in time to the era of Kennedy, Nixon, Woodstock and the eternal quest for peace.

Five fabulous females lead the audience through the evolution of soul-baring music that epitomized the rise of female consciousness in that era. From searing laments of love to statements of empowerment to high energy, let it all out renditions, the audience thoroughly enjoyed reliving the specialness of the music that guided our formative years.

The ensemble is tight, talented and tender. Each gets numerous opportunities to shine throughout. The cast includes Jodi Marks, Kiana Hamzehi, Amaya J, Caroline Hines, Dallas Dudley and Maddie Worth, whose alternate Annie Claire Hudson performed the day I attended. All performers were top-notch.

The first act features little dialogue as the ladies sing out the anthems of the era. Audience participation is encouraged in some parts, adding to the feeling of total inclusion. The songs became more meaningful to me as they progressed, as I relived my teendom through them.

The second act adds the cherries on top with stand-out show-stopping performances.

Replete with costume changes, wig changes, recognizable choreography of the era and a marvelous live band to assist, the ladies provide a powerhouse of emotion, sentiment and just pure joy in their presentations. At times it seemed that the band was competing with them for volume, but in the end the focus was all on the individual renditions.

Dig out some fringe, bell bottoms, and put flowers in your hair to accentuate the total immersion of the peace-love-statement era.

Running Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. through November 10. www.svcac.org . It’s a great trip. Get your groove on and go.

Every Now and Then Theatre Annual Radio Show Hits the Air!

The multi-award-winning broadcasting company will be presenting “We the People – 1700s Boston” with celebrity guest host Bruce Belland. Involving a large cast of seasoned performers, the presentation will reveal the truth of how the Boston Tea Party and the Declaration of Independence really came to be, not how modern historians have reshaped history leaving it full of holes. The 57-minute broadcast is commercial free.

A joint presentation from Every Now and Then Theatre and Conejo Players Theatre, the special streams nationwide, Pacific Times, on Saturday November 2nd at 6 a.m., 1 p.m. and 9 p.m.; Sunday November 3rd at 11 a.m.; and Monday November 4th at 7 p.m. Click on “Listen Live” at www.kvta.com. Also steams on www.ktms.com.

Now in their 35th year with 68 awards in their pockets, the all-volunteer Every Now and Then Theatre productions benefit foster children by providing broadcast CD copies to cast, crew and fans in trade for donations to foster children of all ages. Find out more at www.everynowadthentheatre.com. Tune in, learn support and enjoy!

Streaming Spotlight by Cindy Summers
The Last of the Sea Women – Apple TV+

“The Last of the Sea Women” is an incredible documentary detailing the lives of the stellar senior sea women of South Korea that live on Jeju Island and are known as Haenyeos, which free dive in the ocean harvesting marine life as their primary source of food and income. They say it’s a calling to be a haenyeo, serving as guardians of the sea and sharing a very symbiotic relationship with the ocean fulfilling their duty to protect it for hundreds of years. Jeju is known as the home of the haenyeos and the island is famous for three things: rocks, wind and women.

The 1960s was the heyday for the haenyeos with the number of haenyeos peaking at 30,000 when the population of Jeju was 200,000, but the number has steadily declined and now there are about 4,000 haenyeos left mostly in their 60s, 70s and 80s. They serve their duty with all their hearts and the traditions are passed down from their mothers and grandmothers. Even when it’s cold or they don’t feel like diving, they still dive as it’s in their bones.

Being a haenyeos is a very dangerous job and haenyeos are not covered by health insurance because the job is considered too dangerous. The currently older generation of haenyeos doesn’t think that the younger generation has the tenacity to live like they do and no one seems to want to become haenyeos anymore, which may cause the haenyeos way of life to become extinct. The sea itself has also changed and the haenyeos are disappearing, seeming like the haenyeos culture is melting away.

They sing traditional songs boating out to sea and spend hours free diving filling large floating baskets. The singing actually began when they had to row boats out to sea. Culturally, when they were young people used to look down on haenyeos, especially those married to influential people in the village. That was a long time ago and now even UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) recognizes the haenyeos giving them the courage to stand tall against those that would judge them.

During the Joseon Dynasty being a haenyeo was a tough job and primarily done by men. After they found out it was hard, men just quit doing the job because they could handle it and women had no choice but to do this job to provide income for the family. Young women start training to be haenyeos at ages 7-10 years old, learning how to swim, dive and the necessary breathing techniques to free dive. They are also taught where to find and how to harvest the food, and then once they reach 15-17 years old they would officially become a haenyeo.

In August 2024, Japan began releasing radioactive wastewater into the ocean causing a future where haenyeos would lose their homes and livelihoods. In Geneva Switzerland, the UN Human Rights Council met to work on the Fukushima issue. Haenyeos were invited to the meeting to speak about the impacts of Japan’s decision. Soon Deok Jang was 72 years old and learned to be a haenyeos when she was 16. She represented the haenyeos and back on Jeju Island the elders teased she was a national hero, now known everywhere for working to save their island.

The Jeju Haenyeo Festival is for when they leave this world so future generations can remember them by the festival and learn the history of the haenyeos culture and to not be forgotten. This documentary is inspiring insightful look at senior women taking on global issues to guard the seas and inspire younger generations to continue the haenyeo traditions and preserve their culture.

Runtime: 1h 27m

Streaming Spotlight by Cindy Summers
High Potential – Hulu

In the new ABC series “High Potential”, Kaitlin Olsen plays Madison, a quirky single mother of three with a genius IQ that has tended to get her into more trouble than it helped. While working as a night janitor at the local police station, Madison knocked over a box of evidence related to an adjacent case board and though she only saw a few photos of a dead guy from the scene, she went to the board and crossed out a woman listed as suspect and changed it to victim.

The next morning, Detective Karadec (Daniel Sunjata) began to review the case and was very upset that someone had scratched out suspect and wrote victim under the photo of the wife of the victim. Upon reviewing the security video, Det. Karadec went to Madison’s home and insisted she come down to the station to discuss her actions. Madison explained that in accidentally knocking over the box of evidence, her brain immediately began reviewing the evidence like a puzzle and she came to the conclusion that the police had wrongly suspected the wife.

Madison noticed details that others overlooked such as in the crime scene photos the male victim lying on the floor was not bound with tape in any way, but Madison noticed that the photo of the chair in the room had small pieces of hair sticking to the legs, meaning someone had been taped to the chair. This meant there were three people at the scene and now had to assume there was a second victim, most likely the wife who the police had actually considered the prime suspect. Det. Karadec said that Madison would be temporarily detained while they reviewed her story.

When Madison was released, she passed the team reviewing the security footage from the murder scene to try and find the third person, but she noticed right away that the date was wrong on the timestamp. She said the video could not have been from the day of the crime because seasonal winds blow the opposite direction from what was scene in the footage as well as knowing the direction the wind was blowing by the east facing church in the background (noting that all churches were built facing east). In reviewing her comments online, both facts were true.

Madison explained she had to “solve the puzzle” or it would drive her crazy due to her extremely high IQ of 160, classifying her as a high potential individual with advanced cognitive abilities, intellectual creativities, and photographic memory. Madison did not consider it a gift, for it caused her to obsess over every problem she saw, hence why she had to point out the problems with the criminal investigation, and generally it makes it hard to hold a job, relationship, or conversation.

Though Det. Karadec was very skeptical of Madison and not on board with her being part of the investigation, Captain Selena (Judy Reyes) told him that they obviously needed her cooperation now that they discovered there was a second victim. Captain Selena believed Madison’s unusual methods could assist them with their now botched murder investigation and find a victim they didn’t know existed before Madison’s review. Madison’s unconventional ways proved to be helpful to the investigation, and Captain Selena felt Madison would be an asset so made her a job offer.

Madison asked her to add 20% and include child care, and Captain Selena agreed. Madison had one other condition and that was for Captain Selena to look into the disappearance of her first husband from ten years earlier. Madison was convinced it happened under suspicious circumstances but written off by the police at the time. Captain Selena said they had a deal, so serendipity not only got Madison a great new job suited to her quirky style and intellect, it also had the potential of solving her own unsolved case.

Runtime: 10 – 45m Episodes (airs on ABC Tuesdays 10pm)

by Shirley Lorraine

New Art City Offers Diverse Voices

Ventura County has a great deal to offer in the way of live theater. Our stages are routinely graced with performances equal to and even exceeding those found at the Pantages, the Civic Arts Plaza, and many other venues. Why go anywhere else?

Recently I had the pleasure to attending a sneak peek at a new musical being developed by New Art City Theatre. Haven’t heard of them? You will.

New Art City is a fledgling entity whose mission is to provide avenues for actors, writers and more to develop their skills, offering open doors to all. The brainchild of exceptionally talented duo Kirby and Beverly Ward, New Art City has already firmly placed itself on the Ventura County theater community map by inviting patrons to the first New Plays Festival this past June. It featured four brand new works at the best cost possible – free.

Writers submit works blindly (no author noted) and all works are read. All actors are auditioned. No one is turned away. Doors are opened. Diverse voices are encouraged.

According to the Wards, they want audiences to be drawn in by the new works that are presented. One of their major goals is to always, and only, work in the black. That requires ongoing funding which is translated to patrons as “ways to be part of the journey.”

The performance of snippets of “Sunday After Next,” a musical loosely adapted from Oscar Wilde’s short story Lord Arthur Savile’s Crime, was intriguing and engaging. Kirby, Beverly and actor David Burnham played a cadre of roles, with plots points being described between songs. All three displayed impressive vocal power and harmonies. John Enrico Douglas provided musical accompaniment. The abbreviated script produced laughter and delight as the personas were changed. Eleven years so far in the making, this work promises to be well worth the wait.

When the full play finally reaches the stage, a cast of 8-10 actors will fill nearly 25 roles. Beverly described the results as “more Monty Python and less Downton Abbey.” The preview was moving, deeply funny and extremely well received.

Watch for news of Festival ’25, when another four brand new plays will be offered. The venue is yet to be determined, as the group is in process of seeking suitable venues.

In the meantime, however, New Art City is pleased to present a one-man show titled The Day I Accidentally Went to the War featuring actor, writer, comedian and U.S,. veteran Bill Posey.

There will only be three opportunities to catch this compelling theatrical experience– October 18, 19 and 20. The performances will be at the former American Legion Hall at 83 Palm Street, downtown Ventura.

Friday and Saturday performances are at 7:00 p.m., Sunday at 2 p.m. Seating is limited. Tickets are available now online at www.newartcitytheatre.org . $20 general admission, $10 for military, veterans and their families. Sign up to be on the mailing list. You’ll be glad you did.

Streaming Spotlight by Cindy Summers
Rebel Ridge – Netflix

Terry Richmond (Aaron Pierre) was riding a bike to Shelby Springs to post bail for his cousin when he was hit by a police car. Officer Marston said that he had been following Terry for two miles trying to pull him over, but Terry had headphones on and had no idea. Officer Marston handcuffed Terry saying he fled, then searched his backpack and found $36,000 cash which was confiscated.

Terry explained he sold his vehicle because he needed to get $10,000 bail for his cousin to the courthouse by 5pm to and the rest was for them to start a new life together. Officer Marston said that he would let Terry off with a warning, but they would keep the cash, stating they concluded it was drug currency and Terry would have to appear in court to get it back. Terry explained it was legally obtained through the sale of his vehicle and cashing out his share in a restaurant.

Terry went to the courthouse to explain the situation to a public defender, who said he couldn’t help but the conversation was overheard by Summer (AnnaSophia Robb), a woman who worked in the courthouse. She took Terry to the local diner to explain what was happening and that he most likely would never get the money back. Terry explained that his cousin was a witness in a capital murder case and that if he was not bailed out and transferred, that his life was at risk.

Terry went to report the money stolen, but was met by Police Chief Sandy Burnne (Don Johnson) who told Terry he needed to leave. Terry felt his only option was to ask Chief Burnne to use $10,000 for his cousin’s bail and they could keep the rest. He agreed and told Terry to come back Monday to see his cousin. Terry showed, but Chief Burnne said he was late so Terry chased the transfer bus on his bike and told his cousin they were on to him and to seek protective custody.

Terry contacted his ex-business partner to loan him the $10,000 for the bail, but he said the police were searching his restaurant and took his safe. Terry went to ask Summer for help, but she was concerned about her job and asked him to leave, though met him outside saying she had found some cases similar to Terry’s cousin that didn’t seem right. Back at the station, Chief Burnne was investigating Terry’s background and learned he had been a Marine Corps martial arts specialist.

It was at that moment that Terry arrived at the police station and Chief Burnne met him outside, followed shortly by Officer Lann which both pulled guns on him. Terry quickly disarmed them both and grabbed Chief Burnne to make his way into the station. Inside he cuffed Chief Burnne and Officer Lann together, then asked Officer Sims (Zsané Jhé) to retrieve his money from the evidence locker, telling her to seperate $10,000 for the bail and left the rest to honor his deal.

Terry returned to the courthouse to post the bail and Summer tried to help when numerous police officers showed up to arrest him, with his hope of ending up where his cousin was held. Officer Marston put Terry in a police car and picked up Chief Burnne who explained to Terry that all the guns and cash he saw at the station was legal. He gave Terry his $26,000 back and explained that they were at a hospital where his cousin was being medivaced after being attacked.

Chief Burnne apologized telling Terry he bought his truck for him but he had to leave town permanently and unfortunately his cousin also passed away. Summer showed Terry proof of the chief’s corruption and helped him to leave town, but helping Terry would cost Summer in being drugged to frame her. She was able to call Terry who came back to rescue her, but his return would bring a world of trouble to both of them that only Terry’s special skills could resolve.

Runtime: 2h 11m

by Shirley Lorraine

Neil Simon’s Chapter Two Still Delivers

Dubbed one of the most prolific script writers in history (stage, screen and television), Neil Simon’s works are primarily comedies laced with hard-hitting truths. Several decades ago, one would have been hard pressed to find a local theater not staging one of his works in any given season. However, the years go by and newer, edgier stagings became the norm. The truth is though, that Simon’s acumen still hits at the heart of matters that are commonplace, emotional and challenging. Drawing from his own life experiences and those of others, he has successfully brought everyday life issues to the forefront with humor and empathy. He uncovered an essential truth – it is critical to laugh at ourselves as we tackle the travails of life.

Santa Paula Theater Center is currently staging Chapter Two directed by Brian Robert Harris. The play covers Simon’s exploration into the life of George Schneider (Anthony Elias Contreras), a widower who is understandably reluctant to reenter the dating world. George’s ever-helpful brother, Leo (Brian Wulfekotte) assumes the role of matchmaker even as his own marriage is struggling.

Leo randomly meets Jennifer Malone (Sophia Montano), whose own marriage recently ended, and decides to push George into meeting her. With encouragement from best friend Faye (Amber Rae Bowyer), Jennie takes a “what the heck” approach and agrees to meet George.

The two hit it off immediately and leap headfirst into a rebound relationship that, while perfect on the surface, harbors hidden feelings of loss that they are reluctant to acknowledge until after rash decisions are made.

Each of the four characters carry baggage heavier than they can emotionally manage. Each wears a shell of anxiety that shields their true feelings.

All four of the actors are excellent in their portrayals. Simon interjects many funny lines to keep things from getting too heavy, while at the same time causing the audience to think a little deeper.

Subplots keep the action surprising and humorous. These, too, reveal a lot about what is really going on in the characters’ heads, adding layers of indecision and consternation.

This is classic Neil Simon – identifying with the common person and allowing the audience to find the inherent humor and absurdity of the characters’ plights. We root for the characters, knowing that in the end the resolution will be satisfying.

The split set design credited to Nick Caisse of both Jennifer and George’s apartment interiors works quite well and is beautifully appointed in both cases. Costuming transports us back to the 1970’s in a flash. Leo’s print polyester shirts and Faye’s free spirit ensembles especially hit just the right notes.

Due to cast illness, the opening was pushed back a week, shortening the run to just four weeks. Be sure and try to catch this refreshing classic before it ends.

Chapter Two continues through September 29, Fridays and Saturdays at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2:30 p.m. www.santapaulatheatercenter.org or (805)525-4645.

by Shirley Lorraine

Glass Menagerie Classic Endures

Some writings stand the test of time by tackling ongoing themes of life that do not seem to change significantly from era to era. Such a play is The Glass Menagerie by Tennessee Williams. Now on stage at the Conejo Players Theater, the emotional strength of this classic play clearly translates to any time or situation.

Set in 1944, the character Tom (Tanner Redman) narrates this story of his recollections of circumstances within his family. His mother, Amanda Wingfield (Dana Marley-Kolb) , harbors many resentments that manifest in her emotional treatment of son Tom and daughter Laura (Timorah Brown). Tom is the family breadwinner, enduring a factory job that he dislikes. Laura lives in a world of her own, impaired by a childhood illness that left her with a limp and debilitating shyness. Instead of leaving the house, she creates her own idyll with her menagerie of glass figurines.

Tom’s dreams of striking out on his own are hampered by his guilt at wanting to leave the ladies to fend for themselves. Amanda tries desperately to encourage Laura to expand her world by bringing up her own memories of days gone by. As a unit, they are all dysfunctional, deluded and emotionally wounded.

Amanda asks Tom to find a “gentleman caller” to spark Laura. He does so, asking a co-worker Jim O’Connor (Rayve Tay) to come to dinner, not knowing that Laura pined over Jim in high school. Amanda is ecstatic at what she considers to be a matchmaking opportunity, putting all her Southern charm to work in her attempts. Despite her high hopes however, the evening is a failure, and despair once again enfolds the meager apartment.

Director Elena Mills has assembled a quite capable cast to bring this classic to life. The setting is impeccable, employing clever scrims to highlight certain memories. All four of the actors are excellent in their roles. Pacing is rapid and dialogue is crisp. The tone of frustration, anger and impatience bubbles to the surface throughout. Even the gentleman caller, who is often seen as the most empathetic character in his gentle approach to Laura’s shy demeanor, is played with an abundance of bravado that kept the anxiety level high.

The play is reportedly autobiographical of Williams’ own life, at least in many areas. The author’s emotional pain is clearly felt, with easily identifiable themes that are as pertinent today as they were decades ago. Some things don’t change – our desire to have more than we do, to be happier than we are, and to have our dreams of what we consider a better life fulfilled.

The play offers a stark reminder that our successes and failures are within our control, and our control alone. We bring to the table what we have, and it is up to us to reshape it into what we desire.

The Glass Menagerie continues through September 14. Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm, Sundays at 2 pm, Saturday Sept. 7 and 14 offer 2 pm performances. (805) 495-3715, www.conejoplayers.org/upcoming-shows.