CV Rep Brings Big Laughs With One Man, Two Guvnors Opening January 14

The laughs are coming fast and loud to the Coachella Valley as Coachella Valley Repertory prepares to open the wildly popular comedy One Man, Two Guvnors.

The production is directed by Howard Shangraw, who promises audiences a high-energy night filled with physical comedy, improvisation, live music, and even audience interaction. The show features an 11-person cast, original music, and nonstop slapstick inspired by classic commedia dell’arte traditions.

Originally written by Carlo Goldoni in 1763, the story was adapted by playwright Richard Bean and reimagined in 1963 Brighton, England. While the setting shifts to a lively seaside party town, the production keeps the iconic character archetypes that define commedia dell’arte, creating a fast-paced and chaotic comedy experience. The play famously helped launch James Corden’s career, earning him a Tony Award for the role.

Shangraw says this CV Rep production leans fully into the absurd, blending pratfalls, music hall humor, and moments of improvisation to deliver what he calls one of the funniest shows audiences will ever see.

One Man, Two Guvnors runs from January 14 through February 1 at CV Rep. Tickets are available at cvrep.org.

In addition to directing the production, Shangraw also leads the CV Rep conservatory program, offering adult acting classes open to performers of all experience levels. His class, Actors Acting, provides a supportive environment where students work on monologues and scenes before presenting a public showcase at the end of the session.

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