A charming and uniquely touching story about fathers and sons makes its U.S. premiere at the 24th Street Theatre in 2024. Penned by Australian playwright Daniel Keene, PASCAL AND JULIEN debuted in Paris, where it was titled “L’Apprenti (The Apprentice).” For obvious reasons – and especially in an election year – the name ran into a problem crossing the Atlantic. Author Keene graciously renamed his play PASCAL AND JULIEN and arranged for an English translation by Severine Magois in order to make it accessible to Americans. Of course, it should be noted that the lines have also been translated into Spanish (in superscript above the stage action) for the edification and enjoyment of 24th Street Theatre Spanish-speaking patrons! As always, the 24th Street Theatre remains a community-based arts project which sees its role as a community center for the neighborhood, a hub always ready to lend a helping hand to neighbors and friends (even going so far as to feed a pack of feral cats at the request of a local resident).
Paul Turbiak and Darby Winn – Photo by Jennie McInnes
The time is now; and the place is Paris, France. Julien (Darby Winn alternating with Jude Schwartz) is 12 years old and on a quest to find a father. Of course, the obvious questions is why. It seems that Julien’s dad is distant, remote, and pretty uninvolved with his son. From his candidate pool (developed with the use of binoculars from the apartment he shares with his biological father), Julien has narrowed his search to Pascal (Paul Turbiak), an isolated, awkward adult who spends his days alone huddled over a cup of coffee and a crossword puzzle in a local cafe. Perhaps something will be stirred in Pascal’s reluctant heart by this clever youngster who’s really looking for someone to share with – a friend. To quote director Debbie Devine, “Because this kid has the crazy idea that Pascal would make a better father than his own, it completely changes the man…children feel the whimsy; they see the possibility. To a kid, nothing is impossible.”
Darby Winn and Paul Turbiak – Photo by Jay McAdams
Poignantly helmed by Debbie Devine, who clearly “gets it,” PASCAL AND JULIEN becomes more than the sum of its parts. In only 45 minutes, the play tells a far bigger story than is obvious from its relatively simplistic premise. Without becoming maudlin or overly saccharine, PASCAL AND JULIEN tells its tale with minimalist speed, simplicity, and honesty. It is no small wonder that the tiny French play was awarded the Prix Theatre en Pages in France. The cast also excels in this two hander as the isolated and socially inept Pascal discovers parts of himself that he has chosen to ignore for years, as pre-teen Julien begins to grow in maturity and understanding, and as both are changed forever through their mutual interactions.
Darby Winn and Paul Turbiak – Photo by Jennie McInnes
The creative team also deserve kudos, including composer Bradley Brough, scenic designer Keith Mitchell, video designer Matthew G. Hill, lighting designer Dan Weingarten, sound designer John Nobori, costume designer Shannon Kennedy, and Spanish translation by Jesus Castanos-Chima (who also assistant directs).
Darby Winn and Paul Turbiak – Photo by Jennie McInnes
PASCAL AND JULIEN painlessly and with good humor delves into some pretty heavy stuff. It will definitely appeal to audiences who enjoy the “je ne sais quoi” of French productions, those who enjoy a well-written and acted show, and individuals who enjoy issues of family, friendship, and personal change. To keep the French theme going, the producers even offered French crepes topped with fresh fruit to the audience after the show.
Darby Winn and Paul Turbiak after the show – Photo by Elaine L. Mura
PASCAL AND Julien runs through October 27, 2024, with performances at 3 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. on Saturdays, at 3 p.m. on Sundays, and at 7:30 p.m. on Monday, 9/16/24. The 24th Street Theatre is located at 1117 West 24th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90007 – 1725. Tickets are $24 for adults; $10 for kids under 18; seniors, students and teachers $15; North University Park residents $2.40; and Monday night Pay-What-You-Can. For information and reservations, call 213-745-6516 or go online.
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