The StageCrafts, seasoned producers and venue operators, have teamed up with a variety of theaters across Greater Los Angeles County to unveil the LA Freeway Circuit, an innovative initiative aimed at expanding the reach of popular shows from the Hollywood Fringe Festival and similar events.
Traditionally, the conclusion of a performance at the Hollywood Fringe often marked the end of the road for many standout productions. While a select few may secure an encore for one night or attempt an expensive tour to another city, the majority do not have the chance to capitalize on their success.
The launch of the LA Freeway Circuit seeks to alter this narrative by transporting award-winning independent theatre to communities beyond Hollywood, navigating the ideal balance of distance that feels novel while allowing performers to return home each night.
Drawing inspiration from the regional touring circuits of yesteryear, the LA Freeway Circuit provides a cost-effective and accessible pathway for creators to prolong the lifespan of their work and engage with new audiences.
Gregory Crafts, co-owner of The StageCrafts and the initiative’s organizer, expressed enthusiasm for the project: “Our goal is to make exciting, high-quality theatre more accessible by bringing it directly into communities throughout Los Angeles. We’re committed to showcasing only the best new shows that we can vouch for personally. Every production in our lineup started at our venues, and each selection stands out in its own unique way.”
During its upcoming tour stop, set for July 26 and 27 at The Electric Lodge, the Circuit will feature five critically acclaimed productions.
Kent Jenkins, Associate Artistic Director of The Electric Lodge, shared his excitement about this new collaboration: “I have known the Crafts for over 10 years thanks to Hollywood Fringe and have seen first-hand the caliber of work they produce in their multiple spaces. With that level of ‘craft’ (pun intended), we as Electric Lodge are thrilled to host the Freeway Circuit’s next round of shows in our theater!”
The line-up at The Electric Lodge for July 26 and 27 includes:
– **What Happens In The Dark**
This farcical comedy, a winning selection for the LA Freeway Circuit Award, presents a humorous exploration of a burglar who becomes entangled in the feud of a married couple, with all action occurring in complete darkness.
– **How Do I Hold It?**
Tabatha, having eagerly awaited decades to see her beloved reclusive musician live, jumps at the chance to attend an anniversary concert in London. However, the unfolding events lead to a tragedy that quietly changes everything. This earnest comedy conveys a real disaster that, while not universal, resonates deeply.
– **The Road Theory**
This poignant tale revolves around lifelong friends and roommates Cara and Gabriel, whose chemistry remains unaddressed. Through daring tests involving their two friends, the story dives into the blurry lines of friendship, desire, and unexpected revelations.
– **Three Can Keep a Secret**
Initially an easy plan—take the money and live happily ever after in Cabo—takes a twisted turn for Moose and Sonny, escalating into a suspenseful dark comedy where audience choices affect who survives and who faces consequences. It also offers a preview before heading to the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in August.
– **Tamra Wasserman Presents: This Is Real, This Is Me**
In this meta comedy, high school theatre kid Tamra Wasserman commandeers her friends to bring her autobiographical play to life at Hollywood Fringe, protesting her exclusion from leading in her spring musical. Chaos ensues as her ambitious plans unravel.
Kris Buxton, the writer behind the farcical comedy **What Happens In The Dark**, shared sentiments on the journey of the play: “I wrote the first draft of this script over eight years ago. It’s a bit surreal that what started out as a silly comedy has turned into a deeply personal exploration of bisexuality that has meant so much to so many people. It’s really taught me that comedy can be used as a tool for acceptance and change. This incredible opportunity to light up (or perhaps darken) the stage at the Electric Lodge is not the final stop in this play’s life. We are just getting started!”
Casey Dean, co-producer, director, and wife of Buxton, both echoed his excitement about the upcoming performance: “I’m extremely honored and excited for the opportunity to put up this show once again at The Electric Lodge. What I love about this show is that it’s an easily digestible genre while still having a very important and relevant message. I hope to keep taking it to new venues and refining it as we go!”
Planned future stops on the LA Freeway Circuit include the North Hollywood Arts District and Old Town Newhall in Santa Clarita, with many more locations expected to follow.
image source from：nohoartsdistrict
