The Program is a regular blog series that offers a curated listing of the most influential Southern California arts partners and their forward-facing vision for the four O’s: online, outdoors, outreach—and everyone’s ultimate goal—onstage!
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These unprecedented times and the impact of COVID-19 have seen the curtains come down on Southern California stages. Theater groups are pivoting the way they deliver performing arts to audiences nationwide. Virtual and streaming opportunities inspires innovative programs and theaters take a look back on archive performances.
Note: Though hours and formats are updated regularly, they can change without notice; best to confirm at venue websites.
Ongoing
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra
LACO Close Quarters
Nov. 6-June 4. LACO Close Quarters features 16 digital programs produced exclusively for streaming with visual design by director James Darrah. Darrah—noted for visually and emotionally work at the intersection of theater, music and film—is establishing a first-of-its-kind LACO digital studio, a creative hub that will create works in a variety of mediums. Each LACO concert will be filmed at The Colburn School’s Olive Rehearsal Hall socially distanced with no audience and produced for streaming. Free. Watch | YouTube | Facebook
North Coast Repertory Theatre
Necessary Sacrifices
Ongoing. In the summer of 1863, at the height of the Civil War, Frederic Douglass and Abraham Lincoln met over two searing sessions that forever changed the course of history. This West Coast premiere of this riveting drama echoes today’s political landscape as it grapples with the issues of war, peace, politics and moral courage. Streaming on showtix4U. northcoastrep.org | Tickets
Geffen Playhouse
Citizen Detective
Nov. 10-Feb. 7. This interactive performance takes audiences back to 1920s Hollywood to sleuth an unsolved murder mystery. The audience will have best-selling true crime author Mickie McKittrick as their guide to uncover evidence, follows clues and break the codes. $65. geffenplayhouse.org | Tickets
Geffen Playhouse
The Future
Dec. 4-Jan. 31. Magician Helder Guimaraes returns to the Geffen Playhouse after his blockbuster, sold-out show The Present, with an interactive at-home illusions into The Future. Audiences will decide which version of events they prefer to see as Guimaraes takes you on a personal journey that reveals secrets and unlocks a mystery. Starting at $85. geffenplayhouse.org | Tickets
SoCal Theaters
Estella Scrooge: A Christmas Carol With A Twist
Nov. 28-Jan. 15. This virtual musical is a fun, updated twist on the Christmas Classic A Christmas Carol. Estella, a Wall Street tycoon and descendent of Ebenezer Scrooge, travels to her hometown on Christmas Eve to foreclose on a Company investment. Presented with an old friendship, serving those less fortunate and a snowstorm causes Estella to be haunted by the spirits that show her the error of her ways. Streaming. $29.99 per household. rubicontheatre.org | wallis.org
Geffen Playhouse
Inside the Box
Through Jan. 3. Journey into the exhilarating world of games with crossword constructor David Kwong. Twenty-four guests will have a front-row seat to an entirely interactive show of puzzles This smart and wildly entertaining event is filled with wordplay, multi-layered games and surprises. $55+ geffenplayhouse.org | Tickets
SoCal Theaters
A Christmas Carol
Nov. 28-Jan. 3. The hit production of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol was filmed for on-demand viewing and will be released to the public on November 28. Tony Award winner Jefferson Mays plays over 50 roles and brings this timeless classic tale to life. $50. Geffen | South Coast Rep | La Jolla Playhouse | Rubicon Theatre | Boston Court Pasadena
North Coast Repertory Theatre
An Iliad
Dec. 9-Jan. 3. An Iliad, by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare, is a dynamic tour-de-force adaptation of Homer’s The Iliad. Richard Baird brings to life the power and humor of this classic poem about the Trojan War and the human cost of war through the centuries. northcoastrep.org
Laguna Playhouse
It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play
Dec. 19-Jan. 1. The Laguna Playhouse streams Lauren Molina and Nick Cearly of “The Skivvies” as they present a modern adaptation of the seasonal classic “It’s a Wonderful Life”. This beloved American holiday story of a man that must learn “no man is a failure who has friends” is a great reminder to all about what this season is all about. $20. lagunaplayhouse.com
December
Center Theatre Group
The Greek Trilogy of Luis Alfaro: Mojada
Oct. 31-Dec. 31. Center Theatre Group in partnership with the Getty Museum presents MacArthur Fellow Luis Alfaro’s Chicanx adaptations of classic Greek plays, Electricidad, Oedipus El Rey and Mojada in streamed readings filmed at the Kirk Douglas Theatre and premiering over three Saturdays. Alfaro’s award-winning trilogy of plays transplant themes of the ancient Greek tragedies into the 21st-century streets of Los Angeles, giving voice to the concerns of the Chicanx and wider Latinx communities. Donations appreciated. On demand. centertheatregroup.com
North Coast Repertory Theatre
A Christmas Carol
Dec. 9-Dec. 31. From the story by Charles Dickens comes A Christmas Carol “as told by one man to whom it matters”. A re-imagined twist to the classic holiday tale brought to life by actor James Newcomb. It is a timeless message of hope and redemption. northcoastrep.org | Tickets
Laguna Playhouse
Merry Christmas Darling
Dec 11-28. Heidi Ketternring (Wicked, Broadway in Chicago) and her exceptional band presents the holiday hits of Karen Carpenter in a show that chronicles the life, the troubles and the triumphs of Karen Carpenter. $35 lagunaplayhouse.org | Tickets
Los Angeles Opera
The Five Moons of Lorca (Las Cinco Lunas de Lorca)
Dec 11-25. Part of the LA Opera On Now platform of digital programming, Digital Shorts pairs today’s most in-demand composers with visual artists. The Five Moons is the first of ten new commissions works in the series and is a revision of a 2016 piece about the assassination of poet Federico Garcia Lorca at the beginning of the Spanish Civil War. laopera.org
Music Center
61st Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration
Dec. 24. The annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration presented by the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors celebrates the dynamic, rich cultures of L.A. County by showcasing the talent, and artistry of L.A.-based artists and community groups. This year, the pre-recorded celebration will be aired on PBS and streamed. Featured performances include the American Youth Symphony, Ballet Folklórico and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar, Cuñao, Daniel Ho Trio, Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, Infinite Flow Dance and more. See site for full line-up. 3 p.m. Free. musiccentor.org | PBS
The Old Globe
Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas!
Nov. 26, Dec. 5, Dec. 20, Dec. 24. The Old Globe’s annual production of Dr. Seuss’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas! is presented in a new form this year—on the radio. Continue this San Diego tradition with KPBS 89.5 FM or life streamed on the KPBS website or app and enjoy this whimsical musical from home. All scheduled performances air at noon except Christmas Eve is scheduled for 6 p.m. theoldglobe.org | Add to Calendar
Festival Ballet
The Nutcracker
Dec. 19-20, 22-23. Enjoy this family-friendly, bite-sized version of the beloved holiday ballet under an open-air audience tent. Starting $150. 10 a.m., 1 p.m., 4 p.m. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Dr., Irvine. 949.854.4646. Tickets
Colburn School
Colburn Artists Series: Viano String Quartet
Dec. 20. The talented Viano String Quartet, Colburn’s Ensemble-in-Residence, takes the stage to perform classic quartets by Mendelssohn, Dvorák, and Mozart contemporary Joseph Bologne as well as an atmospheric piece from contemporary composer Caroline Shaw. 7 p.m. Free. colburnschool.edu
SoCal Theaters
Tchaikovsky—Live from Florence
Dec. 20. Based on the original production of Our Great Tchaikovsky featuring an extended focus on The Nutcracker ballet, Hershey Felder brings a holiday treat, life from Florence. 5 p.m. $55. thewallis.org | rubicontheatre.org | Add to Calendar
Laguna Playhouse
Disenchanted!
Dec. 18-20. A hilariously funny musical comedy that features familiar storybook heroines. Unhappy with how today’s pop culture portrays them, these disenchanted princesses have come to life to set the record straight. $20. lagunaplayhouse.org | Tickets
Troubadour Theater
The Winter Warlockdown Holiday Party
Dec. 10-20. Celebrate the Troubadour Theater’s 25th season with the Troubies in your own living room with a live virtual holiday party. Expect singing, dancing, comedy as the Troubie’s deliver some much needed holiday cheer. $60. troubie.com | Tickets
Music Center
Josh Groban: His First Ever Holiday Concert
Dec. 19. In his first ever holiday concert, Josh Groban will get you in spirit of the season alongside alumni from The Music Center’s Spotlight program. $5 from each ticket purchased by Music Center patrons will be donated to support the arts education programs. Starting $35. musiccenter.org | Tickets
Musco Center
Nochebuena—Christmas Eve in Mexico
Dec. 19. Add music and dance to your holiday tradition this year with two of L.A.’s most acclaimed ensembles: Ballet Folklórico de Los Angeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. 7 p.m. carpenterarts.org
Trans-Siberian Orchestra
Christmas Eve and Other Stories Live in Concert
Dec. 18. The rock holiday tradition comes to your home for the first time ever in a special live stream event. TSO performs an all-new staging of its beloved album “Christmas Eve and Other Stories,” bringing some much-needed rockin’ Christmas spirit to audiences everywhere. In addition to the full album concert, fans will view special pre-show content including behind-the-scenes footage and classic interview segments. 5 p.m. $30. trans-siberian.com
The Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk
Dec. 11-18. The Wallis is making Bristol Old Vic, Kneehigh and Wise Children’s production of The Flying Lovers of Vitebsk available on-demand. Enter the magical world of artist Marc and Bella Chagall—partners in life and on canvas. The picture of romance, the Chagalls navigated the devastation of war together. $21.38 (depending on exchange rates). wallis.org | Tickets
Laguna Playhouse
Yes, Virginia
Dec. 17. Yes Virginia, starring Mindy Sterling (Austin Powers, iCarly) and Arnetia Walker (The Wiz, Dreamgirls) is a feel-good holiday comedy that is sure to warm your heart. In a twist of fate, a housekeeper and mother’s helper becomes the one cared for by her long time employer.This sudden role reversal bonds them in a way that they hadn’t been able to do in the past. 4 p.m. Starting at $20. lagunaplayhouse.org | Tickets
Los Angeles Master Chorale
Holiday Karaoke
Dec. 17. Grant Gerhson and Jenny Wong leads audiences in a full-length, live streamed event that draws on the Master Chorale’s popular holiday programs such as Festival of Carols and the Messiah Sing-Along. Join the Master Chorale in a heartwarming holiday program that will bring together friends and thousands of others across the global virtual community. 7 p.m. lamasterchorale.org
Musco Center
Nochebuena—Christmas Eve in Mexico
Dec. 17. Add music and dance to your holiday tradition this year with two of L.A.’s most acclaimed ensembles: Ballet Folklórico de Los Angeles and Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuéllar. 7 p.m. muscocenter.org
East West Players
Crazy Talented Asians: Holiday Edition
Dec. 13. Crazy Talented Asians began in September 2018, inspired by the widely successful film Crazy Rich Asians and it celebrates the visibility of Asian-Americans in media with a night of musical performances, dancing, laughter and art. In its’ second live streaming presentation of Crazy Talented Asians, founder AJ Rafael will host a program of music, comedy and poetry to celebrate the holidays. 5:30 p.m. eastwestplayers.org | Facebook
Center Theatre Group
Matthew Bourne’s The Car Man
Dec. 11-13. Catch one of modern dance’s most thrilling and entertaining shows—a live captured performance at Sadler’s Wells Theatre in London. Based loosely on Bizet’s popular opera Carmen, The Car Man has one of the most instantly recognisable scores in New Adventures’ repertory. $10. centertheatregroup.org | RSVP
The Broad Stage
Arturo Sandoval Live from The Broad Stage
Dec. 5-13. Cuban born Arturo Sandoval is an accomplished trumpeter, pianist and composer who was honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his gifts by President Barack Obama. This Grammy, Emmy and Billboard Award Winner brings lively Latin jazz to your home on demand from The Broad Stage. $10. Free for members. thebroadstage.org
The Roustabouts Theatre Co.
No Way Back
Nov. 14-Dec. 13. Written by Mahshid Fashandi Hager, this harrowing tale is based on her experience as a 10-year-old fleeing Iran with her family during the Islamic Revolution in 1979. Her family’s secret escape out of the country will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last scene. $25-$100. theroustabouts.org | Add to Calendar
CAP UCLA
Taylor Mac’s Holiday Sauce… Pandemic!
Dec. 12. Christmas as calamity—2020 Ibsen Award winner and MacArthur Fellow Taylor Mac and his long time collaborators, designer Machine Dazzle, Music Director Matt Ray and producers Pomegranate Arts join together to celebrate the holidays in all of their dysfunction. 7 p.m. Registration for the event is $25, but if you are in a position to support at a higher level, it is greatly appreciated! Patrons who support the benefit event with a gift of $100 or more will be invited to an After Party with special appearances from Holiday Sauce cast members. cap.ucla.edu | Add to Calendar
The Robey Theatre Company
Virtual Kwanzaa Holiday Celebration
Dec. 11. Join the Robey Theatre Company for a virtual celebration of Kwanzaa featuring musical performances by Cydney Wayne Davis, Julio Hanson, Marva Smith plus the Hearts On Fire Choir. In addition to musical performances audiences can expect to laugh with comedy performances by Vanja Renee and Stevie Mack to name a few. 6 p.m.-7:30 p.m. $10 suggested donation. therobeytheatrecompany.org | Register
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Women of Broadway: Megan Hilty
Dec. 11. Megan Hilty is one of Broadways brightest stars and she returns to Segerstrom Center for a musical celebration on the Argyros Plaza. Enjoy Broadway favorites combined with holiday classics for a live performance that is sure to fill you with holiday spirit. 4 p.m. $450 (six person pod). 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
The Ford
Young Queer LA
Dec. 8. Young Queer LA will highlight queer folks of color who are coming together to re-imagine the club scene through drag. Led by Alison M. De La Cruz, a multi-disciplinary theater artist, arts educator, and community organizer, panelists will reflect on how race, culture and place inform their artistic expression, while also discussing the intimate relationship between collectivity and freedom in queer communities. 6:30 p.m. Facebook
Salastina
Virtual Happy Hour: Dame Evelyn Glennie, Percussion
Dec. 8. Join Dame Evelyn Glennie, a GRAMMY award winning, premier solo percussionist for Salastina’s Virtual Happy Hour. In addition to her accomplishments worldwide, Glennie has composed for film, theatre and television. 10 a.m. salastina.org | RSVP
Israel Philharmonic
Pre-Hanukkah Global Celebration
Dec. 6. The Israel Philharmonic Foundation and American Friends Israel Philharmonic present a powerful message of hope through a streaming program of music, instrumental performances and behind-the-scenes interviews. Ronalee Shomon (Fauda) hosts the show with special appearances by celebrity guests as well as Academy-Award winning film composer Hans Zimmer and music director Lahav Shani. Free. 11 a.m. afipo.org | RSVP
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Holidays Around the World
Dec. 5. The Julianne and George Argyros Plaza transforms into a winter wonderland for live cultural, traditional holiday performances from around the world. Masks required. $15 per viewing pod. 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Women of Broadway: Vanessa Williams
Dec. 5. Streamed live from New York’s Shubert Virtual Studios is a concert series that features award winning singer/actress Vanessa Williams who performs Broadway show tunes, pop songs and personal stories from her celebrated career. $30 scfta.org | Read More
Salastina
Virtual Happy Hour: Jessie Montgomery, Composer
Dec. 1. Join acclaimed composer, violist and educator Jessie Montgomery for Salastina’s Virtual Happy Hour. She will perform her classical music with elements of improvisation, language and social justice interwoven into the experience. 6 p.m. salastina.org | RSVP
November
Center Theatre Group
Kristina Wong for Public Office
Oct. 30-Nov. 29. Performance artist, comedian and elected representative Kristina Wong takes her raucous campaign online—broadcast live from her home to yours—to arouse civic engagement and counter-hijack our democracy. This interactive comedic performance mashes up campaign rallies, church revivals, and solo theater shows to uncover the history of voting, what it means to run for local office and the impact artists can have on democracy. Performance video available on demand Oct. 30 at 8 p.m. until Nov. 29 at 11:59 p.m. $10; Free for members. centertheatregroup.org
City Ballet
Moving Forward
Nov. 13-29. The 28th anniversary City Ballet season opens under the direction of Steven Wistrich, featuring a diverse program of ballets by Elizabeth Wistrich and Geoff Gonzalez. Works will include two world premieres to be enjoyed in the comfort of your home. cityballet.org
North Coast Repertory Theatre
Same Time, Next Year
Oct. 21-Nov. 29. Bernard Slade’s wickedly funny comedy explores a 25-year love affair between two seemingly ordinary people who meet once a year. Same Time, Next Year deftly examines the monumental political, social, and most of all, the personal changes that impact the lovers during that quarter century. Streaming on Showtix4U.com. $35. northcoastrep.org | Add to Calendar
SoCal Theaters
A Paris Love Story—Live from Florence
Nov. 22. In a live streamed musical event, Hershey Felder performs as Claude Debussy LIVE from Florence in A Paris Love Story. Felder brings to life the life and music of impressionist composer Claude Debussy. $55. 5 p.m. thewallis.org | rubicontheatre.org | anoisewithin.org | Add to Calendar
Imagine Theatre
The Tale of Turandot
Nov. 14, 15, 21, 22. Imagine Theatre presents a professionally recorded version of the 2019 production of The Tale of Turandot a story inspired by a centuries-old story. Director Armina LaManna reimagines the story into a family-friendly production that is geared towards children between the ages of four to twelve by incorporating puppetry and video projections and other creative elements. Free. imaginetheatreca.org | RSVP
Barak Ballet
Virtual Gala 2020
Nov. 21. Barak Ballet’s gala is a live streamed dance event with a grand reveal of a brand new, cinematic ballet created by artistic director Melissa Barak. See behind-the-scene rehearsal footage, artist interviews and and after party that includes breakout rooms with the film’s cast and creative team. For a truly enhanced experience, Eataly, Good Grac!ous and Cocktail Courier have partnered with food and drink pairings to the event. Starting $100. 6 p.m. barakballet.org | Tickets | Add to Calendar
CalTechLive!
Blood/Sugar
Nov. 21. Creator, director and performer Diana Wyenn’s invites audiences into her home for one-night only virtual performance. Through the use of multimedia effects, original movement and Wyenn’s physical surrounds, Blood/Sugar tells the vivid story of the life-sustaining self-care that diabetes demands from one out of every ten American adults. This sobering personal narrative that masterfully weaves statistics, historical perspective and Shakespearean text was originally conceived in 2017 but re-imagined for the current times and the challenges of high-risk individuals contracting COVID-19. 7 p.m. events.caltech.edu | Tickets
The Ford
Movement/Matters
Nov. 21. The LA Phil’s Ford Digital Festivals are curator-led virtual programs offering an in-depth exploration of a single theme through multi-disciplinary performances, workshops and conversations captured for video. 10 a.m. theford.com | Add to Calendar
Pasadena Symphony and POPS
Gershwin & Dvorak
Nov. 21. Soloist Llewellyn Sanchez-Werner performs Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue in the new online series of chamber music curated by Music Director David Lockington. The performance will be followed by Pasadena Symphony musicians up close and personal performing the greatest of chamber music masterpieces. pasadenasymphony-pops.org
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Stages: Las Cafeteras and Xênia França
Nov. 21. Telling modern-day stories of Chicanx life in Southern California, East L.A. favorite Las Cafeteras take the stage at the Skirball to kick off the final installment of Skirball Stages. Enjoy the uplifting blend of Afro-Mexican beats, hip-hop, and rancheras. Latin Grammy–nominated singer Xênia França joins from a set filmed exclusively for the series in Brazil. Free. skirball.org | RSVP | Add to Calendar
Los Angeles Master Chorale
TaReKiTa
Nov. 20. The Los Angeles Master Chorale premieres the music video of Swan Family Artist-in-Residence Reene Esmail’s TaReKiTa, featuring 24 Master Chorale singers and Bharantanatyam dancer Shalini Haupt and led by Associate Artistic Director Jenny Wong. Free. lamasterchorale.org | Add to Calendar
Los Angeles Philharmonic
Finales
Nov. 20. Sound/Stage, LA Phil’s concert film series, premieres the final episode of its inaugural season. The program opens with filmmaker Alejandro G. Iñàrritu and Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel in a discussion on what makes for a good ending in music and in movies. 10 a.m. laphil.com/soundstage | Add to Calendar
CAP UCLA
Continuous Reply: Come Together
Nov. 19. CAP UCLA presents a recreation of Arnie Zane’s Continuous Replay, an iconic work which was originally a duet and a solo. Bill T. Jones made Arnie’s choreography into a full company work with a diverse cast of performers who filmed themselves while in isolation across four continents. The live-streamed performance will serve as a fundraiser for Black Strategy Fund, The Brotherhood Sister Sol and Buy From A Black Women. Donations Appreciated. 5 p.m. cap.ucla.edu | Add to Calendar
San Diego Dance Theater
FALL (in Love With) DANCE (Again)
Nov. 19. Experience fine dining while enjoying the performance on THE LOT’s large wall screen, or watch a live stream of the performance at your home. Choreographers include Artistic Director Jean Isaacs, Associate Artistic Director Terry Wilson, and guest choreographer Khamla Somphanh. Also streaming Nov. 20-22. 7 p.m. THE LOT Restaurant, 2620 Truxtun Rd., San Diego. sandiegodancetheater.org | Tickets
Pasadena Playhouse
Hallowe’en SpOoKtAcUlAr
Through Nov. 18. Pasadena Playhouse presents the continuation of family entertainment on PlayhouseLive with the Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s production of Bob Baker’s Hallowe’en SpOoKtAcUlAr. Filmed in front of a live audience, this Halloween offering is an eye-popping and unforgettable musical variety puppet spectacular not to be missed. Closed captioning available in both English and Spanish. $14.99 playhouselive.org
Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
Reena Esmail’s Piano Trio
Oct. 29, Nov 5, 12, 19. Violinist Vijay Guipta, cellist Peter Myers and pianist Suzana Bartal perform in this four-part streaming series of Indian-American composer Reena Esmail’s Piano Trio. 5 p.m. Free. thewallis.org | Watch
Los Angeles Dance Shorts Film Festival
International Dance Film Festival
Nov. 13-15. The fourth annual Los Angeles Dance Shorts Film Festival will be offered virtually this year due to COVID-19, and will feature 34 international films. Each program will include a filmmaker Q&A via Zoom where the audience can learn about the creative process. Viewers will have an opportunity to vote for a Festival winner. Free. For full line-up visit ladanceshortfilmfest.com | RSVP
The Broad Stage
Scott Silven’s The Journey
Oct. 20.-Nov. 15. Illusionist, mentalist and performance artist Scott Silven invites you for a mesmerizing journey … in your own home. Be transported through an all-new, immersive and intimate online experience like no other, and discover the path that connects you to Silven’s past, your own present and a collective future. The Journey weaves together storytelling, illusion and compelling visuals of Silven’s home and has the power of connection to transform you. $55. thebroadstage.org | Tickets
Long Beach Opera
2020 Songbook
Nov. 15. New commissioned pieces will be premiering at this virtual event that asks emerging composers to create a piece that is a “reflection of an event or experience from 2020”. Each piece will be three to five minutes long and serve as an artistic time capsule of this unprecedented time in our history as well as to support the creative economy. 5 p.m. $75. longbeachopera.org
LA Opera
The Anonymous Lover
Nov. 14. LA Opera proudly presents the company premiere of The Anonymous Lover (L’amant anonyme), a charming 1780 chamber opera by Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. The comic romance tells the story of Léontine, a beautiful young widow who has become disillusioned with love. Conducted by James Conlon and directed by Bruce Lemon, Jr., in a socially distanced stage setting, the performance will be streamed online to reach a wide audience, while the opera is performed live at the Colburn School’s Zipper Hall. laopera.org | Tickets
Pasadena Symphony and POPS
Rachmaninoff and Chopin
Nov. 14. “One of the most admired pianists of his generation” (New York Times), Inon Barnatan delivers a tour de force program of keyboard pyrotechnics, romance and visceral nostalgia with Rachmaninoff’s Symphonic Dances and Chopin’s Piano Concerto No. 3 accompanied by a string quintet of Musicians from the Pasadena Symphony. pasadenasymphony-pops.org
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Women of Broadway: A Live Stream Concert Series
Nov. 14. Streamed live from New York’s Shubert Virtual Studios, this concert features one of Broadway’s brightest stars, Tony Award winner Laura Benanti, in a special performance of Broadway showtunes, pop songs and personal stories from her illustrious career. Tickets | scfta.org
Seven Angels Theatre
Cruise in a Box: Living Room Cruise Lines
Nov. 4-14. Set sail for an unforgettable, high seas staycation on the world’s first ever Cruise in a Box! Tickets to the show include a “SHIPment” for everything you would expect from a luxury cruise liner and to prepare you for your live virtual cruise director who will host a night of world-class Shipboard entertainment and variety performances. One ticket per household. 8 p.m. $45. sevenangelstheatre.org | Tickets
The Ford
Tuesday Night Project Presents “This is Not Just The Asian Night”
Nov. 10. Join Tuesday Night Project (TNP) for a showcase of Asian American creative expression and discussion about their multi-generational approach to art and community. The festival includes a look back at the history of TNP’s flagship program, Tuesday Night Café. For more than 20 years, Tuesday Night Café has provided a space for artists of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to express themselves through hip-hop dance, improv comedy, spoken word, music, the visual arts and more. 6:30 p.m. theford.com | Facebook
Salatina
Virtual Happy Hour: Pablo Sáinz Villegas, Guitar
Nov. 10. Join Salastina for a performance and conversation with Pablo Sáinz Villegas. Pablo Sáinz Villegas has been acclaimed by the international press as the successor of Andrés Segovia and an ambassador of Spanish culture in the world and described by Plácido Domingo as “the master of the guitar”. 5 p.m. RSVP
The Verdi Chorus
Amor y Odio, Songs of Spain and the World
Nov. 8. The Verdi Chorus continues its 37th season with The Fox Singers in a musical soirée that will premiere the new online series Verdi Chorus Presents. Amor y Odio features songs and zarzuelas of Spain and the New World. The evening will also include Neapolitan favorites and Italian art songs. verdichorus.org
Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival
Tapping My Way to the Nuthouse
Nov. 8. Triumph! is a series of two virtual shows directed by Fay Hauser-Price and hosted by James and Lissa Reynolds. Lynne Jassem tells a story from a child’s voice through spoken word, mime and dance. She takes us on her coming out journey and the pressures of being a young performer with an overbearing stage mom. $20 (combined with Nov. 1 show) 3 p.m. Tickets
Whitefire Theatre
Forgetting, Not Forgotten
Nov. 6. Native Angeleno Petal d’Avril’s Forgetting, Not Forgotten is an official selection of the Black Voices Festival that tells the story of a young actor who is confronted by two crises: First her beloved mother is showing early signs of Alzheimer’s and second, the building in which she and her mother live is sold to developers and they lose their home. The adversities that Petal faces touches upon familiar challenges of aging parents and the gentrification of heritage neighborhoods, when neighbors have to face down Big Money. $15.99. Tickets
Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival
The Fannie Lou Hamer Story
Nov. 1. Triumph! is a series of two virtual shows directed by Fay Hauser-Price and hosted by James and Lissa Reynolds. The first night features Mzuri Moyo Aimbaye in The Fannie Lou Hamer Story. This excerpt celebrates the historical Fannie Lou Hamer, fierce Mississippi Voters Rights advocate who fought tirelessly for Voter Rights in the state of Mississippi during the Civil Rights Movement in the 60s. Ms. Aimbaye will also perform musical numbers and answer questions about and discuss voting issues. $20 (combined with Nov. 8 show) 3 p.m. Tickets
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CAP UCLA
The Tune In Festival
Oct. 28.-Nov. 1. One of the driving features of CAP UCLA’s 20-21 Season is The Tune in Festival; a convergence of music and poetry in a time of change. A five-day convening of more than 20 artists, bands, ensembles and soloists from across the U.S., Canada and Latin America in a grand gesture of cross-cultural solidarity that shares the time-honored tradition of music and poetry as a wellspring of resilience, resistance and inspiration. Free. RSVP
Pacific Symphony
Beethoven, Britten & Brahms
Nov. 1. Enjoy coffee, tea and pastries in the intimate Samueli Theater as host and pianist Orli Shaham guides you through a program of Beethoven’s showpiece of a trio. Samueli Theatre, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS. pacificsymphony.org
October
Center Theatre Group
The Greek Trilogy of Luis Alfaro: Oedipus El Rey
Oct. 24-31. Center Theatre Group in partnership with the Getty Museum presents MacArthur Fellow Luis Alfaro’s Chicanx adaptations of classic Greek plays, Electricidad, Oedipus El Rey, and Mojada in streamed readings filmed at the Kirk Douglas Theatre and premiering over three Saturdays. Alfaro’s award-winning trilogy of plays transplant themes of the ancient Greek tragedies of Electra, Oedipus the King, and Medea into the 21st -century streets of Los Angeles, giving voice to the concerns of the Chicanx and wider Latinx communities. Donations appreciated. On demand. centertheatregroup.com
Musco Center for the Arts
Blues Roots and Diaspora
Oct. 29. Dr. Paul Apodaca and Sean Heim join together for an in-depth conversation about the history of blues music. They will talk about blues roots and legacies and the passing down of oral and musical traditions. 7 p.m. RSVP
Wallis Annenberg Center for the Performing Arts
Wiesenthal
Oct. 20-27. This critically acclaimed one-man Off-Broadway show is a provocative production based on the life of Simon Wiesenthal, the “Jewish James Bond” who devoted his life to bringing Nazi War Criminals to justice after WWII. $50 per household. thewallis.org
Skirball Cultural Center
Dustbowl Revival and Mames Babegenush
Oct. 24. Funky folk band, Dustbowl Revival returns to the Skirball with special guest Lashon Halley following the release of the 2020 album, “Is It You, Is It Me”. Mames Babegenush takes audiences on a tour of the Port of Copenhagen for a lively outdoor performance. Make it a date night with Skirball Suppers, a delicious complement to Skirball Stages. 8 p.m. Free. RSVP | YouTube
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Sunwoo Park, Soprano
Oct. 23. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Live stream the performance of soprano Sunwoo Park. At USC Opera, Park performed as a “Susanna” in Mozart’s Le nozze di Figaro in 2019 and “Le Feu (The Fire)” in Ravel’s L’Enfant et les Sortilèges and a “Lady with a Hand Mirror” as a Operetta Singer in Dominick Argento’s Postcard from Morocco in 2018. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
Los Angeles Opera
Living Room Recitals
Oct. 23. Baritone Michael J. Hawk, a member of the company’s young artist program, partners with pianists Nino Sanikidze, Brendon Shapiro and Louis Lohraseb for a recital of music inspired by the Bard, “Shakespeare in France and on Broadway.” 4 p.m. laopera.org/onnow
Road Theatre Company
The Zoom Series
Oct. 23-24. The Road Theatre presents play readings LIVE on the Road Theatre website, Facebook and YouTube (and streaming for three weeks after the premier). These plays were developed collaboratively with a group of playwrights in a structured and supportive environment. In an effort to develop socially and politically relevant voices to the American stage. See site for the play reading schedule. $15 suggested donation. roadtheatre.org | Facebook | YouTube
Los Angeles Opera
Coffee with Conlon
Oct. 22. Music director James Conlon hosts an informal morning chat about all things opera, taking on audience questions. Readers are invited to submit questions by clicking here. 10 a.m. laopera.org/onnow
Musco Center for the Arts
Representation in Ballet and Beyond: Ever a Dancer
Oct. 22. Professional dancers, advocates and educators Phil Chan and Georgina Pazcoguin will be joined by Dr. Brynn Shiovitz and Dr. Stephanie Takaragawa to discuss Asian representation, yellow face in dance and the their performance careers and creative pursuits. 7 p.m. RSVP
The Ford
Midnight in the Diaspora
Oct. 20. Curated by influential DJ and culture worker Sasha Ali (a.k.a. Miss Modular), Midnight in the Diaspora explores how L.A.-based artists either born outside the United States or working between more than one country are bringing a combination of global influences to bear on L.A.’s music and nightlife. This combination panel discussion and DJ set features Discostan’s Arisha Fatima Haq, NTS DJ and Junkyard Jouvert producer Adam Cooper (a.k.a. foreigner) and creative producer Anita Herrera. 6:30 p.m. Facebook | YouTube
Laguna Playhouse
Suppressed Desires
Oct. 20. A one-night only live-stream reading of the first show produced by Laguna Playhouse 100 years ago in celebration of the Playhouse’s 100th Anniversary, Suppressed Desires, by Susan Glaspell and George Cram Cooke. Only a few one-act plays have attained and maintained the level of acclaim of this popular and highly amusing travesty about misapplied psychology by Susan Glaspell. In this comedic satire of psychoanalysis, a woman addicted to therapy learns that a little self-delusion may not be a bad thing. lagunaplayhouse.com
Los Angeles Opera
Opera Family Time
Oct. 20. Gather the kids for a fun-filled musical adventure with soprano Jamie Chamberlin and tenor Nathan Granner (and Esther the opera dog!). On this episode of Sing Out Loud, they’re joined by guest mezzo-soprano Nandani Sinha to celebrate the furry (and feathered) friends that we all love. 2 p.m. laopera.org/onnow
The Old Globe
Thinking Shakespeare Live: Sonnets!
Oct. 20. The finale of the online summer hit Thinking Shakespeare Live! will feature 14 Globe artists performing some of Shakespeare’s greatest poetry. This special presentation is the culmination of a series, created during the hiatus caused by the coronavirus pandemic, in which Edelstein introduces Shakespeare sonnets and delves into one masterpiece of the form each episode. 6:30 p.m. Free. theoldglobe.org | Facebook | YouTube
Salastina
Happy Hour No. 29: Tarik O’Regan, Composer
Oct. 20. Every Tuesday via Zoom, Salastina’s Happy Hour brings you live musical performance, spirited conversation, and interaction with musicians and fellow music lovers. Tarik O’Regan has written music for a wide variety of ensembles and organizations. Tarik O’Regan’s work, recognized with two Grammy nominations and two British Composer Awards. Free. 6-7 p.m. salatina.org | RSVP
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Yevgeniy Milyavskiy, Pianist
Oct. 18. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Live stream the performance of pianist Yevgeniy Milyavskiy, whose musical career began at the age of 3. Milyavskiy made his piano debut with the Belarus Chamber Orchestra at the age of 8 and received a full scholarship at the Southern California Conservatory of Music in 1994. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
Laguna Playhouse
She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms
Oct. 9-11, 16-18. She Kills Monsters: Virtual Realms is an adapted version of Nguyen’s popular play She Kills Monsters, created specifically for online performances as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic and is Laguna Playhouse Youth Theatre’s first ever virtual show. $20. lagunaplayhouse.com | Tickets
Center Theatre Group
The Greek Trilogy of Luis Alfaro: Electricidad
Oct. 17-Dec. 31. Center Theatre Group in partnership with the Getty Museum presents MacArthur Fellow Luis Alfaro’s Chicanx adaptations of classic Greek plays, Electricidad, Oedipus El Rey, and Mojada in streamed readings filmed at the Kirk Douglas Theatre and premiering over three Saturdays. Alfaro’s award-winning trilogy of plays transplant themes of the ancient Greek tragedies of Electra, Oedipus the King, and Medea into the 21st -century streets of Los Angeles, giving voice to the concerns of the Chicanx and wider Latinx communities. Donations appreciated. On demand. centertheatregroup.com
Geffen Playhouse
The Present: A Grand Finale
Oct. 17. The Present, inspired by Helder Guimaraes’ own life experience with quarantine during childhood, is an interactive virtual experience that has received rave reviews. This is the finale show to a sold-out 24 week run that is being offered with viewing audience or you can be part of the action. A core group of 24 invited participants comprised of special guests will participate with Guimarães in the grand finale Zoom performance. Starting at $25. geffenplayhouse.org | Tickets
Alternative Theatre Los Angeles
Together L.A. Festival
Oct. 1-17. Together L.A. Festival presents 34 works over three weekends in October, each work created specifically for a virtual format and each 10 minutes in length. Together they celebrate the vibrant, diverse and intimate theater scene of greater Los Angeles. 7 p.m. Donations appreciated. Read More
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Julia Metzler, Soprano
Oct. 16. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Live stream the performance of Los Angeles-based soprano Julia Metzler, an active up-and-coming opera singer and concert soloist. Her recent roles include Ma in Proving Up, Matilde Neruda in Il Postino, Cio-Cio San in Madama Butterfly, Fiordiligi in Così fan tutte, Mrs. P in The Man who Mistook his Wife for a Hat, and Countess in Le Nozze di Figaro. She has been featured by the Los Angeles Master Chorale as a soloist in Handel’s Messiah, Bruckner’s Great Mass, and Bach’s Magnificat. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
California Center for the Arts, Escondido
Drive-In: Dawes, LIVE in Concert
Oct. 16. Part of an ongoing Drive-In Event Series that will carry on through the fall season, California-native band Dawes will be performing a full, live concert at the Drive-In at Cal State San Marcos. Dawes’ vintage-influenced aesthetic reminiscent of romanticized Americana blends with soft rock alternative style. Starting $45. 333 S. Twin Oaks Valley Road, San Marcos. artcenter.org | Tickets
Boston Court Pasadena
Los Cambalache
Oct. 15-21. This energetic East L.A. band plays passionate, vibrant son jarocho music, a musical style from Veracruz, Mexico shaped by indigenous and African culture, with Spanish influences. Each concert is a celebration, sure to leave everyone smiling and dancing for sheer joy. bostoncourtpasadena.org | Watch
Los Angeles Dance Festival
LADF Best in Contemporary Dance: Week 3
Oct. 9-11. Co-produced with the Luckman Theater, the LA Dance Festival showcases 50 choreographers over a 4-week online series. Week 3 features: Charlotte Katherine & Co., Nannette Brodie Dance Theater, Kybele Dance, Poets In Motion, MarieElena Martingano & Camryn Eakes, John Castagna, Louise Reichlin & Dancers/ Los Angeles Choreographers & Dancers, The Dance Narrative Project, Lula Washington Dance Theatre, SIDFIT South Korean Artists: Lee Jihee, Kim Jubin. ladancefest.org
Pasadena Symphony and POPS
Pasadena Presents: Mendelssohn & Tchaikovsky
Oct. 17. Pasadena Presents is a new concert model curated and hosted by Music Director David Lockington. This episode features Simone Porter who returns to delight audiences with Mendelssohn’s intensely Romantic Violin Concerto in recital. Membership required | pasadenasymphony-pops.org
Impro Theatre
Friday Jam
Oct. 16. Get your weekly dose of laughter every Friday with Impro Theatre’s Friday Jam. You can have jam any day of the week. But you can only have Impro’s Friday Jam on Fridays at 8 p.m.! A group of talented improvisers from the Impro Community will come together like fruit, sugar and pectin to produce a fruity 45 minutes of improvised scenes and silliness. 8 p.m. Free. improtheatre.com | Watch
LA Phil
Sound/Stage Episode 4: Andra Day
Oct. 16. Soul, jazz and R&B singer Andra Day, whose song “Rise Up” has become an anthem for the Black Lives Matter movement, is a modern day Billie Holiday. This episode of Sound/Stage will include Andra Day’s debut hit “Gold” and a rendition of Simone’s powerful protest anthem “Mississippi Goddam.” laphil.com
Latino Theater Company
A Mexican Trilogy, Part 1: Faith
Oct. 6-15. Enjoy the archival recordings of A Mexican Trilogy, Part 1 of Evelina Fernández’s acclaimed trilogy. Travel with the Morales family through decades of the Mexican-American experience, beginning with a remote mining town in Arizona during World War II. Check site for times. Free. thelatc.org
Musco Center
Living Room Recital: Aki Kumar Trio
Oct. 15. The Musco Center for the Arts as part of Chapman University’s weeklong Chapman Family Homecoming presents the Aki Kumar Trio performing a unique blend of Bollywood-pop and blues live from home. 7 p.m. muscocenter.org | Watch
Center Theatre Group
Berkeley Rep: ‘It Can’t Happen Here’
Begins Oct. 13. ‘It Can’t Happen Here’ is a radio play written in 1935 during the rise of fascism in Europe and follows the ascent of a demagogue who becomes president of the United States by promising to return the country to greatness. centertheatregroup.com
Boston Court Pasadena
Mark Robson Honors Beethoven [Online]
Oct. 13. Renowned pianist Mark Robson pays tribute to the monument of Beethoven’s piano literature by playing the Diabelli Variations. bostoncourtpasadena.org | Watch
Salastina
Happy Hour No. 28: Wu Man, Pipa
Oct. 13. Recognized as the world’s premier pipa virtuoso and leading ambassador of Chinese music, Wu Man has carved out a career as a soloist, educator, and composer giving her lute-like instrument—which has a history of over 2,000 years in China—a new role in both traditional and contemporary music. Free. 6-7 p.m. salastina.org | RSVP
Music Center
Inside Look: Ballet Hispánico at 50
Oct. 12. As part of Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center, the Music Center’s INSIDE LOOK: Ballet Hispánico at 50 will feature performance excerpts from the company’s repertory. Highlighting dance engagement and commentary with company members, this interactive exploration will provide viewers insight into the connections, choreography and history of Latin American dance, music and culture with a bonus merengue dance lesson for viewers. 7:30 p.m. musiccenter.org
Laguna Playhouse
Get Happy: Angela Ingersoll Sings Judy Garland LIVE!
Oct. 11. Laguna Playhouse joins local organizations around the nation to present the virtual concert event streaming LIVE from Chicago. Angela Ingersoll celebrates Judy Garland with passionate storytelling and virtuosic vocals and humor. The program will feature classic favorites including “Over the Rainbow,” “Get Happy” and “The Man that Got Away.” 4 p.m. $35. lagunaplayhouse.org
Los Angeles Dance Festival
LADF Best in Contemporary Dance: Week 2
Oct. 9-11. Co-produced with the Luckman Theater, the LA Dance Festival showcases 50 choreographers over a 4-week online series. Week 2 features: Versa-Style Dance Company, CyberYOGA, Luminario Ballet, X2DANCECOLLECTIVE, Mixed eMotion Theatrix, Jana Taylor and Dancers, Ironstone Dance, Sandi Scheuber, Robin Bisio Films, cyan cian, BrockusRED, Danza Floricanto/USA, Ken Morris Project, Seoul International Dance Festival in TANK: Kim Hyunsun, Kim Ok, Yoo Gawon. ladancefest.org
Seven Angels Theatre
Remote Control with Max Major: A Virtual Mind-Reading Experiment
Oct. 9-11. He controlled Heidi Klum’s mind on Zoom. He has performed astonishing feats on stages from Las Vegas to New York to London, and now he’s bringing his mind-bending illusions into your home. His appearances on the TODAY show and Americas’s Got Talent, have stunned millions across the internet. Now mentalist Max Major, showcases his shocking ability to get deep inside stranger’s heads even from a distance. $45. sevenangelstheatre.org
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Justin Birchell, Baritone
Oct. 10. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Live stream the performance of Justin Birchell, a baritone, composer and educator who is studying toward an M.M. in Voice Performance at the UCLA Herb Alpert School of Music. Birchell received his B.A. in Music Performance from UCLA and is the 2019/20 winner of the UCLA Philharmonia All-Stars concerto competition. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
Pacific Symphony
Symphonie Fantastique
Through Oct. 10. The concert by the Pacific Symphony features the revolutionary work of Berlioz, which was inspired by his love of a Shakespearean actress and transformed the sound of the symphony orchestra in 1830. The Pacific Symphony’s senior vice-president of artistic planning opens the program with an interview with principal bassoonist Rose Corrigan. Free. pacificsymphony.org | Add to Calendar
LA Phil
Sound/Stage Episode 3: Power to the People!
Oct. 9. A tribute to Black voices and excellence, ranging from William Grant Still’s expression of pride to Jessie Montgomery’s reimagining of the national anthem for a 21st-century America to vocalist Andra Day’s “Rise Up,” which has become an unofficial anthem of the Black Lives Matter movement. Free. laphil.com
Musical Theatre West
Keep the Light On Benefit Concert
Oct. 9. Singer/actor David Burnham (Wicked, The Light in the Piazza) dazzles audiences with his stunning vocals in a streaming benefit concert for Musical Theatre West. $25 donation. musical.org | Tickets
The Robey Theatre Company
An Evening Conversation with Marla Gibbs and Angela Gibbs
Oct. 9. Spend an evening with actor/singer/writer/comedian/producer Marla Gibbs (The Jeffersons, 227) and actor/writer/director/producer Angela Gibbs (227, Checkmates, The Meeting). Moderator Millena Gay takes us into the life, career and inspiration of Marla Gibbs and Angela Gibbs. 6 p.m. Free. robeytheatrecompany.org
LA Opera
Living Room Recital: Ashley Faatoalia
Oct. 8. Presented in collaboration with Musco Center for the Arts as part of Chapman University’s weeklong Chapman Family Homecoming, tenor Ashley Faatoalia (a Chapman alumnus) partners with pianist Louise Thomas for a program of classic art songs, famous arias and beloved spirituals. 5 p.m. Free. laopera.org
Hollywood Fringe
Hollywood Fringe Cabaret 2020
Oct. 7. Hollywood Fringe Cabaret presents the best in comedy, magic, music, storytelling, dance, circus and more. The cabaret will include past performances as well as highlight acts from around the globe. Ages 18+. 8 p.m. hollywoodfringe.org | Tickets
San Diego Chorus
Our Connection, Our Song
Oct. 7. The award-winning San Diego Chorus is hosting a virtual Fall Open House with a women’s four-part a-cappella music in barbershop style. 7-9 p.m. RSVP
The Ford
Poetry, Now
Oct. 6. Curated by the co-founders of the Spoken Literature Art Movement (S.L.A.M.), Matthew “Cuban” Hernandez and Alyesha Wise, Poetry, Now combines a panel discussion and dynamic performances to give audiences a snapshot of poetry in Los Angeles today. Participating artists include slam champion and Write Bloody author Buddy Wakefield, Da Poetry Lounge curator Jasmine Williams and youth justice advocate Justus Jones. Facebook | YouTube
LA Opera
Opera Family Time
Oct. 6. Gather the kids for a fun-filled musical adventure with soprano Jamie Chamberlin and tenor Nathan Granner (and Esther the opera dog!). On this episode of Sing Out Loud, they celebrate the autumn baking season, with lots of singing for the whole family. 2 p.m. Free. laopera.org
Long Beach Opera
Viva VERDI: Why Giuseppe and Gang Would be BLM Activists
Beginning Oct. 6. This 8-course virtual seminar taught by Long Beach Opera’s Director of Engagement and Equity Dr. Derrell Acon will dive into how opera composers used their art as a means of social advocacy and rebellion. It calls for a return to opera’s former power to engage the most pressing issues of our time. Tu, Th 5:30 p.m. $250 tuition. longbeachopera.org
Salastina
Happy Hour No. 27: Erik Rydvall, Nyckelharpa
Oct. 6. Erik Rydvall began playing violin at the age of five before discovering the nyckelharpa at 18. Erik is a founding member of the Swedish folk music trio Nordic. Together with one of Norway’s top Hardanger fiddle players, Olav Luksengård Mjelva, he formed the duo Rydvall/Mjelva. 2012 saw the release of their highly acclaimed debut album “Isbrytaren” (“The Icebreaker”), unifying traditional nyckelharpa and hardanger fiddle music for the first time ever. salastina.org | RSVP
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Andrew Anderson, Pianist
Oct. 4. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Watch rising star Andrew Anderson will perform, who’s had the great opportunity to perform at such venues as the Walt Disney Hall, REDCAT, and the Carlsbad Music Festival. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
La Jolla Playhouse
Portaleza
Through Oct. 4. Derived from the words “portal” and “fortaleza” meaning strength/fortress, this digital experience explores the idea about connection through desperate means of correspondence. Audience members will be mailed a mysterious package prior to showtime with instruction to guide you through unlocking a visual reality beyond imagination. Starting at $20. lajollaplayhouse.org | Tickets
North Coast Repertory Theatre
Curtain Up! Happy Hour FUNdraiser
Oct. 4. Lucie Arnaz, Richard Dreyfuss, Linda Purl, Sarah Errington and David Ellenstein join host Clint Bell for a special cocktail hour. Join from anywhere and learn how to make special cocktails by VIP bartenders (and favorite actors) Phil Johnson and Omri Schein, play trivia games and be entertained. northcoastrep.org
Artists at Play
ALLOS: The Story of Carlos Bulosan
Oct. 3. Artists at Play and the USC Pacific Asia Museum present a free performance about Filipino American poet, novelist and union organizer Carlos Bulosan, in celebration of October’s Filipinx America History Month. This production tells the story of one man’s journey from the Philippines to the farmlands of California and his fight for the rights of migrant workers and the American dream. 5 p.m. Free. Facebook | RSVP
Boston Court Pasadena
Emerging Artists [LIVE!] Online: Angel Riley, Soprano
Oct. 2. Boston Court’s 4th annual Emerging Artist Series—which pairs talented young musicians with acclaimed mentors—is going virtual this year! Scheduled to perform is rising star Angel Riley currently finishing her Master of Music degree in Voice Performance under the tutelage of Juliana Gondek at the University of California–Los Angeles where she has acquired extensive experience as an operatic, concert, and recital soloist. Riley was mentored by classically trained musician Paul Floyd who has served as Assistant Conductor for the Los Angeles Opera. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
September
Music Center
John Lewis Good Trouble
Through Sept. 30. The Music Center joins other performing arts center across the country in broadcasting John Lewis Good Trouble. The film will be followed by extra exclusives including archive footage and interviews. John Lewis Good Trouble is a documentary that explores the life of Georgia Congressman John Lewis, an American icon and freedom fighter whose sacrifices gave rise to a movement towards a more perfect union. $12. RSVP
Salstina
Happy Hour No. 26: Christopher Tin, Composer
Sept. 29. Every Tuesday via Zoom, Salastina’s Happy Hour brings you live musical performance, spirited conversation, and interaction with musicians and fellow music lovers. This weeks episode brings you California-born, British-educated composer, Christopher Tin—a two-time Grammy-winning composer of concert and media music. His music has been performed all over the world in the most prestigious venues including Carnegie Hall, the Lincoln Center and Los Angeles‘ very own Hollywood Bowl. 6-7 p.m. Free. Tune In | RSVP
North Coast Repertory Theatre
“Tuesday Night Comics”
Sept. 29. San Diego Critic’s Circle Outstanding Actor of the Year, Mark Christopher Lawrence hosts a night that is arguably the funniest night of comedy in San Diego with talent from all over the country. Tickets
Independent Shakespeare Company
Romeo & Juliet
Sept. 17-20, 24-27. In an all-new hybrid stage production, director Melissa Chalsma will use movie-making, animation, social media and the ISC ensemble members on the ISC stage in Atwater to tell the classic love story of Romeo and Juliet. Free. iscla.org | Tickets
The Wallis
Romantics Anonymous
Sept. 26-28. Experience this new musical treat that will incite all the senses. This award-winning musical will be performed LIVE on stage from the U.K.’s renowned Bristol Old Bic Theatre by a cast from the company Wise Children that has been isolating together so that the show can be performed in its original form. Price starts at $20.96. thewallis.org | Tickets
Pacific Symphony
Inside Tchaikovsky’s Fifth
Sept 27. Following opening weekend with twin piano phenoms, Christina Naughton and Michelle Naughton’s performance of Tchaikovsky’s Fifth, Pacific Symphony takes a look at one of the most beloved Romantic composers. Segerstrom Center for the Arts 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. 714 556 ARTS. pacificsymphony.org
Pacific Symphony
Shaham Plays Mozart
Through Sept. 26. Pacific Symphony’s Summer Replay, a virtual concert series, reintroduces an archive of classical favorites with internationally celebrated pianist Orli Shaham taking center stage in Mozart’s sunny Concerto No. 17 online at 7 p.m. This performance was originally recorded on May 20. Free. pacificsymphony.org
Grand Park
Easy Mornings
Sept. 26. Each episode of Grand Park’s Easy Mornings will feature four main elements: morning meditations with Grand Park yoga instructor Courtney Seiberling; coloring workshops with GURL Museum Day® and nature photography tips from Las Fotos Project; food truck demos with participating food trucks from Grand Park’s Lunch à la Park program; and performances or conversations with different artists and community members, ranging from landscape professionals to musicians, focusing on their relationships with Grand Park. grandparkla.org | YouTube | Facebook Live
Skirball Cultural Center
Skirball Stages: Aditya Prakash Ensemble and Rini
Sept. 26. Enjoy an evening of American music from the Indian diaspora. Combining classical ragas, chants, and rhythms with brass band arrangement, jazz harmony, and hip-hop–infused beats, the LA-based Aditya Prakash Ensemble impresses with an improvisational flow. Be serenaded by frontman Aditya Prakash, an accomplished Carnatic virtuoso known for his powerful and emotive voice. Across the country, performing in her New York City studio, composer and violinist Rini serves up a unique blend of electronica and bass-heavy art rock with her band. Pulling from musical traditions in India and the US, both the Aditya Prakash Ensemble and Rini transcend genre to create music wholly their own. Free. skirball.org | RSVP
Pacific Symphony
Tchaikovsky’s Fifth
Sept. 24-26. Celebrate opening weekend with twin piano phenoms, Christina Naughton and Michelle Naughton, as they take Mozart’s rarely performed Concerto for Two Pianos to the stage. Maestro St.Clair concludes the evening with Tchaikovsky’ s moving Fifth Symphony. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714.556.ARTS. pacificsymphony.org
LA Phil
Love in the Time of COVID
Sept. 25. The Los Angeles Philharmonic’s SOUND/STAGE media project, an online compendium of concert films, debuts with “Love in the Time of COVID.” This first episode will be narrated in Spanish by actress María Valverde, wife of LA Phil Music & Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel. 10 a.m. Free. laphil.com/soundstage
Chance Theater
Broadway Chance Style
Sept. 25. A one-of-a-kind night with Broadway stars and a Chance Artist who will each share behind-the-scenes stories, while you get answers to the questions you’ve always wanted to ask and enjoy exclusive live performances. This event will feature Ryan Vasquez (Broadway’s Hamilton, Waitress, Wicked), Lauren Patten (Broadway’s Jagged Little Pill, Fun Home), Jackie Burns (Broadway’s Wicked, If/Then), and Monika Peña (Chance Theater’s Lizzie, Violet, Claudio Quest). 6 p.m. Single Ticket $45. Household $65. chancetheater.com
LA Phil
Fireworks!
Sept. 25. No Hollywood Bowl summer season would be complete without the culmination of a grand fireworks display. Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil ends a six-episode series with a selection from Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite. The show will also feature performances by Pink Martini, Thomas Wilkins, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Diego El Cigala and the LA Phil performing music from John Williams’ Star Wars score. 8 p.m. PBS SoCal.
Boston Court Pasadena
Blood/Sugar
Sept. 25. Created, directed and performed by Diana Wyenn, Blood/Sugar is a live virtual theatrical experience that takes audiences on the roller coaster that life with diabetes brings. This personal narrative takes a deep look at Wyenn’s struggle of acceptance with the disease and how it impacts her day-to-day choices. Immediately following the experience will be a conversation between Wyenn, the audience as well as local diabetes educators and nutritionists. Free. bostoncourtpasadena.org | RSVP
Los Angeles Opera
Living Room Recital
Sept. 25. Soprano Sarah Vautour partners with pianists Steven Biler and Jeremy Frank for a caberet program that features songs by Kurt Weill, Wiliam Bolcom, Cole Porter and Francis Poulenc. 4 p.m. Free. laopera.org/athome
Hammer Museum
Hammer at Home: Ruth Bader Ginsburg’s Legacy and the Supreme Court’s Future
Sept. 24. Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg had a profound impact on American law and life. Her early work as an advocate for gender equality and later her opinions on the Supreme Court changed the shape and face of our country. Former U.S. Senator from California Barbara Boxer, Pulitzer Prize–winning Supreme Court reporter Linda Greenhouse, journalist Kimberly Atkins and Loyola Law School professor Jessica Levinson consider some of the late Justice Ginsburg’s most significant contributions and the upcoming battle over her now-vacant Supreme Court seat. hammer.ucla.edu
Skylight Theatre
Wake Up Call
Sept. 24. Skylight Theatre presents a new play written by Wendy Kout and Jeff Reno, free and live online. This live new play proves “it’s never too late to make a better choice.” 3 p.m. Free. skylighttheatre.org | Tickets
LA Phil
Fireworks!
Sept. 23. No Hollywood Bowl summer season would be complete without the culmination of a grand fireworks display. Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil ends a six-episode series with a selection from Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite. The show will also feature performances by Pink Martini, Thomas Wilkins, Nile Rodgers & CHIC, Diego El Cigala and the LA Phil performing music from John Williams’ Star Wars score. 9 p.m. on KCET
Los Angeles Opera
Il TRIVIAtore
Sept. 23. Bass-baritone Nicholas Brownlee hosts a quiz game for the opera lover. Whether you are an eager newcomer or a seasons aficionado, this show promises to be lively and fun. 12 p.m. Free. laopera.org/athome
Los Angeles Opera
Opera Family Time: Sing Out Loud
Sept. 22. Soprano Jamie Chamberlin and tenor Nathan Granner take the whole family on a musical adventure by showing how music can express feelings without words. 2 p.m. Free. laopera.org/athome
Salstina
Happy Hour No. 25: Lucia Micarelli, Violin
Sept. 22. Every Tuesday via Zoom, Salastina’s Happy Hour brings you live musical performance, spirited conversation, and interaction with musicians and fellow music lovers. This installment of Happy Hour brings you the “violinist of heart-melting talent” according to the Wall Street Journal. Hear her music and have an intimate conversation about her life and career. 6-7 p.m. Free. Tune In | RSVP
Rubicon Theatre
A Song
Sept. 19-20. In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, one man struggles to find peace and purpose in a world wracked with civil unrest, racial injustice, and a public health crisis. Rubicon presents the world premiere of A SONG, a conversation about race, responsibility, hope and belonging in these new and uncertain times. In this moving one-act play with music, playwright Taylor Fagins takes us inside the life Gill, an artist, a son, a lover and a young Black man in America as he fights to find his footing in society and to create his own song. Sa 7 p.m.; Su 2 p.m. Free. rubicontheatre.org
Hollywood Fringe
If Truth Be Told
Sept. 18-20. A raucous evening of comic stories, told by actress/humorist Jennifer Brown who has seen a few things. Follow her adventures as she recounts tales from her early days of encountering life. What exactly is “the truth”? And when you are asked to tell the truth, whose truth do you stand in? Proceeds will benefit The Hollywood Food Coalition. F, Sa 8 p.m.; Su 2 p.m. $3. hollywoodfringe.org | Tickets
The Music Center
Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale
Sept. 19. KCET introduces the 32nd annual Music Center Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale as part of its weekly performing arts and culture series, Southland Sessions. The Music Center’s Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale broadcast on KCET and PBS SoCal features Tony Award winner and Spotlight alum Lindsay Mendez as host, along with performances by each grand prize finalist, an inside look at each finalist’s Spotlight experience and messages from notable Spotlight alumni including Misty Copeland, Josh Groban, Matthew Rushing and Melinda Sullivan. Free. PBS SoCal
Grand Park
Easy Mornings
Sept. 19. Each episode of Grand Park’s Easy Mornings features four main elements: morning meditations with Grand Park yoga instructor Courtney Seiberling; coloring workshops with GURL Museum Day and nature photography tips from Las Fotos Project; food truck demos with participating food trucks from Grand Park’s Lunch à la Park program; and performances or conversations with different artists and community members, ranging from landscape professionals to musicians, focusing on their relationships with Grand Park. Free. grandparkla.org | YouTube | Facebook Live
Chance Theater
Cyber Chat: “Latin History for Morons”
Sept. 18. Join host Casey Long and a distinguished panel of artists for a special chat about John Leguizamo’s award-winning one-man show. Chance Theater’s Cyber Chat program provides an opportunity to hear more background about the show and listen to artistic insight from a panel of professional artists. 8 p.m. Free. chancetheater.com | RSVP
Los Angeles Theatre
Insulted. Belarus(sia)
Begins Sept. 18. Rogue Machine Theatre is participating in a global reading for the rolling world premiere of Insulted. Belarus(sia) from Los Angeles. This seven-character play tells the story of the first month of the Balarusian revolution. Much of the dialogue has been taken directly from actual speeches and statements as the author tells of the tragic escalation of violence. 8 p.m. Free. roguemachinetheatre.net
CAP UCLA
CAP UCLA Free Digital Stage
Begins Sept. 17. Kick start the fall season with UCLA’s Center for the Art of Performance—virtually! CAP UCLA programs will be streamed online for free with RSVP through the end of the year. These are new works commissioned by CAP UCLA and specifically created for its digital stage. Highlights include Complete Works: Table Top Shakespeare: At Home; the new literary series L.A. Omnibus; a piano sonata by Philip Glass; and The Tune In Festival. cap.ucla.edu
Los Angeles Opera
Living Room Recital
Sept. 17. Soprano Alaysha Fox, a member of the company’s young artist program, partners with pianist Brendon Shapiro for an all-American program of art songs by Amy Beach, H.T. Burleigh and Jake Heggie, along with show tunes by Jason Robert Brown and Stephen Sondheim. laopera.org/athome.
LA Phil
Música Sin Fronteras (Music Without Borders)
Sept. 16. Gustavo Dudamel hosts a series in partnership with KCET and PBS SoCal that celebrates the unique history and the cultural diversity of the Hollywood Bowl. “Música Sin Fronteras” is a celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month featuring Vin Scully, Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil, Carlos Vives, Café Tacvba, and Siudy Garrido Flamenco Dance Theater with the LA Phil and conducted by Paolo Bortolameolli. 9 p.m. on KCET.
Los Angeles Opera
Opera Happy Hour
Sept. 15. Join host Jeremy Frank at the piano as he explores how some of opera’s best loved tunes have entered today’s popular culture through cinema and animation. laopera.org/athome.
Mainly Mozart
Drive-In Concert Series
Sept. 10-13. It’s music to our ears. Mainly Mozart—the first major arts organization in the U.S. to perform classical music to a live audience (since the pandemic hit)—returns for a drive-in concert series at the Del Mar Fairgrounds. Visit website for safety guidelines and tickets. 6-7:15 p.m. each night. 2260 Jimmy Durante Blvd., Del Mar. mainlymozart.org
The Wallis
George Gershwin Alone
Sept. 13. Hershey Felder in George Gershwin Alone will live stream at 5 p.m. from Florence, Italy. Music and Lyrics by George Gershwin and Ira Gershwin, this musical tells the story of America’s great composer. As the only actor-musician to create the role of George Gershwin on the stage, and with over three-thousand performances, from California to Broadway to London’s West End, for the first time, Hershey Felder will bring George Gershwin to life on the stage of one of Europe’s oldest and most famous performing arts theatres. thewallis.org | Tickets
Grand Park
Easy Mornings
Sept. 12. Each episode of Grand Park’s Easy Mornings features four main elements: morning meditations with Grand Park yoga instructor Courtney Seiberling; coloring workshops with GURL Museum Day and nature photography tips from Las Fotos Project; food truck demos with participating food trucks from Grand Park’s Lunch à la Park program; and performances or conversations with different artists and community members, ranging from landscape professionals to musicians, focusing on their relationships with Grand Park. grandparkla.org | YouTube | Facebook Live
Sierra Madre Playhouse
The Joy Luck Club Zoom Reunion
Sept. 12. Jump back into the world of Sierra Madre Playhouse’s 2019 box-office smash The Joy Luck Club, based on the hit novel by award-winning author Amy Tan. Now, for the first time ever, join the virtual cast reunion. Catch up with director Tim Dang and members of the cast, and ask them questions about the creation of this beloved hit production. 3:30 p.m. Free, reservations required; space is limited. sierramadreplayhouse.org
A Noise Within
Fridays @ FIVE
Sept. 11. Director of Education and Community Outreach Alicia Green hosts a discussion with ANW’s Teaching Artists about the theatre’s one-of-a-kind performing arts education program. Discover how ANW has partnered with local teachers, schools and communities to connect local students to live theatre—and how they have transformed learning in the digital space. Free. anoisewithin.org | RSVP
LA Phil
Musicals and the Movies
Sept. 11. Get a dose of your favorite musical with LA Phil artistic director Gustavo Dudamel as he hosts an award-winning line-up, including Kristin Chenoweth, Audra McDonald and Sutton Foster, to name a few. Free. 8 p.m. on PBS SoCal.
Impro Theatre
Friday Jam
Sept. 11. Get your weekly dose of laughter every Friday with Impro Theatre’s Friday Jam. Hosted by Paul Rogan, Friday Jam is 45 minutes of completely improvised set of scenes by a talented group of improvisers from the Impro performing arts community. Free. improtheatre.com
Pacific Symphony
Virtual Tchaikovsky Spectacular
Sept. 10. No summer would be complete without Pacific Symphony performing Tchaikovsky’s thrilling “1812” overture, complete with live cannons and brilliant fireworks. Plus, enjoy Borodin’s “Polovtsian Dances” and the “Procession of the Nobles” by Rimsky-Korsakov. Eileen Jeanette, Pacific Symphony’s senior vice-president of artistic planning, opens the concert with an interview with Principal Trumpet Barry Perkins. Free. pacificsymphony.org
Latino Theater Company
La Olla
Through Sept. 10. An archival video presentation of the Latino Theater Company’s 2016 production. A bit player in a shady 1950s L.A. nightclub finds a pot full of cash in this adaptation, by Evelina Fernández, of the Roman comedy, The Pot of Gold by Plautus. Inspired by the Rumberas films of the golden age of Mexican Cinema, the LTC incorporates its distinctive style of comedy, music, dance and imagery to explore one of the most basic aspects of human behavior: greed. Free. thelatc.org | Watch
The Music Center
Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale
Sept. 9. KCET introduces the 32nd annual Music Center Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale as part of its weekly performing arts and culture series, Southland Sessions. The Music Center’s Spotlight Virtual Grand Finale broadcast on KCET and PBS SoCal features Tony Award winner and Spotlight alum Lindsay Mendez as host, along with performances by each grand prize finalist, an inside look at each finalist’s Spotlight experience and messages from notable Spotlight alumni including Misty Copeland, Josh Groban, Matthew Rushing and Melinda Sullivan. Free. KCET
LA Phil
Musicals and the Movies
Sept. 9. Get a dose of your favorite musical with LA Phil artistic director Gustavo Dudamel as he hosts an award-winning line-up, including Kristin Chenoweth, Audra McDonald and Sutton Foster, to name a few. Free. Sept. 9 p.m. on KCET.
Photo credits: Laura Benanti courtesy Segerstrom Center. Petal d’Avril by 3cubedstudios. International Dance Film Festival by Antoine Panier. 2020 Songbook by Mathu Placek. Blood/Sugar courtesy Plain Wood Productions. Reena Esmail courtesy Reena Esmail. Georgina Pazcoguin by Rachel Neville. Ballet Hispanico by Paula Lobo. A Mexican Triology by Grettel Cortes Photography. Gustavo Dudamel Fireworks! courtesy LA Phil. John Lewis courtesy Magnolia Pictures. Sal Lopez in “La Olla” by Grettel Cortes. Latin History for Morons courtesy Ahmanson Theatre by Matthew Murphy. All other images are courtesy of the venues.
