2.5 out of 5 stars

In some respects, Elizabeth McGovern has crafted the perfect vehicle for herself with “Ava: The Secret Conversations,” a show in which she plays the late, legendary actress Ava Gardner. The only problem? What feels like a one-person affair is more of a two-person one – McGovern’s play recounts how Gardner worked with the British writer Peter Evans (played by Aaron Costa Ganis) on her life story. In theory, that suggests a certain “Frost/Nixon” kinda journalistic drama, but McGovern’s script never quite effectively delivers on that front. Still, the actress shines in bringing Gardner to life in all her saucy, fiery splendor. — Charles Passy

At New York City Center, through Sept. 14, 2025; nycitycenter.org. (Review date: Aug. 7, 2025)