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Best Theater Productions Of 2013

dance brazil header
(credit: Dance Brazil)

These 2013 OC theater showcases proved to be some of the best productions in the area. With a combination of dance, music, comedy, acrobatics, food, acting and even martial arts, Orange County hosted an array of memorable shows.

Mozart classical orchestra
(credit: Mozart Classical Orchestra)

Mozart Classical Orchestra: Happy Birthday Mozart
Irvine Barclay Theatre and Cheng Hall
4242 Campus Drive
Irvine, CA 92612
(949) 854-4646
www.thebarclay.org

Celebrating one of the most talented musicians of our time, "Mozart Classical Orchestra: Happy Birthday Mozart" brought back some of Mozart's magic. Guests were able to enjoy Mozart's exalted musical genius and masterpieces under the direction of Ami Porat and violinist Roberto Cani. The successful salute to Mozart provided spectators with a top-notch professional concert production and memorable dedication to a musical legend. Be sure to check out the Irvine Barclay Theatre and Cheng Hall event calendar for a list of similar showcases.

dance brazil
(credit: Dance Brazil)

Dance Brazil
Irvine Barclay Theatre and Cheng Hall
4242 Campus Drive
Irvine, CA 92612
(949) 854-4607
www.thebarclay.org

"Dance Brazil" illustrated that dancers are more than performing artists, they are also athletes. The multi-talented cast combined African and Brazilian dance disciplines, musicians, acrobats and Capoeira (martial arts-style dancing) in this high-energy, entertaining show. The art forms presented gave audiences an opportunity to experience unique, international flair, and the advanced skills left the crowd in awe. Under the direction of Jelon Vieira, this show illustrated some of the best talent in the area.

rsz_segerstrom.jpg
(credit: Segerstrom)

Cinderella
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org

This unique take on the classic story of "Cinderella" was a hit among young children and families this year in Orange County. The 45-minute creative showcase was ideal for the targeted young demographic, and the puppets brought the renowned story to life with character development and music. Families were able to encourage kiddos to explore the arts in a fun, educational setting. In addition, there were activities for children including singing, dancing, coloring and playing instruments and guests were even able to meet some of the symphony musicians.

Related: Best OC-Based Playwrights

Segerstrom Concert Hall
(credit: scfta.org)

Teatro ZinZanni Presents Love Chaos and Dinner
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org

Teatro ZinZanni combined several elements of performing arts including humor, music, dance and cirque in this spectacular production. Additionally, the event even provided an opportunity to experience the culinary arts. Guests were able to be entertained while indulging in a delectable dinner. Senses were amazed by the dazzling mix of performing arts and tasty dinner items. Guests were also given an original show no matter how many times coming back to watch. The improvisational performances provided unexpected entertainment during each show.

Wicked (Segerstrom Joan Marcus)
(credit: Joan Marcus)

Wicked
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org

This Grammy and Tony award-winning musical graced the stage in OC last February and March and took visitors on a journey through the Munchkinland with Glenda the Good and the Wicked Witch of the West. The acclaimed Broadway hit proved to be in popular demand in Costa Mesa. In the past, "Wicked" beat records by how quickly tickets were sold at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Be sure to be on the lookout for when the show tours to OC next. This show is definitely a must-see.

Related: OC's Best Local Theater Directors

Stacy Brecht is a professional writer, dancer, marketer and model in the Los Angeles area. Brecht also enjoys traveling, wine, fitness training, volunteering, movies and trying new restaurants. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.

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