Endgame

A classic Samuel Beckett bleak, existential play, which means no classic story arcs and esoteric dialogue. This is theater of ideas and language, of subtleties and obscurities, where words are rhythmic and there is a pause and effect. You have to come prepared for the complex and accept the unexpected—you have to bend it like Beckett. This production pulls together a skillful cast of senior statesmen of Sacramento theater—Ed Claudio as Hamm, Dan Harlan as Clov, Mitch Agruss as Nagg and Boots Martin as Nell. The years, experience and depth of talent in the four stars are remarkable and an absolute pleasure to behold. Much absurdity begins and eventually ends in this captivating production of a strange yet fascinating Beckett.
Actor’s Workshop Theatre, 8 p.m. Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays; $15. California Stage, 1723 25th Street; (916) 456-7066; www.actinsac.com. Through June 8.