Some gems at small theaters
An allegory for a rigged capitalist system is among the shows to see.
Our weekly picks from Los Angeles’ small-theater scene deliver stories exploring the economic exploitation of the masses (The Actors’ Gang’s “Captain Greedy’s Carnival”), the pure power of storytelling (Sacred Fools’ “Mr. Burns, a PostElectric Play”) and Joseph Conrad’s “Heart of Darkness” reset in Afghanistan (Son of Semele’s “Ridiculous Darkness”). Plus, we get Judith Scott from TV’s “Snowfall” in a twist on George Bernard Shaw’s “Mrs. Warren’s Profession.”
Actors’ Gang’s ‘Carnival’
The essentials: In the center ring of the sardonic world premiere musical “Captain Greedy’s Carnival,” a charismatic con man dupes the innocent with flashy assurances of instant wealth. The carnival sideshow setting is an allegory for a rigged capitalist financial system, since “both are engineered to entertain, deceive and fleece an eager and gullible public,” according to playwright Jack Pinter.
Why this? Pinter conceived the piece in response to the Wall Street shenanigans exposed by the 2008 economic meltdown. The Actors’ Gang has a record of originating edgy new work, and Tim Robbins’ oversight as co-founder and artistic director ensures pointed activist messaging. The original score here is by ambient composer Roger Eno, known for atmospheric film soundscapes and his collaborations with his brother, Brian.
Details: The Actors’ Gang Theatre, 9070 Venice Blvd., Culver City. 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays; ends Nov. 11. $34.99; Thursdays pay what you can. (310) 838-4264, theactorsgang.com