A Deep Dive into the Pasadena Playhouse's Production of "Amadeus"

The Pasadena Playhouse's latest rendition of Peter Shaffer's "Amadeus" presents a compelling exploration of the complex relationship between composer Antonio Salieri and his rival Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. This production, directed by Darko Tresnjak, features standout performances, particularly from Jefferson Mays as Salieri and Sam Clemmett as Mozart. The play delves into themes of genius, mediocrity, and the often unrecognized struggles of great artists.

Variety Magazine

Jefferson Mays delivers a remarkable portrayal of Salieri, characterized by a blend of flamboyance and bitterness. His performance captures the essence of a man grappling with jealousy and the desire for divine approval, making Salieri a captivating figure on stage. Sam Clemmett's interpretation of Mozart balances childish exuberance with the weight of his genius, providing a nuanced contrast to Mays's Salieri. The dynamic between the two characters is central to the narrative, as Salieri's envy and admiration for Mozart unfold throughout the play.

Variety Magazine

The production's visual elements significantly enhance the storytelling. Alexander Dodge's scenic design features a striking forced-perspective hall that captivates the audience from the outset. Linda Cho's costumes, crafted in collaboration with the L.A. Opera, complement the set's color schemes, adding depth to the characters' portrayals. The lighting design by Pablo Santiago further elevates the atmosphere, creating a cohesive visual experience that supports the narrative's emotional weight.

Variety Magazine

"Amadeus" invites audiences to reflect on the nature of artistic recognition and the often harsh realities faced by creators. The play's framing device, which presents Salieri as an unreliable narrator, prompts viewers to question the validity of his memories and motivations. This complexity adds layers to the narrative, as Salieri's internal struggles resonate with contemporary themes of imposter syndrome and the quest for validation in the arts.

Variety Magazine

The production has garnered attention for its ability to engage audiences with both humor and pathos. Mays's performance, in particular, has been highlighted as a standout, drawing comparisons to his previous acclaimed roles. The play's exploration of the darker aspects of artistic life, juxtaposed with moments of levity, creates a compelling viewing experience that resonates with theatergoers.

Variety Magazine

Running through March 15, 2026, the Pasadena Playhouse's "Amadeus" continues to attract audiences eager to witness this revitalized classic. The production's success may pave the way for future adaptations, including potential revivals on Broadway, reflecting a sustained interest in the themes and characters that Shaffer's work presents.

Variety Magazine

• “Nothing against more evenly proportioned ensemble dramas, but 22 years after he won the Tony for the one-actor show “I Am My Own Wife,” Mays is giving the kind of singular performance that we all go to the theater for and remember in years to come.” — Variety Review

Variety Magazine

• “ There’s plenty of satisfying comic justice to come when Salieri is left alone to his own devices — and to spend a lot of climactic alone time with the audience — long after his bete noire is gone.” — Variety Review

Variety Magazine

• “If you really started to internalize the themes in “Amadeus,” you might start to develop a mid-show ulcer to rival whatever maladies there are that begin to sap Mozart of his strength.” — Variety Review

Variety Magazine

• “) It’s hard not to believe that if producers were to keep building a house for Mays to do his thing, they will come.” — Variety Review

Variety Magazine

This production of "Amadeus" at the Pasadena Playhouse not only revitalizes a classic narrative but also invites audiences to engage deeply with the complexities of genius and mediocrity in the world of art.

Variety Magazine