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2014 OC Fall Theater Preview

Pippin  - header 610
(credit: Joan Marcus)

This fall, take a step out of your normal routine to explore stories including the pivotal moments of a rock legend or a prince looking for the meaning of his existence. Comedies, musicals and dramatic performances capture some of the best theater Southern California has to offer this fall. Here are some of the best fall theater previews for the upcoming season.

PippinMusic Box Theatre
(credit: Joan Marcus)

"Pippin"
Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org
Date: Nov. 11-23, 2014

Tony-winning director Diane Paulus brings back the story of a young prince looking to find meaning to his existence in the Broadway show "Pippin." The musical won a Tony Award for best musical revival and was scored by Tony nominee Stephen Schwartz. With Bob Fosse choreography and Les 7 Doigts De La Main acrobatics, this will be a show not to miss. The center was previously known as the Orange County Performing Arts Center and brings in some of the most highly respected national and international shows.

Elvis68.001
(credit: Maverick Theatre)

"Elvis '68"
Maverick Theater
110 E. Walnut Ave.
Fullerton, CA 92832
(714) 526-7070
www.mavericktheater.com
Date: Through Sept. 14, 2014

Creator and Director Brian Newell brings to life an Elvis performance from June 29, 1968 where Elvis performed his Christmas Special for a studio audience. The show brings to life that concert known as the black leather concert with Casey Ryan starring as Elvis. This was a pivotal moment in the entertainer's life and the experience of the show explores that special moment. The theater first opened its doors back in 2002 in the city of Orange with the musical about Elvis Presley called "The King," also directed by Newell. It has since shown "The Rocky Horror Show," "Count of Monte Cristo," "Frost/Nixon," "Legally Blonde The Musical" and many more great works.

south coast repertory
(Credit: South Coast Repertory)

"Venus In Fur"
South Coast Repertory
655 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA 92626
(714) 708-5555
www.scr.org
Date: Oct. 5-26, 2014

"Venus in Fur" is a play by David Ives and directed by Casey Stangl that tells the story of Thomas looking for the perfect actress for an adaptation of a 19th century erotic novel. Vanda appears and is able to wiggle her way into winning the part and become the leading lady. The risque sexy comedy proves to be a very smart and erotic show that is intoxicating and alluring. This show is geared more to the adult audience and is a show that explores the battle for sexual dominance.

Related: How To Get Involved In OC's Theater Community

ICARO - irvine barclay
(credit: Viviana Cangialosi)

"Icaro"
Irvine Barclay Theater
4242 Campus Drive
Irvine, CA 92612
(949) 854-4607
www.thebarclay.org
Date: Oct. 24-26, 2014

It's a tale of a clown that struggles against destiny with Daniele Finzi Pasca as the captivating character Icaro. The actor and director has done extensive work internationally including directing the Cirque du Soleil's acclaimed tour "Corteo" and also directed the closing ceremonies for two Olympics including Turin, Italy in 2006 and Russia in 2014. This particular performance was done by Daniele more than 700 times in Italian, French, German, Portuguese, Spanish and English throughout locations including Europe and South America.

laguna playhouse
(credit: Laguna Playhouse)

"Menopause The Musical"
Laguna Playhouse
606 Laguna Canyon Road
Laguna Beach, CA 92651
(949) 497-2787
www.lagunaplayhouse.com
Date: Sept. 16-28, 2014

The critically acclaimed musical has been seen by millions worldwide over the past 10 years. Jeanie Linders wrote the hit that has inspired women in its 90-minute production. The show is set in a department store with four women that each share their stories including making fun of situations that include hot flashes, forgetfulness, mood swings, wrinkles and much more. The show's creator has also started the C. Linders Fund, a nonprofit organization that supports women in education, health and culture.

Related: Best Outdoor Theater Performances In OC

Elle Toussi is a freelance writer covering all things Orange County. Her work can be found on Examiner.com.
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