Must-See Shows During Segerstrom Center For The Arts' Upcoming Season
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is Orange County's largest non-profit arts organization and presents a variety of national and international productions, including national tours of the most popular Broadway shows. Don't miss these must-see musicals, straight from Broadway.
Disney's Beauty and the Beast
Jan. 14 through 19
Nearly 20 years ago, Disney's Beauty and the Beast swept up audiences in the romance and enchantment of the classic French fairy tale about a prince, transformed into a beast, who is saved by the love of a young woman who sees past his exterior appearance into his heart. The musical was Broadways' eighth longest-running production and has been seen by more than 35 million people worldwide. Featuring the music of Academy Award-winner Alan Menken, spectacular costumes and sets, and memorable characters, Disney's Beauty and the Beast will delight audiences young and old.
The Wizard of Oz
Feb. 11 through 23
It's one of the most beloved stories of all time and this winter, Frank Baum's magical land of Oz will come to life on stage. A musical adaptation of The Wizard of Oz was originated by the acclaimed author, and the score includes both original songs from the film and several new ones written by British composer Andrew Lloyd Webber. This new production was inspired by the MGM screenplay and is a vibrant, colorful, musical journey back down the yellow brick road with a few surprises along the way.
The Book of Mormon
May 13 through 25
Hailed by the New York Times as "the best musical of this century," The Book of Mormon tells the story of two missionaries sent to share their faith with the people of Uganda. Humor and a solid score dominate the film and Entertainment Weekly called it "the funniest musical of all time." In spite of its satire, The Book of Mormon manages to deliver the heart you expect from a Broadway musical.
Jersey Boys
June 24 through July 13
Relive the makings of one of the greatest successes in pop music history in this four-time, Tony Award-winning musical that details the story of The Four Seasons. Audiences will sing, tap their feet and rise in celebration of this fantastic foursome, who wrote their own songs, invented their own sounds, and sold 175 million records across the globe. Featuring an upbeat, nostalgic score, Jersey Boys continues to delight audiences.
Once
Aug. 19 through 31
Romance, culture, and the power of music converge in this moving musical about a young Czech woman who inspires a Dublin street musician to pursue his dream of turning his talent into a career. As their connection deepens, they learn that love is complex. The musical is powerful and features a talented cast of actors/musicians who play their own instruments onstage through the production. The musical, which was adapted from the film, won 8 Tony Awards last year for Best Musical and a Grammy for Best Musical Theater Album this year.
Caryn Bailey is a Southern California-based writer and LA native who can be found writing daily on her lifestyle blog Rockin' Mama or on Twitter @RockinMama.