On Sunday, July 2, we attended the 3 p.m. performance of David Mamet’s “Oleanna” at the Malibu Stage Co. It was an unforgettable theater experience. This two character play is one of Mamet’s best and it was given the production it deserved. Stephen Caffrey, as the besieged professor, and Darby Stanchfield, as his predatory student, did not seem to be acting. Their portrayals were that authentic. They gave the dialogue the crisp rendition that a Mamet play requires. Taylor Nichols’ excellent direction was apparent as the two characters verbally and physically parried and interacted to an ultimate dramatic climax.
That was the good news. The bad news was that there were 12 people in the audience in this 99-seat theater. Perhaps the most exceptional part of their superlative performances was the professionalism displayed by the two actors in the face of such a small audience. The Malibu Stage Co. is a valuable asset in our community. It requires our support. (Ed. Note. The final performance took place on July 9)
Adele Pollard, Henry Pollard
Peggy Rubin, Mann Rubin