From musical comedies to one-man shows, check out the best performances and plays in San Diego this October.
Edited by Madelyn Harris.
‘The Absolute Brightness of Leonard Pelkey’
Oct. 1-29. In this acclaimed one-man show, a brash New Jersey detective in search of a missing teenager follows clues that lead him to unexpected places and show him one one boy’s bravery can light the way towards truth. $62+. White Theatre at the Old Globe, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park. theoldglobe.org
‘Smoke on the Mountain’
Oct. 6-Nov. 19. The Sanders Family Singers are back on the road, and Mt. Pleasant Baptist Church will never be quite the same again in this hilarious ensemble musical comedy. $68. Lamb’s Players Theatre, 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado. lambsplayers.org
‘The Legend of Georgia McBride’
Oct. 11-Nov. 12. An unemployed Elvis impersonator is given the opportunity to trade one sequined outfit for another when his club brings in a drag act in this music-filled comedy that celebrates finding your voice. Cygnet Theatre in Old Town, 4040 Twiggs St., Old Town. cygnettheatre.com
Jason Mraz
Oct. 14. Multiple-Grammy Award-winning singer/songwriter will perform an intimate homecoming show in celebration of the fifteenth anniversary of the release of his debut album, Waiting for My Rocket to Come Home. 8 p.m. View website for ticket prices. Spreckles Theatre, 121 Broadway, 619.235.9500. ticketmaster.com
‘The Pirates of Penzance’
Oct. 14-22. Young pirate-in-training Frederic can’t wait for his 21st birthday, the day his erroneous pirate apprenticeship ends…or does it? This swashbuckling favorite about love, laughter and loyalty will make you swoon. View website for full schedule. $48+. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave. sdopera.org
John Steinbeck’s ‘Of Mice and Men’
Oct. 18-Nov. 12. This classic drama novella-turned play tells the story of friendship in a world of solitude that is sustained by illusory dreams. North Coast Repertory Theatre, 987-D Lomas Santa Fe Drive, Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org
Tegan and Sara
Oct. 20. In honor of their original album’s 10 year anniversary, catch a performance by Tegan and Sara, who will cover the record front-to-back with all new arrangements. 9 p.m. $37+. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., 619.570.1100. teganandsara.com
A Night with Janis Joplin
Oct. 25-26. San Diegans are invited to share an evening with the queen of rock and roll. Enjoy some of her unforgettable songs such as “Me and Bobby McGee,” “Piece of My Heart,” “Mercedes Benz,” “Cry Baby” and “Summertime”. 8 p.m. $36+. Balboa Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., 619.570.1100. sandiegotheatres.org
‘Benny & Joon’
Through Oct. 22. With unforgettable characters and a tuneful score, this world-premiere musical—based on the beloved offbeat ’90s romantic comedy movie—explores what happens when we step out of our comfort zones and take a leap toward love. Shiley Stage at the Old Globe Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, Balboa Park. theoldglobe.org
