American Ballet Theatre’s ‘The Nutcracker’ Returns to Segerstrom Hall

American Ballet Theatre’s beloved production of The Nutcracker returns to Segerstrom Hall December 11–21, 2025, accompanied by Pacific Symphony, for its 10th season at the Center.

Praised by the Los Angeles Times as “ravishing and clever enough to inspire multiple viewings” and called “jaw-droppingly beautiful” by the Orange County Register, this holiday favorite features choreography by Alexei Ratmansky, one of today’s most celebrated choreographers. The production dazzles with stunning sets and costumes by Tony Award winner Richard Hudson and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score performed live by Pacific Symphony.

The story follows young Clara, who receives a nutcracker doll at her family’s Christmas party. That night, in her dreams, the doll transforms into a handsome prince and whisks her away on a magical adventure through a world of dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, and a battle between toy soldiers and a mischievous mouse army. More than 100 performers bring this enchanting tale to life on stage.

A treasured holiday tradition for Southern California audiences, The Nutcracker is a joyful celebration for the whole family.

VIP Sweet Seats
A limited number of Sweet Seats are available for all performances. Each ticket includes prime orchestra seating, a Segerstrom Center keepsake ornament, a Nutcracker collectible poster, Läderach chocolates, a holiday cookie, and a commemorative 10th anniversary tote bag, creating an elevated holiday experience.

Segerstrom Center for the Arts
600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa
scfta.org | Box Office: 714.556.2787 | Group Sales: 714.755.0236

QUA Brings Contemporary Chinese Cuisine to Fountain Valley

Kei Concepts has opened its newest concept, QUA Contemporary Chinese Cuisine, in Fountain Valley. This distinctive restaurant stands apart in the Kei Concepts family. Chef and founder Viet Nguyen created QUA as a tribute to family, memory and the flavors that shaped his life.

“For years, I created what people asked for,” says Nguyen. “This time, I’m sharing something from my own life. These are the dishes I grew up eating — meals shared with family, neighbors, and friends. The flavors that shaped me.”

QUA honors Nguyen’s grandmother, Vũ Thị Lan, who raised ten children on her own after fleeing Northern Vietnam. Her simple, nourishing meals are the inspiration behind the restaurant’s warm approach to dining. Her values of resilience, care, and togetherness guide everything QUA serves.

The menu draws from Chợ Lớn, Saigon’s historic Chinatown, blending Chinese cuisine with Vietnamese influence. Dishes are served banquet style to encourage conversation and sharing. The menu has two parts: Vietnamese Chinese staples such as roast meats, oyster pancakes, hủ tiếu noodles, and Hainanese chicken rice, along with a rotating selection called Grandma Vũ’s Menu that highlights dishes she once cooked for her family.

An inventive cocktail program and seasonal pantry items, including mooncakes, Tết sticky rice cakes, saté paste, kaya jam, and dessert kits, complement the menu and story.

With 9,000 square feet, 15 foot ceilings, and seating for nearly 190 guests, QUA is designed for lively gatherings. A 32 seat bar forms the energy of the room with private dining spaces and a patio surrounding it. Award winning HBA led the interior design with botanical textures, jewel tones, and Nguyen’s family photographs that celebrate everyday life and heritage.

In Vietnamese, QUA means “to overcome,” a reflection of resilience and cultural identity.

“This isn’t about business strategy,” Nguyen says. “It’s a love letter to my parents — and to anyone who knows what home tastes like.”

Kei Concepts, the Orange County group behind SÚP Noodle Bar, VOX Kitchen, NEP Cafe, and more, continues to push pan Asian dining forward while building community and supporting local innovation.

Wednesday through Sunday: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Monday and Tuesday: Closed

16121 Brookhurst St, Fountain Valley. (657) 300-8391

A New Chapter for Lido House in Newport Beach

Lido House is introducing enhancements that bring even more character and coastal charm to the property.

The first reveal is The Glass House, a 540-square-foot, light-filled venue that opened this summer on the Newport Lawn. Designed to connect indoor and outdoor spaces, it features floor-to-ceiling windows, modern architectural lines, and a bright, airy setting ideal for intimate weddings, celebrations, creative pop-ups, private dinners, and small corporate events.

Also new is The Boardwalk, a 900-square-foot breakout and meeting venue that blends coastal style with smart functionality. Just steps from the Boathouse Ballroom, The Boardwalk gives planners a versatile space for strategy meetings, small-group gatherings, and dual breakout sessions.

With nearly 17,000 square feet of indoor and outdoor event venues, a best-in-class events team, and these new additions, Lido House remains one of Southern California’s most stylish destinations for weddings, meetings, and social celebrations.

3300 Newport Blvd., Newport Beach. (949) 524-8500