Take a picture—it will last longer

It’s Berlin; World War I is over, and World War II is at the very far edge of the horizon in I Am a Camera, the play that inspired the musical Cabaret. Based on Christopher Ishwerwood’s memoirs and stories of the period, it provides a peek into the early days of Hitler’s rise to power. Through a noteworthy cast and period-perfect set and costume design, the intimate space of the B3 stage reveals a boardinghouse where inner lives are imploding just as the streets outside are exploding. Bursting on the scene is the incomparable Sally Bowles, presented with much aplomb and underlying sensitivity by B Street newcomer Julie Granata. She is supported by the always-on-the-mark Jason Kuykendall as Isherwood, as well as a cohesive, talented cast.

I Am a Camera, 7 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays; 2 and 7 p.m. Thursdays; 7 p.m. Fridays; 8 p.m. Saturdays; 1 p.m. Sundays. $22-$30. B Street Theatre, 2711 B Street; (916) 443-5300; www.bstreettheatre.org. Through April 24.