Lord of the Rings Parody, ‘Fellowship’ Celebrates a Decade of Shows in L.A.

Kendra Beltran

A decade ago, two friends were inspired to write a parody to “The Lord of The Rings.” They edited the story for the stage and added music and “Fellowship” was born. Ten years later, it’s celebrating their anniversary at Rockwell Table & Stage on Dec. 12 and will be playing throughout December. While the writers, Kelly Holden-Bashar and Joel McCrary, were fans of the books, their idea was born three years after the initial film release. Along with composer, Allen Simpson and some very passionate improv actors, “Fellowship” debuted at El Portal Theater in North Hollywood in 2004 and became an instant hit.

Some theatergoers may have expected to see a more literal translation to the stage, but instead hobbits become Jewish comedians, battles become fights that echo “Westside Story” and Rivendell is morphed into a Scientologist stronghold. The show mixes live action with puppetry and even animation. In addition, the music takes on genres from 80s rock to cabaret.

After many sold out shows at El Portal, they took it on the road. “Fellowship” has been performed all over California from The Lyceum Theatre in San Diego to Garry Marshall’s Falcon Theatre in Burbank. The big break came when the musical took over the Big Apple for a two week run on 54th Street.

‘Fellowship’ comes back to Los Angeles on Dec. 12 at Rockwell Table & Stage. Tickets are available here.