FEB. 25
The Groundlings
The Los Angeles–based improv and sketch troupe helped launch the careers of comedic legends such as Melissa McCarthy and Will Ferrell. More than 50 years after its founding, the company continues to nurture new generations of comics. Current cast members perform a selection of fresh sketches on the Musco Center Stage for an evening of high-energy laughs. Musco Center for the Arts, 1 University Drive, Orange, 714-997-6812, muscocenter.org
FEB. 26 THROUGH 28
From Mozart to Mahler
The Pacific Symphony presents an evening of masterworks led by conductor Eduardo Strausser. The program features Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 23 and Mahler’s Symphony No. 1, performed with acclaimed pianist Yoav Levanon. Mozart’s concerto is celebrated for its lyrical elegance, while Mahler’s symphony is known for its sweeping, triumphant melodies. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5799, pacificsymphony.org
FEB. 27 AND 28
Witte Lectures: Julian Gewirtz
Dr. Julian Gewirtz, who served in senior roles on China and Taiwan affairs at the National Security Council and the State Department during the Biden administration, opens the Newport Beach Public Library Foundation’s Witte Lectures series. The author of three books, including Never Turn Back: China and the Forbidden History of the 1980s (2022), Gewirtz discusses his work and explores how politics and economics in China might have unfolded differently during that pivotal decade. 949-717-3892, nbplf.foundation
FEB. 28
“Peter and the Wolf”
In this beloved children’s symphonic tale, each instrument represents a different character as the story unfolds through music and narration. Follow Peter on his daring adventure to outsmart the Wolf as the Pacific Symphony performs Prokofiev’s classic work. Conducted by Pola Benke, the performance offers an engaging introduction to live orchestral music for young audiences. Pre-concert activities in the lobby include crafts, coloring, and themed photo opportunities. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-755-5799, pacificsymphony.org
MAR. 2
U.S. Army Field Band & Soldiers’ Chorus
The 65-member concert band and 24-member Soldiers’ Chorus have performed around the world in grand concert halls, intimate community auditoriums, and venues in between. This free performance features a dynamic program of orchestral works, operatic arias, jazz classics, Sousa marches, and Broadway favorites. Together, the ensemble delivers a stirring showcase of musical excellence and versatility. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org
THROUGH MAR. 8
“Cinderella: A Salsa Fairy Tale”
The beloved fairy tale gets a bilingual, modern makeover in this musical for young audiences. Cenicienta—Cinderella—is a basketball player who speaks only Spanish and is determined to compete in the Super Dooper Eastern Western Division Basketball Game. Her biggest rival is Rosa, a popular and self-centered player who speaks only English. The two face off in a lively production filled with hip-hop and salsa rhythms. South Coast Repertory, Julianne Argyros Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org
THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY
“God of Carnage” and “Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
South Coast Repertory presents two Tony Award–winning plays on alternating nights with an overlapping cast. God of Carnage is a twisted dark comedy offering sharp, biting commentary on civilization and human nature. The classic 1960s play Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf? is a comedic drama driven by psychological games and escalating tension. South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org
THROUGHOUT FEBRUARY
“Once”
An unlikely connection forms between a Dublin street musician and a Czech immigrant in this Tony Award–winning musical. Two complete strangers discover a beautiful common ground and spend a week together bonding and creating music. Known for its powerful and emotional score, the heartwarming production is a tribute to finding community in the most unexpected places. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com
FEB. 25
World Ballet Company: “Swan Lake”
Fifty international dancers take the stage in this grand production of Swan Lake, accompanied by a live orchestration of Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. Featuring more than 150 hand-sewn costumes and elaborate handcrafted sets, the performance brings the classic ballet vividly to life, including beloved moments such as the Dance of the Little Swans and the Hungarian Dance. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org
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