Lara McCarthy Takes the Stage with a “Feel Bad Comedy” That Hits Close to Home
Playwright
Lara McCarthy’s newest work, Hollywood Treatment – A Feel Bad Comedy, pulls no punches and hides no truths. Set in the glittering and gritty world of Los Angeles, the play follows a troubled therapist and an up-and-coming actress whose steamy love scenes send ripples through her personal life. Part glitzy satire, part emotional gut-punch, this razor-sharp dark comedy explores the often-painful tension between love and ambition—an internal tug-of-war Lara knows intimately.
“It's heavily inspired by my own experiences in LA as a young aspiring actress,” Lara shares. “I’ve spent years wondering if love must be sacrificed at the altar of success. This play is a glitzy, cynical, and comedic dive into that question.”
Raised in Sweden by artist parents, Lara has always lived a life steeped in creativity. From school plays and poetry to a move to Los Angeles in pursuit of acting, her artistic journey has spanned decades and disciplines. Alongside her husband—and frequent collaborator—Greg McCarthy, she co-produces and co-directs both film and theater through their bi-national company, Slate One Productions, based in Santa Monica and Toronto.
“I love working with my husband and brother-in-law,” she says. “We share the same sense of humor, strive for excellence, and after so many years working together, we have this creative shorthand that’s priceless during production.”
Though she can't pick a single favorite moment from the play—"any moment that elicits a laugh!"—what she’s most proud of is the cast. “The talent and dedication of our actors is beyond inspiring. They’re pouring their hearts into this.”
While the production is a highlight in her artistic career, Lara’s greatest pride is personal. “Being a mother to my amazing daughter will always be what I’m most proud of in life.”
Hollywood Treatment is for adults and young adults who love comedy and matters of the heart—with just enough edge to keep things interesting. “It’s a little risqué,” Lara admits, “but ultimately, we hope audiences walk away feeling it’s okay to love what you love.”
