Pacific Palisades to be Featured in ‘Zip Code Plays’ Podcast Series

By SARAH SHMERLING | Editor-in-Chief

For those looking to do a deep dive into Los Angeles history from home, Antaeus Theatre Company will present “The Zip Code Plays,” a series of six original audio plays that are each set in a different zip code, including 90272.

The “Annexing the Palisades” episode, written by Alex Goldberg and directed by Ann Noble, focuses on Murphy Ranch, the ruins of an abandoned WWII Nazi compound.

“Set in 1939, this chilling tale based on a little-known piece of LA history stars Nike Doukas, Harry Groener and Adrian LaTourelle,” according to a press release. “When talented craftsman Joseph Kurtz arrives at the palatial Murphy Ranch ready to carve an ornate balustrade for the estate’s magnificent staircase, the job turns out to be much more complicated than he realized.”

Co-artistic Directors Bill Brochtrup and Kitty Swink explained that Antaeus was looking for a way to create a “full, rich experience that maintains the urgency and intimacy of theater.”

“Like the theater we produce, audio podcasts are very up close and personal,” the two explained in a statement. “This is an exciting opportunity for Angelenos to explore their own city. Plus, anyone can listen at any time, from anywhere. Can’t travel? Here’s your chance to get to know Los Angeles.”

Each of the six plays will feature a cast of Antaeus actors and is written by a member of the Antaeus Playwrights Lab in a different genre or style.

Other zip codes to be featured in the series include 90011, 90012, 90024, 90403 and 91352, with episodes titled “Salvage,” “Plucker” and more.

The series, sponsored in part by The Michael J. Connell Foundation, will be hosted by two-time Audiofile Award-winner Ramón de Ocampo and feature music by Ellen Mandel. The team includes audio producer, sound engineer and foley artist Jeff Gardner, sound editor Adam Macias, Antaeus Playwrights Lab director Emily Chase, dramaturg Ryan McRee, operations manager Nicole Samsel, and additional production support provided by Jade Moujaes.

The series will be available starting Thursday, November 12, at antaeus.org or through other podcast streaming services.