Satisfying ‘Poe’ at Hollywood Court

Brent Fidler’s one-man “Poe,” at the Hollywood Court Theatre, is subtitled “The ‘Highly’ Unusual Life of Edgar A.”

Despite the billing, Fidler, who wrote the show and also performs in it, hasn’t unearthed any particularly unusual new biographical tidbits about his subject. In fact, his is a pretty straightforward accounting of what little is known about Poe’s personal life.

No matter. Director Florinel Fatulescu establishes a suitably gloomy ambience from the get-go, and Fidler’s creepy, intense portrayal of Poe gives a satisfying frisson, as do his inspired readings from Poe’s own works, including the complete texts of “The Raven” and “The Tell-Tale Heart.” Poe buffs, and others, will be evermore pleased with “Poe,” which should only run till next Halloween.

* “Poe,” Hollywood Court Theatre , First Methodist Church , Highland and Franklin, Hollywood. Thursdays-Saturdays, 8 p.m.; Saturdays, 10:30 p.m.; Sundays, 7 p.m. Ends May 28. $15. (213) 466-1767. Running time: 1 hour, 30 minutes.