Palos Verdes' Leon Cohen to Star in Acts of Desperation
Palos Verdes Actor
Finds Relevance in San Pedro
Leon Cohen is a veteran of stage and film having appeared throughout LA and Orange Counties with many theatre companies including Avery Schreiber Theatre, LA Jewish Theatre, Actors Repertory Theatre, Norris Theatre, and Theatre-in-the-Park – just to name a few.
Palos Verdes Players’ audiences know Cohen from his roles in Moon Over Buffalo, Bus Stop, The Odd Couple, The West Indian, The Marriage of Bette and Boo, and of course, Harvey. Now, Cohen tackles the complex and pivotal role of “grandfather” in a new conceptual multimedia production that allows him to not only appear live on stage, but also on screen, through filmed footage.
Opening January 31, 2008 at Warner Grand Theatre in San Pedro, California will be the inaugural production of a new, provocative theater company in the South Bay – the Relevant Stage. The production, “Acts of Desperation” was conceived by TRS’ Founder and Artistic Director, Ray Buffer, and is directed by Lucas Pakes. It stars Adam Roa, Leon Cohen, Rita Merson, Victor Kelso, Roberta McMillan, Karina Farah, Tristan Nieto, Cynthia Archuleta, Jeannette Stojcevski, Sean McElhone, and Randa Walker.
Comprised of two acts, this multimedia presentation tells two stories: that of a young female, pushed toward suicide by three teen girls – and that of a boy full of murderous rage who becomes just another school shooter. Both stories emphasize the consequences of each teen’s actions in a moving, mesmerizing and poignant reflection on what is like to be a teen in today’s world.
A shortened version of the award-winning feature-length documentary, Rats & Bullies by Roberta McMillan is combined with renowned playwright, William Mastrosimone’s play, Bang Bang You’re Dead. Interwoven through each story are original modern dance pieces created by Cynthia and Patrick David Bradley of San Pedro City Ballet using SPCB company members.
Performances are January 31, 2008 through February 2, 2008 at 7PM, and February 3 2008 at 1PM. Tickets are only $15 for Adults 19 to 64, $10 for College students with ID, and Seniors 65 and older; and only $5 for youth aged 18 or under. This performance is recommended for audiences 12 years of age and older - parental discretion is advised. TRS is offering two free matinées on January 31, 2008 and February 1, 2008 to schools and youth groups for free, by reservation only.
Tickets may be purchased online at www.therelevantstage.com, or through the Warner Grand Theatre.
For more information see the website or call (310) 929-8129. The Warner Grand Theatre is a 76-year-old landmark located in the Port Town of Los Angeles, San Pedro at 478 W. 6th Street, San Pedro, California 90731.
The Relevant Stage is a non-profit theatre company dedicated to presenting works that engage minds and challenge hearts by exposing relevant social issues through stimulating entertainment.
The Relevant Stage appreciates the kind support of The City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, and its official media sponsor for its 2008 Season, San Pedro Magazine and Long Beach Press Telegram.
The Warner Grand Theatre is a facility of the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs.

