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UCI Opera and Symphony Present Puccini’s Suor Angelica at Irvine Barclay Theatre

05.06.25

Experience the emotional power of Puccini’s Suor Angelica as UCI Opera and UCI Symphony bring a modern, staged production to the Irvine Barclay Theatre on Saturday, May 10, at 8 p.m.

Set in a 17th-century Tuscan convent, Suor Angelica tells the heartbreaking story of Sister Angelica, a noble-born nun who has spent seven years behind convent walls after bearing an illegitimate child. When her steely aunt finally arrives with devastating news, the opera builds to one of Puccini’s most shattering revelations—culminating in a transcendent finale of tragedy and redemption. Through Puccini’s luminous score, this one-act masterpiece delivers a stirring tale of maternal love, loss, and grace.

The performance, directed and designed by Andreas Mitisek, conducted by Dr. Geoffrey Pope, with Dr. Yuliya Minina as assistant music director, will be sung in Italian with supertitles. Approximate run time is one hour with no intermission.

Tickets are $21 general admission; $18 for seniors (62+), UCI faculty, alumni, staff, emeriti, retirees, and groups of 10 or more; $16 with an Arts Package (three or more events); and $10 for students and youth age 17 and under.

Generous support for this production is provided by the Opera Guild and the Marjorie and Robert Rawlins Endowment Fund.

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A Weekend Escape to Catalina Island Just Got Even Better

05.04.25

Just a short ferry ride from Orange County, Catalina Island makes the perfect weekend escape—with scenic views, laid-back charm, and now, even more to experience. Whether you're craving ocean breezes, outdoor adventures, or great food and drink, Catalina has something new (and nostalgic) in store.

Catalina Horseback Adventures Are Back

After a 17-year hiatus, horseback riding has returned to Catalina Island. Catalina Horseback Adventures now offers scenic rides for visitors and locals alike, ranging from 45 to 90 minutes. Riders can expect panoramic ocean views from clifftops, tranquil valleys, hillsides, and even the occasional sighting of deer or island foxes.

The revival of horseback riding on the island draws on a longstanding tradition dating back to the 1930s, when the Wrigley family—then-owners of Catalina—established El Rancho Escondido. Located 12 miles outside Avalon, the Arabian horse-breeding ranch still operates today and is often open for Saturday tours.

Sip Island-Made Brews at Catalina Brewhouse

Catalina Brewhouse is the island’s only craft brewery, serving six small-batch beers created by brewmaster Danny Gutierrez. Popular picks include the Gariblonariblondie Blond, Rabid Fox Amber, Island Hop IPA, Lovers Cove Wheat, Dancing Goat Harbor Porter, and Buffalo Milk Stout. Each brew features a distinct flavor profile and malt aroma—click here to learn more.

Waterfront Dining at Pier 24

Pier 24 is Avalon’s newest waterfront dining spot, located where Antonio’s Pizza once stood. The modern restaurant pays tribute to the original Steamer Pier—where passengers aboard William Wrigley’s iconic vessels, the S.S. Avalon and S.S. Catalina, once disembarked. Vintage photographs, playful nods to island history, and large harbor-facing windows set the scene, while two patios invite guests to enjoy open-air dining with postcard-worthy views of the Catalina Casino and Avalon Bay.

Casual Fare at Sunset Bar & Grill

Sunset Bar & Grill at the Catalina Canyon Inn is now open daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The casual eatery offers a mix of American and Mexican favorites, plus a full bar. Don’t miss the house specialty michelada. The restaurant is operated by Catalina hospitality veterans Francisco and Veronica Bravo and Miguel Chavolla.

Explore Avalon by Golf Cart

Get a local’s perspective on Avalon with custom guided golf cart tours. These 2-hour (or longer) experiences combine history, sightseeing, and local insights. Space is limited, so early reservations are encouraged.

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