March Happenings at BroadStage, Pasadena Playhouse, and Segerstrom Center

March 2024 brings a bunch of exciting events to BroadStage, Pasadena Playhouse, and Segerstrom Center for the Arts. From cool music stuff at BroadStage to interesting plays at Pasadena Playhouse and fantastic ballet and orchestra shows at Segerstrom Center, there’s a lot to enjoy. Whether you like jazzy tunes, engaging stories, or beautiful performances, March has something fun for everyone. Check out these awesome events and get ready for a month filled with great entertainment!

Broadstage March 2024 Events

Broadstage, located at 1310 11th St, Santa Monica, CA 90401, invites you to explore the wonders of Nat Geo Live: T. rex Rises on March 7, 2024, at 7:30 PM. The captivating event delves into the mysteries of how T. rex became the iconic apex predator of North America 66 million years ago, as revealed by paleontologist Dr. Lindsay Zanno. Dr. Zanno spends several months each year on expeditions, combing through the badlands of western North America in search of clues about the past. Her discoveries include new species, some of which are the earliest predecessors of T. rex. The event promises a fascinating journey into the impact of a global climate crisis during the Cretaceous era on the evolution of this prehistoric tyrant and its ancestors. For more information, visit broadstage.org.

Dianne Schuur is set to mark her 70th birthday with an extraordinary event, “An Evening of Songs and Stories,” taking place on March 9, 2024, at 7:30 PM. The Grammy award-winning jazz vocalist will treat the audience to an unforgettable night featuring songs that span her decades-long career, coupled with stories about some of the musical legends she has shared the stage with. These include B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, Ray Charles, Frank Sinatra, the Count Basie Orchestra, and others.

Known by the childhood nickname “Deedles,” Dianne Schuur is not only a remarkable vocalist but also an accomplished pianist with perfect pitch and a three-and-a-half-octave vocal range. Despite being blind from birth, she taught herself piano by ear and immersed herself in traditional American jazz during her upbringing. Developing her unique and resonant vocal style at a young age, Dianne has built a distinguished recording career spanning over three decades.

With two Grammy awards and three additional Grammy nominations to her name, Schuur’s music explores a broad spectrum of the American musical landscape. Her upcoming event promises to be a celebration of her rich musical journey, filled with stories and melodies that showcase her remarkable talent and the influences of the legendary artists she has collaborated with throughout her illustrious career.

Experience “A Weekend with Pablo Picasso” on March 15-16, 2024, at 7:30 PM at BroadStage Santa Monica. In this extraordinary one-man show presented by L.A. Theatre Works, Herbert Sigüenza, a writer, performer, and founding member of Culture Clash, steps into the role of Picasso. The performance is based on writings directly from Picasso himself.

The audience is invited to delve into a weekend in Picasso’s private studio as he prepares to present six new works to a buyer on Monday morning. The show features large-scale video projections showcasing the creation of art, complemented by historic images and text. This immersive experience promises to transport the audience into the world of Picasso, providing a unique and artistic encounter with the iconic artist’s creative process.

Stanley Clarke, acclaimed as one of the world’s most celebrated acoustic and electric bass players and currently BroadStage’s Artist in Residence, is set to perform with his new band 4EVER on March 9, 2024, at 7:30 PM.

A four-time GRAMMYⓇ Award-winning jazz bassist, recording artist, and composer, Clarke is a familiar face at BroadStage. The 4EVER band, featuring dynamic and youthful energy, brings a fresh perspective to the musical genres of jazz harmony, rock, funk, R&B, hip-hop, fusion, and more.

The consummate musicians of the 4EVER band include Jeremiah Collier on drums, Beka Gochiashvili on piano and keyboards, Colin Cook on guitar, Emilio Modeste on saxophone, and, of course, Stanley Clarke on acoustic and electric bass. Since 2022, they have consistently delivered electrifying performances, continuously pushing the boundaries of their instruments. Don’t miss this night of vibrant music and creativity with Stanley Clarke and 4EVER at BroadStage.

Pasadena Playhouse March 2024 Events

Pasadena Playhouse is buzzing with exciting events in March 2024. Located at 39 S. El Molino Avenue, Pasadena, CA 91101, you can find more details at https://www.pasadenaplayhouse.org/.

First up is “Grumpy Monkey, The Musical,” running from February 3 to March 3, 2024. Join Jim Panzee and his friends as they embark on a day filled with adventures. The catch? Jim isn’t in the mood for fun or games, and nobody knows why! This stage adaptation of the hilarious #1 New York Times bestselling picture book brings the story to life in a world premiere musical. It’s a perfect tale for families and kids, exploring those big feelings we all experience on not-so-great days.

Next, from March 13 to April 7, 2024, catch the world premiere of “One of the Good Ones,” a new comedy commissioned by Pasadena Playhouse. The play unfolds the ultimate family showdown when the “perfect” Latina daughter introduces her boyfriend to her family. As tensions rise, and laughter ensues, the play navigates the complexities of family dynamics and the boundaries of acceptance. Written by Gloria Calderón Kellett, the co-creator and showrunner of Netflix’s One Day at a Time, this laugh-out-loud, heartfelt story explores the age-old question of what it truly means to be an American. Get ready to meet your new favorite family at Pasadena Playhouse!

Segerstrom Center for the Arts March 2024 Events

The Segerstrom Center for the Arts has exciting events lined up for March 2024 at 300 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 92626. Find more information at scfta.org.

On March 2, 2024, Sir Stephen Hough and the Castalian Quartet take the stage. Sir Stephen Hough, recognized as one of Twenty Living Polymaths by The Economist, is renowned as a pianist, composer, and writer. He is the first classical performer to receive a MacArthur Fellowship and the only classical pianist knighted in this century. His live performances showcase an awe-inspiring range and command, living up to the superlatives bestowed upon him.

The Castalian Quartet, formed in 2011, has distinguished itself as one of the most dynamic young string quartets. Based in London, the quartet was appointed the inaugural Hans Keller String Quartet in Residence at the Oxford University Faculty of Music in 2021. They also received the Royal Philharmonic Society’s 2019 Young Artists Award. The quartet has garnered international acclaim, performing at renowned venues like the Amsterdam Concertgebouw, Berlin Philharmonic, Vienna Konzerthaus, Carnegie Hall, and the Spoleto USA Festival. Their name is inspired by the Castalian Spring in Delphi, where according to Greek mythology, the nymph Castalia transformed into a fountain, creating a source of poetic inspiration for all who drink from her waters.

From March 7 to 10, 2024, Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo is set to captivate audiences with their performance of “Coppél-i.A.” The classical ballet company, established in 1985 by the Princess of Hanover, follows the vision of Princess Grace to perpetuate Monaco’s dance tradition and the renowned Ballets Russes. Under the direction of Jean-Christophe Maillot since 1993, the company has gained international acclaim for his choreographies.

In their triumphant return to Southern California, Les Ballets de Monte-Carlo brings forth “Coppél-i.A.,” a new creation by Jean-Christophe Maillot. This marks his return to life-size storytelling as the Choreographer-Director. The performance revisits the famous Romantic piece with an original musical score, delving into the impact of artificial intelligence on society and exploring the concept of searching for the ideal partner in a technologically advanced world.

“Coppél-i.A.” transports the audience into a near future where two young lovers, Frantz and Swanhilda, find their lives disrupted by an artificial being. This narrative shakes the foundations of their existence and challenges their preconceptions about love. The ballet prompts contemplation on whether the ideal partner is the familiar flesh-and-blood creature or an abstract being that questions humanity’s position in the species.

By transposing “Coppélia” into the era of artificial intelligence, Jean-Christophe Maillot offers a stunning and innovative reinterpretation of this classic ballet, providing a fresh perspective on the timeless themes of love and identity.

On March 9, 2024, Samueli Theater welcomes the revered jazz pianist Fred Hersch for a performance that promises to be a musical journey shaped by his more than three decades of influence. Acknowledged as a key figure in jazz’s piano pantheon, Hersch has left an indelible mark as an improviser, composer, educator, bandleader, collaborator, and recording artist.

Widely praised as “the most arrestingly innovative pianist in jazz over the last decade” by Vanity Fair, “an elegant force of musical invention” by The L.A. Times, and “a living legend” by The New Yorker, Hersch is a fifteen-time Grammy nominee. He has received numerous prestigious awards, including being named a 2016 Doris Duke Artist, 2016 and 2018 Jazz Pianist of the Year by the Jazz Journalist Association, and the 2017 Prix Honorem de Jazz from L’Acádemie Charles Charles Cros for his outstanding career.

Hersch, known for his expressive interpretation and inventive creativity, will be accompanied by the Grammy-winning quartet ETHEL for his much-anticipated return to Samueli Theater. Comprising Ralph Farris (viola), Kip Jones (violin), Dorothy Lawson (cello), and Corin Lee (violin), ETHEL brings a fusion of uptown panache and downtown genre mashup, contributing to what promises to be a memorable and harmonious evening of music.

On March 16-17, 2024, families and children are in for a magical experience at Paper Planet, where a world made entirely of paper awaits. Within the enchanting forest of tall cardboard trees, participants are encouraged to let their imaginations soar. Using only paper, tape, and their creative minds, they come together to craft a beautiful world filled with creatures, plants, costumes, characters, stories, and adventures.

This interactive experience unfolds as a collaborative effort, with each family contributing to the growth and evolution of Paper Planet. Every session is a unique journey where imaginations run wild and play takes center stage. Children have the freedom to choose how they engage with the performers and each other—some may immerse themselves in quiet crafting, while others prefer to play and explore.

Paper Planet, produced by Polyglot Theatre, is a child-led, deeply engaging, and highly sensory experience that promises to bring joy and delight to the entire family.

From March 19 to 31, 2024, Orange County welcomes the electrifying experience of MJ The Musical, a Tony Award®-winning production that delves into the making of the 1992 Dangerous World Tour. Created by Director/Choreographer Christopher Wheeldon and Pulitzer Prize winner Lynn Nottage, the musical goes beyond Michael Jackson’s iconic moves and signature sound, providing a rare glimpse into the creative mind and collaborative spirit that propelled him to legendary status. MJ is set to make its Orange County premiere, bringing the unparalleled artistry of the greatest entertainer of all time to the stage.

On March 23-24, 2024, embark on a magical journey with The University of Wonder & Imagination. Enrolling students of all ages and magical abilities, this interactive theater experience invites you to assemble with fellow students at the most unusual of universities. Guided by the mysterious Professor Bamberg, you will make choices that shape your unique course, interact with lively lecturers, choose subjects of study, enter themed rooms, and solve problems and puzzles, unlocking magical powers along the way.

Celebrate A BROADWAY BIRTHDAY on March 28, 2024, as Broadway’s two foremost composers, Andrew Lloyd Webber and Stephen Sondheim, share a birthday on March 22. To honor their unparalleled contributions to musical theatre, a lineup of Broadway stars, including Tony-winning legend Betty Buckley, TV star and OCSA Hall of Fame alumni Matthew Morrison, Center favorite Liz Callaway, Alex Joseph Grayson from the revival of Parade, and stars Aaron Lazar and Kerry O’Malley, will perform favorite songs and introduce new gems. Don’t miss this one-night-only event celebrating the musical legacies of these two iconic composers.