Step into the vibrant world of Jaja’s African Hair Braiding, a beloved Harlem hotspot where West African immigrant braiders work their magic on the locals’ locks. Amidst the lively buzz of a scorching summer, love ignites, dreams soar, and secrets unravel. But beneath the surface lies a current of uncertainty, pushing this close-knit community to confront the challenges of being outsiders in their own neighborhood. From the pen of acclaimed Ghanaian American playwright Jocelyn Bioh (Goddess, School Girls; Or, The African Mean Girls Play) and directed by Obie winner Whitney White, Jaja’s African Hair Braiding is “a play that is equally affecting as it is hilarious,” hails Entertainment Weekly.

EPSG:4326

Jaja’s African Hair Braiding

Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Theatrical powerhouse Mary Zimmerman (Metamorphoses, The Arabian Nights, The White Snake) triumphantly returns to Berkeley Rep with a mesmerizing adaptation of Mozart’s iconic Magic Flute, using only 10 singers and five musicians. Join Tamino on a daring quest to rescue the captive princess Pamina. Encounter dragons, birdmen, and trials by fire in this enchanting microcosm of wonder where magic and music intertwine. Hailed as “a box of treasures, a haze of marvels, a banquet of dreams,” by The Chicago Reader, The Matchbox Magic Flute will transport you to realms of imagination and wonder.

The Matchbox Magic Flute

Join us for an evening of unparalleled musical artistry as Maxim Vengerov, the Russian-born violin virtuoso, graces the stage of Zellerbach Hall on November 23, 2024, at 8 pm. Accompanied by the talented pianist Polina Osetinskaya, this recital promises to be a showcase of blazing virtuosity and breathtaking expressiveness that have defined Vengerov's illustrious career. From his early days as a child prodigy in Siberia to his international acclaim as a Grammy and Gramophone Award winner, Vengerov's journey has been marked by his rich, focused sound, immaculate technique, and the profound sense of meaning he brings to every note.

The evening's program features a selection of works that span the breadth of the classical music spectrum, including C. Schumann's "Three Romances for Violin and Piano, Op. 22," Brahms' "Scherzo from F-A-E Sonata," R. Schumann's "Violin Sonata No. 3 in A minor," and Prokofiev's "Five Melodies, Op. 35" and "Violin Sonata No. 2 in D major, Op. 94a." This repertoire not only highlights Vengerov's technical prowess but also his deep musicality and interpretative depth.

Tickets for this not-to-be-missed performance start at $40, with season subscriptions available from April 23 and single tickets going on sale on August 6. Major support for this performance is provided by Lance and Dalia Nagel, with additional support from The Sir Jack Lyons Charitable Trust.

Prepare to be captivated by the artistry of Maxim Vengerov and Polina Osetinskaya in a recital that promises to be a highlight of the Cal Performances 2024-25 season.

Maxim Vengerov, violin Polina Osetinskaya, piano

University of California, Berkeley

Kurt Erickson Ten-Year Composer-in-Residence Celebration!

First Church of Christ Scientist

Old First Presbyterian Church

Disney Concerts Presents Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert

Join us for a magical afternoon that promises to be a perfect outing for the whole family. Disney Concerts brings the beloved animated film "Encanto" to life in an extraordinary sing-along film concert. This interactive performance and screening will feature live music by Banda de la Casita, immersing you in the enchanting world of the Madrigals, a family living in a magical town in the mountains of Colombia. Unlike her family members who each possess unique magical powers, Mirabel discovers her own special talents as she embarks on a heroic journey to save her village from looming danger.

The event will showcase the Academy Award and Grammy-winning soundtrack of "Encanto," including eight original songs by the acclaimed Tony- and Grammy-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda, and an original score by Grammy winner Germaine Franco. Fans are encouraged to dress up as their favorite characters and sing along to chart-topping hits like "We Don’t Talk About Bruno" and "Surface Pressure."

Event Details:
- Date: November 24, 2024
- Time: Performances at 1pm & 5pm
- Location: Zellerbach Hall
- Ticket Pricing: Starts at $40
- Season Subscriptions: On sale now
- Single Tickets: Available from noon, August 6

For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit [Cal Performances](https://calperformances.org/events/2024-25/family/disney-concerts-presents-encanto-the-sing-along-film-concert/).

Don't miss this unforgettable experience where the magic of "Encanto" and the power of music come together in a spectacular family-friendly concert.

Disney Concerts Presents Encanto: The Sing-Along Film Concert

**Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical at the Outdoor Forest Theater**

This holiday season, the Pacific Repertory Theater is proud to present a heartwarming musical adaptation of the beloved TV classic, "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer." Directed by Susanne Burns, this enchanting production is set to captivate audiences of all ages from November 25th to December 17th, 2023, at the picturesque Outdoor Forest Theater in Carmel.

**Event Details:**
- **Dates:** November 25 - December 17, 2023
- **Showtimes:** Saturday and Sunday Matinees at 3 PM
- **Venue:** Outdoor Forest Theater, Carmel

Join Rudolph, Santa and Mrs. Claus, Hermey the Elf, Bumble the Abominable Snow Monster, Clarice, Yukon Cornelius, and a host of other cherished characters as they embark on an adventure that celebrates the uniqueness in all of us. "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical" promises to be a fun-filled experience, delivering a powerful message about how our differences make us special.

**Ticket Information:**
Tickets are now on sale and can be purchased online at [Pacific Repertory Theater's website](https://ci.ovationtix.com/35556). Don't miss the opportunity to make this wonderful holiday tradition a part of your family's festivities.

**Venue Information:**
To ensure a pleasant theater-going experience, guests are encouraged to arrive early. The Outdoor Forest Theater offers a unique ambiance with performances beginning at 7:30 PM from Thursday to Saturday and Sunday matinees at 4:00 PM. Seating starts sixty minutes prior to showtime. Please note that parking is limited, and there is no reserved seating. Guests are allowed to bring food and drink, including alcohol, to enjoy from their seats, with concessions also available for purchase.

**Safety Protocols:**
The Pacific Repertory Theater is committed to the safety of its visitors, performers, and employees. Detailed information about the theater's COVID-19 safety protocols can be found on their website. By attending, guests voluntarily assume all risks related to exposure to COVID-19.

For more information on "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical," including ticket purchases, directions to the venue, and more, please visit the Pacific Repertory Theater's website or contact the box office at 831-622-0100.

Make your holiday season unforgettable with a visit to the Outdoor Forest Theater to see "Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical." It's an adventure that speaks to the misfit in all of us and a celebration of what makes each of us unique.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer: The Musical

Pacific Repertory Theatre

Experience the magic of Pilobolus' re:CREATION during the 2024-25 Season, a captivating dance performance that invites audiences into a world where the imagination soars without limits. This retrospective production blurs the lines between gravity and creativity, offering an intimate glimpse into the essence of the creative process. Following a successful three-week summer residency at the Joyce Theater in New York, Pilobolus embarks on a nationwide tour, showcasing their celebrated collection of repertory to audiences across the country.

re:CREATION is more than just a dance performance; it's a transformative journey of reinvention. Audiences, alongside the artists, will rediscover, redefine, and recreate timeless narratives, exploring new visions of history, myth, and the innate human need for expression. As noted by Robert Krulwich, host of NPR’s Radiolab, Pilobolus doesn't just dance; they tell stories that captivate and inspire.

This special performance will take place at Zellerbach Hall over Thanksgiving Weekend, with shows on November 30th at 2pm and 8pm, and December 1st at 3pm. Tickets start at $36, with season subscriptions available now and single tickets going on sale at noon on August 6th.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness the innovative and boundary-pushing artistry of Pilobolus during their re:CREATION tour. It's an odyssey of artistic exploration that promises to engage, entertain, and enlighten.

Pilobolus

Cal Performances

Designed for young audiences, "Nutcracker Sweet" features the acrobatic antics of The Puppet Company’s miniature cast accompanied by the SFCO performing highlights from Tchaikovsky's beloved ballet. A firebreathing dragon, confetti and a show-and-tell of the different puppet types highlight this 40 minute gem. Join us for this joyful Thanksgiving Weekend tradition!

Nutcracker Sweet with the Puppet Company

Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse

Mitchell Park Library

Noe Valley Ministry

Our annual choreography showcase features student-created solos and duets that draw on an exciting range of dance styles, influences, and ideas.

Fall Choreography Showcase

Celebrate the warmth and joy of the season with the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus at our beloved Bay Area tradition, Holiday Spectacular 2024! On December 6 and 7 at the Sydney Goldstein Theater, expect 90 minutes filled with festive cheer, unforgettable music, and plenty of humor that will have you laughing out loud and singing along. This year’s theme, “Together,” embodies the spirit of community, love, and connection that pours from the stage in every note.

Holiday Spectacular

San Francisco Symphony

Sydney Goldstein Theater

Sonoma State University

**Cabaret: Felonious - A Hip Hop Theatre Experience**

**Dates:** December 6-7 & 13-14, 2024  
**Location:** Aurora Theatre (Specific address details available on the official website)  
**Tickets:** Available for purchase online. Options for single tickets and Flex Pass available.

Join us at the Aurora Theatre for a groundbreaking evening with "Cabaret: Felonious," part of our exciting 2024/2025 Season lineup. This unique event promises to blend the raw energy of hip hop with the immersive storytelling of theatre, creating an unforgettable experience.

**Featuring:**  
- Carlos Aguirre aka Infinite  
- Keith Pinto  
- Tommy Shepherd aka Emcee Soulati  
- Dan Wolf  

Together, these Bay Area artists form the backbone of the hip hop theater collective, Felonious. With over 25 years of experience, Felonious has been at the forefront of the Bay Area theater and music scene, crafting productions that are not only entertaining but also deeply meaningful. Their work often explores the stories of marginalized communities, using the power of hip hop to engage, provoke, and inspire.

**About the Show:**  
"Cabaret: Felonious" is more than just a performance; it's an experience. The show features a mix of live hip hop musical performances, award-winning theater productions, and a dynamic fusion of rappers, actors, beatboxers, musicians, dancers, and writers. Expect an evening that will make you think, feel, and move as Felonious turns hip hop into electrifying musical theater.

**Why You Should Attend:**  
- Experience the innovative blend of hip hop and theater  
- Support local artists and their contributions to socially and politically-conscious art  
- Enjoy a night of thought-provoking entertainment and ass-shaking music  

**Additional Information:**  
For more details on tickets, COVID-19 safety measures, and how to support the Aurora Theatre, please visit our official website. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the power of hip hop theater and the stories it can tell.

Secure your tickets now for "Cabaret: Felonious" and be part of a movement that celebrates culture, community, and the art of storytelling through hip hop.

Cabaret: Felonious

Aurora Theatre

The rich harmonies and musical invention of Bach are just perfect for the holiday season, and in this concert you’ll hear two of his Advent cantatas, including the famous Herz und Mund und Tat und Leben (Heart and mouth and deed and life). You’ll certainly recognize its beautiful and gentle melodies. Alongside the music of Bach are two works by his contemporary Graupner, music of great grace and elegance.

A Bach Christmas

First Congregational Church of Berkeley

War Memorial and Performing Arts Center

Stanford University

**Dorrance Dance: The Nutcracker Suite - A Holiday Classic Reimagined**

**Dates:** December 14-15, 2024  
**Location:** Zellerbach Hall  
**Showtimes:** December 14 at 8:00 PM, December 15 at 3:00 PM  
**Tickets:** Starting at $35  
**Ticket Sales:** Season Subscriptions available now. Single Tickets on sale from August 6, noon.

This holiday season, immerse yourself in a captivating performance as Dorrance Dance presents the Bay Area Premiere of "The Nutcracker Suite" at Zellerbach Hall. Experience a unique blend of explosive tap dance and hot jazz rhythms in this intoxicating production of the beloved holiday classic. 

Artistic Director Michelle Dorrance, along with collaborators Hannah Heller and Josette Wiggan, brings a fresh and imaginative twist to Tchaikovsky's masterpiece. Danced to Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn's marvelously inventive 1960 reinterpretation of the classic score, this version of "The Nutcracker Suite" transforms the traditional ballet into a vibrant 21st-century spectacle. 

Watch as the Sugar Plum Fairy becomes the slinky Sugar Rum Cherry, the March of the Toy Soldiers turns into a swinging brass Peanut Brittle Brigade romp, and the original ballet’s pageant of national dances receives a modern-day makeover. The New York Times praises the orchestrations as "playful, surprising, imaginative," with Dorrance and her collaborators responding in kind to create a truly unforgettable performance.

Don't miss this opportunity to kick off your holiday season with a show that amazes, entertains, and uplifts. Secure your tickets early and prepare to be dazzled by the artistry and innovation of Dorrance Dance's "The Nutcracker Suite."

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit [Cal Performances](https://calperformances.org/events/2024-25/dance/dorrance-dance-the-nutcracker-suite/).

Dorrance Dance

Join us for an exquisite afternoon of music as Lithuanian soprano Asmik Grigorian, hailed for her electrifying performances and velvet-wrapped steel voice, graces the stage at Hertz Hall. Accompanied by the talented pianist Lukas Geniušas, Grigorian will make a rare U.S. appearance, presenting an all-Russian-language debut recital for Cal Performances. This special event is set to take place on December 15, 2024, from 3:00 pm to 4:30 pm.

The program promises an intimate exploration of the Russian romantic repertoire, featuring rarely heard songs described by Grigorian as "small pieces of opera in a few minutes." Audiences can look forward to an emotional journey through the works of Tchaikovsky and Rachmaninoff, including beloved pieces such as "None but the Lonely Heart" by Tchaikovsky and "Spring Waters" by Rachmaninoff, among others. Each selection showcases the depth of Russian romanticism, from the poignant melodies to the rich, expressive harmonies.

Tickets for this captivating recital start at $78, with season subscriptions available from April 23 and single tickets going on sale on August 6. Don't miss the opportunity to witness Asmik Grigorian's Cal Performances debut, an event made possible in part by S. Shariq Yosufzai and Brian James. Experience the power of Grigorian's voice as she and Geniušas bring to life the soul-stirring beauty of Russian song in the intimate setting of Hertz Hall.

Asmik Grigorian, soprano Lukas Geniušas, piano

Al Jardine, guitarist, vocalist and songwriter, and best known for being one of the founding members of the California-based group The Beach Boys, will perform two fundraising concerts with his Endless Summer Band on Tuesday Dec 17 and Wednesday Dec 18, 2024, at the intimate Golden Bough Playhouse, home of Pacific Repertory Theatre, in the seaside village of Carmel-by-the-Sea, California.

Beach Boy Al Jardine and his Endless Summer Band

Join the San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus for a dazzling Holiday Spectacular on December 21, 2024, at 5:00 pm in the iconic Zellerbach Hall. This annual tradition promises an evening filled with holiday carols, satirical sketches, and an array of festive attire from ugly Christmas sweaters to Santa outfits, complemented by guest dancers and drag artists. Revel in nostalgic classics like "Little Drummer Boy," "Sleigh Ride," and "Deck the Halls," alongside holiday pop hits from George Michael, the Jackson 5, and the Manhattan Transfer, not to mention hilarious parodies that will have you laughing all night long.

This heartfelt and humorous celebration is a testament to the community and holiday spirit unique to the Bay Area. Given the sell-out success of last season's concert, early ticket purchase is highly recommended to ensure your spot at this beloved holiday event. Tickets start at $40, with season subscriptions available from April 23 and single tickets on sale from August 6. Don’t miss out on this spectacular blend of music, comedy, and holiday cheer.

San Francisco Gay Men’s Chorus

**Jersey Boys at Pacific Repertory Theater**

This winter, the Pacific Repertory Theater is thrilled to present the Tony, Grammy, and Olivier Award-Winning Best Musical, *Jersey Boys - The Story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons*. Directed by Stephen Moorer, with choreography by Joe Neeson and musical direction by Desma Johnson, this production is set to captivate audiences at the newly renovated Golden Bough Theatre in Carmel.

**Event Details:**
- **Dates:** November 14 - December 22, 2024
- **Venue:** Golden Bough Theatre, Carmel
- **Showtimes:** Thursday through Saturday at 7:30 pm, and Sunday at 3:00 pm

*Jersey Boys* offers an electrifying behind-the-music story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, from their humble beginnings on the streets of Newark to the heights of stardom. Experience their journey to the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame with performances of hits like "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry," "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," and more.

**Ticket Information:**
Tickets will be available soon. For more information on purchasing tickets, please visit [Pacific Repertory Theater's website](https://ci.ovationtix.com/35556).

**Venue Information:**
- Seating opens 30 minutes prior to showtime.
- Parking is limited to street parking; early arrival is recommended.
- Concessions will be on sale.
- Only licensed service animals are allowed.

**Additional Information:**
For any inquiries or further details, please contact the Box Office at 831-622-0100. Join us for a memorable night at PacRep's *Jersey Boys* live on stage, and witness the incredible story of four guys bound by one dream, making it to the top without forgetting where they came from.

Jersey Boys

MainStage 2: Celebration and Hope

First United Methodist Church-Palo

San Francisco War Memorial & Performing Arts Center

Praised by The New York Times as “one of the most admired pianists of his generation,” Inon Barnatan joins New Century for a program of music written to distract from life’s challenges. Experience C.P.E. Bach's dramatic third keyboard concerto, blending melancholy with bursts of impeccable brilliance. Rich with iconic musical allusions, Dmitri Shostakovich’s delightfully madcap first piano concerto also features a solo trumpet, performed by Brandon Ridenour from the American Brass Quintet, which adds punctuation to the vibrant score. Bela Bartók's Divertimento, with its jubilant Hungarian folk rhythms, reflects a sunny interlude in Switzerland before the composer’s relocation to the U.S. This captivating musical adventure, full of witty melodies and unexpected twists, will brighten your spirits during the darkest time of the year.

Musical Diversions:

Presidio Theatre Performing Arts Center

Experience the electrifying fusion of cinema and live music at Cal Performances with "Antonio Sánchez: Birdman LIVE." This unique event, set for January 18, 2025, at 8:00 pm in the iconic Zellerbach Hall, celebrates the 10th anniversary of the Academy Award-winning Best Picture, "Birdman." Renowned jazz drummer Antonio Sánchez, whose dynamic and largely improvised solo drum score earned a Grammy, BAFTA, and a Critic’s Choice Award, will perform live, providing a thrilling soundtrack to the film screening.

Sánchez's performance is not just a musical act but a vital component of the film's narrative, offering a deep dive into the psychological turmoil of the protagonist, played by Michael Keaton. His drumming acts as a companion, counterweight, and commentary, adding a layer of intensity and emotion to the cinematic experience. The Guardian praises Sánchez for injecting "the volatile tempos of New York City" into the film, mapping out the characters' emotions with precision and an almost lack of sentimentality.

Tickets for this one-of-a-kind event start at $36, with season subscriptions available now and single tickets going on sale at noon on August 6. Don't miss this opportunity to witness the fusion of film and live music in a performance that promises to be as unforgettable as the film itself. For more information and to secure your tickets, visit the Cal Performances website.

Events in Berkeley, CA

Jaja’s African Hair Braid...

Berkeley Repertory Theatre

The Matchbox Magic Flute

Berkeley Repertory Theatre

Maxim Vengerov, violin Po...

Cal Performances

Kurt Erickson Ten-Year Co...

Lieder Alive

Disney Concerts Presents ...

Cal Performances

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Rei...

Pacific Repertory Theatre

Pilobolus

Cal Performances

Nutcracker Sweet with the...

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra

Fall Choreography Showcas...

UC Berkeley Department of Theater, Dance...

Holiday Spectacular

San Francisco Gay Men's Chorus

Cabaret: Felonious

Aurora Theatre Company

A Bach Christmas

Philharmonia Baroque Orchestra and Chora...

Dorrance Dance

Cal Performances

Asmik Grigorian, soprano ...

Cal Performances

Beach Boy Al Jardine and ...

Pacific Repertory Theatre

San Francisco Gay Men’s C...

Cal Performances

Jersey Boys

Pacific Repertory Theatre

MainStage 2: Celebration ...

San Francisco Chamber Orchestra

Musical Diversions:

New Century Chamber Orchestra

Antonio Sánchez Birdman L...

Cal Performances