Pop-Inspired Musicals Like 'My Way' Put Asses in Seats

David Grapes

Ka-ching-a-ding-ding

In other words, crooning selections from the Sinatra catalog might not tell a linear story, but the songs define an era, an iconic American performer, a feeling of cool and hip. And, those pesky critics aside, who’s to say that isn’t as valid a story, or as important a ritual, as those of Willy Loman, Stanley Kowalski, and Felix and Oscar?

My Way at Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Rd., Laguna Beach, (949) 497-ARTS; www.lagunaplayhouse.com. Tues.-Fri., 7:30 p.m.; Sat., ?2 & 7:30 p.m.; Sun., 2 p.m. Check website for additional days and times. Through Aug. 23. $40-$70.