Stalin's Master Class Reviews
LA Splash- Highly Recommended
"...STALIN'S MASTER CLASS is definitely a thought-provoking look at the juxtaposition of life, art, and politics. It is also an intriguing what-if in a country where art and politics don't seem to mix. The blend of history, musical genius, and strong-man power also proves to be entertaining and - at times - even bizarre and downright nuts."
Stage Raw- Highly Recommended
"...Playwright David Pownall balances contrasting visions of Stalin - a man prone to poetry and profanity, deep loyalty and even deeper mistrust, kindness and cruelty - in his darkly comedic examination of the responsibility of the individual to the needs of the collective. Despite some bumps in director Ron Sossi's production of Pownell's fictional tale, we come away with a more nuanced version of a "dictator" whose love for his nation and its common people may have led to his most desperate actions."
Larchmont Buzz- Recommended
"...Stalin's Master Class dates back to 1986, and illustrates how the pacing of theatrical works has changed. Today's new plays are more likely to be 80-100 minutes without intermission; Stalin runs more than two hours, including a 15-minute intermission. Removing redundancies could trim the length and make for a tighter, more engaging experience. More live music would also serve to reinforce the play's message, and take advantage of the extraordinary artistry of pianist Nisha Sujatha Arunasalam, who plays behind the scenes for the musicians."
Broadway World- Highly Recommended
"...Stalin's Master Class is a music-filled drama at the Odyssey Theatre in West Los Angeles through May 26. Beautifully executed and exquisitely crafted, this historical play by British playwright David Pownall was last performed at the Odyssey in the 1980s. Stalin's Master Class is a rare and intellectually delicious pleasure, not to be missed."