Reading series doesn’t end there

Lojo Simon has created a reading series with an unusual twist — local experts will be on hand to discuss the themes raised in the pieces.

For example, “J’oy Vey” is a comedic story about two grandmothers competing for the title of World’s Best Grandma. The reading will be followed by a brief discussion of family dynamics, led by marriage and family therapist Roxanne Cherry of Laguna Niguel.

Bare Bones Theatre, this latest project by Simon, a Laguna Beach resident, playwright and dramaturg, looks at four curated plays beginning Tuesday at the Sandra Jones Campbell Studio in the canyon.

Contemporary and alternative works by a variety of playwrights will be performed by professional actors. Following each performance will be the brief discussion, a rare experience for theatergoers.

“It’s an opportunity for audiences to engage with the subject,” Simon said. “And you can only do that within a small space.”

The idea developed about a year ago, when Simon was assisting directors on productions of new work and classics at The Laguna Playhouse.

She was interested in presenting alternative works in an intimate setting where audiences could discover new writers and be involved in a discussion of current topics.

Simon, who currently works part time at The Laguna Playhouse, gained support from the regional theater.

She started Bare Bones Theatre, a script-in-hand play readings program, and wrote the holiday play “J’oy Vey” with playwright Anita Simons.

Television and film actors and Laguna Playhouse veterans Eileen Galindo of “Modern Family” and Dee Dee Rescher of “Frasier” will read stage directions in “J’oy Vey” on opening night. Each of the four plays is one-night-only.

The curated series will continue in November with “Orange Julius,” a plot focused on a Vietnam War veteran in honor of Veterans Day.

The last two performances, set for Jan. 26 and March 1, are still being finalized.

Simon said launching a reading series came naturally to her, having written and developed plays. She began writing plays about a decade ago when her oldest daughter was interested in theater.

Around the time Simon was helping to paint sets, sew costumes and otherwise support her daughter, she began to write scripts that were funny or based on identity, place and purpose. She also pursued a master of fine arts degree at the University of Idaho.

Most challenging to her about the new enterprise has been the production, including logistical details and budgets, she said.

To help her in the process are Laguna Beach actors Mark Miller and Ava Burton, who have performed songs and soliloquies at The Laguna Playhouse.

Burton, who is married to KX 93.5 FM Laguna Beach radio personality Jason Feddy, said she met Simon during a writer’s course at The Laguna Playhouse.

When Simon shared with her the reading series idea, Burton jumped at the chance to be involved.

“I love to be apart of something new,” Burton said. “This is innovative, new and fresh. The play was just hilarious. I’m Jewish and I could totally relate. It’s just funny for everybody.”

Burton said the reading series will be beneficial for Laguna Beach since the coastal town is an artist colony that could always use more theater.

The group said they are eager to showcase the inaugural play at Sandra Jones Campbell Studio, an artist studio belonging to artist Sandra Jones Campbell, who has hosted various events there.

“The readings are more affordable and expose the audience to a variety of plays,” Simon said. “It’s just a different kind of theater experience, and we’re excited about it.”

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IF YOU GO

What: Bare Bones Theatre

When: 7 p.m. Tuesday (“J’oy Vey”); Nov. 24 (“Orange Julius”); Jan. 26 and March 1 (to be determined)

Where: Sandra Jones Campbell Studio, 2173 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach

Cost: $20 in advance and $25 at the door

Information: (858) 349-4582