“Kudos to A Noise Within for offering an opportunity to experience this work in a remarkable, potentially even life-changing, way.”
By Anita W. HarrisMay 13, 2026Full Review
PLAYREGIONALCLOSED
Exit The King
A Noise Within, Pasadena, CA
Opened May 13, 2026 · Closed May 31, 2026 · Ran for less than a month
Regional production: tracked as a buzzy, well-reviewed show that could transfer to Broadway.
2 Rave
3 Positive
1 Mixed
1 Negative
Critics' Take
Ionesco's absurdist meditation on mortality divides critics, with strong performances (particularly Lubatti) and design praised, but some find the existential premise tedious despite committed direction and production values.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
7 reviews2 Rave
3 Positive
1 Mixed
1 Negative
Sort:
Weighted by outlet tier · Counts
- Tier 1: 100%
- Tier 2: 75%
- Tier 3: 40%
- Tier 4: 20%
“This fine production of a very important piece of absurdist theatre needs to be seen and appreciated at an antidote for our time.”
By Robert St. MartinMay 15, 2026Full Review
“Exit the King reaches some of life’s most profound and vexing dilemmas by a circuitous route through the absurd to the paradox of human existence.”
By Garrett RowlanMay 15, 2026Full Review
“I encourage audiences to head to Pasadena to check out this play that deals equal measures of drama and comedy.”
By Carol M. BeckerMay 14, 2026Full Review
“It’s in the final moments, when kingdom’s shabby palatial hall transforms to a cavernous cosmic space, that the message of the playwright is powerfully brought home.”
By Deborah KlugmanMay 19, 2026Full Review
