A London critic hails FARM HALL: “thrilling wartime drama from the frontline of nuclear fission.” The Guardian calls it the dramatic equivalent of a first-rate spy novel. Topanga’s own Topanga Actors Company proudly presents the official U.S. premiere of FARM HALL in a full theatrical production opening at Promenade Playhouse in West Los Angeles from January 10, for nine performances in all, through January 26.
The play features an ensemble of six Topanga Actors Company members playing (with conviction and lots of verve) eminent German nuclear scientists, the “guests” of the British secret service at the end of World War II. The conundrum, how close did Hitler’s regime get to a nuclear bomb, still awaits a definitive answer. The six men in Moar’s play living in close quarters in an English country house have their own answers to this urgent question, made only more so by developments in the United States. As the story unfolds, jealousies emerge, private agendas are revealed, and each scientist must come to grips with the theoretical weapon they were to create becoming a reality. All the while unsuspecting “guests” refuse to believe that MI6 is secretly taping their conversations.
Historically based, laced with tension, with conflicts and yes, humor, Moar’s play has audiences eavesdrop on events central to the entirety of the twentieth century.
As a Topanga Actors Company founder, I invite all Topanga New Times readers to share in this exciting project, by buying tickets and spreading the word among friends. You may look forward to a stirring theatrical evening. Topanga Actors Company will resume their innovative staged readings in April.
Tickets: www.onstage411.com/farmhall. $27 general admission. Seniors, students $24
Promenade Playhouse 10931 West Pico Boulevard. For area map, parking, see ticket listings
Dates, times: January 10, 11, 12, 17, 18, 24, 25 at 7:30 pm. Jan. 19, 26 at 2 pm.
