Critic's Choice

Mini-reviews of current stage productions, by Advertiser theater critic Joseph Rozmiarek

"The Conversion of Ka'ahumanu": An excellent chamber piece that traces the personal growth of five women during a time of great social turmoil. The Kumu Kahua production is excellently acted on a ceremonial stage that offers each performer a strong moment in the limelight. Repeats at 8 p.m. Thursdays-Saturdays, and 2 p.m. Sundays through Dec. 8, Kumu Kahua Theatre; $10-$16 ($5 students on Thursdays). 536-4441.

"Death of A Salesman": Considered by some to be the best American play ever written, the Arthur Miller classic enjoys an excellent revival at Hawaii Pacific University. Sound ensemble acting and superb pacing allow the human element to dominate this tragedy of a common man. Repeats at 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 4 p.m. Sundays, through Dec. 8; 7:30 p.m. performance Wednesday Nov. 27 (no show Thanksgiving) at Hawai'i Pacific University Theatre, Windward campus, 45-045 Kamehameha Highway; $14 general, $10 seniors, military, students, HPU faculty; $5 HPU students. 375-1282.

"K2": Despite a cliché premise, this cliffhanger about two stranded mountain climbers turns out to be something of a character study and a spiritual examination of life. Excellent performancesÊleaveÊthe lingering effect of a religious service. Repeats at 7:30 p.m. today and Saturday, and 4 p.m. Sunday, Windward Community College Little Theater; $10. 591-7999.