LA Theater Review: ‘The Princes of Kings Road’

Fans of theater, architecture and iconic Los Angeles drama must not miss the limited-run play The Princes of Kings Road. This is a story about friendship and feuds, the buildings that changed the face of Los Angeles and the two men whose creative genius built them. An unbelievable true story – friends, colleagues and then enemies – Richard Neutra and Rudolph Schindler end up in the same hospital room after 23 years of estrangement.
cropped-POKR-Header-Image11

 

What unfolds is a perfectly acted, minimalist piece that complements the design of its surroundings, the Neutra Institute and Museum of Silverlake. What could have been a dull and typical “life retelling” to a young nurse who has no choice but to listen, is instead an animated moment in time with just enough history. John Nielsen plays Schindler with a perfect mix of egotism meets fading playboy. Ray Xifo as Neutra brings the duo’s relationship to life through his passion for design while giving hope to a dying man.

The play is directed seamlessly by Tom Lazarus. A beautiful dynamic friendship unfolds as past and present merge while unfinished projects find new life. The intimate environment serves the story and audience. A projection of the two architects collaborations and works provide visual stimulation and the music, by Neutra’s wife who was a cellist, also weaves in authenticity.

Princes%20of%20Kings%20Road_2

Very few plays should only be seen in their original space by the original cast. This is one of them.

The Princes of Kings Road

WHO: * Written and directed by Tom Lazarus * Starring John Nielsen, Heather Robinson and Ray Xifo * Produced by Stevie Stern Lazarus * Presented by Ensemble Studio Theatre/LA with Dion Neutra and the Neutra Institute and Museum of Silverlake

WHEN: Performances: Sept. 12-0ct. 4

Fridays at 8 p.m.: Sept. 18, 25; Oct. 2

Saturdays at 8 p.m.: Sept. 12 (opening), 19, 26; Oct. 3

Sunday at 4 p.m.: Sept. 27 ONLY

Sundays at 5 p.m.: Sept. 13, 20, Oct. 4 (no 5 p.m. performance on Sept. 27)

Sunday at 7 p.m.: Sept. 27 ONLY

WHERE: Neutra Institute and Museum of Silverlake 2379 Glendale Blvd. Silveriake, CA 90039.

TICKETS: Call (323) 641-7747 or go to www.PrincesofKinqsRoad.com, TICKET PRICE: $25

Advertisement