Quack: A Humorous Look at the Impact of Fame in the 21st Century

‘Quack’ is a new play at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City that takes a humorous look at the impact of fame in the 21st century.

Last week, I attended opening night of Quack, a new quick-witted comedy at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Downtown Culver City. This funny but real and relatable comedy takes a candid look at fame and power and the consequences of success going too far.

This humorous story centers around Dr. Irving Baer (portrayed convincingly by Dan Bucatinsky, best know for playing James Novak on Scandal) and his successful daytime talk show that allows him to dole out medical and wellness advice to women in order to help them transform their lives. However, once a toxic article about the doctor goes viral, it negatively impacts his career, his marriage and his golden public image. The aftermath of it all causes Dr. Baer to spiral down the rabbit hole, ruining everyone and everything in his trajectory.

Not only is this show filled with humor and painfully real neurosis, it also captures very relatable themes about love, life, relationships and the pursuit of looking perfect in the eyes of others. The supporting ensemble is strong, with Jessalyn Gilsig (Glee) and Nicholas D’Agosto (Trial & Error) as standouts. This play is an enjoyable piece of entertainment because it will make you laugh but it will also touch your emotional core.

Quack is playing at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City now through November 18.