old friends (stage production-musical)

los angeles, california

​Stephen Sondheim’s Old Friends at the Mark Taper Forum
​At the beginning of the year, Los Angeles was treated to something truly special: Stephen Sondheim’s musical Old Friends arrived at the Mark Taper Forum. As longtime fans of Sondheim, we had been looking forward to this production for quite some time, and it absolutely lived up to expectations.
The Production
Old Friends is a celebration of Stephen Sondheim’s genius, featuring a collection of musical numbers from his most beloved shows. Rather than following a traditional storyline, the production lets the music shine, weaving together songs that highlight the brilliance of his lyrics and compositions.
The casting was clever and dynamic, giving each performer their moment while also creating stunning ensemble numbers. What made this production even more exciting was the presence of two of our personal favorites: Bernadette Peters and Lea Salonga.
A Reunion of Favorites
Seeing Peters and Salonga on stage together was a thrill. They shared the spotlight in Old Friends back in 2023, and this performance felt like a reunion of sorts. Their chemistry and talent elevated the evening, and their voices—individually and together—were absolute standouts.
The Venue
The Mark Taper Forum was the perfect setting. Not only is it a wonderful, intimate venue for theater, but its location offers beautiful views of Downtown Los Angeles in the evening—an added bonus that made the night even more memorable.
Final Thoughts
We left the theater feeling deeply moved and inspired by the timeless music of Stephen Sondheim, brought to life by an incredibly talented cast. Unfortunately, the run of Old Friends in Los Angeles has ended, so we can’t encourage you to see it for yourself—but it was an unforgettable evening that reminded us just how powerful and enduring Sondheim’s work continues to be.