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The Program: Mark your calendar for these March SoCal performances.
Note: Though hours and formats are updated regularly, they can change without notice; best to confirm at venue websites.
LA PHIL
Beethoven and Ortiz with Dudamel
Through March 1. Beethoven’s celebratory Seventh Symphony meets Gabriela Ortiz’s powerful Revolución diamantina(“Glitter Revolution”), a bold response to the 2019 feminist uprising around Mexico’s epidemic of violence against women. Her Grammy-nominated work is, for the first time, set in motion with Grupo Corpo, the internationally renowned dance company known for its blend of popular Brazilian culture, African rhythms, and classical technique. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
PASADENA PLAYHOUSE
Amadeus
Through March 15. A Tony and Oscar-winning masterpiece that follows the riveting rivalry between two composers: the celebrated Antonio Salieri and the vulgar prodigy Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. 39 S. El Molino Ave., Pasadena .pasadenaplayhouse.org
A NOISE WITHIN
William Shakespeare’s Richard III
Through March 8. Experience a gripping tale of ambition, manipulation, and ruthless power. A thrilling drama, Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s most iconic explorations of corruption, control, and the obsessive pursuit of power. A thrilling drama, Richard III is one of Shakespeare’s most iconic explorations of corruption, control, and the obsessive pursuit of power. 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. anoiseiwthin.org
THE OLD GLOBE
Fiasco Theater’s Bartleby
Through March 15. Fiasco Theater Company and The Old Globe take on Herman Melville’s darkly comic classic—a hilarious and haunting reflection on work, will, and what happens when one mild-mannered employee refuses to go along with the program. This Globe-commissioned world premiere promises a wildly theatrical rediscovery of one of American literature’s most indelible stories. Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. theoldglobe.org
THE OLD GLOBE
Henrik Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler
Through March 15. Katie Holmes brings to life a landmark role in a new version of Henrik Ibsen’s Hedda Gabler—a defining masterpiece about honeymooners whose marriage begins to crack and the world around them begins to unravel.Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage, Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. theoldglobe.org
SOUTH COAST REP
God of Carnage
Through March 21. A playground fight between 11-year-old boys brings parents together to resolve their sons’ conflict. At first, diplomacy rules. But as each parent reveals their demands, meeting spirals into a free-for-all of opposing parenting styles and marital tensions. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Dr. scr.org
SOUTH COAST REP
Edward Albee’s Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?
Through March 21. Hilarious and harrowing, this portrait of a marriage ceaselessly astonishes audiences with its razor-sharp dialogue and thrilling performances. George and Martha invite a young couple to their home for a nightcap. As the clock ticks into the wee hours, Nick and Honey find themselves submerged in a cocktail of clever mind games, deep-seated resentments and broken promises. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Dr. scr.org
LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE
Recipe: A New Play About Julia Child
Through March 22. Before Julia Child became the TV personality that we all know, she careened from Pasadena to New York to Washington DC to Ceylon and finally to Paris’s famed Cordon Bleu cooking school. A funny and delicious new play about the early life of an endlessly fascinating character and her path from confusion to discovery, failure to success.2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla. lajollaplayhouse.org
LA OPERA
Akhnaten
Through March 22. When a newly crowned king sets out to change the world, dangerous enemies are quick to follow. Witness the rise and fall in this portrait of ancient Egypt’s heretic pharaoh, complete with a luminous score by Philip Glass. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laopera.org
CENTER THEATRE GROUP
Here Lies Love
Through March 22. A groundbreaking musical about former First Lady of the Philippines Imelda Marcos’ astonishing rise to power and subsequent fall at the hands of the Philippine People Power Revolution. This story about greed and power features music by Grammy, Oscar, and Tony Award winner David Byrne and Grammy Award winner Fatboy Slim. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. centertheatregroup.org
LA PHIL
Dudamel, Dante, and Beethoven 6
March 5-6, 8. Beethoven’s “Pastoral” Symphony embodies the calming charm of the countryside and Gustavo Dudamel captures the serenity of the symphony before steering the orchestra into the “Inferno” —the fiery first movement by Thomas Adès. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Brahms Festival: Violin Concerto & Symphony No. 4
March 6. Brahms is not only one of the most famous and cherished composers in all of 19th-century music, but an artist of rich and wonderful contradictions. Brahms’ Violin Concerto and Symphony No. 4 are performed as part of a music festival series. Violinist Leonidas Kavakos is joined by the San Diego Symphony Orchestra as led by conductor Rafael Payare. The Jacobs Music Center, 250 B. St., San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
BROADSTAGE
Alexander Malofeev, piano
March 7. Russian pianist Alexander Malofeev makes his BroadStage debut. Malofeev gained international recognition at age 13 when he won the International Tchaikovsky Competition for Young Musicians in 2014. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
OC Lantern Festival
March 7. A day-long festival that will include music and dance performances by local community and professional groups, as well as Pacific Symphony musicians. Bring the entire family to participate in crafts and activities such as lantern decorating, enjoy food, and more. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr. pacificsymphony.org
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Brahms Festival: Symphony No. 3 & Violin Concerto
March 7. Brahms is not only one of the most famous and cherished composers in all of 19th-century music, but also an artist of rich and wonderful contradictions. Brahms’ Violin Concerto and Symphony No. 3 are performed as part of a music festival series. Violinist Leonidas Kavakos is joined by the San Diego Symphony Orchestra as led by conductor Rafael Payare. The Jacobs Music Center, 250 B. St., San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Gerald Clayton Quintet
March 7. Four-time Grammy-nominated pianist and composer Gerald Clayton is bringing his acclaimed quintet to Samueli Theater to highlight the group’s innovative approach to modern jazz. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., scfta.org
BROADSTAGE
Julia Keefe Indigenous Jazz Ensemble
March 8. A powerhouse group of Native and Indigenous jazz musicians, led by composer, conductor, and vocalist Julia Keefe. The ensemble pays homage to the past while shaping the future of jazz, performing works by jazz legends like Mildred Bailey (Coeur d’Alene) and Jim Pepper (Kaw/Mvskoke) alongside bold new compositions from today’s Indigenous composers. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
LA PHIL
The Great Wall of Los Angeles
March 7. Inspired by Judy Baca’s mural The Great Wall of Los Angeles, Gustavo Dudamel and Gabriela Ortiz bring together a group of composers to create an hour-long symphonic tribute to Angelenos who have shaped the city’s history. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
SIX
March 10. From Tudor Queens to Pop Icons, the SIX wives of Henry VIII take the microphone to remix five hundred years of historical heartbreak into a Euphoric Celebration of 21st century girl power! This new original musical is the global sensation that everyone is losing their head over! Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Segerstrom Hall, 615 Town Center Dr., scfta.org
PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY
Sphinx Virtuosi with Randall Goosby
March 11. In a unique convergence of musical voices, this program beckons the audience into a realm where music becomes an emissary of peace and unity. Featuring Randall Goosby on violin. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr., philharmonicsociety.org
THE WALLIS
Faust + Sousa + Mendelssohn
March 12. Guest conductor Dinis Sousa leads a program that bridges tradition and innovation. LA Chamber Orchestra Composer-in-Residence Huang Ruo makes his debut with The Tipping Point, and violinist Isabelle Faust performs Schumann’s soul-stirring Violin Concerto. 3930 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. thewallis.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Ben Rector: Symphonies Across America
March 13-14. Ben Rector’s heartfelt symphonic tribute to the country’s cities, stories, and shared spirit. Inspired by fifteen years of cross-country touring, this program pairs Rector’s most beloved originals with new orchestral works honoring the American songbook. Joining Ben on his symphony tour across America is his good friend, Jon McLaughlin. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr. pacificsymphony.org
LA PHIL
John Williams & Rachmaninoff
March 13-15. Rising star Anna Handler returns to Walt Disney Concert Hall to conduct Symphonic Dances, and the LA Phil’s Principal Trumpet plays John Williams’ concerto. The program also includes the majestic theme from Jurassic Park. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
The Gershwins on Broadway with Rob Fisher
March 14. Broadway conductor and arranger Rob Fisher brings his entertaining mix of Broadway veterans and classic Broadway tunes to the Jacobs Music Center stage. The Jacobs Music Center, 250 B. St., San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
LA PHIL
Alcée Chriss III, Organ Recital
March 15. Texas-born keyboardist, Alcée Chriss III, known for incorporating gospel and jazz influences, makes his. Walt Disney Concert Hall debut on the monumental “Hurricane Mama” organ with music from Bach to Broadway and beyond.Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
LA PHIL
Mozart & Benavides
March 17. LA Phil musicians perform Nicolás Lell Benavides’ new work for oboe, string quartet, and tenor Joshua Blue. This program ends as it begins—with breathtaking string quintets. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Goldmund Quartet
March 17. Known for their passionate performances and thoughtfully nuanced interpretations, the Goldmund Quartet will present a program that blends wit, energy, and deep emotion. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Sameuli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., scfta.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Matthew Morrison
March 19-21. Matthew Morrison, known for his standout role as Will Schuester on “Glee,” is a dynamic performer whose charisma and versatility have captivated audiences for years. Morrison effortlessly blends his impressive vocal talents with a strong acting presence, bringing depth and charm to all his performances. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., scfta.org
BROADSTAGE
Jacob Jonas The Company: Keeping Score
March 19-22. Santa Monica-born Jacob Jonas makes his long-awaited BroadStage debut with a trilogy of autobiographic work exploring the nature of healing. Keeping Score is Jacob Jonas’ first post-cancer work, inspired by Bessel van der Kolk’s The Body Keeps the Score. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
LA PHIL
Vertigo in Concert
March 21. Alfred Hitchcock’s psychological thriller is a classic exploration of the devastating effects of obsession, made all the more gripping thanks to Bernard Herrmann’s harrowing score, performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic with Sarah Hicks. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
CENTER THEATRE GROUP
Kim’s Convenience
March 21-April 19. This award-winning comedy drama, which inspired the Netflix hit, is a hilarious, feel-good story about a Korean family-run corner store. Mr. Kim works hard to support his family with his convenience store but as he evaluates his future, he faces both a changing neighborhood and the gap between his values and those of his Canadian-born children. Ahmanson Theatre, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. centertheatregroup.org
PASADENA SYMPHONY
From the New World
March 21. Acclaimed composer Juan Pablo Contreras makes a special appearance for Dvorák’s Symphony No. 9, “From the New World”. He also performs his own Symphony No. 1, capturing his own journey to becoming a composer and US citizen—a tribute to the American spirit. Ambassador Auditorium, 131 S. St. John Ave., Pasadena. pasadenasymphony-pops.org
A NOISE WITHIN
Arthur Miller’s Death of a Salesman
March 22-April 19. Follow an aging salesman as he grapples with disappointment and the growing gap between his dreams and reality. Through memory, conflict, and fractured hope, Miller crafts a powerful portrait of a man chasing success in a society that defines worth by achievement. 3352 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. anoiseiwthin.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Lang Lang Plays Beethoven
March 23. Experience the breathtaking virtuosity of Lang Lang—live in one very special concert with Pacific Symphony, featuring Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3. The evening opens with the dramatic intensity of Beethoven’s Egmont Overture and concludes with Dvořák’s Ninth Symphony, “From the New World,” a sweeping musical journey that evokes the spirit of America. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr. pacificsymphony.org
LA PHIL
Gerald Barry’s Salome
March 24. Thomas Adès leads the US premiere of Barry’s Salome, an opera based on Oscar Wilde’s play Salome—both share madness, ecstasy, humor, and murder. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
THE MUSIC CENTER
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
March 25-29. The powerhouse dance company returns to The Music Center as part of its exclusive multi-year Southern California residency, in two different programs that will include classic works from the Ailey repertory as well as new works by contemporary choreographers. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. musiccenter.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Notos Quartett
March 26. Known for their fiery performances and insightful interpretations, Notos Quartet will present a diverse program featuring Walton’s dramatic Piano Quartet in D minor, Mozart’s poignant Piano Quartet in G minor, and Schumann’s Piano Quartet in Eb Major, Opus 47. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., scfta.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
St. Clair Conducts Williams, Daugherty & Brahms
March 26-28. Violinist Anne Akiko Meyers captures the thrill of John Williams’ flying scene from E.T, the orchestral power in Michael Daughterty’s Blue Electra and the emotional grandeur of Brahms’ Symphony No. 4. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr., pacificsymphony.org
LA PHIL
Brahms & Beethoven
March 27-29. Italian pianist Beatrice Rana returns, and Paavo Järvi conducts the LA Philharmonic in Brahms’ sunny, yet seductive, symphony. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SAN DIEGO OPERA
Carmen
March 27-29. The most fearless and indomitable heroine in all opera is back! When Carmen tosses a flower to the soldier Don José, he becomes obsessed, leaving his post to join her band of smugglers. But when she loses interest and sets her sights on a bullfighter, Don José may not be able to handle the rejection. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., San Diego. sdopera.org
BROADSTAGE
Delirium Musicum
March 29. A musical phenomenon, LA-based chamber orchestra, Delirium Musicum, represents the next wave of classical musicians with their interpretations of everything from Baroque masterpieces to the music of tomorrow. 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
LA PHIL
Colburn Orchestra
March 29. The Colburn Orchestra and conductor Earl Lee return to Walt Disney Concert Hall with another larger-than-life program that includes two atmospheric works—Samy Moussa’s Elysium and Richard Strauss’ famous symphonic poem Also sprach Zarathustra. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Brahms’ Symphony No. 4
March 29. The music of Brahms with commentary from Music Director Laureate Carl St. Clair as he guides the audience through Brahms’ Symphony No. 4 before it is performed. Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 655 Town Center Dr., pacificsymphony.org
LA PHIL
Glass’ Cocteau Trilogy Katia and Marielle Labèque
March 31. Philip Glass’ operas inspired by the films of Jean Cocteau, reimagined as suites for two keyboards and performed by Katia and Marielle Labèque with scenography designed by Nina Chalot and Cyril Teste. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.comrmed as part of a music festival series. The Jacobs Music Center, 250 B. St., San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
Photo Credits: All images are courtesy of the venues and businesses featured.
