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Val Kilmer Channels Mark Twain In One-Man Show 'Citizen Twain'

Val Kilmer is famous for his portrayals of iconic characters such as Jim Morrison ("The Doors"), Doc Holliday ("Tombstone") and Batman ("Batman Forever"). He inhabits the spirit or every character he plays and he is at it again with yet another legendary figure: Mark Twain. Kilmer has developed a one-man show entitled "Citizen Twain."

"It's a unique experiment," explains Kilmer. "We're developing Citizen Twain without the benefit of a home theater, which is a challenge, so we're going to where the audiences are. Mark Twain traveled the world sharing his love of America and humanity, and part of discovering Twain is to do that with this show."

citezntwainExploring the famed author's wry humor — from politics to death, love, money, watermelons, God, racism and cats — Kilmer channels the wit and wisdom of the man considered to be the world's greatest storyteller and the first stand-up comedian. Twain was a raconteur, and Kilmer presents his show in the style of a conversation.

"Mark Twain was the first person who talked the way we do," Kilmer says. "'Citizen Twain' is a lively exchange with the audience, so my performance is fluid and somewhat free-form. That's part of the fun. It's a comedy and a character study."

Kilmer's fascination with Mark Twain began while doing research for a possible film project. Famous for his fierce commitment to fully explore and inhabit every character he plays, Kilmer soon realized that "the only way to understand Twain is when he's on his feet and talking."

He began experimenting last year, offering workshop performances around the L.A. area including at the Actors' Gang, Disney Concert Hall, United States Veterans Artists' Alliance Hall, the Masonic Lodge at Hollywood Forever Cemetery, and Shakespeare Center LA.

There are perks to attending a show if you're a Val Kilmer Fan. Every performance of "Citizen Twain" concludes with an audience talk-back while the actor has his extensive make-up removed in full view, and select tickets also include a backstage meet-and-greet with the actor.

It's a truly interesting experience to behold Val as Mark Twain. Don't miss Val taking his show on the road. Tickets to the show are available now through July 28

Citizen Twain

Kirk Douglas Theatre
9820 Washington Blvd
Culver City, CA 90232
(213) 972-4488
www.valkilmer.com

Vanessa Diaz is a freelance writer and blogger. You can find her on her blogs The Queen of Swag and Disney Domain. You can also find her on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.

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