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Life Could Be a Dream Thru August 29

SH-BOOM! From the “marvelous” mind of creator Roger Bean, comes the Crooning Crabcakes, the boy group banned from the Springfield High School prom which made it possible for The Marvelous Wonderettes to perform. The guys get one more chance at fame and fortune as Denny, Eugene, Skip and Wally form a singing group to enter and win the local radio contest and realize their dreams of making it to the big time! Will these delightfully goofy guys be able to pull it together and win the contest? Featuring such classic songs as “Stay” (Just a Little Bit Longer),” “Runaround Sue,” “The Great Pretender,” “Tears On My Pillow,” “Unchained Melody,” “Earth Angel,” “Little Darlin',” “The Glory of Love,” and of course the title song, Life Could Be A Dream is another musical trip down memory lane that will leave you laughing, singing and cheering – let's hear it for the boys!

• Laguna Playhouse – (949) 497-ARTS (2787) – www.lagunaplayhouse.com

Festival of Arts Thru August 31

Introduced in 1932, the Festival of Arts is one of the nation's most highly acclaimed and attended fine art shows. American Style Magazine has listed it multiple times as one of the top 10 art shows in the United States and Arts Orange County voted it Outstanding Arts Organization. The rigorous jury process results in stunning art, covering a complete spectrum of media, by over 145 of coastal Orange County's most accomplished artists. If you are on the hunt for that perfect art piece, you are sure to find it at the Festival of Arts. In addition, this open-air gallery features art workshops, several dining options, nightly musical entertainment and hands-on demonstrations. Special art-related attractions and events such as jazz concerts, wine and chocolate pairings, and guided art tours throughout the eight-week run provide entertainment for all. There is something for everyone! Be sure to check it out. Admission is $7 for adults, $4 for seniors military personnel and Laguna Beach residents Free. Season pass-unlimited admission all summer long. Hours: Open daily 10:00am-11:30pm. (Closed at 2pm on August 28th)

• 650 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach – (949) 494-1145 – www.Laguna Festival of Arts.org

Pageant of the Masters Thru August 31

Art comes alive – literally at the Pageant of the Masters. At Laguna's famous attraction over 500 volunteers are transformed into life-sized re-creations of some of the world's most famous paintings, sculptures, and other works of art. Elaborate lighting, stunning makeup, costumes and props render each scene an impressive audience-enthralling imitation of the original piece of art. And it's not just the people who bring art to life there is a live orchestra providing the evening's sweeping soundtrack, singing, and always an element of surprise. The 2010 theme is Eat, Drink and be Merry. Presented nightly at 8:30pm in a starlit amphitheater from July 7 through August 31. Tickets $15-$100 (depending on seat location and night of the week). Celebrity Gala benefit August 28.

• 650 Laguna Canyon Rd, Laguna Beach – (949) 494-1145 – www.PageantTickets.com

 

Free Park Concert: Scrap Arts Music September 4

Need convincing that recycling can be fun, creative and, best of all, musical? Then don't miss ScrapArtsMusic. The Canadian performance outfit has parlayed a love of recycling industrial materials into an artistic expression that has won them a worldwide audience, including the millions who saw them perform their composition “Phonk” at the closing ceremony of this year's Winter Olympics in Vancouver. 

ScrapArtsMusic began with artists Gregory Kozak and Justine Murdy. The pair have devised, at last count, some 145 different fanciful musical instruments that the touring lineup of ScrapArtsMusic uses to bang their way into the hearts of audiences.

• Balloon Park – (866) 829-3829 – www.ocgp.org

 

Music Under the Stars: The Fab Four September 4

Nobody does it like these guys. They are back again in 2010 and will be better than ever! This fabulous foursome looks, sounds, walks and talks like the real thing – The Beatles. Just as in 2009, the 2010 show will open with a performance by their talented crooner friend – Bill Horn, who will cover popular hits of the 70s, 80s and 90s on solo guitar. Bill was once named as California Country Music Association's “Lead Guitar Player of the Year”, and has the chops to show for it.

• Mission San Juan Capistrano
Ortega Hwy – 949-234-1300 – www.missionsjc.com

Ethel Merman's Broadway September 8 thru 19

There's No Business Like Ethel Merman's Broadway! Rita McKenzie recreates her uncanny, award winning Off-Broadway portrayal of Ethel Merman, the Queen of the Broadway Musical in this international smash hit. Relive those amazing tunes: "I Got Rhythm," "There's No Business Like Show Business," "Everything's Coming Up Roses" and 20 more of Broadway's all-time greatest songs. McKenzie weaves Merman's bigger-than-life story with her signature tunes in an absolute must-see evening!

• Laguna Playhouse – (949) 497-ARTS (2787) –www.lagunaplayhouse.com

Annual Richard Henry Dana Charity Regatta September 9 thru 12

This premier event, sponsored by the Dana Point Yacht Club, will benefit the Ocean Institute. All events are open to the public. The Regatta Includes: Marine Corps Twilight Fishing Tournament Sponsor's and VIP reception/ dinner held at the Ocean Institute, Fishing Predicted Event Log, Racing for PHRF, Non-spinnaker and junior sabot classes, Gala dinner and auction at the Dana Point Yacht Club. • The Ocean Institute – (949) 496-2274 – www.ocean-institute.org

 

Big Sandy and His Fly-Rite Boys September 10

Anaheim-born Robert “Big Sandy” Williams and His Fly-Rite Boys are such devotees of the formative days of country, R&B and rockabilly that even their pocket change likely predates 1960. There is nothing dated about their music, though. Rather, they're carrying on the unfinished business of the 1940s and 1950s richly rockin' genres. Sandy has appeared on Late Night with Conan O'Brien and at the Grand Ole Opry; nice venues, but the perfect place to experience him and his Fly-Rite Boys is a dance floor under the summer stars.

While the punk scene was flourishing in OC venues such as Safari Sam's and the Doll Hut, Sandy was honing his roots-rocker skills in the same rooms, winning over audiences who were more inclined to spit at anything old. In 1988, he formed the Fly-Rite Boys, and his band-mates share his reverence for vintage Americana. It says something about them that, after years of touring in a balky, drafty converted 1949 passenger bus, they decided to upgrade to a more recent conveyance, a 1950 school bus.

• Balloon Park – (866) 829-3829 – www.ocgp.org

26th Annual Toshiba Tallships Festival September 10 thru 12

For over 20 years the Ocean Institute has hosted the annual Toshiba Tall Ships Festival, the largest annual gathering of tall ships on the West Coast. The festival features a spectacular array of family-fun activities including live sea-faring music, art shows, interactive living-history encampments, and a variety of tasty food.

• The Ocean Institute – (949) 496-2274 – www.ocean-institute.org

 

Misalliance September 10 thru October 10

SCR and GBS—a relationship that has wowed theatre audiences with stellar productions and countless awards. Now the fun begins anew, and Shaw is at his mischievous best, turning his sharp wit to the relationship between parents and children. While the elders argue ideas and morals, the younger generation longs for action, adventure, love and independence. Especially Hypatia, who is tired of all the talk and ready for something to happen. Finally it does! • Segerstrom Stage – (714) 708-5555 – www.scr.org

 

Beethoven's Ninth September 11

More than 100 singers from a dozen Orange County choruses unite to give voice to Beethoven's crowning achievement — a monumental fusion of soloists, chorus and music all set to Schiller's magnificent "Ode to Joy."

Why not bring the whole family! 
Children under 14 are half-price in most sections.

• Verizon Wireless Amphitheater – ( 714) 755-5799 – www.pacificsymphony.org

 

Blind Boys of Alabama September 11

Many gospel music singers talk about a promised land, but a very few sing as if they're already there, making an especially joyful noise. That has been the Blind Boys of Alabama's gift for over 70 years, one they've shared on humble church stages and in the world's great concert halls. This February, they performed at the White House; this September 11th Orange County Great Park is proud present their music of hope.

When the original members of the Blind Boys of Alabama met at the Alabama School for the Negro Deaf and Blind in Talladega AL, people who couldn't even see color were segregated by it. Many such schools provided fine educations and lessons in self-reliance, but they were not doorways to opportunity. The blind were expected to weave baskets or do other repetitive handwork, or, if they had the voices for it, perhaps sing in a few small neighborhood churches.

• Balloon Park – (866) 829-3829 – www.ocgp.org

 

Young Frankenstein September 12 thru 25

The classic Mel Brooks movie is ALIVE...and it's headed your way! You'll have a monstrously good time at this spectacular new production, as all of your favorite moments from the classic film are brought to side-splitting life along with brand new show-stopping numbers for the stage.

• Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Doubt September 17 thru October 10

It's 1964, at St. Nicholas Catholic school in the Bronx. A nun who grows suspicious when a priest begins taking too much interest in the life of a young black student. Is she being overly protective or not protective enough? And can she work within the system to discover the truth? • OC Pavilion Theater – (714) 550-0880 – www.ocpavilion.com

 

Gin Blossoms September 17

With such infectious melodies from multi-platinum hits including “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” “Until I Fall Away,” “Allison Road,” “Follow You Down,” “Til I Hear It From You,” and “Mrs. Rita,” Gin Blossoms have had seven crossover hits on five radio formats. Nominated for a Grammy, they have also contributed to platinum selling soundtracks like Wayne's World 2, Empire Records and How to Lose a Guy in 10 days.

• Newport Center Drive at Fashion Island – (949) 729-4400 – www.TasteofNewport.com

 

Doubt September 17 thru October 10

It's 1964, at St. Nicholas Catholic school in the Bronx. A nun who grows suspicious when a priest begins taking too much interest in the life of a young black student. Is she being overly protective or not protective enough? And can she work within the system to discover the truth?

• OC Pavilion Theater – (714) 550-0880 – www.ocpavilion.com

Foreigner September 18th!

The name is legendary, the music both majestic and timeless. With worldwide album sales exceeding seventy million, over thirty years on the road, and an impressive run of fourteen Top 20 hits, Foreigner's music resonates across generations. Foreigner has sixteen Top Thirty hits, with nine top ten hits. Their hits include “I Want To Know What Love Is,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Double Vision,” “Hot Blooded,” “Urgent,” “Feels Like The First Time,” “I Don't Want To Live Without You,” “Say You Will,” “Cold As Ice,” “Head Games,” “Blue Morning, Blue Day,” “Juke Box Hero.”

• Newport Center Drive at Fashion Island – (949) 729-4400 – www.TasteofNewport.com

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo September 19

More than three decades ago, Pat Benatar began breaking rules and blazed a new trial for female rock stars. Pat was bold, self-assured, and independent. She was alluring but not exploitive. She was vulnerable but not weak. She was strong-minded without being hardhearted. Songs such as “Love Is a Battlefield,” “Hit Me With Your Best Shot,” “We Live For Love,” and “Heartbreaker” became anthems for a new attitude. At the dawn of MTV, Benatar was the image of the female rocker for an entire generation of young woman, and the young men who loved them. That generation has grown up with her and others have walked down the path she helped pave. Still going strong, Benatar has been married for 28 years to guitarist, songwriter producer, collaborator and soul mate Neil Giraldo.

• Newport Center Drive at Fashion Island – (949) 729-4400 – www.TasteofNewport.com

 

Cloris Leachman: A One Woman Show

September 22 thru 26

This legendary stage and screen star comes to Laguna for an exclusive limited engagement of her dynamic Cloris Leachman: A One Woman Show. Leachman draws her material from the many magical moments in her professional and personal careers. The show is everything you'd expect from the unique, multi-talented Cloris Leachman, who appeared in such films as “The Last Picture Show” (Academy Award for Best Supporting Actress) and “Young Frankenstein,” and starred on Broadway opposite Katherine Hepburn in As You Like It and as Nellie Forbush in South Pacific.

• Laguna Playhouse – (949 497-ARTS (2787) –www.lagunaplayhouse.com

Tchaikovsky's First September 23 thru 25

Weber's vibrant "Oberon" Overture introduces the epitome of the romantic piano concerto — Tchaikovsky's First. Following, Brahms finally steps out of Beethoven's shadow with his Symphony No. 2, a rich and ingenious composition, both light and dark, lyrical and forceful. Pictured: Jon Kimura Parker.

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – ( 714) 755-5799 – www.pacificsymphony.org

 

Waltz Me: A Night in Vienna September 24

It's a grand night for dancing under the stars. Whether your style is blue-denim Danube, or a ball gown and tails, it will be a lovely evening of the world's most romantic dance.

• Balloon Park – (866) 829-3829 – www.ocgp.org

The 6th Annual Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day September 25

Mission San Juan Capistrano will participate in the 6th Annual Museum Day, presented by Smithsonian Magazine offering free admission to Smithsonian Magazine readers and Smithsonian.com visitors.

• Mission San Juan Capistrano, Ortega Hwy – (949) 234-1300 – www.missionsjc.com

California Crusin' September 26

Presented by the Sand Dollar Guild. Join us for an evening filled with lively surf music, a sampling of delicious food from local restaurants, a classic Woodie Car display, and casino-themed fun! Try your luck at our casino games, enter raffles for great prizes, plus many more exciting surprises. Enjoy the beautiful ambiance at the Ocean Institute and support this incredible organization. • The Ocean Institute – (949) 496-2274 – www.ocean-institute.org

 

In the Next Room September 26 thru October 17

Broadway's latest mega-hit is set in the Victorian era, just before its corseted women shed their inhibitions. A new electric invention has been introduced to the medical world. Dr. Givings, one of its early champions, marvels at the effect it has on patients suffering from “female hysteria,” while in the adjoining room, his own wife yearns for another kind of intimacy. This funny, tender and illuminating play has generated excitement from East Coast to West and was a finalist for this year's Pulitzer Prize.

• Julianne Argyros Stage – (714) 708-5555 – www.scr.org

Tinkertoy Build your Imagination exhibit Thru September 26

There's no limit to what you can do when you use teamwork and creativity in TINKERTOY: Build Your Imagination, a new traveling exhibit based on the classic building toy adored by generations of children. The exhibit features TINKERTOY® in educational and fun activities inspired by GE's successful “Imagination at Work” campaign – showing how innovation can positively influence everyday life and create solutions to real work challenges. • The Discovery Science Center – www.discoverycube.org?

 

The 2010 Komen Orange County Race for the Cure September 26

The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® is an important community event bringing together women, men, families, friends and businesses to celebrate breast cancer survivors and remember those who have lost their battle with the disease. The beautiful Newport Beach route is a 5K run and walk and draws more than 25,000 people each year. The early run/walk steps off at 7:30 a.m.; survivor tribute at 9:00 a.m. and the second run/walk starts at 9:45 a.m. Participants who register for “In the Pink” VIP status will enjoy various perks on Race day, including exclusive access to the VIP area. • Fashion Island, Newport Beach – at Pacific Life, 700 Newport Center Drive – (714) 957-9157 – race@komenoc.org

 

In the Next Room September 26 thru October 17

Broadway's latest mega-hit is set in the Victorian era, just before its corseted women shed their inhibitions. A new electric invention has been introduced to the medical world. Dr. Givings, one of its early champions, marvels at the effect it has on patients suffering from “female hysteria,” while in the adjoining room, his own wife yearns for another kind of intimacy. This funny, tender and illuminating play has generated excitement from East Coast to West and was a finalist for this year's Pulitzer Prize. • Julianne Argyros Stage – (714) 708-5555 – www.scr.org

 

threesixty presents: JM Barrie's Peter Pan September 28 thru November 21

Direct from the U.S Premiere in San Francisco, a spectacular new stage production of J.M. Barrie's classic story performed in a state-of-the-art 1350-seat theatre pavilion

Conceived by an award-winning creative team and featuring twenty-two actors, stunning puppets, epic music, and dazzling flying sequences surrounded by breathtaking video, Peter Pan was a smash hit when it launched in London in 2009. The world's first 360-degree video projection for live theater flies both cast and audience over Edwardian London.

• Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

Project Bandaloop September 30 thru October 2

Bring your blankets and beach chairs and enjoy an unforgettable evening under the stars as one of the most unique contemporary dance companies in the world returns to the Center.

Project Bandaloop wowed Center audiences at 2007's Fall for Dance, propelling dancers off and across the exterior walls of Segerstrom Hall. Truly taking dance to unheard-of heights, this noted contemporary dance company creates a blend of dance, sport, ritual and environmental awareness that is unlike anything you've ever seen.

• Performing Arts Center – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

Emerson String Quartet October 1

“Superb” - The New York Times – The season starts off with the always-inspiring Emerson String Quartet. We are delighted to welcome the nine-time Grammy® winners back to the Center to open a phenomenal season of not-to-be-missed music making. © Mitch Jenkins DG • Samueli Theater – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company October 3

The exotic rhythms and brilliant colors of traditional Filipino dance and dress will thrill Orange County audiences as the Bayanihan Philippine National Dance Company returns after their sold-out performance during the Society's opening season at the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall in 2006. As the first Filipino group to perform on Broadway, Bayanihan also has the distinction of being the first non-American dance company to take to the stage at New York's Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, as well as the first Philippine cultural group to perform in Russia, the People's Republic of China and South America. “For its richness of dance and movement idioms and the rare beauty of the costumes, the company is in a class by itself.”- The London Daily Telegraph • Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.philharmonicsociety.org

 

Mighty Rubber Ducky Derby October 3

Over 10,000 yellow rubber ducks will race to the finish at this year's 17th Annual Mighty Rubber Ducky Derby on Sunday, October 3, 2010. This delightful day of fun at the Wild Rivers Waterpark will feature lots of ducky prizes, exciting entertainment, and abundance of family activities and plenty of delicious food and beverages. Lori Irving is this year's event chairperson. The event is expected to raise over $175,000 for Children's Bureau, a nonprofit leader in the prevention of child abuse. To participate, “adopt” a duck for $10. This includes a duck in the race and entrance to Wild Rivers Waterpark for the day. The park is closed to the public and all rides will be open. Enjoy this private party while your duck races for amazing prizes, including a chance to win $1 million! Previous top prizes have included new cars, motorcycles, family vacations and more! Over 200 additional prizes will be awarded, and all proceeds benefit Children's Bureau's proven child abuse prevention programs. • Wild Rivers Waterpark – (714) 517-1900 ext.203 – www.duckyderbyoc.com

 

I Loved Lucy October 5 thru 21

Few people knew America's comic sweetheart, Lucille Ball, the way Lee did. Though distantly related, and 40 years apart in age, Lucy and Lee became the nearest and dearest of friends during the last decade of her life. Get a front and center look at Lucy, the personal side of her very public persona from someone who spent the last of her years beside her while out of the spotlight and around a backgammon table. See what it was like to be her friend, and understand how she was so like and unlike her TV alter ego. Re-live life with Lucy – the stories and shenanigans Lee shared with her – and discover a Lucy like you've never known her before. It's a funny, irreverent, and bittersweet portrait that will only add to the love of a great legend.

• Laguna Playhouse – (949) 497-ARTS (2787) – www.lagunaplayhouse.com

 

Megan Mullally and Supreme Music Program October 7 thru 10

Back by Popular Demand! Megan Mullally earned two Emmys® and a legion of adoring fans with her run on the NBC hit Will and Grace. As Center audiences discovered in her sold-out Cabaret debut a few seasons back, this multi-talented star is also an incredibly versatile singer who can perform everything from country to rock to Broadway showstoppers…and does! Photo by Jason Merritt 2009 Getty Images.

• Samueli Theater – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

The Big Squeeze-2nd Annual Orange County Accordion Festival October 10

Featuring a variety of accordion bands and musicians representing several music genres on stages and strolling throughout the Market Place.

• Orange County Market Place – (949) 723-6616 – www.ocmarketplace.com

Rogers & Hammerstein's South Pacific October 12 thru 24

A stunning reinvention produced by Lincoln Center Theater, South Pacific swept the 2008 Tony Awards®, winning seven honors including Best Musical Revival. The breathtaking new production features a cast of 34 and a full orchestra of 26 members — the largest orchestra of any touring Broadway production. Set on a tropical island during World War II, the musical tells the sweeping romantic story of two couples and how their happiness is threatened by the realities of war and by their own prejudices. The beloved score's songs include “Some Enchanted Evening,” “I'm Gonna Wash That Man Right Outta My Hair,” “This Nearly Was Mine” and “There is Nothin' Like a Dame.” USA Today cheers, “Gorgeous! South Pacific doesn't just float; it soars!” Pictured: Matthew Saldivar as Luther Billis and The Seabees of SOUTH PACIFIC by Peter Coombs. • Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Pictures at an Exhibition October 14 thru 16

The program begins in a Russian forest with Prokofiev's symphonic version of the beloved children's tale. It moves then to the sunny, exuberant landscape of Ravel's extraordinary Piano Concerto and returns, finally, to Russia and Mussorgsky's grand, heartbroken memorial to a friend. Pictured: Carl St. Clair.

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – ( 714) 755-5799 – www.pacificsymphony.org

 

Dan Zanes and Friends October 16 & 17

Here are two things you should know right off about Dan Zanes, two things that set him apart from the huge and festive field of individuals who have in the past few years begun making music for families and people of all ages in a way that is, frankly, changing the face of America, or the sound of it, at least. First, he is making homemade family music and encouraging similar behaviors in friends and neighbors. Second, he is the guy who is always interested in singing along with people, people everywhere. Which brings us to his mission, if you can call it a mission: Zanes is introducing his musical friends to his neighborhood friends and then showing everybody not just that they, yes, can play together but that they can also feel pretty good while doing so. In this sense, Zanes is a twenty-first century version of the guy who in the old days used to conduct the town band from the gazebo, though in lieu of a gazebo he's playing places like Carnegie Hall and the Melbourne International Arts Festival, where no matter how you say it good music is good. He is a ringmaster, introducing new songs and reconnecting people to songs that have always been there, and still are—it's just that people forgot about them. 

• Samueli Theater – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Halloween Goes Hollywood October 16

Celebrate Halloween with a concert featuring frightfully fun movie music! Enjoy selections from "Pirates of the Caribbean," "Star Wars," "Harry Potter" and more. Don't forget to wear your costume for this wonderful celebration!

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – ( 714) 755-5799 – www.pacificsymphony.org

 

What Makes Life Beautiful? with Leon Fleisher October18

The Society begins the sixth season of the What Makes Music Beautiful? lecture series with guest speaker and distinguished pianist Leon Fleisher. Fleisher last performed in Orange County alongside the Orpheus Chamber Orchestra in 2006. Lecture includes wine tasting.
• Irvine Barclay Theatre – (949) 854-4646 – www.philharmonicsociety.org

 

Becky Shaw October 22 thru November 21

Like the Victorian upstart Becky Sharp, this modern Becky is unsure, overdressed and socially ambitious. But watch out. She's no shrinking violet, as the silkily cynical Max soon learns. From their first blind date, which includes an unscheduled visit to the police station, these 30-somethings, along with the newlyweds who set them up, surprise us—and themselves—in a comedy thriller The New York Times called “as engrossing as it is ferociously funny, like a big box of fireworks fizzing and crackling across the stage!” 

• Segerstrom Stage – (714) 708-5555 – www.scr.org

 

Damas de Caridad October 23

Damas de Caridad will host a luncheon to benefit the St Jude Children's Dental Clinic on Saturday, October 23 from 10:00 AM to 2:30 PM.  The event will be held at the Richard Nixon Library  in Yorba Linda, CA. It will feature vendor boutiques, a Damas specialty sales table, and a wonderful “Buy it Now or Bid” silent auction.  Also there will be a Grand Prize Opportunity  Drawing. A sumptuous luncheon will be served by the Anaheim White House. Proceeds to benefit St. Jude's  Children's Dental Clinic.

Richard Nixon Library – (714) 992-4484

 

Dresden Staarskapelle Orchestra October 27

The Society's Opening Night celebration of the 2010-11 season features the Dresden Staatskapelle Orchestra featuring pianist Rudolf Buchbinder.

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.philharmonicsociety.org

The Three Phantoms October 28 thru 30

Just in time for Halloween, an evening of Broadway magic that that combines the cachet of “The Phantom of the Opera” with three extraordinary performers who have played that title role. In addition to soaring melodies from Andrew Lloyd Webber's phenomenon (now the longest running musical on Broadway), the concert includes blockbusters from “Les Miserables,” “Miss Saigon,” “Guys and Dolls,” “Nine” and much more!

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – ( 714) 755-5799 – www.pacificsymphony.org

Sankai Juku October 30

The West Coast Festival begins with an extraordinary performance of modern Japanese dance by the exciting Butoh troupe Sankai Juku. Performing in white-body makeup and accompanied by music and sound effects, Sankai Juku dancers will use slow hyper-controlled motion to display playful imagery. Time magazine raves, “the singular glory of Sankai Juku is that it achieves almost pure metaphor.” Funded in part by the National Dance Project of the New England Foundation for the Arts, with lead funding from the Doris Duke Charitable Foundation and additional funding from the Ford Foundation, the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation, and the Community Connections Fund of the MetLife Foundation.

• Irvine Barclay Theatre – (949) 854-4646 – www.philharmonicsociety.org

 

Sideways Stories from Wayside November 5 thru 21

The biggest hit of TYA's inaugural season is back—with sound kabooming and lights kaflashing! The classrooms of Wayside School are stacked one on top of the other thanks to a mistake by the builders—and the craziness escalates as you climb all the way up to the 30th floor, where witchy Mrs. Gorf is casting spells on her bedraggled students, one by one. But when the kids turn the tables on Mrs. Gorf, their little world only gets stranger in this fast-paced, deliriously funny adaptation of Louis Sachar's beloved series for young readers. (And remember: Miss Zarves doesn't exist! There is no nineteenth floor!)

• Julianne Argyros Stage – (714) 708-5555 – www.scr.org

The Mystic Song November 7

John Alexander conducts Pacific Chorale and Pacific Symphony in works by Gustav Holst, Francis Poulenc and Florent Schmitt that give voice to the mystic spirit through some of the most glorious music ever written.

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

Szymanowski Quartet November 11

"an extraordinary ensemble...they seem to play with one heart, one mind, one purpose." - The Times (London)

One of the most exceptional international string quartets of its generation, this superb ensemble has received a rapturous reception from critics and audiences wherever it performs.

• Samueli Theater – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

Disney's Beauty and The Beast November 16 thru 21

Disney's Beauty And The Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming to the Center! Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of over 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. The most beautiful love story ever told comes to life - experience the romance and enchantment of Disney's Beauty And The Beast!

Running time (approximate): 2 hours and 30 minutes • Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Daddy Long Legs November 30 thru December 26

A musical by Tony and Olivier Award- Winner John Caird (Nicholas Nickleby, Les Miserables) and Tony nominee Paul Gordon (Jane Eyre). Set in the early 1900s, this exquisitely moving story is the vivid account of a young orphan girl as she blossoms into a beautiful, intelligent and vivacious woman. A trustee of the John Grier Orphanage offers a proper education to the 18-year-old Jerusha. The benefactor's only requirements are that Jerusha never know his identity, and that she write him monthly (though he will not respond). She sees him once in shadows and invents a nickname for her mysterious patron–Daddy Long Legs. Her letters to him paint a moving portrait of her lonely life in the orphanage, and the development of her mind and spirit.

• Laguna Playhouse – (949)497-ARTS (2787) – www.lagunaplayhouse.com

 

Christmas at the Mission 2010 December 4

Mission San Juan Capistrano is proud to participate in San Juan Capistranos annual Christmas tree lighting festivities. Bring the whole family to this event as we invite the public to celebrate the holidays with us.

• Mission San Juan Capistrano
Ortega Hwy – 949-234-1300 – www.missionsjc.com

Cirque du Soleil December 7 thru 26

Cirque du Soleil has brought wonder and delight to almost 90 million spectators around the globe. Its name has become synonymous with unbelievable grand scale entertainment. Now, this incomparable company is bringing its unique brand of theatricality and spectacle to the Center in a not-to-be-missed production.

• Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

 

Broadway Up Close and Personal: A Tribute to Cy Coleman December 9 thru 11

Some of musical theatre's brightest talents offer behind-the-scenes tales and the magical music of a true Broadway legend. Beloved songs from his award-winning shows such as Sweet Charity, City of Angels and The Will Rogers Follies will be performed in this heartfelt and personal tribute to the life and incredible work of the great Cy Coleman.

• Samueli Theater – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

The Andy Williams Christmas Show December 16 thru 18

Still thrilling audiences more than 40 years after his debut, Andy Williams has crooned his way into the hearts of multiple generations. His quintessential interpretation of “It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year” highlights our Pops Christmas special, which also features other Williams hits including “Moon River,” “Music to Watch Girls By,” “Can't Get Used To Losing You” and “Days of Wine and Roses.”

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org

Tis the Season December 19 thru 20

Pacific Chorale's annual Christmas concert with Pacific Symphony and the Southern California Children's Chorus has been a favorite of Southern California audiences for fifteen years. Featuring favorite carols, beautiful classics appropriate to the season, and a generous helping of fun, what better way to celebrate the holidays?

• Renée and Henry Segerstrom Hall – (714) 556-2787 – www.ocpac.org