Category: Theater

Step Into the Spotlight with Funny Girl at Segerstrom Center for the Arts!

Hello, fellow theater lovers!

Welcome to musical comedy heaven! Prepare to be swept off your feet by the dazzling revival of Funny Girl, gracing the stage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. This beloved classic, featuring an iconic score by Jule Styne and Bob Merrill, has been given a fresh twist with an updated book by Harvey Fierstein. Under the masterful direction of Michael Mayer, with captivating choreography by Ayodele Casel and Ellenore Scott, this show promises an unforgettable theatrical experience. I am so excited about this show, running May 28th through June 9th!

A Story of Dreams, Determination, and Stardom

Funny Girl tells the enchanting tale of Fanny Brice, a spirited girl from the Lower East Side who defied the odds to become one of Broadway’s brightest stars. With timeless songs like “Don’t Rain On My Parade,” “I’m the Greatest Star,” and “People,” this bittersweet comedy captures the heart and resilience of a true legend. Fanny’s journey from dreamer to starlet is a love letter to the theater and a testament to the power of believing in oneself.

Exclusive Offer: Hello, Gorgeous Pride Package

Make your evening even more memorable with the Hello, Gorgeous Pride Package! For just $125, join us on Sunday, June 2nd for a spectacular pre-show reception at Outpost Kitchen at 4:30pm, followed by the 6:30pm performance of Funny Girl. This exclusive package includes orchestra tickets and fun swag, perfect for making you feel like the luckiest people in the world. Hurry, only 65 tickets are available—use promo code FUNNIEST to secure your spot!

Feel Good, Do Good: Broadway Donation Drive

Join us in making dreams come true with our Broadway Donation Drive! In partnership with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, we’re collecting beach items like flip flops, beach balls, sunglasses, towels, and disposable cameras. These donations will brighten the travel wish trips for kids, helping them create unforgettable memories. Donation bins are conveniently located on the Plaza and Orchestra lobby levels. Together, we can be the greatest stars by bringing joy to those who need it most.

Get ready for a night of laughter, inspiration, and unforgettable music at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or new to the magic of Funny Girl, this production is sure to leave you spellbound. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of this spectacular celebration of theater!

Tickets are selling fast—get yours today and let Funny Girl shine in your heart!

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Segerstrom Center for the Arts and remember to use promo code FUNNIEST for the Pride Package. See you at the show!

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Scene from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

SoCal’s favorite holiday tradition returns with American Ballet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Created by celebrated choreographer Alexei Ratmansky, this dazzling holiday treat features ABT’s roster of superstar dancers alongside stunning sets and costumes by Tony winner Richard Hudson. The Pacific Symphony provides the enchanting backdrop, playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless score.

The Snow from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

The Tale Unfolds:

The Nutcracker follows the journey of a young girl named Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll at her family’s Christmas party. In her dreams that night, the nutcracker doll transforms into a handsome prince, embarking on a magical journey alongside her. Together, they traverse lands filled with dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, a mouse army, and other exotic characters, brought vividly to life on stage by a cast of over 100 performers.

Breanne Granlund and Jonathan Klein in the Chinese Dance from Alexei Ratmansky’s The Nutcracker. Photo: Marty Sohl.

ABT’s Magnificent Rendition:

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker is a spectacle that embodies the joy of the holiday season. With its talented performers, enchanting sets, and vibrant costumes, it crafts a mesmerizing experience for audiences of all ages.

Creating Cherished Memories:

This rendition of The Nutcracker offers an opportunity to create enduring memories with loved ones. The magic woven by ABT’s performers, combined with the timeless tale and Tchaikovsky’s iconic melodies, promises to captivate and enthrall audiences throughout the performance.

Dates and Venue:

The Nutcracker by American Ballet Theatre will grace the stage of the Segerstrom Center for the Arts from December 8th to December 17th. Located at 600 Town Center Dr, Costa Mesa, CA 92626, this production invites patrons to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and indulge in the beauty of this classic ballet.

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a celebration of artistry, storytelling, and the magic of the holiday season. Gather your loved ones and embark on a magical journey that promises to create cherished memories for years to come.

“Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” – At Segerstrom Center for the Arts July 11, 2023 – July 23, 2023


Prepare to be transported into the mesmerizing world of one of music’s most iconic figures as “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” comes to the renowned Segerstrom Center for the Arts, July 11, 2023 through July 23, 2023.

This sensational production celebrates the life and extraordinary career of Tina Turner, the legendary Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. With a combination of electrifying performances, soul-stirring music, and a powerful narrative, this upcoming show promises an unforgettable experience for audiences of all ages.

*Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for partnering on this post. All opinions are my own.

About Tina Turner


Tina Turner is a true music legend whose distinctive voice, energetic stage presence, and captivating charisma have captivated audiences worldwide. Rising to fame in the 1960s as part of the Ike & Tina Turner Revue, she embarked on a successful solo career in the 1980s, earning numerous accolades and becoming one of the best-selling artists of all time. With hits like “Proud Mary,” “What’s Love Got to Do with It,” and “Simply the Best,” Tina’s music has resonated with generations and transcended genres.

The Show


“Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” is a riveting stage production that delves into Tina Turner’s life, from her humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her triumphant rise to stardom. The show explores her personal and professional journey, highlighting her resilience, strength, and unwavering spirit. Audiences will be taken on an emotional rollercoaster, experiencing the highs and lows of Tina’s life, while being treated to some of her most iconic hits performed live on stage.

The Performances:

The cast of “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” features immensely talented actors, singers, and dancers who bring Tina Turner’s story to life. With their exceptional skills, they recreate Tina’s electrifying live performances, capturing her energy and captivating stage presence. Prepare to be enthralled by powerful vocals, dynamic dance routines, and a captivating atmosphere that pays homage to the essence of Tina Turner’s unforgettable concerts.

The Production:
The production values of “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience” are top-notch, combining cutting-edge lighting, sound design, and multimedia elements to create a visually stunning and immersive experience. Elaborate costumes, meticulously designed sets, and seamless scene transitions further enhance the authenticity of the show, transporting the audience into the world of Tina Turner.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts:
Located in Costa Mesa, California, the Segerstrom Center for the Arts is a world-class performing arts venue known for its commitment to excellence and showcasing a diverse range of artistic talents. With state-of-the-art facilities and a history of hosting prestigious productions, the center provides the perfect setting for “Tina: The Ultimate Musical Experience.”

Address

600 Town Center Drive, 
Costa Mesa, CA 92626

 Directions 

Ticket Services
(714) 556-2787

Phone:
Monday–Friday: 10am to 5pm
(714) 556-2787 

Box Office:
Monday: 10am to 2pm
Tuesday–Friday: 12pm to 5pm
Saturday and Sunday: Closed


Pretty Woman The Musical Now at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Pretty Woman The Musical Now at Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Pretty woman walking down the street…

This song has been playing in my head non-stop ever since I saw,”Pretty Woman The Musical!”

We are all familiar with this tune, and it brings us back to this beloved film. This classic love story’s musical adaptation is showing at Segerstrom Center for the Arts now through July 17th.

Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for partnering on this post. All opinions are my own.

In addition to attending the shows debut, we dressed up, wore red and attended a special cocktail hour hosted by Segerstrom Center for the Arts and Silver Trumpet.

There we sipped on a delicious, “Pretty Woman Spritzer” pre-show. It really set the tone to this spectacular night, and I feel grateful for this unique experience.

This sensational musical is full of romance, charm and comedy. The multicultural cast was engaging and the vocal talent was electrifying. The sights and sounds brought me to downtown Hollywood, where the streets come alive and where the vibe is like no other. This theater show is sexy, colorful, vivacious and spirited.

This show has strong adult content and is probably not suitable for children. It ideally would be for a date night or special girls night out.

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL, based on one of Hollywood’s most beloved romantic stories of all time, is now on tour! Starring Broadway superstar and Tony Award®-nominee Adam Pascal as Edward Lewis and rising star Olivia Valli as the charming and charismatic Vivian Ward, PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL springs to life with a powerhouse creative team led by two-time Tony Award®-winning director and choreographer Jerry Mitchell (Hairspray, Kinky Boots, Legally Blonde).

Get your tickets!

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL

July 5 to July 17, 2022

Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday Evenings at 7:30 p.m.

Saturday at 2:00 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Segerstrom Hall

Tickets start at $28.00

In person and Phone-

The Box Office

600 Town Center Drive

Costa Mesa, CA 92626

(714) 556-2787

Monday 10am – 2pm

Tuesday through Friday Noon- 5pm

Closed Saturday’s and Sundays

Online – SCFTA.org

Group Sales – (714) 755-0236

“The Band’s Visit” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Now Through April 3rd

“The Band’s Visit” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Now Through April 3rd

I have missed going to the theater dearly…

This week, we experienced the 10-time Tony Award, Winning Best Musical, “The Band’s Visit,” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa. It was such a joy to be reconnected with one of my favorite loves in life, and this remarkable show was just what I needed to uplift my spirit.

This sensational show and is a MUST-SEE theater friends!

Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for inviting Queen Bee Latina to see “The Bands Visit.” All opinions are my own.

Photo credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts

About

THE BAND’S VISIT tells a joyful, offbeat story of a band of musicians who arrive in a town way
off the beaten path. Under the spell of the desert sky, with beautiful music perfuming the air, the
band brings the town to life in unexpected ways. With a Tony- and Grammy-winning score that
seduces your soul and sweeps you off your feet, performed by thrillingly talented onstage
musicians, THE BAND’S VISIT rejoices in the way music makes us laugh, makes us cry, and
ultimately, brings us together.

Photo credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts

This musical vignette moved me deeply and brought tears to my eyes…

Music unifies all cultures and can help with the realization that we all share similar stories of love, loss, and hardship.

The variation of Egyptian and Israeli music was brilliantly fused, and the musical score was unbelievable. The harmonizing in different languages gave me the chills, and my personal favorite was “Omar Sharif.”

Photo credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts

The brilliant cast was memorable. Their musical performances were all very unique and different from one another.

Recommended for ages 10+

Note*

All ticketholders must wear a mask AND provide proof of full vaccination against COVID-19 or a negative COVID-19 PCR test taken within 48 hours of performance or a negative Antigen test taken within 6 hours of performance. Ticketholders over the age of 18 must also bring photo ID.

The Band’s Visit
March 22 to April 3, 2022

Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Segerstrom Hall


Tickets start at $26.00


In person and PhoneThe Box Office
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787


Monday 10am – 2pm
Tuesday through Friday Noon- 5pm
Closed Saturday’s and Sundays
Online – SCFTA.org
Group Sales – (714) 755-0236

Fatima a Story of Hope is Now in Theaters and On Demand

FATIMA Fatima-476CRC – Jorge Lamelas, Alejandra Howard and Stephanie Gil star in Fatima, an uplifting story about the power of faith. Photo Credit: Claudio Iannone ©2020 PICTUREHOUSE. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

Inspired by a true story; Fatima is a historical film that is driven by faith and hope. The film itself follows three young children in war ridden Portugal, who claim to see an apparition of Mary. The story is filled with stomach turning events, as well as endearing ones. The principal child, who Mary has selected as her messenger, features Stephanie Gil; young, compelling actress with whom I have interviewed.

Check out my interview below:


Synopsis

In 1917, outside the parish of Fátima, Portugal, a 10-year-old girl and her two younger cousins witness multiple visitations of the Virgin Mary, who tells them that only prayer and suffering will bring an end to World War I.

As secularist government officials and Church leaders try to force the children to recant their story, word of the sighting spreads across the country, inspiring religious pilgrims to flock to the site in hopes of witnessing a miracle.

What they experience will transform their quiet lives and bring the attention of a world yearning for peace. Based on real-life events and starring Joaquim de Almeida (“Queen of the South”), Goran Višnjić (Beginners), Stephanie Gil (Terminator: Dark Fate) and Lúcia Moniz (Love, Actually), with Sônia Braga (Aquarius) and Harvey Keitel (The Piano, The Irishman), Fatima is an uplifting story about the power of faith. 

When I was a child, my mother always told me about this captivating story of Our Lady of Fatima, and Lucia Dos Santos. Watching this story come to life before our very eyes, was a bonding experience for my mother and I. The story holds a special place in my heart, and will always  serve as a reminder to always have faith. Bravo to director Marco Pontecorvo for this timeless film!

Cirque Mei Comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts Sept 14-15 #SCFTA

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

This weekend my family will embark on a colorful, theatrical, and acrobatic journey…

Cirque Mei is coming to Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa September 14-15! Join us and share many jaw dropping moments while we watching some of China’s most sensational acrobats LIVE on stage.

Renowned acrobatic troupe Cirque Mei comes to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for two performances September 14 and 15 in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. From the People’s Republic of China, Cirque Mei brings a colorful celebration of traditional and contemporary Chinese circus acts. The company travels with a community of more than 130 circus performers who tour throughout China and the world performing many of the most popular Chinese circus routines, including hoops diving, Lion Dance, collective bicycle skills, flying meteors, foot juggling with umbrellas, female contortion and a ladder balancing act. 

About Cirque Mei

With a company of 40 elite circus artists and acrobats, these performances will include many of the most popular Chinese circus routines including Hoops Diving, Lion Dance, Collective Bicycle Skills, Flying Meteors, Foot Juggling with Umbrellas, Female Contortion, and Ladder Balancing Act.

Cirque Mei was founded in 1976 and supports a community of over 130 circus performers who tour throughout China and the world.

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

Single tickets start at $29 and are available now online at www.SCFTA.org,

CIRQUE MEI
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA

Photo Credit to Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Cirque Mei

Hope to see you there!

Saturday, September 14 at 8:00 p.m.

Sunday, September 15 at 2:00 p.m.

In Person –     The Box Office
                         600 Town Center Drive
                         Costa Mesa, CA 92626
                         Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Online –           SCFTA.org 

Phone –           (714) 556-2787
                         Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily

Group Sales –  (714) 755-0236
                          Open 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Monday – Friday

Come From Away at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Now through February 17th 2019

The September 11, 2011 attacks shook the entire world to its core. I clearly remember watching the footage on the television, and feeling devastated and confused. The entire world stood still as the the chaos and tragedy unfolded. This week, my daughter Clarissa and I attended the premiere of “Come From Away” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa . This show is the longest Broadway running show in Canada, and it is no surprise because this unique musical is sensational!

Disclosure: Thank you Segerstrom Center for the Arts for inviting us to see “Come From Away.” All opinions are my own.

ABOUT COME FROM AWAY

This incredible musical is based on a true story that took place Gander, a small town in Canada.  This story gives audiences a glimpse in the week following the September 11th attacks, and what transpired when 38 planes were ordered to land unexpectedly in this remote town.  The characters in the musical are based on (and in most cases share the names of) real Gander residents as well as some of the 7,000 stranded travelers they housed and fed. During “ Operation Yellow Ribbon, “cultures clashed and nerves ran high, but uneasiness turned into trust, music soared into the night, and gratitude grew into enduring friendships and surprising romances.

We laughed, we cried, and the music deeply moved us. This show was like a running carousel that had seamless song and scene transitions. There was no intermission. The story is told through storytelling catchy music.

The multitalented performers flawlessly changed voices, accents, and sang harmoniously in sync. We were blown away by their insane talent and versatility.

Don’t miss this breathtaking new musical written by Tony® nominees Irene Sankoff and David Hein, and helmed by this year’s Tony-winning Best Director, Christopher Ashley.

This astounding show is a MUST-SEE and runs through February 17th at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.

*Running time (approximate): 1 hour and 40 minutes with no intermission

COME FROM AWAY Segerstrom Center for the Arts

Address: Segerstrom Hall 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA

February 5 – 17, 2019

Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.

The 2 p.m. performance on Saturday, February 16, 2019 will include audio description, open captioning and sign-language interpretation.

Tickets – Start at $29 In person

Online – SCFTA.org Phone – (714) 556-2787

Review: Beautiful The Carole King Musical at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Oct 9-14

Grammy Award-winning and Tony hit musical BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL is currently at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, now through October 14th. This inspirational show is a MUST-SEE!

BEAUTIFUL–CAROLE-KING-MUSICAL

Have you ever been lost in a song?

Carole King’s legendary music is now LIVE on stage at Segerstrom Center for the Arts in Costa Mesa…

After opening night of Beautiful-The Carole King’s Musical at Segerstrom Center I’ve been listening to Carole King’s songs on my playlist. Her music and profound lyrics have a new meaning for me. Her unique love language is like no other and it strikes a deep chord for fans like me.

BEAUTIFUL–CAROLE-KING-MUSICAL

Carole King has written countless songs for artists including The Drifters, Little Eva, The Righteous Brothers, and for many more. Her incredible song writing took artists to the top charts. Her unique lyrics are still popular today, and I found myself singing along to her songs while watching the show.

BEAUTIFUL–CAROLE-KING-MUSICAL

About Beautiful 

Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll. But it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. Beautiful tells the inspiring true story of King’s remarkable rise to stardom, from being part of a hit songwriting team with her husband Gerry Goffin, to her relationship with fellow writers and best friends Cynthia Weil and Barry Mann, to becoming one of the most successful solo acts in popular music history. Along the way, she made more than beautiful music, she wrote the soundtrack to a generation. Beautiful features a stunning array of beloved songs written by Gerry Goffin/Carole King and Barry Mann/Cynthia Weil, including “I Feel The Earth Move,” “One Fine Day,” “(You Make Me Feel Like) A Natural Woman,” “You’ve Got A Friend” and the title song.

The scenes transitioned flawlessly, and the performances brought me back in time.

I cried non-stop during “It’s Too Late Baby.” It was both a pivotal point of the show and a highlight in her career.

BEAUTIFUL–CAROLE-KING-MUSICAL

Beautiful – The Carole King Musical is produced on Broadway by Paul Blake, Sony/ATV Music Publishing, Jeffrey A. Sine, Richard A. Smith, Mike Bosner, Harriet N. Leve/Elaine Krauss, Terry Schnuck, Orin Wolf, Patty Baker/Good Productions, Roger Faxon, Larry Magid, Kit Seidel, Lawrence S. Toppall, Fakston Productions/Mary Solomon, William Court Cohen, John Gore, Matthew C. Blank, Tim Hogue, Joel Hyatt, Marianne Mills, Michael J. Moritz, Jr., StylesFour Productions, Brunish/Trinchero, and Jeremiah J. Harris.

BEAUTIFUL–CAROLE-KING-MUSICALMy girl Natalie and I enjoyed the show so much. In fact, we want to see it again!

Get your tickets to BEAUTIFUL – THE CAROLE KING MUSICAL
Segerstrom Center for the Arts – Segerstrom Hall
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, CA www.scfta.org

October 9 – 14, 2018
Tuesday – Friday at 7:30 p.m. Saturday at 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 1 and 6:30 p.m.
Tickets – Start at $29 In person
The Box Office 600 Town Center Drive Costa Mesa, CA 92626
Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily Online – SCFTA.org Phone – (714) 556-2787 Open 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. daily
Group Sales: (714) 755-0236

THE BOOK OF MORMON Arrives at Segerstrom Center for the Arts March 20th – April 1st

THE BOOK OF MORMON returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts for a limited engagement, March 20th – April 1, 2018. If you enjoy a little crude humor and unadulterated glee, this blissful in-your-face musical from the creators of South Park is for you! Book-of-Mormon-Segerstrom

Photo by Julieta Cervantes THE BOOK OF MORMON features book, music and lyrics by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone. Parker and Stone are the four-time Emmy Award-winning creators of the landmark animated series, South Park. Tony Award winner Lopez is co-creator of the long-running hit musical comedy, Avenue Q. The musical is choreographed by Tony Award winner Casey Nicholaw (Monty Python’s Spamalot, The Drowsy Chaperone) and is directed by Nicholaw and Parker.

Book-of-Mormon-Segerstrom
Photo by Julieta Cervantes

This outrageous musical comedy follows the misadventures of a mismatched pair of missionaries, sent halfway across the world to spread the Good Word. Now with standing room only productions in London, on Broadway, and across North America, THE BOOK OF MORMON has truly become an international sensation.

Book-of-Mormon-Segerstrom
Photo by Julieta Cervantes

THE BOOK OF MORMON is the winner of nine Tony Awards, including Best Musical, Best Score (Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, Matt Stone), Best Book (Trey Parker, Robert Lopez, Matt Stone), Best Direction (Casey Nicholaw, Trey Parker), Best Featured Actress (Nikki M. James), Best Scenic Design (Scott Pask), Best Lighting Design (Brian MacDevitt), Best Sound Design (Brian Ronan) and Best Orchestrations (Larry Hochman, Stephen Oremus); the New York Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical; five Drama Desk Awards including Best Musical, the 2011 Grammy Award for Best Musical Theater Album; four Outer Critics Circle Awards, including Best Musical, and the Drama League Award for Best Musical.

The New York Times calls it “the best musical of this century.” The Washington Post says, “It is the kind of evening that restores your faith in musicals.” And Entertainment Weekly says, “Grade A: the funniest musical of all time.” Jimmy Fallon of The Tonight Show calls it, “Genius. Brilliant. Phenomenal.” It’s THE BOOK OF MORMON, the nine-time Tony® Award®-winning Best Musical.

Tickets for THE BOOK OF MORMON start at $34.75, and are on sale now. They may be purchased online at SCFTA.org, at the Box Office at:

600 Town Center Drive in Costa Mesa

or call (714) 556- 2787

Please note: There is a nine (9) ticket limit for The Book of Mormon.

Running time (approximate): 2 hours and 30 minutes

Audience Advisory: Contains explicit language.