MARCH 29 THROUGH APRIL 2
AMERICAN BALLET THEATRE: “LIKE WATER FOR CHOCOLATE”
Laura Esquivel’s novel provides the basis for this new full-length ballet created by choreographer Christopher Wheeldon, who recently won a Tony Award for his work on “MJ: The Musical.” It tells the story of Tita, a young woman in Mexico who is forbidden from marrying until her mother dies. Her bottled-up emotions come out only in her cooking—until she falls in love with her wealthy neighbor, Pedro. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org
OPENS MARCH 31
“COLONIALISM IS TERRIBLE, BUT PHO IS DELICIOUS”
This comedy unfolds in three parts: First, in 1880s Hanoi, a Vietnamese cook lands in the kitchen of French aristocrats. In 1999, American tourists in Vietnam discover the local cuisine. Finally, in present-day Brooklyn, arguments surrounding culture, ownership, and authenticity boil over. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com
OPENS MARCH 31
“IT RUNS IN THE FAMILY”
This madcap farce set in a hospital features one instance of mistaken identity after another as the main character, Dr. Mortimore, tries to stay one step ahead of a paternity suit and his ex-wife so that he can get to the international conference where he is slated to deliver the Ponsonby Lecture. Camino Real Playhouse, 31776 El Camino Real, San Juan Capistrano, 949-489-8082, caminorealplayhouse.org
APRIL 1
ART IN THE PARK
This formerly annual event is back after a three-year hiatus. Attendees can enjoy yoga on the beach, guitar lessons, watercolor and jewelry-making lessons, Native American basket weaving, and squid-ink painting, while also browsing paintings, candles, and upcycled jewelry at the Arts & Crafts Bazaar. Crystal Cove Conservancy, 949-376-6200, crystalcove.org/event/art-in-the-park
APRIL 2
ALIX PAGE
Orange County School of the Arts alum Alix Page, an alt-pop singer-songwriter who recently returned from tours with Gracie Abrams and ella jane, will play this free afternoon concert on the Aitken Arts Plaza. Several of her songs, including her latest release, “Pulling Teeth,” reference Orange County landmarks. Musco Center for the Arts, One University Drive, Orange, 844-626-8726, muscocenter.org
APRIL 3
WYNTON MARSALIS SEPTET
Known for creating and leading the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, the Pulitzer Prize and nine-time Grammy Award winner plays with a more intimate group of some of jazz’s best soloists. The tour marks the first time he has played with his band on the West Coast in 20 years. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org
APRIL 4
YO-YO MA AND KATHRYN STOTT
With 19 Awards, a Presidential Medal of Freedom, and a National Medal of Arts to his name, Ma is one of the most decorated and best-known classical musicians in the world. He teams up with his longtime collaborator, pianist Stott. Classical KUSC host Brian Lauritzen will give a preconcert lecture. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org
