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O Réjane

Reviewed by Lovell Estell III

Bootleg Theatre

Through Dec. 6

RECOMMENDED:

Director Christopher Siversten and writer Ilana Turner provide an entertaining and illuminating glimpse into the life of the talented Parisian actress, bon-vivant and theater entrepreneur Gabrielle-Charlotte Réju, better known as Gabrielle Réjane (1856-1920). This extraordinary, determined woman rose from modest circumstances to become an international star of the stage and cinema during the Belle Époque. She was a prominent figure in French fashion, politics and culture, while revolutionizing French theater. Réjane was also a pioneering feminist, fighting for the right to sign her own contracts independent of her husband’s consent.

All of these qualities are intricately woven into Cara Pifko’s endearing and effective turn as the French actress. The story is narrated in animated fashion by the mischievous “Sage of Paris” Valerie McCann, whose saucy, sage presence and commentary crystalize the decadence and elegance of an era that’s so artfully evoked by Turner and Siversten. Joseph Will does robust work as Porel, Réjane’s husband and manager. The production is ingeniously staged with the use of five free-standing screens on wheels (designed by Alex Berry, whose costumes are equally impressive), each festooned with costumes, lights and settings that are rolled around stage, which Sivertsen employs with dazzling effect. Dance, music and song feature prominently, also.  (The can-can sequence performed exuberantly to –- what else? — Offenbach’s “Infernal Galop” is a knock-out.)

Rounding out a superb cast are Patrick Wenk-Wolff and Cecilia De. Rico.

Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly Blvd. LA.; Thurs.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; through Dec. 6. (213) 389-3856, www.bootlegtheater.org

Read Deborah Klugman’s interview with Ilana Turner.