Prepare to embark on a journey through a dynamic season of theatrical performances at CCAE Theatricals in Escondido, California. From intimate evenings under the stars to Broadway-inspired concerts, a series of five captivating events will unfold from May to September 2025. Join celebrated artists like Leonard Patton and Yvette Gonzalez Nacer, and immerse yourself in shows that promise a blend of classic charm and modern flair. With each event offering its unique allure, it's time to mark your calendars and experience performances that echo both creativity and passion.

A Season of Theatrical Wonders at CCAE: Unforgettable Performances Await

In 2025, CCAE Theatricals invites audiences on a musical journey through an extraordinary lineup of performances in Escondido, California. From tributes to iconic songwriters and festive celebrations to emerging playwright showcases, this year's events promise to captivate, entertain, and inspire. With performances spanning multiple genres and featuring both celebrated artists and rising stars, CCAE Theatricals creates a rich tapestry of theatrical experiences. Join us as we explore the highlights and unique offerings that make this season a must-see for theater lovers and music aficionados alike.

CCAE Theatricals 2025: A Year of Diverse Melodies and Stories

Get ready for a year filled with incredible performances at CCAE Theatricals! In 2025, audiences in Escondido, CA, and beyond will be treated to an eclectic mix of musicals, concerts, and festivals. Highlights include 'There's a Place for Us,' a musical revue celebrating iconic Jewish composers, and 'Piano Men' featuring the timeless music of Elton John and Billy Joel. From Broadway tributes to Christmas swing, this year's lineup promises unforgettable experiences for every theater lover.

A Year of Theatrical Wonders: CCAE Theatricals 2025 Lineup

CCAE Theatricals is set to stage an exhilarating lineup of events throughout 2025, offering an eclectic mix of performances that celebrate the rich tapestry of musical theater and cultural contributions. From Broadway tributes and emerging playwrights to iconic performances and festive celebrations, this year promises something for everyone with a passion for the arts. Join us in Escondido, CA, as we embark on a journey through the melodies of musical legends, the creative genius of new playwrights, and the festive spirit of the holiday season.

CCAE Theatricals 2025: A Year of Musical Celebrations and Cultural Connections

The stage is set for a spectacular lineup of performances that promise to transport audiences back in time while celebrating the best of music and dance. From the classic tunes of the Rat Pack era to the soul-stirring sounds of Motown, and the electrifying dance moves of Broadway, CCAE Theatricals is bringing a series of unforgettable events to California in 2026. These exciting events will take place across esteemed venues, featuring an ensemble of talented artists who are ready to enthrall audiences with their remarkable renditions and performances.

Celebrating Music and Dance: A Journey Through Timeless Performances

Dive into a world of artistic expression and music with Mosaic Rising's showcase of emerging talents and the soulful rhythms of Motown. Experience the electrifying energy of Broadway dance in a series of events that celebrate creativity, mentorship, and the transformative power of performance. Join us as we explore Southern California's vibrant theatrical landscape through engaging performances that captivate and inspire.

Theatrical Excitement: Mosaic Rising and the Magic of Motown & Broadway

Southern California is set to come alive with a series of inspiring events that promise to captivate audiences of all ages. From Mosaic Rising's platform for young theatrical talents to the soulful rhythms of Motown, and the imaginative storytelling of Morris Micklewhite, there is something for everyone. CCAE Theatricals brings these diverse experiences to the stage, each event celebrating creativity, self-expression, and community. Join us in exploring these exciting showcases and the artists behind them, as they shape the future of the performing arts.

The Vibrant Tapestry of Theater and Music in Southern California

March is Motown Month! CCAE Theatricals’ Motown: The Groove that Changed America returns once more to the Center’s Concert Hall in March 2026. The D. Ben-Jamin’ Orchestra and an incredible group of vocalists will have you on your feet with the music of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, Martha and the Vandellas, The Supremes and so many more. This ultimate celebration of Motown music is unlike any other. Audiences rave year after year. Come see what everyone is talking about!

EPSG:4326

Motown: The Groove that Changed America

California Center for the Arts

Mosaic Theatricals proudly presents the annual Mosaic Rising: New Voices Center Stage — an inspiring showcase of the next generation of performers and theatre makers from across Southern California.

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Guided by the mission of the Dorris Staples Theatrical Conservatory, Mosaic Rising expands access to theatrical training and performance opportunities. More than a performance, it’s a platform for mentorship, creativity, and self-expression — illuminating the diverse voices that will shape the future of the American stage.

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Join us Saturday, February 28, 2026, for an unforgettable evening that bridges education and artistry. Featuring emerging artists ages 8 to 18 performing a vibrant mix of Broadway favorites and contemporary hits, Mosaic Rising celebrates imagination, community, and the belief that every young artist deserves a stage to shine.

Mosaic Rising: New Voices Center Stage

The Bornemann Theater

Cocktail Hour: The Songs of The Rat Pack brings the golden age of swing to life with timeless style and charm. Featuring the unforgettable music of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, and Sammy Davis Jr., this classy evening includes powerhouse vocals, the sizzling D. Ben-Jamin Big Band Orchestra and dazzling dance numbers that channel vintage Vegas cool.

Cocktail Hour: The Songs of the Ratpack

Lewis Family Playhouse

CCAE Theatricals brings its annual showcase of some of the area’s brightest Rising Stars back to Escondido in 2026! Now in its 14th year, the show features the best up and coming talent from all over Southern California singing some of the most exciting songs ever written! This is definitely a show you don’t want to miss! With songs from mainstream radio and Broadway, come see why the future of Theatre is in good hands with these exciting young artists!

Rising Stars : 14th Annual Showcase

Celebrate the coming New Year in style! Cocktail Hour: The Songs of the Rat Pack celebrates the songs of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and more. Featuring the vocal stylings of Patrick Barnitt, Joshua Cavanaugh, Jim Graft, Michael Washington and Mel Collins with a live big band orchestra, under the direction of Duane Benjamin. Expect to hear tunes like "All Of Me," "Ain't That a Kick," "That's Life," "Under My Skin," "The Best Is Yet To Come," "My Funny Valentine," and many more!

Swing into the holiday spirit with The D. Ben-jamin’ Orchestra, spectacular singers, professional swing dancers and jazzy new arrangements of Christmas classics by Duane Benjamin. This audience favorite returns in 2025, featuring all your favorite holiday hits, including "Silent Night," "Let It Snow," "Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas," "Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree," "Little Drummer Boy" and more. Plus, a special appearance by Santa Claus!

A Big Band Christmas

Piano Women celebrates the unforgettable contributions of female singer/ songwriters from Sara Bareilles, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones, Carole King and more in this wildly fun spin-off of CCAE Theatricals’ popular Piano Men shows. Featuring 4 dynamic female pianist/vocalists alternating between two grand pianos and backed by an all female band, Piano Women is an incredibly unique and irresistible tribute to some of the best female songwriters.

Piano Women

Piano Women celebrates the unforgettable contributions of female singer /songwriters from Sara Bareilles, Alicia Keys, Norah Jones, Carole King and more in this spin-off of our popular Piano Men shows. Meet our 4 dynamic female performers as they alternate between two grand pianos, backed by a live all female band! We debuted this show in 2024 and we are bringing it back by popular demand!

Join renowned vocalist Leonard Patton for an unforgettable evening celebrating the magic of songwriting. This special concert showcases timeless music from some of history’s most influential songwriters, from Hoagy Carmichael to Bob Dylan to Stevie Wonder to Joni Mitchell and more…brought to life through Leonard’s soulful interpretation and dynamic performance. Experience the power of melody, lyric, and storytelling in a night that honors the songs that have shaped generations.

Leonard Patton

Bellamy's Restaurant

Experience this high octane concert event featuring the music of Elton John and Billy Joel. The amazing cast of piano playing vocalists display their talents on not one, but two grand pianos, backed by a live band. An audience favorite since its inception in 2019, join Benny, Jack, Allen and Jake as they seamlessly weave their way through countless hits by these two iconic singer/songwriters. Book your seats today for this spectacular display of theatrical showmanship, as these incredible musicians bring the songs of Billy Joel & Elton John to life as only these four Piano Men can!

Piano Men: The Music of Elton John & Billy Joel

From Broadway With Love YVETTE GONZALEZ NACER

CCAE Theatricals

Presented and produced by the Dorris Staples Theatrical Conservatory apprentice team, this festival is a vibrant celebration of storytelling, creativity, and community in Northern San Diego County. Join us this August for an inspiring event dedicated to nurturing unique and diverse voices and building new community connections through immersive theatrical experiences. The festival features staged readings of bold new works from emerging playwrights, offering audiences a unique opportunity to witness the development of fresh, exciting plays.

2025 Staged Reading Festival

The Grand Ritz Theater

NIC & DESI Broadway to Hollywood

Broadway's greatest melodies take center stage in There's a Place for Us, a dazzling new musical revue honoring the legendary Jewish composers and lyricists who shaped the American musical theater. From the soaring anthems of Stephen Sondheim and Leonard Bernstein to the heartfelt ballads of Rodgers & Hammerstein, to the jazzy rhythms of George and Ira Gershwin to the electrifying showstoppers of Stephen Schwartz, this concert, co-produced by JFest and CCAE Theatricals, showcases the unforgettable music that has defined generations of theatergoers.

There's a Place for Us

Lawrence Family Jewish Community Center

Me, Myself & Barbra

Under the stars at Bellamy's Fine Dining & Restaurant. Doors open at 5:30p

Stan Dard Mel

One rainy night, siblings Sam and Kris are completely consumed by their devices as their father sets up a pillow fort and invites them to play Lotería. His invitation is met with a resounding “NO.” When the internet goes out, Sam and Kris are outraged. Where is their Dad to fix it?! The kids soon discover that the pillow fort is a magical portal to the world of Lotería and their father is trapped inside the game. Sam and Kris set out to bring him back, but Lotería will not let him go so easily. Conceived as an interactive experience, ¡Lotería: Game On! invites the audience to join Sam and Kris as they play to win back their father.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Mexican traditions of a kermés - a festive celebration filled with exciting games, hands-on activities, lively music, and delicious food. Don’t miss this fun-filled community event for all ages!

¡Lotería: Game On!

CCAE Theatricals’ Motown: The Groove That Changed America returns for another incredible weekend of performances in March 2025. The D. Ben-Jamin’ Band will blow the roof off the Concert Hall once again with a live string and horn section backing an all star cast of vocalists. You won’t want to miss our annual celebration of Motown!! It’s the talk of the town.

Winner of the 2015 Tony Award for Best New Play, The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time is a “dazzling, pulse-pounding and remarkable” (Time Out New York) adaptation of Mark Haddon’s internationally best-selling novel. Fifteen-year-old Christopher has an extraordinary brain and is very gifted at math. He is exceptionally intelligent, but unfortunately ill-equipped to interpret everyday life. When he falls under suspicion for killing the neighbor’s dog, Christopher is determined to identify the culprit in true Sherlock Holmes style, which leads him on a thrilling journey across London that will change his life forever. A thrilling, heartwarming and uplifting theatrical event!

The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time

CCAE Theatricals will bring this annual showcase of some of the area’s brightest Rising Stars back to Escondido in 2025! Now in its 13th year, the show features the best up and coming talent from all over Southern California singing some of the most exciting songs ever written! This is definitely a show you don’t want to miss! With songs from mainstream radio and Broadway, come see why the future of Theatre is in good hands with these exciting young artists!

Rising Stars: 13th Annual Showcase

Celebrate New Year's Eve in style! Cocktail Hour: The Songs of The Rat Pack celebrates the songs of Frank Sinatra, Dean Martin, Sammy Davis Jr. and more. Featuring the vocal stylings of Patrick Barnitt, Joshua Cavanaugh, Matt Forbes, Michael Washington and Mel Collins with a live big band orchestra, under the direction of Duane Benjamin. Expect to hear tunes like "All Of Me," "Ain't That a Kick," "That's Life," "Under My Skin," "The Best Is Yet To Come," "My Funny Valentine," and many more!

Cocktail Hour: The Songs of the Rat Pack

Join Allen, Jake, Benny and Jack as they trade off performing classic Beatles hits between two grand pianos, backed by their live on-stage band. "Hey Jude," "Eleanor Rigby," "Can't Buy Me Love" and "Help!" are just a few of the many iconic songs you will enjoy. You won't want to miss this spectacular night of theatrical showmanship, as these incredible musicians bring the songs of the Fab Four to life as only these four Piano Men can!

The Piano Men: Beatles Edition

CCAE Theatricals is excited to bring back Big Broadway Bingo, our one-of-a-kind rapid fire musical theatre event! Putting the FUN in fundraiser, this hilarious and random night of Broadway Show Tunes will support our current season of in-house theatrical productions. 5 Singers. 75 Possible Songs. 1 Unforgettable Evening. Come and play BINGO and be entertained by our incredible cast of performers, all while supporting CCAE Theatricals’ mission to bring the best of live theatre to Escondido!

Big Broadway Bingo: A Theatrical Fundraiser

They had a look, an attitude, and a sound like no other. Sure, they were born in Jersey. But they were made in America.​ Jersey Boys is the international musical phenomenon that takes you behind the scenes - and behind the music - of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. No wonder that for over 15 years, New York's favorite musical is the one about the boys from Jersey.

Jersey Boys

“The best Motown experience you’ll ever have!” Producer Jordan Beck is thrilled to bring his hit show Motown: The Groove that Changed America to the Lewis Family Playhouse for this special limited engagement! Featuring the unforgettable sounds of Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye, The Supremes and many more performed by the incredible 20-piece D. Ben-Jamin’ Orchestra and an all-star cast of stellar vocalists. This ultimate celebration of Motown is unlike any other!

Morris Micklewhite and the Tangerine Dress is a joyful and imaginative story about creativity, courage, and being true to yourself.

Morris is a thoughtful, artistic child who loves painting, music, and exploring the world through his imagination. At school, he begins to encounter rigid ideas about who is allowed to express themselves in certain ways, leaving him feeling confused, hurt, and alone. As those pressures grow, Morris retreats into vibrant inner worlds filled with safari animals, outer space adventures, and dazzling dreams.﻿

Through vivid visuals, music, movement, and fantasy, the story follows Morris as he learns to listen to his heart and reclaim his sense of joy and confidence. Supported by a loving parent and guided by his own imagination, Morris discovers that self-expression is something to celebrate, not hide. This Theatre for Young Audiences production invites children and families to reflect on empathy, bravery, and the power of creative self-expression.

Morris Micklewhite & the Tangerine Dress

Patio Playhouse

Renowned vocalist Mel Collins returns with her quartet for Loving the Lyrics, an elegant evening celebrating the timeless songs of the mid-20th century. Featuring music made famous by artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Nancy Wilson, and Rosemary Clooney, the concert highlights the brilliance of legendary songwriters including Rodgers & Hart, Cole Porter, and Dorothy Fields.

Mel Collins: Loving the Lyrics

Diversionary Theatre

Step into the vibrant world of New York’s theatre district as we delve into a captivating exploration of A 5, 6, 7, 8! Dance on Broadway. Unrivaled in its foot-tapping allure, this new theatrical extravaganza celebrates the iconic music and choreography from some of Broadway's most recognizable musicals. Like an electric charge, this brand new entry in our Spotlight Series will dazzle audiences with its infectious energy, making it more than just a show - it’s an unforgettable experience celebrating the world of Dance on Broadway!

A 5, 6, 7, 8! Dance on Broadway

Join Kogee Soul Reprise, led by vocalist extraordinaire Kori Gillis, for A Night of Soul — an electrifying cabaret experience that celebrates the evolution of R&B and soul music across generations.



Blending classic R&B, smooth Neo-Soul, and contemporary soul grooves, this dynamic ensemble delivers a groove-fueled musical journey honoring the legendary artists and groups who have shaped the sound from the 1960s to today. From timeless harmonies to modern rhythms, the evening captures the depth, passion, and power that define the genre.



With commanding vocals, rich instrumentation, and infectious energy, A Night of Soul promises an intimate yet high-impact concert that will have you swaying, singing, and fully immersed in the spirit of soul.

Kori Gillis: A Night of Soul

After years of touring the world in a wig, Chris answers the question: Who’s That Woman?

Elder Broadway Baby and self proclaimed “Kander Kid” Chris Newcomer comes to San Diego with a brand new show. Chris will explore his Broadway career, life lessons that can only be learned through singing, and what it's like to be a Gay person in 2026. Expect the unexpected as Chris belts some of his favorite barn-burners, classic standards, and maybe even a song made up on the spot!

Chris Newcomer: Who is that Woman?

Join renowned vocalist Leonard Patton for an unforgettable evening celebrating the art of songwriting.

Featuring timeless music from legends like Hoagy Carmichael, Bob Dylan, Stevie Wonder, and Joni Mitchell, this intimate concert brings iconic melodies and lyrics to life through Leonard’s soulful interpretation and dynamic performance.

A powerful tribute to the songs that have shaped generations.

Leonard Patton: The Power of a Song

Join San Diego favorites Eileen Bowman, David McBean, and Marcie Wuebben for Divas of the 70s, a vibrant cabaret celebrating the legendary voices that defined a generation.

Inspired by the iconic singers of the 1970s who shaped their musical journeys, this heartfelt concert is a love letter to the artists who influenced them as performers. With powerful vocals, nostalgic favorites, and undeniable stage chemistry, Divas of the 70s brings the spirit and sound of the decade to life in an unforgettable evening of music, memories, and timeless hits.

Mosaic Theatricals

28 - 29 Mar, 2026

Motown: The Groove that Changed America

Apr 24 - May 2, 2026

Morris Micklewhite & the Tangerine Dress

Apr 25, 2026

Mel Collins: Loving the Lyrics

16 - 17 May, 2026

A 5, 6, 7, 8! Dance on Broadway

Jun 26, 2026

Kori Gillis: A Night of Soul

14 - 15 Mar, 2026

Motown: The Groove that Changed America

Feb 28, 2026

Mosaic Rising: New Voices Center Stage

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