REVIEW: EISENHOWER This Piece Of Ground starring John Rubinstein.
Not since Give ‘em Hell Harry has a one-man show offered such surprising and timely insight to an American president than EISENHOWER This Piece Of Ground starring Tony Award winner John Rubinstein, directed by Peter Ellenstein.
It is a historic masterpiece from playwright Richard Hellesen which is presented by the New Los Angeles Repertory Company as a co-production with Theatre West. The play is adapted from a collection of Dwight D. Eisenhower’s memoirs, speeches, and letters, reflecting on triumphs and regrets. The slice of U.S. history is viewed through the lens of our 34th President, which should be taught to youngsters and remembered by all.
EISENHOWER This Piece Of Ground showcases an American icon, whose unwavering strength as a leader, with moral courage as an everyman, General, and President, radiates through John Rubinstein’s brilliant portrayal.
It is a skillfully-crafted piece under the direction of Ellenstein, which shares stories from Eisenhower’s childhood, hardworking mid-West family, West Point, military career, and the General’s World War II leadership, directing the invasion of Normandy on D-Day. The politics of throwing his hat into the political arena and his presidency are also explored—with some surprising revelations about keeping the peace during the Cold War. And did you know President Truman asked Ike to run on the Democratic ticket when Harry thought Gen. MacArthur would run? Also surprising— Eisenhower was the driving force behind creating the U.S. interstate roadways.
Telling these stories packed with emotional depth, Rubinstein commands the stage with a powerful presence. He has the confidence and exudes a passion for Ike’s narrative— to make the world a better place, “to leave this piece of ground that I stand on” better for those who come after. And exploring Eisenhower’s concerns during his post-presidency could have been a cautionary tale for the troubles we are facing in America and the world today.
EISENHOWER This Piece Of Ground is a show that could go straight to Broadway, or play the Kennedy Center in Washington, DC. That would remind all the beltway denizens what true moral courage is.
Theatre West’s world premiere of EISENHOWER This Piece Of Ground opened October 28, and runs until November 20, 2022. Performances Friday and Saturday at 8PM and Sunday, 2PM. Theatre West is located at 3333 Cahuenga Boulevard West, Los Angeles, CA 90068 (down the block from Universal Studios). Tickets $40; Students/Seniors/Military Veterans $30. Go to www.theatrewest.org or www.newlarep.org.
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