2026-27 Season | Irvine Barclay Theatre

2026-27 SEASON

BARCLAY

UNBOUND

A NEW ADVENTURE IN ENDLESS ENTERTAINMENT

This year, the stage is set free. Irvine Barclay Theatre launches a season where artistry knows no limits, and genres refuse to stand still. From global icons and Grammy winners to visionary dance, theater, and family adventures, the 2026–27 season celebrates fearless creativity — live, intimate, and endlessly entertaining.

Scan the QR code above to explore the lineup and get your tickets today!

HOW TO ORDER ONLINE: THEBARCLAY.ORG TICKET OFFICE: (949) 854-4646 Mon–Fri 10am–6pm Sat & Sun noon to 4pm

PICK 3 OR MORE SHOWS SAVE 10%!

Mix and match 3 or more of your favorite shows and save 10%*. Lock in the best seats at the best price today!

*Pick 3 promotion available for Irvine Barclay Theatre presents events only. Certain exclusions apply. Not available in all ticket levels and cannot be applied to previous orders.

While it rarely happens, please be aware that programs, artists, prices and dates are subject to change.

SEASON AT A GLANCE

NATIONAL CHOREOGRAPHERS

INITIATIVE:

NCI DISCOVERY 2026THE LAST DANCE!

SAT JULY 25, 2026 AT 8PM

Join us as we celebrate the final National Choreographers Initiative featuring guest choreographers Emily Adams, Julia Feldman, DaYoung Jung, and Sarah Tallman.

Be in the room as four new ballets are created as part of the intensive three-week process of the National Choreographers Initiative. Artistic Director Molly Lynch invites four choreographers, as well as 16 professional dancers from ballet companies across the country, to participate. The project culminates in a public performance that showcases the excitement of new creation.

Over the past 35 years, Molly Lynch has supported choreographers and dancers, providing the resources they need to develop new works. The program began with the Pacifica Choreographic Project (13 years) and continued

with the National Choreographers Initiative (22 years). She has worked with a total of 136 choreographers and, through NCI, 185 dancers representing 60 companies. These artists have launched and developed their careers at

PRESENTED BY BILL AND CAROLYN KLEIN

DANCE ME - MUSIC BY LEONARD COHEN

THU SEP 24, 2026 AT 8PM

Inspired by Leonard Cohen’s music and poetry, this powerful homage blends contemporary dance, theatrical design, and evocative storytelling. Created by three internationally renowned choreographers, Dance Me transforms Cohen’s legendary songs into a visually stunning, emotionally resonant celebration of his life and artistry.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR:

SHANGHAI BALLET: THE BUTTERFLY LOVERS

FRI OCT 16, 2026 AT 8PM

Shanghai Ballet returns to North America with a sweeping production of The Butterfly Lovers, the legendary Chinese tale of devotion and transformation. Blending classical ballet with rich Chinese theatrical traditions, this visually stunning performance offers lyrical beauty, emotional depth, and dramatic grandeur.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR:

IGNITE DANCEA CELEBRATION OF DANCE

SAT JAN 23, 2027 AT 8PM

After a sold-out debut, Ignite Dance returns to Irvine Barclay Theatre featuring INTUITV ARTSHIP, Re:borN Dance Interactive, Outrun The Bear, Caminos Flamencos, and Pointeworks. Celebrate diverse dance styles, then enjoy an after-party with DJ, refreshments, and artists.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR: CITY OF IRVINE

GALLIM

SAT MAR 13, 2027 AT 8PM

Experience the electrifying artistry of GALLIM, the boundary-pushing New York company founded by choreographer Andrea Miller. Known for visceral physicality and striking theatricality, the ensemble delivers daring, emotionally charged contemporary dance that pushes movement to thrilling extremes.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR: CITY OF IRVINE

BACKHAUSDANCE /

NOW FEATURING ROOMFUL OF TEETH

WED MAR 24, 2027 AT 8PM

Orange County’s premier contemporary company, Backhausdance, returns with an evening of bold new works and dynamic collaborations. The program features the premiere of Multitudes by Jennifer Backhaus and Amanda Kay White, alongside a new work by acclaimed choreographer Hélène Simoneau.

Backhausdance will be joined by two-time Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth, featuring their signature work, Partita for 8 Voices, composed by founding member and Pulitzer Prize winner, Caroline Shaw. This groundbreaking fourmovement composition blends Baroqueinspired forms with extended vocal techniques to create a richly textured and deeply expressive soundscape.

DEC 5–24, 2026

DIVINE COMEDY

THU APR 15, 2027 AT 8PM

Inspired by Dante’s epic journey, this breathtaking visual spectacle features dancers who soar and suspend in gravity-defying tableaux. Blending Baroque theatrical splendor with modern illusion, NoGravity Theatre creates a dreamlike world where movement, music, and imagination transcend earthly limits.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR: CITY OF IRVINE

THE MĀKAHA SONS

WITH DANCERS FROM PUAHI’S POLYNESIAN DANCE COMPANY

FRI SEP 25, 2026 AT 8PM

Hawai‘i’s beloved Mākaha Sons share timeless harmonies, authentic storytelling, and traditional island melodies. With 22 albums, multiple Nā Hōkū Hanohano Awards, and a Lifetime Achievement honor, this legendary trio continues to preserve and celebrate the heart of Hawaiian music.

ROBERT CAZIMERO

CHRISTMAS IN HAWAI’I

FRI DEC 18, 2026 AT 8PM

Legendary Hawaiian musician Robert Cazimero brings the spirit of the holidays to life with beloved songs, graceful hula by Halau Na Kamalei, and the warmth of island tradition in a festive evening of music and celebration.

Photo: Richard Heirakuji

KALANI PE’A AND TAIMANE: LIVE IN CONCERT

FRI FEB 5, 2027 AT 8PM

The vibrant spirit of Hawai‘i shines as Grammy winner Kalani Pe‘a and ukulele virtuoso Taimane share the stage. Blending soaring vocals, island tradition, and fearless musical innovation, this dynamic duo delivers an electrifying evening of contemporary Hawaiian artistry.

HOME IN THE ISLANDS: MAY DAY WITH HENRY KAPONO AND KALA’E + KALENA

SAT MAY 1, 2027 AT 8PM

Celebrate “May Day Is Lei Day in Hawai‘i” with island music legend Henry Kapono and the dynamic duo Kala’e + Kalena. Featuring beloved classics, rich harmonies, hula, and island stories, this joyful evening honors the spirit and music of Hawai‘i.

BEHIND THE LINES: A 9/11 STORY

SUN SEP 27, 2026 AT 5PM

Blending live music, storytelling, and immersive visuals, this powerful performance features firsthand accounts from a 9/11 firefighter and Afghanistan combat veteran. Led by jazz trumpeter Dominick Farinacci, the performance offers a moving portrait of courage, resilience, and human connection.

SNARKY PUPPY

SUN OCT 4, 2026 AT 7PM

Five-time Grammy winners Snarky Puppy fuse jazz, funk, R&B, gospel, and rock into an electrifying, genre-defying sound. Known for joyful collaboration and dynamic live performances, this globally celebrated collective delivers music that is groove-driven, emotionally powerful, and irresistibly engaging.

CELLOGAYAGEUM

FEATURING MILKLEAF CONTEMPORARY DANCE COMPANY

SUN OCT 25, 2026 AT 5PM

Where Western classical cello meets traditional Korean gayageum, this boundary-crossing duo creates a mesmerizing fusion of cultures and centuries. Blending Korean folk roots with contemporary global influences, CelloGayageum crafts a sound that is both ancient in spirit and strikingly modern. Dancers from milkleaf contemporary dance company will perform alongside CelloGayageum on selected pieces choreographed by Charlotte Griffin.

Seung Yull Nah

SUN NOV 29, 2026 AT 5PM

Why watch the show when you can BE the show? This fully interactive holiday sing-along transforms the audience into a massive choir, celebrating seasonal favorites in a joyful, high-energy evening where all voices are welcome—no experience necessary.

TRIO BARCLAY ®

SUN JAN 24, 2027 AT 5PM

Bound by friendship and artistry, Trio Barclay—Dennis Kim, Jonah Kim, and Sean Kennard—brings electrifying chemistry to piano trio repertoire spanning centuries. Their dynamic performances blend virtuosity, passion, and precision, redefining the chamber music experience.

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR: MARK CHAPIN JOHNSON FOUNDATION Community Connections

JESSE COOK

WED JAN 27, 2027 AT 8PM

Virtuoso guitarist Jesse Cook captivates audiences with a signature blend of flamenco, jazz, and global rhythms. Inspired by the groundbreaking album Friday Night by Paco de Lucia, Cook’s vibrant, genre-crossing music has earned international acclaim and a devoted worldwide following.

THE CONFERENCE OF THE BIRDS

SAT JAN 30, 2027 AT 8PM

Inspired by Farid ud-Din Attar’s 12th-century epic, this movement-driven, entirely a cappella theatrical work follows the birds’ mystical journey through the Seven Valleys in search of enlightenment. Lush vocal soundscapes and striking choreography create a powerful meditation on unity and self-discovery.

EXCLUSIVE CULTURAL SPONSOR & CO-PRESENTER: FARHANG FOUNDATION

THE KLEZMATICS: 40TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR

SUN MAR 7, 2027 AT 5PM

Celebrating 40 years of groundbreaking music, the Grammy-winning Klezmatics blend Yiddish roots with jazz, punk, gospel, and folk to create a sound that is joyous, defiant, and deeply human. Their anniversary tour honors a legacy of cultural pride, fearless innovation, and irresistible groove.

THE IRISH TENORS

WED MAR 17, 2027 AT 8PM

Celebrate Ireland’s rich musical heritage with the trio that has defined Celtic tenor harmony for a generation. With soaring vocals and beloved ballads, The Irish Tenors deliver a stirring evening of passion, tradition, and timeless Irish song.

Photo: Frances Marshall

LIVE FROM LAUREL CANYON:

SONGS & STORIES OF AMERICAN FOLK ROCK

FRI MAR 19, 2027 AT 8PM

Relive the golden era of folk rock through the songs and stories born in 1960s Laurel Canyon. Featuring music from iconic artists such as The Mamas and the Papas, The Doors, Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, Joni Mitchell, Jackson Browne, and the Eagles—artists who reshaped American popular music—this nostalgic celebration brings timeless hits and their backstories vividly to life.

THE HOT SARDINES

SAT MAR 20, 2027 AT 8PM

“One of the best jazz bands in New York.” — Forbes

From Brooklyn speakeasies to sold-out stages worldwide, The Hot Sardines deliver a high-voltage revival of classic jazz. With vintage style, sparkling originals, and irresistible swing, their performances are sultry, joyful, and utterly alive.

Photo: Shervin Lainez

SONA JOBARTEH

WED APR 7, 2027 AT 8PM

Hailed as “Africa’s first female griot kora virtuoso,” Sona Jobarteh brings the radiant sound of the 21-string kora to life. Blending ancient West African tradition with contemporary energy, she leads a dynamic band in powerful, soulful performances.

NATALIE MACMASTER & DONNELL LEAHY FOUR

ON THE FLOOR

THU APR 8, 2027 AT 8PM

Celtic fiddle virtuosos Natalie MacMaster and Donnell Leahy return with an electrifying family collaboration, joined by their two eldest children. Blazing technique, joyful energy, and foot-stomping rhythms ignite a thrilling evening of world-class musicianship and tradition.

Photo: Rebekah Littlejohn

FRI APR 30, 2027 AT 8PM

Celebrate Broadway’s biggest hits in one show-stopping evening of iconic songs from beloved musicals. Featuring powerhouse vocalists performing favorites from stage classics and modern blockbusters—from Wicked, The Phantom of the Opera, and Jersey Boys, to Chicago, Cats, and The Lion King—this high-energy revue delivers unforgettable melodies and pure musical theatre magic.

JASMINE CHOI, FLUTE

WITH HUGH SUNG: PIANO

SAT APR 24, 2027 AT 8PM

Hailed as “The goddess of flute,” Jasmine Choi brings breathtaking virtuosity and expressive artistry to the stage. A former principal of the Vienna Symphony, she has performed worldwide and reimagines classical masterworks with bold creativity alongside pianist Hugh Sung.

Photo: Hyemi Kim

DJANGO FESTIVAL ALL-STARS

THU MAY 6, 2027 AT 8PM

The Django Festival Allstars ignite the spirit of Django Reinhardt’s Hot Club jazz with blazing guitars, soaring violin, and unstoppable swing—reviving the sound of 1930s Paris with dazzling virtuosity and irresistible rhythm.

PRESENTED BY JUDY AND WES WHITMORE

PACIFIC JAZZ ORCHESTRA

FEATURING DAVID BENOIT

THE MUSIC OF CHARLIE BROWN & THE PEANUTS

THU MAY 20 2027 AT 8PM

The Pacific Jazz Orchestra celebrates the timeless world of Peanuts with beloved music from Vince Guaraldi, featuring acclaimed pianist David Benoit. Led by artistic director Chris Walden, this heartwarming concert brings favorites like “Linus and Lucy” to life in vibrant big band arrangements filled with nostalgia, warmth, and the playful spirit of Charlie Brown and friends.

NADINE SIERRA IN CONCERT

ACCOMPANIED BY BRYAN WAGORN

FRI MAY 21, 2027 AT 8PM

Internationally acclaimed soprano Nadine Sierra brings her radiant tone and magnetic artistry to an intimate recital setting. Fresh from leading opera houses worldwide, she delivers a captivating evening showcasing the extraordinary voice and expressive brilliance defining a new generation.

SAT OCT 24, 2026 AT 1PM & 5PM

“Hilarious, Ingenious, Inventive.” —The New York Times

Based on Dav Pilkey’s hit book series, this hilarious new musical follows Cat Kid and 21 imaginative baby frogs as creativity runs delightfully wild. Packed with humor, heart, and comic chaos, it’s an inventive adventure for the whole family.

Photo: Jeremy Daniel

THE ADVENTURES OF TORTOISE AND HARE: THE NEXT GEN

SAT FEB 6, 2027 AT 1PM & 5PM

Lightwire Theater reimagines Aesop’s classic fable in a glow-in-the-dark adventure told through dance and luminous puppetry. When the next generation faces modern distractions, families discover a heartfelt, visually stunning story about connection, perseverance, and teamwork.

TREASURE ISLAND REIMAGINED: JANE HAWKINS AND THE PIRATE’S GOLD

SUN APR 18, 2027 AT 1PM & 5PM

Inspired by Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, this thrilling live-action graphic novel follows young Jane Hawkins on a high-seas adventure, with performers voicing characters and sound effects as more than 1,200 comic panels animate the story on a giant screen.

Great Art Begins at Home

Introducing Community Connections, a new series from Irvine Barclay Theatre spotlighting the extraordinary talent of artists from our own backyard. Designed to celebrate the creative voices shaping Southern California, the series features vibrant and artist-driven performances.

With Community Connections , the Barclay continues its commitment to presenting diverse and exceptional artists while expanding access to the performing arts throughout Orange County—because great art begins at home.

IGNITE DANCE - A CELEBRATION OF DANCE

SAT JAN 23, 2027 AT 8PM

After a sold-out debut, Ignite Dance returns to Irvine Barclay Theatre featuring INTUITV ARTSHIP, Re:borN Dance Interactive, Outrun The Bear, Caminos Flamencos, and Pointeworks. Celebrate diverse dance styles, then enjoy an after-party with DJ, refreshments, and artists. Photo: @jingziphotography

PERFORMANCE SPONSOR: CITY OF IRVINE

TRIO BARCLAY®

SUN JAN 24, 2027 AT 5PM

Bound by friendship and artistry, Trio Barclay—Dennis Kim, Jonah Kim, and Sean Kennard—brings electrifying chemistry to piano trio repertoire spanning centuries. Their dynamic performances blend virtuosity, passion, and precision, redefining the chamber music experience.

BACKHAUSDANCE / NOW FEATURING ROOMFUL OF TEETH

WED MAR 24, 2027 AT 8PM

Orange County’s premier contemporary company, Backhausdance, returns with an evening of bold new works and dynamic collaborations. The program features the premiere of Multitudes by Jennifer Backhaus and Amanda Kay White, alongside a new work by acclaimed choreographer Hélène Simoneau.

Backhausdance will be joined by two-time Grammy Award-winning vocal ensemble Roomful of Teeth, featuring their signature work, Partita for 8 Voices, composed by founding member and Pulitzer Prize winner, Caroline Shaw. This groundbreaking four-movement composition blends Baroque-inspired forms with extended vocal techniques to create a richly textured and deeply expressive soundscape.

THU MAY 20, 2027 AT 8PM

The Pacific Jazz Orchestra celebrates the timeless world of Peanuts with beloved music from Vince Guaraldi, featuring acclaimed pianist David Benoit. Led by artistic director Chris Walden, this heartwarming concert brings favorites like “Linus and Lucy” to life in vibrant big band arrangements filled with nostalgia, warmth, and the playful spirit of Charlie Brown and friends. Photo: Earl Gibson (top right)

BEGUM PARWEEN SULTANA

FRI OCT 23, 2026 AT 8PM

Experience one of India’s most celebrated classical vocalists, renowned for her extraordinary four-octave range and expressive artistry. A Padma Shri recipient and modern Hindustani icon, Begum Parween Sultana delivers breathtaking performances that move effortlessly from meditative depth to exhilarating brilliance. Featuring vocalist Shadab Sultana; Pandit Abhijit Banerjee and Mukundraj Deo, on tabla, and Srinivas Acharya, on harmonium.

DAKHABRAKHA

FRI JAN 15, 2027 AT 8PM

Hailing from Kyiv, this extraordinary quartet blends traditional Ukrainian folk with global rhythms in a sound they call “ethno chaos.” Layered vocals, driving percussion, and striking visuals create a powerful, emotionally charged performance rooted in resilience and cultural identity.

AGA KHAN MASTER MUSICIANS

WITH VINCENT PEIRANI & VINCENT SÉGAL

SAT APR 10, 2027 AT 8PM

Master musicians from across Asia and the Mediterranean unite with acclaimed French artists Vincent Peirani and Vincent Ségal for a high-energy global collaboration. Blending ancient traditions with contemporary virtuosity, this extraordinary ensemble celebrates crosscultural artistry at its finest.

Photo: Christopher Edralin

FEATHERED CREATURES: PURBAYAN CHATTERJEE, MARK LETTIERI & FRIENDS

SAT MAY 15, 2027 AT 8PM

Longtime Snarky Puppy guitarist Mark Lettieri joins sitar virtuoso Purbayan Chatterjee for a thrilling cross-cultural collaboration. Blending modern groove with Indian classical tradition, their music creates a vibrant dialogue of rhythm, melody, and improvisation.

SIMPLE TOO: AN EVENING

WITH YOTAM OTTOLENGHI

HOSTED BY MOLLY BAZ

WED OCT 14, 2026 AT 8PM

Spend an evening with globally celebrated chef and bestselling author Yotam Ottolenghi as he discusses his new cookbook, SIMPLE TOO. Renowned for bold flavors and “The Ottolenghi effect,” he has transformed how audiences cook, eat, and experience vibrant, vegetable-forward cuisine.

Joining Ottolenghi is two-time New York Times bestselling author Molly Baz for a lively conversation exploring food, cooking, and the joy of sharing meals.

ARTIST SPONSOR: CRAIG & KIRSTEN SPRINGER

Photos: Jonathan Lovekin (left); Peden+Munk (right)

TWIN PEAKS: A CONVERSATION WITH THE STARS

SUN JAN 17, 2027 AT 7PM

In a U.S. first, stars of Twin Peaks—Sheryl Lee, Ray Wise, and Kimmy Robertson—join Executive Producer Sabrina S. Sutherland and panel moderator Josh Eisenstadt for an exclusive evening of behind-the-scenes stories, audience Q&A, and memories from David Lynch and Mark Frost’s groundbreaking cult classic series.

AN EVENING WITH DAVID SEDARIS

TUE MAY 11, 2027 AT 7PM

Humorist and bestselling author David Sedaris brings his signature wit, sharp social observations, and unforgettable storytelling to the stage. Author of Me Talk Pretty One Day, Happy-Go-Lucky, and his latest essay collection, The Land and Its People, Sedaris transforms life’s quirks and absurdities into hilarious, deeply human comedy.

National Theatre Live broadcasts the best of British theater to screens around the world, capturing the hearts of over 11 million viewers.

MRS. WARREN’S PROFESSION

SUN SEP 13, 2026 AT 3PM

Imelda Staunton and Bessie Carter star as mother and daughter in Bernard Shaw’s provocative classic, filmed live in London’s West End. This acclaimed production explores morality, independence, and societal hypocrisy with riveting performances and sharp contemporary relevance.

HAMLET

SUN NOV 1, 2026 AT 3PM

Olivier Award-winner Hiran Abeysekera stars in this bold, contemporary staging of Shakespeare’s Hamlet, filmed live at London’s National Theatre. Directed by Robert Hastie, this sharp and stylish reimagining brings urgency, wit, and psychological intensity to the timeless tragedy.

ALL MY SONS

SUN JAN 10, 2027 AT 3PM

Bryan Cranston stars in Arthur Miller’s gripping American classic, filmed live from London’s West End. Directed by Ivo Van Hove, this five-star production examines ambition, morality, and the cost of the American Dream with searing performances and devastating power.

BANFF MOUNTAIN FILM FESTIVAL WORLD TOUR

SUN APR 25, 2027 AT 3PM

Experience the world’s most exhilarating mountain stories on the big screen. This global film tour showcases award-winning adventures, breathtaking landscapes, and inspiring tales of exploration, bringing the spirit of the outdoors to audiences around the world.

PRESENTED BY TOM ROGERS AND SALLY ANDERSON

BATTLE OF THE

BANDS

THE BARCLAY JAZZ & BEYOND ORCHESTRA

SHELLY BERG, THE TOM AND MAYUMI ADAMS MUSIC DIRECTOR

WED SEP 16, 2026 AT 8PM

Led by music director Shelly Berg, the Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra channels the Swing Era spirit as rival ensembles face off in a lively musical showdown. Hear iconic big band classics from Count Basie, Duke Ellington, and others—while audiences vote to crown the winner.

SWINGIN’ THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS

THE BARCLAY JAZZ & BEYOND ORCHESTRA

SHELLY BERG, THE TOM AND MAYUMI ADAMS MUSIC DIRECTOR FEATURING ERIC MARIENTHAL AND LUCY WOODWARD

WED DEC 9, 2026 AT 8PM

Swing into the holidays as the Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra brings festive favorites to life. From jazzed-up Christmas classics to contemporary holiday hits, this spirited concert delivers a joyful evening of seasonal swing.

PRESENTED BY TOM ROGERS AND SALLY ANDERSON

ELLA & JOE: A TRIBUTE TO THE MUSIC & STYLE OF ELLA FITZGERALD AND JOE

WILLIAMS

THE BARCLAY JAZZ & BEYOND ORCHESTRA

SHELLY BERG, THE TOM AND MAYUMI ADAMS MUSIC DIRECTOR

FEATURING CARMEN BRADFORD AND JAMIE DAVIS

FRI MAY 14, 2027 AT 8PM

The Barclay Jazz & Beyond Orchestra honors jazz legends Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Williams with acclaimed vocalists Carmen Bradford and Jamie Davis. Hear timeless classics brought to life with lush big band arrangements and the irresistible swing of jazz’s golden era.

THE BAD PLUS FAREWELL TOUR

SAT SEP 26, 2026 AT 8PM

Boundary-pushing and fiercely original, The Bad Plus redefine modern jazz with explosive improvisation and bold, genre-defying sound. On their farewell tour, the acclaimed quartet delivers knotty grooves, immersive textures, and the fearless creativity that has captivated audiences worldwide.

AMBROSE AKINMUSIRE QUARTET

SAT MAR 6, 2027 AT 8PM

Acclaimed trumpeter and composer Ambrose Akinmusire leads a quartet of singular voices in a performance of emotional depth and fearless originality. Blending jazz, chamber influences, and bold improvisation, his music expands the genre’s boundaries with visionary intensity.

ENDEA OWENS AND THE COOKOUT

SAT APR 17, 2026 AT 8PM

Bassist and bandleader Endea Owens—a member of The Late Show with Stephen Colbert house band— leads her band, The Cookout, in a joyful evening of groove-driven jazz celebrating community, connection, and irresistible rhythm.

LE PATIN LIBRE: MELT

SUN OCT 11, 2026 AT 5PM

In a surreal, post-apocalyptic world, two skaters blend figure skating virtuosity with contemporary dance on roller skates. Melt is an intimate, visually striking theatrical experience that explores love, survival, and what remains precious in uncertain times.

THE PEKING ACROBATS

SAT JAN 16, 2027 AT 1PM & 8PM

Experience more than 2,000 years of Chinese acrobatic tradition in a dazzling display of strength, precision, and artistry. From towering chair stacks to breathtaking tumbling and contortion, this vibrant spectacle blends ancient technique with modern theatrical flair.

COLIN MOCHRIE & BRAD SHERWOOD ASKING FOR TROUBLE

SUN APR 11, 2027 AT 5PM

Improv legends Colin Mochrie and Brad Sherwood create a night of unscripted comedy fueled entirely by audience suggestions. With razor-sharp wit and fearless spontaneity, this one-night-only performance promises unpredictable, fast-paced laughter from start to finish.

Chad Cooper

THE NEW YORK GILBERT & SULLIVAN PLAYERS

THE PIRATES OF PENZANCE IN ONE ACT & AN EVENING OF GILBERT & SULLIVAN FAVORITES

FRI APR 23, 2027 AT 8PM

A sextet from New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players presents a one-act The Pirates of Penzance featuring its most beloved numbers. After intermission, enjoy favorite selections from the comic operas of W. S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan—including spontaneous audience requests.

TITANIC: THE MUSICAL

NOV 21–22, 2026

Story and Book by Peter Stone

Music and Lyrics by Maury Yeston

Daniel Keeling, director

The Department of Drama in the Claire Trevor School of the Arts at UC Irvine presents a concert version of Titanic: The Musical. Winner of five Tony Awards, Titanic: The Musical tells the stories of passengers and crew aboard the ill-fated RMS Titanic. Through sweeping music and intersecting personal narratives, the production explores ambition, class, hope and human resilience on the eve of tragedy. The concert version will emphasize the score and vocal storytelling.

UCI SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

TRANSFIGURATION: MUSIC OF HERMANN, BARÓK, AND WAGNER

NOV 24, 2026 AT 8PM

Geoffrey Pope, conductor

Join the UCI Symphony on a provocative psychological journey from fragmentation to integration. Director of Orchestral Studies, Geoffrey Pope curates a concert of some of the richest operatic and film music composed. A panel discussion with renowned Hollywood composers precedes the concert.

PROGRAM

Bernard Herrmann — Suites from Vertigo and Taxi Driver

Béla Bartók — Concerto for Two Pianos, Percussion, and Orchestra

Richard Wagner — Prelude and Liebestod from Tristan und Isolde

DANCE VISIONS 2027

FEB 18–20, 2027

Presented by the Department of Dance, Dance Visions 2027 is the department’s annual signature concert celebrating the breadth of faculty choreography and the artistry of UC Irvine’s dance students. Showcasing original works that span contemporary and classical traditions, the program integrates movement, music and theatricality into an evening of dynamic performance.

Dance Visions 2027 underscores the department’s dedication to creative research, interdisciplinary collaboration and excellence in performance. Through diverse choreographic perspectives, the concert invites audiences to experience dance as a space for discovery, dialogue and innovation.

Photo: RoseEichenbaum

COMPANION CONCERT EXPERIENCE WITH THE UC IRVINE CHOIR AND SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA IMMORTAL BELOVED: BACH, BEETHOVEN, AND BEYOND CHORAL MASTERWORKS

MAR 2, 2027 AT 8PM

Irene Messoloras, conductor

Conducted by Irene Messoloras, the UCI Choirs and Symphony Orchestra celebrate the enduring legacy of Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven.

UC IRVINE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

IMMORTAL BELOVED: BACH, BEETHOVEN, AND BEYOND ORCHESTRAL MASTERWORKS

MAR 4, 2027 AT 8PM

Geoffrey Pope, conductor

Conducted by Geoffrey Pope, the UC Irvine Symphony Orchestra and Choirs unite for an evening of orchestral and choral works inspired by Johann Sebastian Bach and Ludwig van Beethoven.

UC IRVINE OPERA THE MAGIC FLUTE

MAY 8, 2027 AT 8PM

Opera by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart

Shane Wood, artistic director

Yuliya Minina, music director

Geoffrey Pope, conductor

The UCI Opera and Symphony Orchestra present The Magic Flute, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s enchanting fairy tale of magic, adventure, and the battle between light and darkness.

UC IRVINE SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA

JUNE 4, 2027 AT 8PM

Geoffrey Pope, conductor

The UCI Symphony Orchestra concludes its season with a vibrant spring concert led by Dr. Geoffrey Pope, Director of Orchestral Studies at UC Irvine. Featuring compelling orchestral repertoire performed by one of the Department of Music’s premier ensembles, the program highlights the artistry, dedication and collaborative spirit that have defined the orchestra for nearly six decades.

HOW TO ORDER

GROUP SALES

Turn your Barclay outing into a group event! Group pricing varies per event and requires a minimum of 10 or more tickets.

Mon–Fri 10am–6pm Sat & Sun noon to 4pm

PHONE: (949) 854-4646

ADDRESS: 4242 Campus Drive Irvine, CA 92612

EMAIL: tickets@thebarclay.org

TICKET OFFICE ONLINE

TheBarclay.org

For a quote, please email: tickets@thebarclay.org or call (949) 854-4646 x1, Mon-Fri, 10am-6pm; Sat & Sun, noon to 4pm for service and information.

PRE-PURCHASE PARKING

Make parking a breeze during your next visit to Irvine Barclay Theatre. Our friends at UC Irvine Parking offer a discounted rate for all events at the Barclay and now have a simple online system that allows you to reserve your spot in advance.

To pre-purchase your parking, please visit TheBarclay.org/Online/article/DirectionsandParking

THE BARCLAY

Elevate your next event at Irvine Barclay Theatre! The Barclay is available for community groups and individuals to rent for performances, celebrations, and special occasions.

In addition to our 750-seat Cheng Hall auditorium and professional stage, the Barclay also offers a scene shop, lobbies, and the private VIP Jade Room, all elegant spaces for your elegant events.

For more information, call (949) 536-2711 or contact: rental@thebarclay.org.

SUPPORT THE BARCLAY

Your generosity makes it all possible. Thanks to your support, Irvine Barclay Theatre presents world-class performances—and serves as a creative home for artists, community groups, and organizations across our region. Together, we deliver meaningful arts experiences for audiences of all kinds.

Become a Barclay Associate to enjoy exclusive benefits like access to the Associates Lounge (with complimentary wine, sodas, and snacks), recognition in our program book, free parking passes, and early access to ticket sales.

Irvine Barclay Theatre is grateful for support from our generous institutional and corporate partners

CORPORATE SPONSOR

Members of the Premier Patron Society receive additional privileges, including concert sponsorship opportunities, access to the private VIP Jade Room, VIP parking in the Barclay’s backlot, invitations to special receptions, and the chance to meet visiting artists.

Have questions about membership? Contact us at membership@thebarclay.org or call (949) 854-4184.

Each year, more than half of all events at the Barclay are created by local individuals, businesses, and nonprofit organizations—and presented for the community, by the community. Every gift matters—and every gift is appreciated.

Special thanks to our public partners for more than 35 years of unwavering support.