A WORLD PREMIERE CHARTING JULIA CHILD’S
RISE FROM RESTLESSNESS TO CULINARY ICON

A biographical play that finds its flavor
in a stronger, more compelling second act

The La Jolla Playhouse is presenting the world premiere of The Recipe, Claudia Shear’s biographical play about the early life and culinary career of American chef and author Julia Child. Based on the book Dearie by Bob Spitz, the play proves to be a delight—especially in its more dramatic second half. The production is drawing strong audiences and has already been extended by a week, now running through March 29.

Norbert Leo Butz as “Paul Child” and Christina Kirk as “Julia Child”

The Recipe follows Child’s life from her early years in Pasadena to college in New England, and then to marriage while working overseas for United States intelligence. The young woman is dissatisfied with what she sees as an unsatisfactory, rootless life. While living in France after World War II, she discovers a sense of purpose through her fascination with French cuisine. The play concludes as she begins establishing the international reputation that would make her a beloved ambassador of fine eating. In the United States, Child would go on to captivate audiences with her charm and enthusiasm through a decade on public television and numerous bestselling cookbooks.

Ariel Shafir, Rami Margron, Norbert Leo Butz and Christina Kirk

The La Jolla Playhouse production is built on the performance of Christina Kirk, who is onstage for nearly the entire show as the plucky and rangy Julia (whose real-life height was about six feet two inches). The opening act is somewhat sluggish in tracing Julia’s search for purpose, but the second act reveals her passion and resilience. The performance ultimately leaves a strong impression of admiration for Kirk’s portrayal of this indomitable figure.

Saisha Talwar, Christina Kirk and Jill Abramovitz

In the first act, Julia can come across as somewhat adrift—frequently voicing frustration about her inability to find a meaningful place in the world. By contrast, the second act transforms her into a determined advocate for culinary artistry, challenging a culture that often dismisses cooking as merely domestic labor. Facing skepticism and even scorn, Child persists, and by the play’s end, she triumphs—a victory mirrored by the standing ovation at the performance attended.

Michael Park, Christina Kirk and Norbert Leo Butz

Kirk is supported by a strong cast and an imaginative physical production. Norbert Leo Butz delivers a standout performance as Paul Child, Julia’s husband and partner of nearly fifty years. The rest of the accomplished cast—Jill Abramovitz, Michael Park, Ariel Shafir, Rami Margron, and Saisha Talwar—take on multiple roles, with additional support from ensemble members Germainne Lebron, Torkan Omari, and Kenneth Ray.

 Christina Kirk and Norbert Leo Butz

Director Lisa Peterson provides colorful, often humorous, and emotionally grounded staging. Scenic designer Rachel Hauck creates an evocative visual world, highlighted by a back wall filled with gleaming cooking utensils. Linda Cho’s period costumes add texture and authenticity, while David Neumann’s choreography brings energy and precision. Wig and hair design by Tom Watson, lighting by Ben Stanton, and sound design and original music by Andre Pluess complete the production’s polished technical framework.

Norbert Leo Butz and Christina Kirk

The evening ultimately leaves a sense of admiration for Child’s determination to legitimize her culinary passion. Despite doubts—even from those closest to her—she persists, pushing back against attitudes that relegated serious cooking to a domestic chore. Julia Child emerges as a genuine trailblazer, and Christina Kirk honors her legacy with a performance of warmth, humor, and resolve.

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photos by Rich Soublet Photography

The Recipe
La Jolla Playhouse, 2910 La Jolla Village Dr.
ends on March 29, 2026
Tues-Fri at 7:30; Sat at 2 & 8; Sun at 1 & 7
for tickets ($61 and up), call 858.550.1010 or visit La Jolla Playhouse

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