U.S. premieres, theater, art exhibits, dance, concerts and plenty of cultural events are on tap for Orange County during the first half of 2025.
The new year is already looking promising for artists, cultural warriors and arts and culture enthusiasts in Orange County, with plenty of national and regional premieres in store. On Jan. 12, South Coast Repertory will present the West Coast premiere of “Wish You Were Here” by Sanaz Toossi, a 2023 Pulitzer Prize winner and an Orange County native.
Starting Jan. 31, the O.C. Museum of Art is offering the first solo museum exhibition outside Asia for Su Yu-Xin, an up-and-coming Taiwanese artist based in Los Angeles. And Segerstrom Center for the Arts will host the U.S. premiere of American Ballet Theatre’s “The Winter’s Tale” in April.
Here’s a look at what’s on tap in theater, dance, visual arts, food and drinks, culture, classical, popular and jazz and world music for 2025, brought to you by Culture OC’s talented team of arts and culture writers. While this is not meant to be a comprehensive list, it should give you an idea of what’s worth marking down in your calendar, and what’s worth spending your hard-earned money on.
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Theater
Among the many fine stage works to anticipate for the coming months, O.C. theatergoers can anticipate and underline these three: A contemporary drama about the life and exploits of Eleanor Roosevelt, an all-new adaptation of Chekhov’s “Uncle Vanya,” and a new dramedy, written by an Iranian American, O.C.-based playwright, that begins during the Iranian Revolution. – Eric Marchese
‘Eleanor’
When: Jan. 12-Feb. 2. 7:30 p.m. Wednesdays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Thursdays, 7:30 p.m. Fridays, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Saturdays, 1 and 5:30 p.m. Sundays
Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Admission: $51-$100
Contact: 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com
Eleanor Roosevelt was one of the most consequential figures of the 20th century. Now, Kandis Chappell, well known to Orange County audiences for decades, stars in the solo show she performed at North Coast Rep in 2023 (and which Harriet Harris played Off-Broadway in 2021). The show brings the dynamic and iconic first lady to life, showing the strong and vulnerable first lady’s personal and public story as a sweeping, fascinating one. Mark St. Germain’s play offers audiences a look at the passionate and unforgettable woman at the heart of her husband’s presidency. The play proves that Mrs. Roosevelt’s impact on history cannot be understated, let alone ignored or forgotten.
‘Wish You Were Here’
When: Jan. 18-Feb. 2. 7:45 p.m. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Fridays, 2 and 7:45 p.m. Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays
Where: South Coast Repertory, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Admission: $35-$114.
Contact: 714-708-5555, scr.org
It’s 1978, and the Iranian Revolution has exploded and protests break out across the ancient land. Playwright Sanaz Toossi proffers an enlightened comedy in which five close girlfriends plan weddings, trade dirty jokes, and try to live their lives. The revolution escalates, forcing each woman to face an uncertain future – and decide whether to stay in Iran or leave it. Toossi uses “Wish You Were Here” to chronicle a decade of life as the five best friends are separated, then search for the bond they once cherished. Iranian American playwright Toossie is an Orange County native and winner of the 2023 Pulitzer Prize for Drama, and SCR’s production is directed by Mina Morita.
‘Uncle Vanya’
When: March 21-April 13. 8 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays, 2 p.m. Sundays
Where: Costa Mesa Playhouse, 661 Hamilton St., Costa Mesa
Admission: $30 general, $28 seniors and students
Contact: 949-650-5269, costamesaplayhouse.com
First produced in 1899 by the Moscow Art Theatre, the Anton Chekhov masterpiece “Uncle Vanya” portrays a society on the brink of change and an uncertain political climate – written 20 years before the Russian Revolution, it was a revolutionary play for its time. Director Michael Serna said he and company are “very excited to present Chekhov’s classic play. This is the Orange County premiere of Andrew Upton’s vibrant and thrilling adaptation. His handling of the classic play leans into the comedy of the human condition versus dwelling on agony. Playing Vanya is Angel Correa, a longtime collaborator of mine who has been on numerous O.C. stages and has been nominated for multiple O.C. Theatre Guild Acting awards.”
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Dance
Some of the most thrilling performances in Orange County this season aren’t just about the steps on stage – they’re milestones, premieres and celebrations of dance as an evolving art form. These events invite us into grand narratives, pioneering visions and a vibrant community of movement, promising unforgettable experiences for both the seasoned aficionado and the curious newcomer.
Among the highlights: the centennial of a company that redefined modern dance, a Shakespearean tale of jealousy and redemption brought to life by one of the nation’s leading ballet companies, and a Jazz Age spectacle that reimagines one of American literature’s most iconic works. These are the moments that make this upcoming season special.
Here are four dance performances to catch in the first half of 2025. – Kaitlin Wright
100th Anniversary of Martha Graham Dance Company
When: 7:30 p.m Jan. 18
Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: Starts at $44
Contact: scfta.org or 714-556-2787
Known as the “mother of modern dance,” Martha Graham revolutionized the art form with her groundbreaking, uniquely American style that continues to captivate and inspire. The Martha Graham Dance Company celebrates its centennial with “GRAHAM100,” a worldwide tribute to her enduring legacy.
Orange County audiences will be treated to a program featuring classic pieces like “Appalachian Spring,” a celebration of renewal in the American wilderness, and the powerful solo “Immediate Tragedy,” a lost solo from 1937 that has been reimagined. The program also highlights the company’s ongoing innovation with two newer works: the high-energy, techno-inspired “Cave” and the socially resonant “We The People.” This milestone event will offer a rare glimpse into the lasting impact of a true dance pioneer.
Laguna Dance Festival’s 20th Anniversary
When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 6-8 and 2 p.m. Feb. 9
Where: Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach
Cost: $75, general; $25, student
Contact: lagunadancefestival.org or 949-715-5578
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Laguna Dance Festival has become a cornerstone of Orange County’s arts scene, offering O.C. audiences the rare opportunity to experience a curated lineup of exceptional dance and a lot of talent from all over the country, in a single program. Under the guidance of founder and artistic director Jodie Gates, the festival consistently delivers a mix of world-class contemporary works and innovative performances.
This milestone year highlights the festival’s enduring role in showcasing both established companies and emerging artists, fostering a deep connection between dancers and audiences in the heart of Laguna Beach. This year’s lineup includes dancers from Ballet X, Houston Ballet, Boston Ballet, Joffrey Ballet and JA Collective, and choreography from Dwight Rhoden, Jillian Meyers, Justin Peck and a world premiere by Gates herself that includes a collaboration with the Laguna Beach Music Festival. It’s an unmissable celebration of dance and a testament to the cultural richness of the region.
World Ballet Company will premiere “The Great Gatsby” at the Irvine Barclay Theatre before it embarks on a national tour.
Video courtesy of World Ballet Company
World Ballet Company presents ‘The Great Gatsby’ Ballet
When: 7:30 p.m., Feb. 25-26
Where: Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine
Cost: Starts at $68
Contact: thebarclay.org or 949-854-4646
Though relatively unknown and under-reviewed, the Los Angeles-based World Ballet Company has carved out a unique niche by touring to cities with limited access to ballet, introducing the art form to new audiences who may not have as many chances to see professional ballet companies. The company’s appearance at the Irvine Barclay Theatre is intriguing, presenting a chance to discover who it is and how its artistry measures up.
With the world premiere of “The Great Gatsby,” the company brings to life F. Scott Fitzgerald’s Jazz Age classic through a multinational cast, custom-designed costumes and an original score. It’s an undertaking that promises a fresh perspective on a beloved literary work – and a compelling opportunity to witness the evolution of this rising company.
American Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Winter’s Tale’
When: Various times April 4-7
Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: Starts at $44
Contact: scfta.org or 714-556-2787
American Ballet Theatre continues its tradition of bringing world-class premieres to Southern California with Christopher Wheeldon’s adaptation of Shakespeare’s “The Winter’s Tale.” A Tony-winning choreographer (“MJ,” “An American in Paris”), Wheeldon weaves a story of jealousy, love and redemption, exploring the fragility and resilience of human relationships.
This U.S. premiere is expected to be a visually and emotionally rich experience. Past reviews of the production laud it for successfully translating Shakespeare's complex narrative into compelling dance, displaying clear storytelling, emotional depth and innovative choreography. With ABT dancers who have become familiar faces to Orange County audiences through the bi-annual appearances at the Center, “The Winter’s Tale” is poised to be a standout event in the upcoming season.
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Visual Arts
The start of a new year is an opportune time to clear the decks and check out what’s coming up in the world of visual arts. OCCCA will feature works by eclectic multimedia artist Wayne White, the O.C. Museum of Art is presenting a couple of new exhibitions at the end of January, and can you believe the Terracotta Warriors are coming back to the Bowers? Details to come later, but “World of the Terracotta Warriors: New Archaeological Discoveries in Shaanxi in the 21st Century” is scheduled for May 25-Oct. 19.
2025 should be an eventful – and colorful – year in the arts. – Richard Chang
PHOTO 1: Paul Reubens as Pee-wee Herman, left, and Wayne White, artist and set designer for "Pee-wee's Playhouse." White's artwork will be on view at OCCCA, Jan. 4-25. PHOTO 2: Puppets by Wayne White, a multidisciplinary artist who was a set designer for "Pee-wee's Playhouse." PHOTO 3: Wayne White lies down among one of his set creations for "Pee-wee's Playhouse."
Photos courtesy of OCCCA/Liz Zuniga
‘Mental Mountain Dew: Paintings by Wayne White’
When: Jan. 4-25
Where: Orange County Center for Contemporary Art, 117 N. Sycamore St., Santa Ana
Cost: Free
Contact: (714) 667-1517 or occca.org
OCCCA is showcasing the visionary work of Emmy Award-winning artist Wayne White, who’s known for his playful set designs and puppets on “Pee-Wee’s Playhouse,” as well as contributions to various music videos (Smashing Pumpkins, Peter Gabriel).
Beyond TV and video, White is known for his text-based paintings, which often feature vintage landscapes or kitschy backdrops with bold, hand-painted phrases that are witty, ironic and sometimes politically charged.
A screening of the White documentary, “Beauty is Embarrassing,” will be presented at 5:30 p.m. Jan. 4 at the Frida Cinema, followed by a Q&A with the artist and director Neil Berkeley. The opening reception for “Mental Mountain Dew” will be from 6-10 p.m. Jan. 4 at OCCCA.
IMAGE 1: "The Birth of an Island (Niijima, South of Iwo Jima)," 2024, by Su Yu-Xin. It's made of malachite, Japanese gofun, pink coral (tubipora musica), cochineal dye, California soil and ochre, black volcanic rock, iron dioxide green, zinc powder, plastic and other handmade pigments on flax stretched over wooden frames and wooden stands. On view at OCMA, Jan. 31-May 25. Image courtesy of the artist. IMAGE 2: "Untitled," a 2024 ceramic by Yuji Ueda. On view at OCMA, Jan. 31-May 25. Image courtesy of Hannah Mjølsnes.
‘Unearthed’ and ‘Su Yu-Xin: Searching the Sky for Gold’
When: Jan. 31-May 25
Where: Orange County Museum of Art, 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa
Cost: Free
Contact: (714) 780-2130 or ocma.art
The O.C. Museum of Art is presenting two new exhibitions in the early new year. “Unearthed” will bring together a collection of artists working in ceramics, underscoring the medium’s connection to land, place and geology. Materials will include clay deposits, mineral-rich rocks and silica sands.
“Su Yu-Xin: Searching the Sky for Gold” will be the L.A.-based, Taiwanese artist’s first solo museum exhibition outside Asia. She transforms natural and synthetic materials into pigments, using these colored substances as both the medium for her paintings and the focus of her research.
‘Florence Arnold, Hard Edge Visionary’
When: Feb. 20-March 30
Where: Muckenthaler Cultural Center, 1201 W. Malvern Ave., Fullerton
Cost: $5 (plus $2 fee online)
Contact: 714-738-6595 or themuck.org
Florence Millner Arnold, aka “Flossie,” was a hero of local Fullerton culture. President of the Orange County Art Association and a founding board member of The Muck, she was a music teacher and started painting in the 1950s. This exhibition examines her artistic contributions, which aligned with the painting movement known as “hard edge.”
PHOTO 1: California Cool auction captured at Laguna Art Museum in Laguna Beach on March 2, 2024. PHOTO 2: A scene from the California Cool auction captured at Laguna Art Museum, Laguna Beach on March 2, 2024. Photos courtesy of Laguna Art Museum
43rd annual California Cool Art Auction
When: Feb. 15-March 1
Where: Online and in person at Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach
Cost: $275-$10,000 for tickets to the live auction on March 1; online auction prices vary
Contact: 949-494-8971 or lagunaartmuseum.org
Laguna Art Museum is laying out the carpet for its 43rd annual California Cool Art Auction, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit museum. More than 100 works from respected California artists will be on view and sale via auction. A portion of the auction collection will go on view Jan. 25, with the remaining works to be exhibited starting Feb. 15. Bidding for the auction will open online on Feb. 19 via Bidsquare. The festivities will culminate March 1 with an in-person benefit event at the museum from 6-10 p.m. While some works may be out of your price range, all works will be available for public viewing, and the event itself is known to be a fun and energetic gathering.
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Food & Drinks
Something old, something new and something older that’s a work in progress. It’s time to get our post-holiday appetites ready for food and beverage in 2025. – Anne Marie Panoringan
OC Restaurant Week VIP Launch Party
When: 2-5 p.m. March 1
Where: Marriott Irvine Spectrum, 7905 Irvine Center Drive, Irvine
Cost: $125.00
Contact: ocrestaurantweek.com
OCRW’s ever-popular annual soirée showcases over 25 food and beverage brands with endless sips and samples. It also prepares diners for the coming week of special meal deals. Want a solid selection of beers with your future meal? Visit the Lido Bottle Works table to discuss food pairings. How about a serene sail with your dinner? Talk with the reps at the City Cruises table. Over 175 establishments are participating in the weeklong event, but foodies know this party is worth the cost.
Harper Barbecue (+ Matty’s Patty’s)
When: Early 2025
Where: Harper Barbecue, 125 Cabrillo St., Costa Mesa; Matty's Patty's, 1734 Newport Blvd, Costa Mesa
Cost: Varies
Contact: harperbarbecue.com
The opening of Harper Barbecue has been a long time coming. So long, in fact, that when friend Matty Matheson stopped by to visit friend Drew Brahs of Harper he fell in love with the neighborhood and decided to launch a second branch of his brand, Matty’s Patty’s. (Matheson is an executive producer of and plays handyman Neil Fak on the FX series "The Bear.") Matty’s opened in December; Harper Barbecue is about to start hiring for all positions.
Brahs knows a thing or two about barbecue since taking metalworks courses over a decade ago. What began as a hobby turned into a successful business.
Napa Rose Serves Significant Changes
When: As of Dec. 6, 2024
Where: Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel and Spa, 1600 Disneyland Drive, Anaheim
Cost: $168 for the Vintner’s Table menu; $125 for the wine pairings
Contact: (714) 781-4636
Since 2001, Napa Rose has offered both a Vintner’s Table menu and an à la carte menu of California cuisine with a wine country influence. However, as of Dec. 6, 2024 the Vintner’s four-course, prix fixe menu for $168 (plus an optional $125 wine pairing) will be the only option in the main dining room; a separate bar/lounge seating will be the only way to order à la carte. The chef’s counter will remain bespoke based on each guest’s preferences, but these individuals have front row seats and interaction with the kitchen team.
There are also talks of beginning the dining experience as early as 5 p.m. (Napa Rose currently opens at 5:30 p.m.). Thirty minutes may not sound like a big deal, but that may be the difference between another round of drinks or having more flexibility with reservations and walk-ins.
Strong Water’s Owners To Launch Double Luck Bar
When: Early/mid 2025
Where: Within walking distance of Strong Water, 270 S Clementine St, Anaheim
Cost: To be determined
Contact: @doubleluckbar on Instagram
Now that Ying Chang and Robert Adamson’s Strong Water has earned numerous accolades, the tiki bar’s creative forces focus to wrap up their next project: Double Luck Bar. The specific theme has not been publicized. However, the website hints at a relaxing neighborhood spot inspired by the city of Anaheim and its rich history. Bonus: It will be walkable (under five minutes) from Strong Water to support any walk-in overflow.
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Culture
Start off the new year celebrating traditions and cultures that make up the melting pot that is Orange County. Take a trip to Costa Mesa, Irvine, Santa Ana, Westminster and Orange to see what events are cooking these next few months. With a majority being family-friendly events, there is a little something for anyone to check out. – Kristina Garcia
From celebrations in previous years, left, Symphonic Soul, and right, Lunar New Year. Photos courtesy of Pacific Symphony
Symphonic Soul: A Celebration of African American Artistry, and more by Pacific Symphony
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
When: 8 p.m. Jan. 25
Cost: Between $33-138
Woven into Pacific Symphony's classical music season are concerts that celebrate and reflect the cultural communities that can be found throughout Orange County
This month, visitors can stop by the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall for “Symphonic Soul: A Celebration of African American Artistry,” where the ensemble will be “blending classical, jazz, spiritual and opera” to pay tribute to the legendary African American artists who have shaped American music, according to the website.
Other cultural events lined up for the company this season include:
Lunar New Year
When: 8 p.m. Feb. 1
Cost: Between $42-119
O.C. Lantern Festival 2025
When: 11 a.m. Feb. 22
Cost: Admission is free, but tickets are required. $50 festival pass also available
Nowruz: Iranian New Year
When: 8 p.m. March 29
Cost: Between $77-281
A dragon dancer greets a young child, left, and eaters at a pho eating challenge during UVSA's Tết Festival. Photos courtesy of USVA
Tết (Lunar New Year) Celebrations – Year of the Snake
Take your pick for Lunar New Year festivities, celebrating Vietnamese Lunar New Year in Santa Ana, Westminster or Garden Grove. The year of the snake is upon us, and what better way to celebrate by checking out what Orange County has in store.
Returning for its second year is Santa Ana’s Tết festival at Centennial Park. With this being a free family-friendly event, it’s perfect for families to stop by to celebrate Asian and Vietnamese cultures without breaking the bank. Visitors can expect food vendors and kid zones with inflatables, as well as live entertainment like lion and dragon dances, in addition to other cultural performances and exhibits. The festival will end the night with a firework show starting at 5:45 p.m.
Another free event is the city of Westminster’s 2025 Tết Parade. The parade will feature local and international businesses, along with “floats, marching bands, lion dances, color guards, veterans and youth organizations, martial arts, multi-cultural attires, elected officials, scout organizations, community organizations.” The parade will start at the intersection of Bolsa Avenue and Magnolia Street, continue eastbound on Bolsa Avenue, turn right on Bushard Street, then end at Bishop Place, according to the website.
Our last lineup for this year’s Tết celebrations is the 43rd annual Tết festival by the nonprofit Union of Vietnamese Student Associations of Southern California, a celebration that has taken place at the OC Fair and Event Center for 10 years, but this year moves to Garden Grove.
Although this last event requires a ticket purchase, it still manages to stay accessible to the community with tickets being less than $10, as well as free admission on Feb. 1 from noon to 1 p.m. for visitors who arrive in traditional outfits, military and scout uniforms.
This year’s theme is “Thành Phố Hoa,” translated from Vietamese to “The City of Flowers.” While the festival will be celebrating the year of the snake, it will also be commemorating Black April, with this year marking the 50th anniversary of the fall of Saigon and South Vietnam to the North Vietnamese communists.
With all Tết events being on separate days, visitors could visit each celebration without worrying about missing the others.
Tết (Lunar New Year) Festival in Santa Ana
Where: Centennial Park, 3000 W. Edinger Ave., Santa Ana
When: 1-6 p.m., firework show at 5:45 p.m. Jan. 25
Cost: Free
Contact: (714) 647-5400, santa-ana.org
2025 Tết Parade in Westminster
Where: Parade begins at the intersection of Bolsa Avenue and Magnolia Street, Westminster
When: Opening ceremony begins at 8:30 a.m.; parade starts at 9:30 a.m., Feb. 1
Cost: Free
Contact: 714-895-2860, westminster-ca.gov
UVSA Tết Festival in Garden Grove
Where: Garden Grove Park, 9301 Westminster Blvd., Garden Grove
When: Jan. 31-Feb. 2
Cost: $8 general admission, free for ages two years and younger
Contact: 714-576-6411, tetfestival.org
Note: In past years, another Tết festival has also been hosted at Mile Square Park in Fountain Valley. Currently, there is no official information online about this festival for 2025. We will add it here at a later date if that information becomes available.
Train rides and face painting are a part of the Easter Eggstravaganza activities at Irvine Park in Orange.
Photos courtesy of Irvine Park
Easter Eggstravaganza
Where: Irvine Park Railroad, 1 Irvine Park Road, Orange
When: March 22-April 19
Cost: Free (parking is $3-$7 per vehicle; activity tickets are $8 each)
Contact: 714-997-3968, irvineparkrailroad.com
Moving into early March and April means egg hunts, family-friendly activities and, of course, the Easter bunny. Every year, the Irvine Park Railroad hosts its Easter Eggstravaganza catered mostly to younger children and their families. The egg hunts happen every day at select times (depending on the child’s age); children as young as 2 years old can participate with the cutoff age being 12 years old.
With no reservation necessary, families can take their photos with the Easter bunny at $20 per visit. The meet-and-greet includes a printed photo of the encounter and each additional print of the same photo is priced at $10, with an additional cost of $20 for visitors who are interested in receiving a digital copy as well.
Although admission to the event is free, visitors should be prepared to pay event parking into Irvine Regional Park, as well as activity tickets for the event for visitors to participate in carnival games, face painting, crafts and other activities. Parking is $3 per vehicle on weekdays, $5 on weekends and $7 on holidays. The event will be closed on Easter Sunday, but regular train rides will still be in service from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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Classical Music
Classical music fans are eagerly awaiting the arrival of Pacific Symphony’s next music director, well-respected British conductor Alexander Shelley. The orchestra’s current leader, Carl St.Clair, doesn’t pass the baton until the 2026-27 season after a remarkable 37-year run, but we’ll get a chance to see Shelley conduct the ensemble this spring. Elsewhere, Soka University, the Philharmonic Society, Pacific Chorale and other producers and presenters are offering spring seasons with plenty of impressive highlights. Here are a few tempting choices. – Paul Hodgins
Juilliard String Quartet plays Beethoven’s String Quartet in E Minor, Op. 59, No. 2: III. Allegretto
Juilliard String Quartet
When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 27
Where: Musco Center for the Arts, 415 N. Glassell St., Orange
Admission: $32.75-$68
Contact: 714-997-6812, muscocenter.org
Founded in 1946, this world-famous ensemble has been called “the most important American quartet in history” by the Boston Globe. Through many decades and changes of membership, the JSQ has maintained a vital and perceptive approach to classics of the repertoire while continually presenting new works and promising composers to enthusiastic audiences. The quartet’s current members are Areta Zhulla (violin), Ronald Copes (violin), Molly Carr (viola), and Astrid Schween (cello), praised for their remarkable ensemble and unity of vision.
Vienna Philharmonic and Yefim Bronfman
When: 3 p.m. March 9
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Admission: $72-$371
Contact: 949-553-2422, philharmonicsociety.org
One of Europe’s leading orchestras visits Orange County this spring paired with a giant of the virtuoso piano world, three-time Grammy Award-winner Yefim Bronfman. Conductor Yannick Nézet-Séguin leads the ensemble in a high-octane program that includes Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 and Richard Strauss’s epic Ein Heldenleben.
Beethoven’s ‘Emperor’
When: 8 p.m. May 1-3
Where: Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Admission: $27-$136
Contact: 714-755-5799, pacificsymphony.org
If you missed him last season, this is your opportunity to see Pacific Symphony’s next music director, Alexander Shelley, conduct the orchestra. Suave, charming and at ease with musicians and audience alike, Shelley thrilled last season, giving new and surprising nuances to a Romantic warhorse, Dvorák's New World Symphony. You’ll get to see what he does with two other stalwarts of the orchestral repertoire, Beethoven’s “Emperor” Concerto and his Symphony No. 5. Pianist George Li is the soloist.
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Popular Music
Stepping into a new year always brings excitement and anticipation. In addition to making a list of resolutions and examining the things we’d like to do differently this time around, it’s time to get some activities lined up to enrich our lives and add a dash of fun to 2025.
As you start planning your year, from far-off travels to local art events, consider grabbing tickets to these shows to embrace the thrill of live music. Each is different yet sure to present a night to remember. – Ashley Ryan
JUSTIN TIMBERLAKE: THE FORGET TOMORROW WORLD TOUR
When: 7:30 p.m. Jan. 18
Where: Honda Center, 2695 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
Cost: Starting at $99.80
Contact: hondacenter.com
Long known for his dancing abilities, falsetto crooning and knack for entertaining, Justin Timberlake brings The Forget Tomorrow World Tour to the Honda Center this winter. “J.T.” was born to entertain, and has been famous since his days as a member of *N’SYNC. His latest show manages to keep the focus on the music while still putting on a show that will have everyone dancing along in their seats.
Enjoy hits like “Can’t Stop the Feeling,” “SexyBack” and “Rock Your Body” as well as tunes from his latest album, from “Selfish” to “No Angels,” “Technicolor” and “Sanctified.” Later in the show, Timberlake takes a trip out to a mini-stage toward the back of the arena, ensuring that the audience has a good view no matter where the seats are located.
AN EVENING WITH AMY GRANT — SONGS/STORIES/MEMORIES
When: 7:30 p.m. Feb. 23
Where: City National Grove of Anaheim, 2020 E. Katella Ave., Anaheim
Cost: $67.70 to $311.24
Contact: citynationalgroveofanaheim.com
Enjoy an intimate evening with iconic singer Amy Grant at this long-running Orange County venue. With a career that stretches back more than four decades, Grant will look back on her extensive history while sharing stories, reflecting on her life and singing beloved songs.
With a storytelling aspect woven into her music, this setting is the perfect way to get an up-close look at Grant’s artistry. After beginning her career in the contemporary Christian genre, she transitioned to pop and soft rock, creating relatable songs like “Baby Baby,” “Find a Way” and “That's What Love Is For.” She has also become known for popularizing Christmas music.
THE ROCKET SUMMER WITH MAE
When: 7 p.m. March 14
Where: House of Blues Anaheim, 400 Disney Way, Suite 337, Anaheim
Cost: $35.25 to $59
Contact: houseofblues.com
Two pop rock bands that skyrocketed during the 2000s emo wave, The Rocket Summer and Mae return to Orange County for a special acoustic performance.
As headliner, The Rocker Summer, a solo project fronted by multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Bryce Avary, will celebrate the 20-year anniversary of “Hello, Good Friend,” Avary’s second album that was released in 2005. Put your dancing shoes on for songs like “Around The Clock” or “Brat Pack,” or enjoy ballads like the moving “Never Knew” during this milestone event.
Support during the show comes from Mae, a rock band known for its memorable live shows. With a name meaning “Multisensory Aesthetic Experience,” the group hopes to convey that its art goes beyond the music and permeates the live show as well. During this intimate experience, Mae will perform as an acoustic trio.
BEN FOLDS
When: 8 p.m. April 25-26
Where: Segerstrom Center for the Arts, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
Cost: $50.85 to $187.58
Contact: scfta.org
Led by Enrico Lopez-Yañez, the principal pops conductor for Pacific Symphony, these two shows feature the talents of singer-songwriter and pianist Ben Folds. The versatile musician is known for blending many different genres in his music, with poignant lyrics capping things off.
Folds’ piano-driven rock songs will be bolstered by the orchestra, creating exciting arrangements that will appeal to a wide range of music lovers. His dynamic compositions and fun-loving performance style create memorable evenings, featuring songs like “Capable of Anything,” “Don't Change Your Plans” and “Sentimental Guy” in a unique symphonic setting.
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Jazz and World Music
Soka University, the Irvine Barclay Theatre, the Musco Center and other mid-size venues continue to provide the lion’s share of worthwhile jazz acts and alternative music in 2025, although Segerstrom Center certainly offers tempting names on a regular basis. Here are three events that you should consider adding to your calendar over the next few months. – Paul Hodgins
The Wailin’ Jennys demonstrate their unique and exacting harmonies.
The Wailin’ Jennys
When: 7:30 p.m. March 9
Where: Musco Center for the Arts, 415 N. Glassell St., Orange
Admission: $38-$83
Contact: 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org
The Wailin’ Jennys are a sensation on the folk-roots scene, thrilling audiences with close harmonies, virtuosic instrumental performances and sophisticated arrangements. The three-member group, whose name is a tribute to the late Waylon Jennings, began with a one-time-only performance at a tiny guitar shop in Winnipeg, Manitoba. But the combined chemistry of Nicky Mehta, Ruth Moody and Heather Masse propelled them to become one of the best folk acts in the business, and they remain popular more than 20 years after that fortuitous gig brought them together.
Danú – Traditional Music of Ireland
When: 8 p.m. March 20
Where: Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine
Admission: $28-$105
Contact: 949-854-4646, www.thebarclay.org
Danú is an Irish traditional music band that performed its first concert at the Festival Interceltique de Lorient in 1995. Its members hail from different parts of Ireland: Waterford, Kerry, Dublin and Donegal. The group’s second album, “Think Before You Think” (2000), was voted Best Overall Traditional Act by Irish Music magazine. Danú is the only band voted Best Traditional Group twice in the BBC Radio 2 Folk Awards, in 2001 and again in 2004. Danú’s version of Tommy Sands's "County Down" also won Best Original Song that year.
Terence Blanchard Featuring The E-Collective And The Turtle Island Quartet
When: 8 p.m. April 12
Where: Soka University Concert Hall, 1 University Drive, Aliso Viejo
Admission: $48-$98
Contact: 949-480-4278, soka.edu/soka-performing-arts-center
Legendary jazz trumpeter Terence Blanchard, winner of eight Grammy awards over his long career, celebrates his range and development during the last two decades by reimagining some of his most well-known work for a new ensemble. This nine-member group includes The E-Collective – Charles Altura on guitar, Taylor Eigsti on piano and synthesizers, Oscar Seaton on drums and David “DJ” Ginyard on bass – as well as the Turtle Island Quartet.
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