Ignite Dance: A Celebration of 35 Years of Dance in Orange County, “Blade Runner”, plus more things to do in Orange County this week.

Credit: The Barclay

JAN. 23
Ignite Dance: A Celebration of 35 Years of Dance in Orange County
Six local dance ensembles come together on the Irvine Barclay Theatre stage for an evening celebrating dance in Orange County. The program features a wide range of styles, including classical ballet, Chinese dance, modern dance, contemporary movement, and Bharatanatyam. Performers include Festival Ballet Theatre, the UCI Claire Trevor School of the Arts, and more. Following the performance, guests can enjoy light refreshments and a live DJ in the lobby. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

JAN. 22
“Blade Runner”
Experience the 1982 cult classic on the big screen while its iconic score is performed live. The Avex Ensemble brings the synthesizer-heavy music to life as detective Rick Deckard hunts four escaped Replicants across Earth. The story intensifies when Deckard falls for one of the Replicants, Rachel, adding emotional depth to the thriller as the live music heightens the tension at every turn. Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, 615 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

OPENS JAN. 23
“Once”
The Tony Award–winning musical is beloved for its deeply emotional score. When an unlikely connection forms between a Dublin street musician and a Czech immigrant, the two strangers spend a week bonding and creating music together. Their unexpected friendship helps them navigate heartbreak, pain, and loss. Based on the Academy Award–winning film, the musical is a tribute to finding community in the most unlikely places. Chance Theater, 5522 E. La Palma Ave., Anaheim, 714-777-3033, chancetheater.com

OPENS JAN. 23
“God of Carnage”
This dark comedy centers on two sets of parents attempting to resolve a playground altercation between their 11-year-old sons in gentrified Brooklyn. What begins as a civil discussion quickly devolves into chaos as tensions rise and disagreements erupt over parenting styles, marriage, and morality. The play has become a fan favorite for its sharp wit and biting commentary on human nature and civilization. South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org

OPENS JAN. 24
“Who’s Afraid of Virginia Woolf?”
The classic play follows George and Martha, a middle-aged couple who invite the younger Nick and Honey over for late-night drinks. What begins as a seemingly casual evening spirals into emotional warfare as secrets surface and tensions rise. As alcohol flows, arguments escalate, pulling the younger couple into a psychological game that lasts into the early morning hours. South Coast Repertory, Segerstrom Stage, 655 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-708-5555, scr.org

JAN. 25
Trio Barclay: Schubert’s Piano Trio No. 1
Trio Barclay launches its season with a performance of Schubert’s melodic and lively Piano Trio No. 1. Featuring violin, cello, and piano, the ensemble brings the composer’s work to life while also presenting a world premiere of a new piece and a performance of Lili Boulanger’s “D’un matin de printemps.” The trio has been performing together since 2021, with additional concerts scheduled throughout the year. Irvine Barclay Theatre, 4242 Campus Drive, Irvine, 949-854-4646, thebarclay.org

THROUGH JAN. 25
Solitude and Silence: Conrad Buff, Painter of the American Southwest
Conrad Buff rose to prominence in the 1930s as one of Southern California’s most notable artists, capturing the rugged landscapes of Arizona, California, and Utah. This exhibition spans his decades-long career, showcasing his modern approaches to painting while also exploring his life and artistic evolution. It marks the first major museum exhibition devoted to Buff’s work. Laguna Art Museum, 307 Cliff Drive, Laguna Beach, 949-494-8971, lagunaartmuseum.org

OPENS JAN. 27
“The Notebook”
Based on the bestselling novel and hit film, The Notebook musical tells the enduring love story of Noah and Allie, who fight for each other despite coming from very different worlds. Their romance begins in their teenage years and endures over a lifetime. Featuring an emotional score by singer-songwriter Ingrid Michaelson, the production pairs sweeping visuals with a deeply moving story of love and resilience. Segerstrom Hall, 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, 714-556-2787, scfta.org

JAN. 27
Comedy Night at the Playhouse
Laughter fills the theater during this evening of stand-up comedy featuring three comics. The night is hosted by actor and comedian Mark Christopher Lawrence and includes performances by Lawrence himself along with two additional comedians. Guests can also enjoy drink specials and free snacks in the lobby throughout the event. Laguna Playhouse, 606 Laguna Canyon Road, Laguna Beach, 949-497-2787, lagunaplayhouse.com