The Production Company: Beauty Queen of Leenane: For the love of The Corner

In honor of Valentine's Day, Judy Nazemetz has penned a valentine to our favorite neighborhood spot. Take it away, Judy...

When I came to Los Angeles years ago, one of the things I missed most was my New York City neighborhood. I could stop in anywhere and be part of a neighborhood. I could go to coffee shops, have my shoes repaired, buy groceries, and people would remember me and say hi and welcome me.

Los Angeles is different. Building community here seems a bigger challenge. Most people stay behind their walled homes. Strip malls attract a more transient population. Parents drive their kids to schools far from home. There are a lot of places to go, but where is the community?

Well, I’ve found it at the corner of Lexington and Highland. Yes, on the corner. It’s The Corner Restaurant.

Not only does The Corner have great food, but it’s the community center for all of us at The Production Company. No matter when I get to The Lex Theatre – for rehearsal, for a show – I can go to The Corner and be welcomed like a neighbor and an old friend. And, this doesn’t only apply to me, but to the whole company and our audiences, as well. When ProdCo’s TL Kolman enters The Corner, he makes himself right at home and hands out menus and setups for himself and everyone he’s come with.

And, the folks at The Corner can’t do enough for you. They have a valued customer program so you know you’re appreciated. They’ve set up a valet parking deal with us for our audience. They’ve even inserted a “Beauty Queen of Leenane” postcard into every one of their customer checks. And, their food is terrific. Their vanilla lattes are to die for. And, their chicken chili? Well, just ask TL. I believe he’s ordered it every time he’s eaten there.