🎭 Amadeus at Pasadena Playhouse — and when I say incredible acting… I mean incredible.
First, let’s talk about Jefferson Mays as Salieri. Astonishing. We watch him transform from young and hopeful to aged and unraveling — from composed court musician to something far more devious and complicated. It is a masterclass in storytelling and totally spellbinding.
And as Mozart, Sam Clemmett is deliciously cheeky, bursting with irreverent energy and youthful exuberance. His performance is vibrant, and layered in a way that makes the tension between the two men absolutely electric.
And that dynamic between Salieri and Mozart? Think Hamilton — very Burr and Hamilton. Admiration tangled up with rivalry. Genius colliding with insecurity. That simmering “Why him and not me?” energy that can poison a person’s mind.
Amadeus is razor sharp and surprisingly funny. It’s not a musical, but there is glorious music woven throughout. The wit is biting, the intrigue is rich, and there’s even a mystery that keeps you leaning forward.
✨ No-spoiler summary: Set in 18th-century Vienna, Amadeus imagines the intense rivalry between celebrated court composer Antonio Salieri (who you may never have heard of — and that’s sort of the point) and the wildly gifted, irreverent Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. What begins as fascination turns into a gripping exploration of genius, jealousy, ambition, and the cost of greatness.
Details:
📅 Runs through March 15 ⏱ Runtime: Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes with one intermission — and it truly does not feel long.
🏛 About the Playhouse: Founded in 1917 and designated California’s Official State Theater in 1937, Pasadena Playhouse is a historic theatre that continues to produce bold, beautifully staged work.
Parking is easy with multiple options — a structure directly across the street, surface lots, and street parking.
Thank you for inviting me to the press opening. 🙏 This one is layered, intelligent, funny, and haunting in the very best way.
Having attended the Amadeus performance at Pasadena Playhouse myself, I can attest to the immersive storytelling and emotional depth this production offers. The casting of Jefferson Mays as Salieri truly brings a raw intensity that captures Salieri's internal turmoil and envy toward Mozart's genius. I found myself captivated by how his character gradually unravels throughout the play, highlighting the corrosive effects of jealousy. Equally impressive was Sam Clemmett’s lively and youthful portrayal of Mozart; his cheeky energy injected vitality into the tense relationship between the two composers. One aspect I particularly appreciated was the production’s balance between drama and humor. Although the play is intense, the sharp wit and cleverly woven musical elements lighten the experience without detracting from the gravity of the story. This interplay enhances the audience's engagement, making the nearly three-hour runtime feel much shorter. Moreover, the Pasadena Playhouse venue adds historical charm to the experience, underscored by its rich legacy since 1917 and designation as California's Official State Theater. The convenient parking options, including a structure across the street and nearby lots, made attending hassle-free. For anyone intrigued by classical music history or psychological drama, Amadeus offers a deeply satisfying evening. The narrative probes the nature of genius and the dark shadows of envy and ambition, themes that resonate beyond the 18th century. Whether you're familiar with the original story or new to the rivalry of Salieri and Mozart, this production invites reflection on the personal cost of greatness and the complex interplay between admiration and resentment.
