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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.
LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Traditions: Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater
March 30-31. The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, led by Jaime Martín, presents a series of timeless works that spotlight singular voices within the collective music-making experience. Guest artists John Holiday and Amanda Forsythe join LACO. UCLA Royce Hall, 10745 Dickson Ct., Los Angeles. laco.org
BROADSTAGE
Stanley Clarke N•4EVER
March 30. BroadStage’s new Artist in Residence, Stanley Clarke, is a celebrated acoustic and electric bass player who returns with hisnew band 4EVER for a night of jazz harmony, rock, funk, R&B, hip-hop, fusion and more. BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Traditions: Pergolesi’s Stabat Mater
March 30. The Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra, led by Jaime Martín, presents a series of timeless works that spotlight singular voices within the collective music-making experience. Guest artists John Holiday and Amanda Forsythe join LACO. Alex Theatre, 216 N. Brand Blvd., Glendale. laco.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Motown: The Music That Changed America
March 29-30. After multiple sold out runs the CCAE Theatricals moves their annual Motown performance to the larger Concert Hall with more performers, new songs and the D. Ben-Jamin’ Band. California Center for the Arts, Concert Hall, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Prokofiev: Romeo & Juliet—Imagined!
March 29, 30. A Feast of music from Prokofiev’s much-loved 1935 ballet score complete with beautiful projections and excerpts highlighting the immortal story of Shakespeare’s tragedy.
Jacobs Music Center, 1245 7th Ave, San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Steam Powered Giraffe: Live in Concert
March 29. San Diego’s robot band performs live. Steam Powered Giraffe is a musical act that combines robot pantomime, dance, comedy, and music for a unique entertaining experience. Costumes and makeup encouraged. California Center for the Arts, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Cristian Fatu & Evangelyia Delizonas-Khukhua
March 29. Award-winning concert violinist is joined by prodigy pianist Evangelyia Delizonas-Khukhua who gave her first concert in Moscow at the age of 5. California Center for the Arts, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Besos Jazz Trio
March 29. Besos Jazz Trio stirs audiences with music and dance, balancing their worldly inspiration and traditions. They perform as part of the free outdoor concert series. The Conrad, Wu Tsai QRT.yrd, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Ray Chen, violin
March 28. Violinist Ray Chen is redefining what it is to be a classical musician in the 21st century as he inspires younger generations of music students through music. He is joined by pianist Julio Elizalde for a program that will include Beethoven’s Violin Sonata No. 7, Tartini, Bach and Bazzini. The Conrad, The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Michael Tilson Thomas Leads Tchaikovsky
March 28-30. Michael Tilson Thomas serves as master of puppets for Stravinsky’s Petrushka, followed by Tchaikovsky’s Fourth. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Live on Argyros Stage: Adelaide
March 28. Join us on the Julianne and George Argyros Plaza for a free concert from Adelaide before MJ: The Musical. Savor delicious food and refreshing drinks from George’s Café and enjoy the sweet melodies of this free pre-show performance. Argyros Plaza, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
A Broadway Birthday: Sondheim, Lloyd Webber and Friends!
March 28. Betty Buckley, Liz Callaway, Alex Joseph Grayson, Aaron Lazar and Kerry O’Malley celebrate the birthdays of Broadway’s foremost composers, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Stephen Sondheim. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
CITY BALLET
An American in Paris
March 27. A program exclusively of firsts. Geoffrey Gonzalez premieres his new ballet, An American in Paris. Elizabeth Wistrich premieres her new ballet, Boléro – The Awakening. And City Ballet adds their first Christopher Wheeldon ballet to their repertoire, Morphoses. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. cityballet.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Ray Chen
March 27. The sensational violinist takes audiences on a tour of Europe with an inspired and virtuosic program. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
CENTER THEATRE GROUP
Alex Edelman’s “Just For Us”
March 26-31. In the wake of a string of online anti-Semitic rhetoric, stand-up comic Edelman decides to go straight to the source where he covertly attends a meeting of White Nationalists and comes face-to-face with the people behind the hates. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. centertheatregroup.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Sounds About Town: Colburn Orchestra
March 24. Established in 2003, The Colburn Orchestra is the flagship ensemble of the Colburn Conservatory of Music. This talented group of young musicians perform Prokofiev’s Piano Concerto No. 2. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SAN DIEGO BALLET
Creative Conversations
March 24. Artistic Director Javier Velasco, the artists of the San Diego Ballet, and special guest SDB resident composer Gilbert Castellanos pulls back the curtain on the various facets of the artistic process. The evening features conversations, performances, and sneak peeks into next year’s artistic offerings. The Thursday Club, 1224 Santa Barbara St., San Diego. sandiegoballet.org
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Michael Tilson Thomas and Sibelius
March 23-24. Conductor Michael Tilson Thomas, leads the San Diego Symphony in works from Tilson Thomas and songs set to master poet Rilke performed by Grammy Award-winning bass-baritone Dashon Burton.
Jacobs Music Center, 1245 7th Ave, San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
The University of Wonder and Imagination
March 23-24. At The University of Wonder & Imagination the choices you, the audience, make will shape your unique course. You will choose your subjects of study, enter themed rooms, and encounter all kinds of problems and puzzles in this magical, interactive. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Lamb of God
March 23. The San Diego Saints Choir performs Rob Gardener’s Lamb of God in an Easter celebration. Lamb of God tells the story of the final days of Jesus Christ’s mortal ministry through the eyes of those who loved and knew Him best. California Center for the Arts, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Vivaldi’s Magic
March 23. Music of Antonio Vivaldi, José Enrique González-Medina, Francois Couperin and J. C. Bachperformed by an ensemble of virtuosos including flute, string quartet, double bass, keyboard, and guitar. The Conrad, The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Nowruz Iranian New Year
March 23. Celebrate the “rebirth of nature” and to wash away the past with conductor Carl St. Clair, vocalist Shahram Nazeri and the Pacific Symphony as they unite cultures through the power of music.
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. pacificsymphony.org
PASADENA SYMPHONY AND POPS
Beethoven Violin Concerto
March 23. Shawn Okpebholo is featured at the annual Composers Showcase with Francisco Fullana on violin. The program will feature Beethoven’s Violin Concerto and Stravinsky’s The Firebird Suite.
Ambassador Auditorium, 131 S. St. John Ave., Pasadena. pasadenasymphony-pops.org
THE WALLIS
Take 6
March 23. With 10 GRAMMY Awards, 10 Dove Awards, a Soul Train Award, and they as Members of the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, Take 6 will introduce a preview of their brand new recording, celebrating their new 2024 partnerships in Music Cares with St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Bram Goldsmith Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. thewallis.org
LOS ANGELES BALLET
Next Steps
March 22-24. Belles-Lettres showcases Justin Peck’s exceptional choreographic talent as he weaves together a tapestry of emotions and stories. Frank Bridge Variations embodies the sensual style Hans van Manen is known for, and Melissa Barak brings another world premiere to the stage with a work set to music by American film and tv composer Kris Bowers of When They See Us and Bridgerton fame. BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. losangelesballet.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
John Adams’ City Noir
March 22-24. Adams conducts his homage to “the peculiar ambience and mood of L.A. noir films” and a world premiere by Timo Andres. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Ladysmith Black Mambazo
March 22. The all-male choral group from South Africa have become internationally famous, winning multiple Grammys and the designation by the late President Nelson Mandela as “South Africa’s Cultural Ambassadors to the World” sing their traditional music style of isicathamiya. The Conrad, The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
5th Annual Blue Water Film Festival
March 22. Blue Water Institute celebrates World Water Day and promotes San Diego California as a hub for marine science, naval exploration and environmental storytelling with film selections that help fulfill the mission of promoting cross-cultural understanding. The Conrad, The JAI, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla.theconrad.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Esa-Pekka Solonen and the San Francisco Symphony
March 22. Salonen leads the San Francisco Symphony in John Adams’ massive orchestral exploration, plus violinist Lisa Batiashvili performs Sibelius’ dramatic concerto. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
¡Damas!
March 22. In celebration of International Women’s Month, cumbia pop star Estevie will take the stage alongside pop-ups from local womxn-owned businesses, fierce photo ops, and tasty bites and drink specials from George’s Café and local food trucks. Argyros Plaza, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
DANCE AT THE MUSIC CENTER
Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater
March 20-24. For 65 years, Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater has showcased the work of diverse choreographers and they return to The Music Center to launch a multi-year residency. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. musiccenter.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Āhuti: Nrityagram & Chitrasena
March 20-21. Nrityagram Dance Ensemble and Chitrasena Dance Company collaborate to create a contemporary fusion of Odissi classical dance from India and traditional Kandyan dance from Sri Lanka. The Conrad, The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF OC
San Francisco Symphony with Esa-Pekka Salonen and Lisa Batiashvili
March 20. Grammy Award-winning music director Esa-Pekka Salonen leads the San Francisco Symphony in an all-Sibelius program, including his most famous tone poem, Finlandia. Violinist Lisa Batiashvili joins the Symphony to perform Sibelius’ Violin Concerto. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. philharmonicsociety.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
MJ The Musical
March 19-31. The music. The moves. The icon. MJ goes beyond the singular moves and signature sound of the star, offering a rare look at the creative mind and collaborative spirit that catapulted Michael Jackson into legendary status. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Green Umbrella. Phillip Glass:The Complete Etudes, 1-20
March 19. A group of renowned pianists takes turns interpreting Philip Glass’ complete Etudes. Glass has said that he composed the Etudes “to explore a variety of tempi, textures, and piano techniques,” seeking to improve his own piano skills and discover uncharted creative waters. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Superstar Organist Isabelle Demers
March 17. Organist Isabelle Demers, who has enraptured listeners worldwide, takes the Segerstrom stage with a program that includes music by Richard Wagner, Johann Sebastian Bach, Rachel Laurin, Samuel Coleridge-Taylor, and Igor Stravinsky’s Firebird Suite. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
THE WALLIS
Jeremy Jordan
March 17. Jeremy Jordan, widely acclaimed Broadway superstar, will bring his signature and thought-provoking style to The Wallis for the first time, showcasing a wide array of vocal styles across all genres of Broadway and pop music. Songs and tales from his storied career will include selections from Newsies, Smash, The Last 5 Years, Little Shop of Horrors, Waitress, and many more. Bram Goldsmith Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. thewallis.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Bernstein and Wooten
March 16-17. Wilkins leads music from Bernstein’s beloved West Side Story and joins forces electric bass icon/Grammy-winning legend, Victor Wooten. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
LAMB’S PLAYERS THEATRE
The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate
March 16-May 5. A world premiere musical about a young girls’ fascination with the natural world and is encouraged by her grandfather who recognizes her special gift. The Evolution of Calprunia Tate is a story to be enjoyed by all ages. 1142 Orange Ave., Coronado. lambsplayer.org
CITY BALLET
An American in Paris
March 16-17. A program exclusively of firsts. Geoffrey Gonzalez premieres his new ballet, An American in Paris. Elizabeth Wistrich premieres her new ballet, Boléro – The Awakening. And City Ballet adds their first Christopher Wheeldon ballet to their repertoire, Morphoses. Balboa Theatre, 868 Fourth Ave., San Diego.cityballet.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Paper Planet
March 16-17. Paper Planet invites children and families to create a beautiful world inside a forest of cardboard trees, using only paper, tape, and their imaginations. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa.scfta.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Carnival of the Animals
March 16. Experience composer Camille Saint-Saens’ beloved children’s classic with colorful and engaging puppets, music, and playful storytelling. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2
March 16. The concerto’s emotional peaks and valleys will sparkle in the hands of soloist Sir Stephen Hough. Conductor Lionel Bringuier leads this program of classical titans. San Diego Civic Theatre, 1100 Third Ave., San Diego. sandiegosymphony.org
CENTER THEATRE GROUP
Magic Hour in Los Angeles: America’s Cultural Renaissance of 1974
March 15-17. MUSE/IQUE, a member-supported, nonprofit performing arts organization, makes its mark Taper Forum debut in a performance that celebrates the creative heavy-hitters who transformed our city in 1974, the year that crowned L.A. the cultural capital of the world. Mark Taper Forum, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. ctgla.org
BROADSTAGE
A Weekend with Pablo Picasso
March 15-16. Writer, performer, and founding member of Culture Clash Herbert Sigüenza takes on the role of Picasso for L.A. Theatre Works’ A Weekend with Pablo Picasso, a sensational one-man show based on writings from Picasso himself. BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
John Williams Spotlight: “Superman” in Concert
March 15. Principal Conductor of the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra Thomas Wilkins leads the LA Phil in John Williams’ triumphant score to the 1978 film Superman. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Mahler’s Fifth
March 14-16. Guest conductor Carlos Miguel Prieto leads the Pacificy Symphony in Mahler’s Symphony No. 5, a sweeping and emotional reflection of the composer’s journey from mourning to triumph. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Highland Way
March 14. Playing in theaters from Scotland to Nova Scotia, Ireland to California, Highland Way performs a high energy concert highlighting Celtic music, with originals and the occasional popular cover. California Center for the Arts, Center Theatre, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
An Evening with Branford Marsalis
March 14. Grammy award winner and Tony nominated saxophonist Branford Marsalis joins the La Jolla Music Society’s Jazz Series with his interpretations of both original compositions and jazz and popular classics. The Conrad, The Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
PASADENA PLAYHOUSE
One of the Good Ones
March 13-April 7. The ultimate family showdown is on in the world premiere of this new comedy commissioned by Pasadena Playhouse. Meet your new favorite family in this laugh-out-loud, heartfelt story from Gloria Calderón Kellett, the co-creator and showrunner of Netflix’s One Day at a Time.
Pasadena Playhouse, 39 S. El Moliina Ave., Pasadena. pasadenaplayhouse.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Shen Yun
March 13-17. Exquisite beauty from the heavens, profound wisdom from dynasties past, timeless legends, and ethnic traditions all spring to life through classical Chinese dance, enchanting live orchestral music, authentic costumes, and patented interactive backdrops. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa.scfta.org
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
PSYE Concert
March 11. The Pacific Symphony Youth Wind Ensemble, under the direction of Dr. Gregory Whitemore, presents a program that will include music by Bedrich Smetana, Percy Grainger and Michael Markowski, as well as the world premiere of The Information Age by Larry Tutlle. . Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. pacificsymphony.org
CALIFORNIA CENTER FOR THE ARTS, ESCONDIDO
Logos
March 10. Formed near the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, Logos launched its inaugural season of music-making and have since performed throughout San Diego County, connecting audiences to the masterpieces they perform with historical anecdotes and enriching stories. California Center for the Arts, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Meow Meow
March 10. Meow Meow, a post-post-modern diva, brings cabaret vibes to The JAI with award-winning original works that have been curated by David Bowie, Pina Bausch, and Mikhail Baryshnikov. The Conrad, The JAI, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
THE OLD GLOBE
King James
March 9-31. The breathtaking career of NBA icon LeBron James is the backdrop for this energetic and funny play by Pulitzer Prize finalist Rajiv Joseph. King James dives into the heart of basketball fandom and highlights the profound connections that sports can cultivate. Sheryl and Harvey White Theatre, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. theoldglobe.org
BACH COLLEGIUM
Love and Revolution
March 9. GRAMMY award-winning lutenist and conductor Stephen Stubbs’s collaboration with Claudio Monteverdi broke the rules of Renaissance polyphony and created the foundations of modern music. Bach Collegium presents the invention of modern music madrigals of Claudio Monteverdi and Sigismondo D’India. Saints Constantine and Helen Greek Orthodox Church, 3459 Manchester Ave., Cardiff. bachcollegiumsd.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Kings Return
March 9. Kings Return is a Dallas, Texas-based vocal band of brothers that bring audiences to their feet with their a cappella stylings inspired by gospel, jazz, R&B, soul and classical music. The Conrad, The JAI, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Symphonies for Youth “Swan Lake: Reimagined”
March 9. Experience how Tchaikovsky’s timeless composition inspires a revamped story for a modern audience by featuring selected pieces from the classic suite and, of course, a dancing accompaniment. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SAN DIEGO SYMPHONY
Musical Masterpieces: Pictures from an Exhibition
March 9. Pictures from an Exhibition invites you to see the world in sonic technicolor. Modest Mussorgsky composed the work in memory of a friend’s posthumous exhibit. California Center for the Arts, Escondido, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. sandiegosymphony.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Fred Hersch Trio and ETHEL — Breath by Breath
March 9. For his long-awaited return to Samueli Theater, Hersch will be joined by the Grammy-winning ETHEL, a quartet who fuses uptown panache with downtown genre mashup. Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
THE SORAYA
Atlanta Symphony Orchestra
March 9. Nathalie Stutzmann broke the gender barrier at the very pinnacle of classical music when she became only the second woman in history to lead a major American orchestra. She leads Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 in E-flat major, Op. 73, Emperor, known for being one of Beethoven’s most demanding works, featuring pianist Haochen Zhang. Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts, 18111 Nordhoff St., Northridge. thesoraya.org | Performances+
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Lyle Lovett and his Acoustic Group
March 8-9. Musician Lyle Lovett performs his greatest hits backed by a full symphony orchestra. For two-nights this soulful singer will be joined by the Pacific Symphony, led by conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. pacificsymphony.org
BACH COLLEGIUM
Love and Revolution
March 8. GRAMMY award-winning lutenist and conductor Stephen Stubbs’s collaboration with Claudio Monteverdi broke the rules of Renaissance polyphony and created the foundations of modern music. Bach Collegium presents the invention of modern music madrigals of Claudio Monteverdi and Sigismondo D’India All Souls’ Episcopal Church, 1475 Catalina Blvd., San Diego. bachcollegiumsd.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Kronos Quartet & Sam Green
March 8. Academy Award-nominated filmmaker Sam Green in collaboration with Emmy Award-winning writer and editor Joe Bini takes the stage with the legendary classical music group Kronos Quartet to create a “live documentary” that chronologically unfolds the quartet’s groundbreaking, continent-spanning, multi-decade career. The Conrad, Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
OCEANSIDE THEATRE
Chicken & Biscuits
March 8. Chicken & Biscuits reveals the rivalry between sisters Baneatta and Beverly when they come together to bury their father. Baneatta’s pastor husband tries to mediate the family drama while officiating the funeral, but when a shocking family secret is revealed during the ceremony, the siblings are faced with a truth that could either heal or break them. Main Stage, 217 N. Coast Highway, Oceanside. oceansidetheatre.org
THE ROUSTABOUTS THEATRE CO
Hand to God
March 7-31. Set in a small, conservative town, the play follows the story of Jason, a quiet young man, and his puppet, Tyrone, who seems to have a mind of its own. As the puppet takes on a life of its own, chaos ensues, leading to a hilarious and thought-provoking exploration of faith, morality, and the human psyche. Diversionary Theatre, 4545 Park Blvd., San Diego. theroustabouts.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Prokofiev and Rachmaninoff
March 7-10. Domingo Hindoyan leads Prokofiev’s celebratory Fifth, with star pianist Mao Fujita interpreting Rachmaninoff. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Les Ballets de Monte Carlo: Coppil-i.A.
March 7-10. Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo brings Coppél-i.A., Jean-Christophe Maillot’s new creation. The company’s choreographer-director revisits this famous Romantic piece exploring the ways in which artificial intelligence is shaping our society today and examining what it means to search for the ideal partner in a technologically advanced society. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
BROADSTAGE
Nat Geo Live: Rise of T. Rex
March 7. How did T. rex become the iconic apex predator of North America 66 million years ago? Paleontologist Dr. Lindsay Zanno explores how a global climate crisis during the Cretaceous changed the course of evolution for this prehistoric tyrant and its ancestors.. BroadStage, 1310 11th St., Santa Monica. broadstage.org
PHILHARMONIC SOCIETY OF OC
Philadelphia Orchestra with Nathalie Stutzman and Haochen Zhang
March 7. The world-renowned Philadelphia Orchestra makes its triumphant return to Orange County for the first time in 17 years, led by the second woman in history to lead a major American orchestra, Nathalie Stutzmann, and joined by pianist Haochen Zhang, recipient of the prestigious Avery Fisher Career Grant. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
NORTH COAST REP
Molière’s Tartuffe
March 6-31. Tartuffe, one of the most enduring comedic masterpieces, is given a clever translation by two-time Pulitzer Prize poet Richard Wilbur. With wicked precision and brilliantly rhyming verses, this highly satiric comedy skewers religious hypocrisy, duplicity, lust, and self-inflicted chaos. 987 Lomas Santa Fe Dr., Solana Beach. northcoastrep.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Music 101: Inspiration
March 6. Composers find inspiration in many place. With many musical examples and vibrant visuals, Alan Chapman explores these sources of inspiration and how they are translated into music. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
LA PHILHARMONIC
Chamber Music by Brahms and Amy Beach
March 5. Brahms’ influence seeped into American composer Amy Beach’s chamber music—from the introduction’s slow and sinister arpeggios to the intense chromatic race to the finale. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
LOS ANGELES CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
Legacy Debussy + Hamelin
March 3. Special guest Marc-André Hamelin headlines the final program of Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s popular Chamber Series. He performs Nadia Boulanger’s post-impressionist Three Pieces for Cello and Piano, and Franck’s expressive Piano Quintet in F minor, complementing Leclair’s innovative Sonata for Two Violins in E minor, Op. 3, No. 5, and Debussy’s dream-like Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp. Colburn School, Herbert Zipper Concert Hall, 200 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laco.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Maria Ioudenitch
March 3. Dynamic young violinist Maria Ioudenitch is joined by pianist Kenneth Broberg and students from The Colburn School as she performs violin sonatas by Brahms, Poulenc and Ravel. The Conrad, Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Dianne Reeves
March 3. The 5-time Grammy winner is LA Phil’s first ever Creative Chair for Jazz and the first person ever to sing on the Walt Disney Concert Hall stage. She makes her return for an inimate night of songs that are deeply personal. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
CENTER THEATRE GROUP
El Otro Oz
March 2-3. Take a bilingual, transformative journey with this musical featuring salsa, merengue, and Mexican folk music inspired by The Wizard of Oz. Kirk Douglas Theatre, 9820 Washington Blvd., Culver City. ctgla.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Lawrence Brownlee
March 2. A star of the Metropolitan Opera, Brownlee is a leading figure in opera and is cementing his name as a one of the top artists in classical music. This tenor comes to San Diego as part of the Recital Series at La Jolla Music Society. The Conrad, Baker-Baum Concert Hall, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
LA PHILHARMONIC
Dirty Projectors with the LA Phil: David Longstreth’s “Song of the Earth”
March 2. Dirty Projectors team up with the LA Phil for the U.S. premiere of Song of the Earth, a song cycle for orchestra and voices written by Dirty Projectors leader David Longstreth. Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laphil.com
PACIFIC SYMPHONY
Lantern Festival
March 2. Pacific Symphony’s annual Lantern Festival celebrates the Year of the Dragon with a free family-friendly festival filled with music, dance, art and food. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
Sir Stephen Hough and Castalian Quartet
March 2. Two sensational musical imports from Great Britain make for one dynamic evening of chamber music! Samueli Theater, 615 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
THE WALLIS
Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra: Legacy Debussy + Hamelin
March 2. Special guest Marc-André Hamelin headlines the final program of Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra’s popular Chamber Series. He performs Nadia Boulanger’s post-impressionist Three Pieces for Cello and Piano, and Franck’s expressive Piano Quintet in F minor, complementing Leclair’s innovative Sonata for Two Violins in E minor, Op. 3, No. 5, and Debussy’s dream-like Sonata for Flute, Viola and Harp. Bram Goldsmith Theater, 9390 N. Santa Monica Blvd., Beverly Hills. thewallis.org
LA JOLLA MUSIC SOCIETY
Supercool!
March 1. Free outdoor concert series presents California-based eleven-piece funk-pop band, Supercool! They showcase their unique four-piece horn section, tight rhythm section and breathtaking two lead vocalists. The Conrad, Wu Tsai QRT.yrd, 7600 Fay Ave., La Jolla. theconrad.org
SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS
VIBE Dance Competition
March 1. Founded in 1994, VIBE Dance Competition remains the world’s longest running hip hop dance competition. Joined with Culture Shock LA, it focuses on bringing the artistic talents of the world’s dance community all on one stage. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Dr., Costa Mesa. scfta.org
LA JOLLA PLAYHOUSE
Redwood
Through Mar. 31. Broadway icon Idina Menzel makes her La Jolla Playhouse debut in the world premiere of Redwood. Awaken your sense of adventure as Menzel brings to life with an immersive experience of visuals and a soaring score from Kate Diaz. In the presence of the magnificent, towering redwoods, Jesse finds strange and powerful connections, an unexpected sense of community, and a chance at healing. 2910 La Jolla Village Dr., La Jolla. lajollaplayhouse.org
LOS ANGELES OPERA
Double Feature: Highway 1, USA, and The Dwarf
Feb. 24-March 17. LA Opera presents a double feature of one-act gems about love. The Dwarf is an impossible romance—a one-sided love story by Oscar Wilde brought to life through a romantic score. Highway 1, USA by African American composer William Grant Still follows a hardworking Black couple determined to build a better life, but their sacrifices turn out to be misguided. Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., Los Angeles. laopera.org | Performances+
GEFFEN PLAYHOUSE
Black Cypress Bayou
Through Mar. 17. The world premiere of Black Cypress Bayou, a hilarious, suspenseful play about loyalty, healing, and comeuppance. Set on a summer night in Texas, secrets begin to surface when the richest, meanest man in town is found dead. Le Conte Ave., Los Angeles. geffenplayhouse.org
MOXIE THEATRE
Clyde’s
Through March 10. This Tony Award nominated play by Lynn Nottage is about a truck stop sandwich shop that offers its formerly incarcerated kitchen staff a shot at redemption. Even as the shop’s callous owner tries to keep them under her thumb, the staff members are given purpose and permission to dream by their shared quest to create the perfect sandwich. 6663 El Cajon Blvd., San Diego. moxietheatre.com
THE OLD GLOBE
The Age of Innocence
Feb. 9-March 10. This Globe-commissioned world premiere, based on Edith Wharton’s Pulitzer Prize–winning classic, is set in 1870s Gilded Age New York City, where high society clashes with love. Donald and Darlene Shiley Stage, 1363 Old Globe Way, San Diego. theoldglobe.org | Performances+
CCAE THEATRICALS
The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time
Through Mar. 3. Mark Haddon’s internationally best-selling novel about a young exceptionally intelligent young boy who is under suspicion for killing the neighbor’s dog, has been adapted into this Tony Award winning play. It’s a thrilling, Sherlock Holmes style journey through London. California Center for the Arts, 340 N. Escondido Blvd., Escondido. artcenter.org
Photo credits: All images are courtesy of the businesses and venues.
