“Funny, heartbreaking, and powerfully performed, this is an incredibly strong production.”
By ErinMarie ReiterJun 6, 2026Full Review
PLAYREGIONALCLOSED
The Monsters
La Jolla Playhouse, La Jolla, CA
Ran from Jun 5, 2026
Regional production: tracked as a buzzy, well-reviewed show that could transfer to Broadway.
3 Rave
1 Positive
Critics' Take
Critics hail this MMA-themed sibling drama as emotionally powerful and riveting, with strong performances anchoring a story about family reconciliation that resonates far beyond the fighting ring.
This show has closed. Tickets are no longer available.
Critic Scorecard
4 reviews3 Rave
1 Positive
Sort:
Weighted by outlet tier · Counts
- Tier 1: 100%
- Tier 2: 75%
- Tier 3: 40%
- Tier 4: 20%
“As thrilling as the MMA scenes are in the play, it's the honest and heart-wrenching performances by Jones and Anyanwu that make ‘Monsters’ one of this year's most entertaining plays of the year.”
By Pam KragenJun 6, 2026Full Review
By Alejandro MacielJun 5, 2026Full Review
“The acting was, as you would expect, superb.”
San Diego Jewish World StaffJun 13, 2026Full Review
