Given what I learned about Beethoven tonight, the ...

Given what I learned about Beethoven tonight, the maestro would have been both, terribly annoyed and surprised that his creations are still spellbinding audiences some 200 years later. The entire show is told through the eyes of a Viennese doctor, Gerhard von Breuning who spent his boyhood by Beethoven's side. This captivating "musical impressionistic" story was written and performed by the inimitable Hershey Felder who plays multiple characters (3? 4? 5?) with delft perfection.

The best part? Everything in the show is based on authenticated letters left behind by Dr. Breuning.

I was charmed at every turn by Felder's artistic rendering of the great master's lifetime from an abusive, difficult childhood to his celebrated success to his ultimate health decline. I learned. I laughed. I cried. I trembled when some of his most famous, striking notes were played. This performance moved me and I highly recommend it to art and music lovers in Los Angeles. The live piano performances are simply breathtaking.

Felder even gave a surprise Q&A after his performance to answer audience questions. Once in a lifetime experience. Additionally, The Wallis hosted a post-show cocktail party with traditional Viennese pastries and coffee out on the upper terrace.

After all these years hearing his familiar sonatas, this was my first time hearing Beethoven's music live at The Wallis and I'll never forget it as long as I live.