Odyssey Theatre Ensemble
2055 S. Sepulveda Blvd.
West L.A., CA
Santa Monica Boulevard
310-477-2055

One of L.A.'s best theaters, the Odyssey is also one of its most successful. Credit the energy and aesthetic sensibilities of artistic director Ron Sossi, who founded the theater in 1969.

Sossi and associate artistic director-actress Beth Hogan push the creative envelope while maintaining a large subscription audience. Past productions include Aristophanes' ''The Frogs,'' Ionesco's ''Rhinoceros,'' Mamet's ''Speed-the-Plow,'' Berkoff's ''Kvetch,'' Miller's ''All My Sons'' and Odets' ''Awake and Sing!''

In 1989, the Odyssey renovated and relocated to a space with three, 99-seat houses under one roof. Each of the well-maintained theater spaces has a different configuration. The upholstered seating is comfortable and sight lines are good throughout. There is also a nice refreshment counter at intermission and plenty of room in the lobby to sit and chat. Parking is available in an attendant lot in front of the theater; there also is limited free parking on Sepulveda and adjacent side streets.