The Heart at La Jolla Playhouse

[Birdie Boy]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 4:47pm

Book- Kait Kerrigan

Electronic score - Anne Eisendrath and Ian Eisendrath

Direction- Christopher Ashley

Choreography by Mandy Moore

 

 

Updated On: 9/2/25 at 04:47 PM

[Birdie Boy]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 4:51pm

I haven’t seen it although it seems to be getting a really positive reaction out of California. Based on the trailer, it’s giving Come from away meets Redwood vibes. 

[THDavis]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 5:18pm

I caught this a few nights ago. I REALLY enjoyed myself. It doesn’t scream BROADWAY to me but I doubt this will be the last we see of it. Kerrigan’s book is surprisingly strong (I only say that as someone who has seen a lot of growth in her lyrics, but didn’t love Gatsby’s book) and the music is fine/good, but it could use some work as far as streamlining them into the story more naturally. 
 

Performance wise, there wasn’t a weak link in the cast. And some of the music REALLY showcased the performers talent more than it necessarily helped the story, but I can’t imagine anyone was upset about it with that cast lineup. 

[DramaTeach]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 7:13pm

Saw a reading of it last summer and adored it. The music is great, and with Eisendrath’s involvement with wildly successful KPop Demon Hunters, I feel like it’ll have some good buzz. The cast also really is top-notch.

The uphill battle is making people get past its depressing sounding plot synopsis - a young surfer is on life support after an accident and his parents must decide whether to keep him alive or donate his organs. Despite the fact that it is about that, it’s incredibly hopeful and uplifting. Hope it continues to have life (pun intended) after La Jolla!

[suzycat]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 7:31pm

I also saw a workshop last year and thought it was incredibly good. Similar in pace & storytelling style to Come From Away, with music that really surprised me. I hope we get to see it in NY. 

[Idiot]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 8:47pm

Seeing this on Sept. 20 and can't wait.  Ever since I read the premise when this production was announced I've been excited to see it. 

[Birdie Boy]

Posted: 9/2/25 at 9:13pm

I guess this is looking to come to Broadway?  I wonder if this would be produced by roundabout since Christopher Ashley is going over there