Greer's OC

Irvine Barclay Theatre Kicks off New Year with Diverse Performances

Irvine Barclay Theatre is kicking off the year with an exciting lineup featuring a diverse array of speakers, performers, and Grammy winners. Please take note that the John Malkovich performance of The Infernal Comedy, initially scheduled for February, is being rescheduled due to a conflict with his filming schedule following the end of the SAG/AFTRA strike.

Thursday, Jan. 11, 2024, 8 p.m. – A Conversation with Anne Lamott Join Anne Lamott, a writer who fearlessly tackles subjects like Alcoholism, Motherhood, Jesus, Loss, Power, Truth, and Enjoyment, all with self-effacing humor. In this moderated conversation, Lamott will delve into her perspective on living life, the art of writing, and insights from her latest book, "Dusk, Night, Dawn: On Revival and Courage." Lamott, a California Hall of Fame inductee, is a renowned author of seven novels, autobiographical essays, and bestsellers, including the iconic "Bird by Bird: Some Instructions on Writing and Life." She's been honored with a Guggenheim Fellowship, and her Salon magazine online diary "Word by Word" was named "The Best of the Web" by TIME magazine. Don't miss this captivating event at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Friday, Jan. 12, 2024, 8 p.m. – Back at It! A Tribute to the Terry Gibbs Dream Band Experience the legacy of the Terry Gibbs Dream Band, celebrated as the "Best Band in the World" in DownBeat's 1959 Critics' Poll. Led by the 98-year-young jazz legend Terry Gibbs, this band was a powerhouse in the late '50s and early '60s, featuring top jazz musicians. The West Coast Jazz Hour Big Band, led by Josh Nelson and Kevin van den Elzen, pays homage to this rich jazz tradition with outstanding performances. Enjoy the extraordinary vibes of Nick Mancini and the vocals of Sarah Vaughan Jazz competition winner, Tawanda, in this special concert at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Wednesday, Jan. 17, 2024, 8 p.m. – Step Afrika! Step Afrika! is the world's first professional dance company dedicated to the art of stepping. Their performances are a blend of percussive dance styles, traditional African dances, contemporary forms, songs, storytelling, and audience engagement. Founded in 1994, Step Afrika! is among the top five African American dance companies in the United States, offering a unique and energetic artistic experience. Join the rhythm, laughter, and spirit of Step Afrika! at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Sunday, Jan. 21, 2024, 5 p.m. – Trio Barclay: Ravel’s Piano Trio In their second performance of the season, Trio Barclay presents Ravel's Piano Trio, a masterpiece blending Baroque, jazz, and Basque folk music influences. This work, written in 1914, is a defining piece for piano trios and has been celebrated for over a century. Trio Barclay, Irvine Barclay Theatre's Ensemble-in-Residence, led by violinist Dennis Kim, brings this extraordinary composition to life.

Thursday, Jan. 26, 2024, 8 p.m. – Amy Hanaiali'i - Palehua 25th Anniversary Tour Join Hawai’i’s top-selling female vocalist, Amy Hanaiali'i, on her Palehua 25th Anniversary Tour. With six Grammy nominations and 18 Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, Amy is a significant force for Hawaiian culture. Her music blends ancient language with diverse styles, bringing the beauty of Hawai'i to the world. Don't miss this chance to experience her remarkable talent at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024, 8 p.m. – Lucie Arnaz: I Got the Job! Songs from My Musical Past Lucie Arnaz, a seasoned performer, takes us on a journey through her illustrious career on stage. From her early role as the Cheshire Cat in "Alice in Wonderland" to her captivating performances in iconic Broadway and pop songs, Lucie shares stories, memories, and music from her theatrical experiences. Join her for a memorable evening celebrating American musical theatre at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024, 7 p.m. – Smokey & Me: A Celebration of Smokey Robinson Inspired by a backstage meeting between Charl Brown and Smokey Robinson during the production of Motown: The Musical, "Smokey & Me" is a two-act story of a life in musical theater. Act One pays tribute to Smokey Robinson, featuring his greatest hits, while Act Two explores Charl Brown's own journey through Broadway history. It's an entertaining celebration of music and theater that you won't want to miss at Irvine Barclay Theatre.

For tickets or more information about these exciting events, please visit www.thebarclay.org or call (949) 854-4646.