As the curtains rise on February 2024, the Southern California theater scene prepares to captivate audiences with a diverse array of performances at prominent venues such as Ahmanson Theatre, BroadStage, Long Beach Opera, Pasadena Playhouse, and the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. From enchanting plays to soul-stirring operas, this month’s lineup promises a tapestry of theatrical experiences. Join us on a journey through the stages of these esteemed venues, where drama, music, and storytelling converge to create memorable moments that will resonate throughout the month. Whether you’re a seasoned theatergoer or a newcomer to the arts, February’s events are poised to leave an indelible mark on your cultural calendar.
Ahmanson Theatre
135 N Grand Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90012
https://www.centertheatregroup.org/visit/ahmanson-theatre/
Matthew Bourne’s Romeo and Juliet
January 28 – February 25, 2024
In Matthew Bourne’s rendition of Romeo and Juliet, Shakespeare’s timeless tale of forbidden love receives a scintillating infusion of raw passion and youthful vitality. Two young lovers, confined against their will by a society intent on division, find themselves compelled to follow their hearts, risking everything to be together. This masterful retelling captures the essence of an ageless story of teenage discovery and the intoxication of first love. Premiering in 2019, Romeo and Juliet earned widespread critical acclaim. Now, it makes a triumphant return to the New Adventures repertoire, joining the ranks of Bourne’s globally celebrated dance theatre productions.
The production is helmed and choreographed by Matthew Bourne, in collaboration with the New Adventures Artistic team, including Etta Murfitt (Associate Artistic Director), Lez Brotherston (Set and Costume design), Paule Constable (Lighting Design), Paul Groothuis (Sound Design), and Arielle Smith (Associate Choreographer). Terry Davies contributes thrillingly fresh orchestrations of Prokofiev’s dynamic score.
Broadstage
1310 11th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401
Nat Geo Live: Life on Thin Ice February 1, 2024 at 7:30 PM
In the northern reaches of the Arctic, sea ice assumes a significance akin to desert sand. This frozen expanse plays a crucial role in transportation, sustenance, and habitation. Despite the seemingly harsh temperatures, life thrives abundantly in the Arctic. Indigenous communities not only reside in this icy terrain but coexist with a variety of wildlife, including polar bears, musk oxen, whales, and caribou. The region is home to over 40 diverse ethnic groups, sharing the space harmoniously. National Geographic Live extends an invitation to a captivating journey, guided by their inaugural Indigenous speaker, Kiliii Yüyan. Through breathtaking visuals and moments of wonder, one can delve into the intricate relationship between native peoples and the frigid landscape, discovering the fascinating lives of its remarkable animal inhabitants.
Long Beach Opera
1395 Coronado Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90804
Isola World Premiere
February 3,10 & 11, 2024
ISOLA delves into the concept of the body as an island, presenting a poetic monodrama that explores selfhood and perception within a non-linear temporal framework. This prismatic meditation, crafted by composer Alyssa Weinberg and poet J. Mae Barizo, utilizes color and sound to construct a transformative journey of healing. The piece, named after the word Isola, which encompasses meanings such as isolation, an island, or the Pacific Ocean archipelago from which Barizo’s parents immigrated just before her birth, weaves together a captivating narrative.
Penned by Barizo amidst the Appalachian landscapes in 2020, the text creates a tapestry of distorted perceptions, both internal and external, all viewed through the prism of isolation.
Directed by George R. Miller, the world premiere production of ISOLA promises to be a multi-sensory marvel. With a cast that includes singers, chamber musicians, a dancer body double, and surround-sound electronics, this immersive experience will plunge into the depths of the central character’s psyche and subconscious. The stage will be set at Compound, a dynamic gallery space in Long Beach, enveloping the audience in a dreamy, surreal atmosphere.
Pasadena Playhouse
39 S. El Molino Avenue Pasadena, CA 91101
https://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/
KATE January 17 – February 11, 2024
In the widely acclaimed one-woman show, esteemed comedian Kate Berlant delves into the events of her life that have shaped her journey to the present moment. Demonstrating her versatility by embodying multiple characters in this powerful performance, she skillfully undergoes transformations before the audience, revealing a truth that had, until now, remained concealed. The original direction of the show was helmed by Bo Burnham.
Grumpy Monkey, The Musical February 3 – March 3, 2024
Meet Jim Panzee and his companions as they embark on a delightful day filled with thrilling adventures. However, there’s a singular issue—Jim is in no mood for any fun or games, and the reason remains a mystery to everyone! The uproarious #1 New York Times bestselling picture book is now brought to life on stage in a world premiere musical. “Grumpy Monkey, The Musical” unfolds as
ideal tale for families and children, resonating with the universal experience of grappling with big emotions. Acknowledging that not every day is a good one, the musical conveys the message that it’s perfectly okay.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
300 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 92626
Disney’s The Lion King February 1-25, 2024
Giraffes confidently strut, birds gracefully swoop, and gazelles energetically leap, painting a vivid tableau of life on the Serengeti like never before. Accompanied by soaring music, Pride Rock slowly emerges from the mist, heralding the triumphant return of Disney’s THE LION KING to Segerstrom Center for the Arts!
With over 100 million people worldwide having witnessed its awe-inspiring visual artistry, unforgettable music, and unique theatrical storytelling, this Broadway spectacular stands as one of the most breathtaking and cherished productions ever to grace the stage.
Recipient of six Tony Awards, including Best Musical, THE LION KING showcases the collaborative brilliance of a highly imaginative creative team on Broadway. Directed by Tony Award-winning Julie Taymor, the production weaves a narrative of hope and adventure against a backdrop of stunning visuals. Additionally, the extraordinary choreography of Tony Award-winner Garth Fagan and the iconic music of Tony Award-winning artists Elton John and Tim Rice contribute to the magic of THE LION KING.
Dino-Light February 3-4, 2024
In this original tale, a renowned scientist endowed with magical abilities breathes life into a friendly dinosaur. As the dinosaur ventures away from home, it stumbles upon a captivating world teeming with creatures that illuminate the darkness, guiding it towards the true essence of love.
Dino-Light, a recipient of the esteemed Jim Henson Foundation Grant, stands as the inaugural full-length theatrical production conceived and enacted by Lightwire Theater, semi-finalists on NBC’s America’s Got Talent. Applauded globally for its visually stunning glow-in-the-dark adventure, the production has earned praise for its innovative fusion of puppetry, technology, and dance, captivating audiences around the world.
A Conversation with Kristin Hannah February 5, 2024
Kristin Hannah, one of today’s most celebrated writers, boasts a remarkable career with over 20 award-winning and bestselling novels. Her literary works are renowned for delving into themes of hope, the resilience of the female spirit, and the special and transformative nature of female friendships.
Her international blockbuster, “The Nightingale,” not only earned the distinction of being named Goodreads’ Best Historical Fiction novel in 2015 but also clinched the coveted People’s Choice award for best fiction that same year. The heart-wrenching historical romance, a Reese Witherspoon Book Club selection in 2023, garnered further acclaim as a Best Book of the Year by Amazon, iTunes, Buzzfeed, the Wall Street Journal, Paste, and The Week. The enduring popularity of “The Nightingale” has led to its adaptation at Tri Star, featuring Dakota and Elle Fanning in starring roles.
In 2018, Hannah’s novel “The Great Alone” soared to instant success, claiming the top spot on the New York Times bestseller list and earning the title of Best Historical Novel of the Year by Goodreads. This poignant tale of love and loss follows Leni, a teenage girl navigating the challenges of her parents’ tumultuous marriage.
Published in February 2021, “The Four Winds” swiftly ascended to #1 on the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Indie bookstores’ bestseller lists. This poignant dustbowl drama, a book club pick by the Today Show and the Book Of the Month club, was crowned the best book of 2021.
Hannah’s beloved novel “Firefly Lane,” centered around the enduring friendship of two women, has become a global Netflix sensation. The TV adaptation, starring Katherine Heigl and Sarah Chalke, has introduced a new generation to Hannah’s compelling fiction.
Her latest novel, “The Women,” transports readers to the 1960s, unfolding a war story that follows the life of nursing student Frances “Frankie” McGrath. Frankie’s traditional upbringing is disrupted by the Vietnam War, her decision to volunteer, and the divisive impact it has on the United States.
For avid readers, there’s an added incentive to attend a Center event featuring Kristin Hannah—audiences will be the first to have the opportunity to purchase her brand-new novel, “The Women,” one day before its official release. Don’t miss the chance to join an evening in conversation with this bestselling author.
Schumann Quartet February 16, 2024
Few people understand an individual as well as a sibling does, and this unique bond is evident in the special connection that the Schumann Quartet shares with both audiences and critics. Comprising three brothers—Erik, Ken, and Mark Schumann—along with violist Veit Hertenstein, this German ensemble has been playing together since their earliest childhood, fostering a communication that transcends words. While each musician’s distinct personality shines through, a shared musical space emerges in every performance, resulting in a cohesive and harmonious sound for the group.
The quartet’s openness and curiosity contribute to a thrilling and unforgettable experience for the audience. According to the ensemble, “A work really develops only in a live performance. That is ‘the real thing’ because we ourselves never know what will happen. On the stage, all imitation disappears, and you automatically become honest with yourself. Then you can create a bond with the audience – communicate with it in music.”
Jeremy Jordan February 22 – 25, 2024
Jeremy Jordan ascended to stardom, showcasing his remarkable singing and dancing talents when he originated the role of Jack Kelly in Disney’s NEWSIES, a performance that earned him a 2012 Best Leading Actor in a Musical Tony nomination.
His magnetic presence soon captured Hollywood’s attention, leading him to conquer the realm of television with acclaimed portrayals of Jimmy Collins in NBC’s SMASH and Winn Schott in the CW series Supergirl. Additionally, he lends his voice to the character of Varian in Disney’s animated hit series, Tangled.
Jeremy’s cinematic endeavors include starring alongside Anna Kendrick in the film adaptation of Jason Robert Brown’s The Last Five Years and sharing the screen with Dolly Parton and Queen Latifah in Joyful Noise.
For his Cabaret Series Debut, Jeremy embarks on an exhilarating, decade-spanning journey through Broadway’s greatest hits. His performance will feature songs from his signature Broadway roles in Newsies and Waitress, as well as selections from beloved musicals such as West Side Story, Carousel, Oklahoma!, Rock of Ages, and Les Misérables.
