Baryshnikov at The Broad Stage

My mom has always told me that when it comes to entertainment…be sure to see the legends. In the 80’s she saw Sinatra in concert. Sure he wasn’t in his prime but she still treasures the fact that she got to see him perform live. I’ve headed her advice and make sure to catch legendary acts whenever I can. Recently my pal Mary of the blog Along Comes Mary invited me to go with her to see a play at The Broad Stage starring none other than Mikhail Baryshnikov. Now I know it’s not the ballet but it’s Baryshnikov! I didn’t hesitate to accept her invite.

I had never been to The Broad Stage before and wasn’t sure what to expect. What I found was an fabulously modern space that seats a little more than 500. I expected a larger venue so I was happily surprised that it would be an intimate evening.

I was also happy to find that convenient FREE parking was available. In LA this is practically non existent so it just about made my night before it even started!

It was opening night so were treated to a lovely wine reception on the patio beforehand. Mary and I enjoyed catching up and before we knew it the show was about to start. I quickly ducked into the restroom and found a beautiful lounge for ladies to relax in. I couldn’t help but grab a pic of this fab paper dress.

I then hurried back to my seat in the second row. I know! So close to Baryshnikov that I could practically touch him. And the play? Well, it’s called Man in a Case and runs through May 10. It’s a modern retelling of two Chekov pieces and is, um, very ambitious. Which is not to say I didn’t like it. I did enjoy my evening. But not all the elements worked for me. A bit too much interpretive dance and use of electronic elements for me. But for every interpretive dance that set my mind wandering there was a haunting ballad that drew me back in. And I’ve never seen such a graceful interpretation of falling downstairs. And, of course, Baryshnikov himself. Truly a legend.