LOVE ACTUALLY LIVE by Carol Kaufman Segal

            

You may have seen the film Love Actually written and produced by Richard Curtis for Universal Pictures that opened in theaters Nov. 3, 2003.  The movie is a romantic comedy that takes place in London during the Christmas season, and that has made it a staple to be shown somewhere every Christmas since.

           

Last year, during the Holiday Season, The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts in Beverly Hills presented the world premiere of Love Actually Live in a most unusual production in collaboration with For the Record, and by special arrangement with Universal Theatrical Group. 

           

Because it was such a tremendous hit last season, Artistic Director Paul Crewes said, “We knew we made a very special production the moment the curtain rose on Love Actually Live last season.  So I’m really pleased that we can collaborate again with our For the Record family this holiday season and share this very unique experience with Los Angles audiences once again.”  Therefore, Love Actually Alive is back again this season at The Wallis.

            

The scenic design by Mathew Steinbrenner is most unusual with multiple screens high up on the stage that show the scenes from the movie followed by live actors and singers who perform matching characters in the scenes.  Very unique and clever, to say the least, and so well done by the entire cast, all who are superb singers, actors, and musicians.  An outstanding orchestra, conducted by Jesse Vargas, adds to the success of this outstanding musical presentation adapted and directed by Anderson Davis.

          

  Starring in the production are Tomasina Abate, John Battagliese, Declan Bennett, James Byous, Gabriela Carrillo, Nayah Damasen, Rogelio Douglas, Jr., Jon Robert Hall, Carson Higgins, Doug Kreeger, Ruby Lewis, Emily Lopez, Chris Mann, Carrie Manolakos, Molly Rogers, Aubrie Sellers, Levi Smith and Rex Smith (all Broadway performers).   

           

I had never seen the film, Love Actually.  However, I did see Love Actually Live, at the Wallis last Holliday Season and looked forward to seeing it again this year.  In fact, I may have enjoyed it even more the second time around.  It is such an unusual extravaganza that has so much oomph.  I love every minute of it.

           

The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts is located at 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd. Beverly Hills. Love Actally Live plays Wednesdays through Fridays at 7:30PM, Saturdays at 2 PM and 7:30 PM, Sundays at 2 PM and 7 PM, through December 29.  (No performances on December 24-25.)  For ticket information, call (310) 746-4000, or email tickets@thewallis.org for assistance.      

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