Reviewed by Amalisha HuEck
HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!
Experiencing the inaugural production for the opening of the gorgeous new Ruskin Group Theatre Arts Center was incredible, as it marks not just a return to production but the beginning of a new chapter. Founded in 2002 by John Ruskin (Artistic Director) and Michael Myers (Producing Artistic Director), the company has become one of Los Angeles’ most respected sub-99 seat theatres, known for their tenacity in producing affordable live entertainment, and for their welcoming commitment to actors and new work.
In 2026, the Ruskin Group Theatre moved from a 50-seat aging building to a newly renovated space next door where they built two state-of-the-art theatre spaces, the Kaplan Family Stage with 85 seats, and the Audre Stage with 60 seats. They have indoor/outdoor areas for music and other events. The details of this launch, and what the future of this arts center will be, are still being shaped – but its significance is already clear – one that reflects the scale, ambition, and artistic rigor that this new theatre home was built to support.
Honour, now running at their permanent new home, by Australian internationally acclaimed playwright Joanna Murray-Smith, known for her explorations of morality, intimacy, personal consequence and effective communication. Brilliantly directed by skilled Max Mayer, the show presents a tension of love as a complex mixture of pain and pleasure during the midlife crisis that happens to many couples. How to keep the relationship fresh and going is to explore how inventive we can be after thirty years of being together. The show opened on Valentine’s Day with an amazing cast, and as a magnificent production.
Featuring Marcia Cross (Emmy and Golden Globe nominated for playing Bree Van De Kamp/Hodge in the popular 2004-2012 ABC series Desperate Housewives) who portrays Honor, exposing such raw emotions with the betrayal of her husband George Spencer portrayed by Matt Letscher. Ariana Afradi is Claudia and Jude Elizabeth Mayer is Sophie. Truly a wonderful, strongly detail-oriented cast that bounces off each other with great precision and deep feelings. Producing Artistic Director Michael Myers has produced more than seventy projects since 2002 and he has certainly made sure that this production is highly effective, with its simple but successful set design by Stephanie Kerley Schwartz, and the subdued lighting design by Edward Salas.
Ruskin Group Theatre’s permanent new home is located at 2800 Airport Avenue in Santa Monica, CA 90405 (ample free parking). The show times are 8pm Thursdays – Saturdays, and 2pm on Sundays through March 22, 2026. The price on Thursday nights is $20 – which keeps professional theatre accessible to everyone – regular pricing for Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays is $45, Seniors/Student/Guild is $40 and there is a discount for groups of 10 or more.
For reservations call (310) 397-3244 or online http://www.ruskingrouptheatre.com
Twitter: @ruskingroupthtr
Instagram: @ruskingroupthtr