LOS ANGELES — In the wake of a devastating fire that razed homes and a beloved community theater to the ground, defiance emerged from amidst the ashes. Lara Ganz, determined not to let the blaze shatter dreams, messaged the youth theater troupe she manages: their upcoming production would push forward, undeterred by destruction.
“So many of our castmates have lost everything,” Ganz expressed, as she pledged continued rehearsals and vowed to find a new venue for their performance.
The inferno on January 7 consumed the Pierson Playhouse entirely. With flames seen live on television by many of the 45 young actors, ranging from 8 to 17 years old, several were directly affected as their homes were engulfed and schools devastated.
Despite these challenges, the show went on. A new venue—a local school auditorium—hosted the opening of the musical “Crazy for You,” marking an encouraging return to the stage. Five more performances are planned, illustrating a resilient community’s resolve to overcome the literal and metaphorical ashes.
This revival offered these young performers from Theatre Palisades Youth a beam of light in the shadow of catastrophe, highlighting how art can heal.
“The first time I felt happy after the fire was when I walked into that first rehearsal,” said Callum Ganz, 17, who is also the director’s son and stars as a tap-dancing cowboy. “When onstage, I’m blissfully distracted from the loss.” His reminder, “Oh, right. My house is gone,” however, remains shocking.
The fire obliterated over 6,800 homes and venues within the Pacific Palisades, including cherished local spots. Recovery remains a daunting hope, with the theatre losing costumes, equipment, and a repository of memories.
In response, the community began rallying support on social media. Their cries met a wave of assistance, bridging the gap from Hollywood to Broadway. Emmy-winning stylist Joy Zapata exemplified this support, bringing with her a whole team of professionals to assist the young performers.
Additionally, Broadway’s Kerry Butler offered her talents by inviting the affected kids to join her concert, later conducting a master class that proved invigorating.
Generosity reached from all corners, with donations of microphones and costumes flowing in from sympathetic arts organizations. For now, Paul Revere Charter Middle School serves as the troupe’s temporary base.
“Home” now conveys a more profound sentiment to these uprooted actors and families. “I’m learning that a home is not a physical thing. It’s the people,” expressed Scarlett Shelton, 16, who has grown with the theater.
This theatre community, unusually enduring in a transient world, cherishes its young from infancy to high school, grooming many for Broadway dreams.
Opening night bore the companionable rituals and nerves familiar to the troupe, as seniors comforted juniors before an inspiring pre-show circle.
Lara Ganz’s initial call to action was more than just about a performance; it was about ensuring life prevailed through art. As her own family dealt with loss, her focus remained on galvanizing the children.
The original cast, initially 58, saw several families drift away amidst the chaotic aftermath of disaster. As they navigate rebuilding lives, the theater provides a beacon.
“To be with others, create, and share a goal has been the most healing thing for all of us,” shared Wendy Levine, whose sixth-grade child features in the show.
Living the narrative of “Crazy for You”—a small community lifting a local theater—is now their reality. Sebastian Florido, 14, leading the charge, finds solace in performing, especially in a song that lets troubles slip away momentarily.
“Our story mirrors the present,” Florido noted, emphasizing the power of musicals in transporting performers from the troubles of reality.
