SEPT. 11
THE ISLEY BROTHERS / THE COMMODORES
The Isely Brothers and the Commodores rose to fame in the 1950s, trailblazing an era of Motown and R&B hits. The former group has performed songs such as “Shout,” “Between the Sheets,” and “That Lady” for audiences around the world. Expect to also hear some of The Commodores’ greatest hits like “Brick House,” “Easy,” and “Just to Be Close to You.” Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com
SEPT. 12 THROUGH 14
MARITIME FESTIVAL
The Ocean Institute’s annual weekend-long fundraiser raises money for marine research and environmental education with exciting events and excursions. Festival goers can attend mermaid- and pirate-themed experiences, sail on giant ships, and watch cannon battles. The festival will also include live music, a beer garden, food trucks, and local vendors. Ocean Institute, 24200 Dana Point Harbor Drive, Dana Point, 949-496-2274, maritime-fest.org
SEPT. 12
YOUNG THE GIANT
Hailing from Orange County, the critically acclaimed rock band Young the Giant is returning to its roots and performing at the OC Fair & Event Center. The rock band formed in Irvine in 2004 and went on to release chart-topping hits and tour the world in their two decades of performing together. Expect to hear songs such as “Cough Syrup,” “Mind Over Matter,” and “My Body.” Pacific Amphitheatre, 100 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-1500, pacamp.com
SEPT. 12
GERSHWIN SWINGS: THE BARCLAY JAZZ AND BEYOND ORCHESTRA
The Barclay Jazz and Beyond Orchestra will kick off its 35th anniversary season with a performance of songs from George and Ira Gershwin’s impressive catalog of music, including a new arrangement of “Rhapsody in Blue,” “Fascinating Rhythm,” and “Someone to Watch Over Me.” Grammy-winning artists Patti Austin and Paquito D’Rivera join the orchestra. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org
SEPT. 13
TOAST TO THE CASA: CASA ROYALE
Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens is hosting its annual fundraiser gala with the theme James Bond, featuring elaborate games and entertainment all with a 007 twist. The evening will include gourmet food and, of course, martinis. Attendees can participate in live and silent auctions to win various prizes. Casa Romantica Cultural Center and Gardens, 415 Avenida Granada, San Clemente, 949-498-2139, casaromantica.org
SEPT. 13
SOCAL BALLET SCENE: BALLET FESTIVAL 2025
More than 50 professional and competitive dancers from across Southern California will perform in a curated show highlighting talents in music and dance. Expect to see Act I of “Le Corsaire,” excerpts from “Giselle” and “Coppélia,” and a collection of contemporary works. The Barclay plaza will be open for live music, an exhibit of art by local artist Audrey Grider, and a meet and greet with the dancers. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org
SEPT. 13
CLASSIC ALBUMS LIVE PINK FLOYD “WISH YOU WERE HERE”
Classic Albums Live takes the very best rock albums and performs a live recreation of them cover to cover, note for note. In an effort to capture the thrill that once came from dropping a needle and letting an album play through, the music group has performed dozens of famous albums around the world for decades. This performance will feature Pink Floyd’s “Wish You Were Here.” Expect to hear the five songs from the album in addition to other songs from throughout Pink Floyd’s career. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org
THROUGH SEPT. 21
“& JULIET”
The hilarious and inventive musical reimagines “Romeo and Juliet,” exploring what might have happened if Juliet had lived on after Romeo. Set to a soundtrack of pop hits, including “Since U Been Gone” and “Baby One More Time,” the musical features a lighthearted and joyful story about Juliet navigating falling in love again on her own terms and discovering who she is outside of her tumultuous affair with Romeo. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org
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