CCCT’s “To Master the Art” Is True Comfort Food for the Soul!
By Darlene Jurow
The Contra Costa Civic Theatre’s presentation of the Bay Area premiere of “To Master the Art” is a delicious passion play written by William Brown and Doug Frew, and directed by Marilyn Langbehn. It begins and ends with Julia Child’s devotion to all things French, especially the cuisine she literally uncovers in a post-war Paris and inevitably exports to a grateful America.
“To Master the Art” is the story of the legendary French Chef, Julia Child, from the French bistro where she fell in love with food, to the kitchen table where she recreated everything learned during cooking class, to a room where her husband Paul was grilled by U.S. agents about alleged Communist contact. . This is a larger-than-life story of a culinary icon and her remarkable spouse as they struggle to find themselves as Americans abroad.
A truly upbeat story of Julia Child’s first forays into cooking, “To Master the Art” features an impeccable cast that creates dynamic, interesting characters. Maria Mikheyenko basically steals the show as her portrayal of Julia Childs captures the positive energy, along with her vulnerability and determination.
Michael Sally, as her husband Paul, embodies the love and attraction between the two while also pursuing his own career in the U.S. Foreign Service and introducing his wife to French cooking during his posting in Paris.
The others in this multi-talented cast (Anne Yumi Kobori, Laszlo Horner, Kelly Rinehart, Trish Tillman, Jeremy Cole, and Harrison Alter) play multiple characters, each one well-defined and a pleasure to watch.
The creative team also did an outstanding job -- Courtney Carson’s set, Madeline Berger’s 1950’s costumes and Calli Carvajal’s wigs add to the effectiveness of CCCT’s production. Kudos to the very efficient stage crew. Bon Appétit!
Running time for “To Master the Art” is approximately 2 hours, including one 10-minute intermission. It is currently performing at the Contra Costa Civic Theater (951 Pomona Ave.) in El Cerrito, CA. through May 21. Tickets are going fast; order yours today.
* * * * *
Pictured from left: Jeremy Cole as Carolina, Harrison Alter as Chef Max Bugnard, Laszlo Horner as Mick, and Maria Mikheyenko as Julia Child; photo by CCCT.