Hard to believe that “Riverdance,” the international Irish dance phenomenon seen by millions of people around the world, was created 30 years ago.

Even more amazing: the new version of the show, dubbed “Riverdance 30,” features a new generation of performers that were not born when the original show was first performed.

Local audiences can experience “Riverdance 30” when it comes to Segerstrom Center for five performances May 15-17.

According to information from Segerstrom Center, this special anniversary tour rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes along with state-of-the-art lighting, projection and motion graphics.

John McColgan, the director of “Riverdance,” said, “For over 30 years, Riverdance has taken us on a unique and exhilarating journey with the love and support of our audiences. The show has developed from a stage spectacle into a global cultural phenomenon. It has continuously evolved yet we ensure it always remains true to its roots.”

Since its inception Riverdance has been seen by over 31 million people in 51 countries. The show has played over 16,000 performances and has featured 1,500 Irish dancers.

The show is more than just dancing—it traces the life of a river and explores the way people from different lands enrich the countries they emigrate to, bringing with them their own culture, music and dance.

Mairead Trainor joined “Riverdance” in 2018 through their summer school program and made her debut as principal dancer in 2022. She has been dancing since she was only two and saw a production of “Riverdance” at the Hammersmith Apollo when she was eight.

“My mom tells this story that I don’t remember, but we were in the audience and apparently, I tapped her on the shoulder and said, ‘I’m going to do that one day.’ And so to be doing that is really special,” said Trainor

Last year Trainor added the title of Dance Captain to her resume (which includes numerous dance titles). She is also a personal trainer, which makes sense because the physicality of dancing – especially in “Riverdance” – requires endurance, flexibility and strength, although as Trainor noted, the show itself is its own workout.

“We don’t necessarily need to be hitting the gym every single day,” she said. “People do, but it is long days and it can be tiring, so a lot of the day especially on the tour bus is spent sleeping as our recovery. But nutrition is a huge factor. Making sure that we’re getting the right food and enough food before the show is really a key factor for us to get up on stage every single night, especially after a six-hour travel day into a show.”

So what does it take to be a member of the “Riverdance” company?

“I think it’s about passion,” she stated. “If you have the want and you have the drive and you have in your head that you you’re going to put in that work, I think it’s possible for anyone to be in the show. We’ve all grown up Irish dancing, and doing competitions, but that’s a lot different to what you see on the “Riverdance” stage. I remember when I joined the show, it took me a while to comprehend what I had to do. I had to dance differently. I had to move my arms. In competitions, we usually keep our arms straight by our sides, they wouldn’t move. So to learn how to use your arms and to tell a story with your face, it was definitely a learning process. But if you have the drive and you have the motivation to work hard and learn, it’s possible for anyone to be in the show. And once you get in, you put in the work to stay here.”

In addition to dancing in the show, Trainor’s responsibility as the show’s dance captain requires a different set of skills.

“It’s such an honor to be a dance captain for “Riverdance,” she said. “Our job is to make sure that the dances are okay. We make rotations every single night. People will be in different numbers from the night before to keep it interesting, so we’re not necessarily doing the exact same thing every single night. We try and mix it up as much as we can. And if there are any injuries, we deal with that too. Anything that goes on behind the scenes, it’s our job to deal with it and make sure everything’s running perfectly.”

As Trainor noted, there is a lot of dancing in “Riverdance” but it’s more than simply an Irish dance show.

“We have an incredible flamenco dancer. We have four folk dances. We have two American tappers alongside our insane four-piece band. There’s so much music and dance,” explained Trainor. “And then there’s the story of “Riverdance.” The first act is about the myth and the legend and telling the old tales of Ireland. And then the second act is about departure and discovery, when the Irish left to immigrate to America. It’s telling that story, and then by the end, all of those cultures are brought back to Ireland, celebrating together on stage. It’s truly an incredible show. We see people leaving every single night with smiles on their faces. We have standing ovations every night. So to see that every night, and to witness that on stage, and for us to give them that energy, and for them to give us that energy, it’s incredible.”

“There’s something in the show for everyone,” added Trainor. “You could be five years old, or 85 years old, whatever age you are, and wherever you come from, you can enjoy the show. It’s like a roller coaster of emotions that you go through throughout the show, which is beautiful to see.”

Beyond dancing, Trainor is serving as an inspiration for others who want to make dancing their career.

“It’s an incredible feeling to inspire people. We meet children at the stage door and they say ‘I want to start Irish dancing, I want to go to lessons.’ It takes me back to when I was their age, when I was seven or eight, waiting at the stage door to meet the cast. So to now be on the flip side, it’s incredible. And we love meeting people at the stage door and inspiring them and telling them, yeah, of course you can, it’s never too late to start, whether that’s Irish dancing or it’s flamenco dancing or tap dancing, playing an instrument. It’s so special to know that we’re inspiring that next generation to come.”

For tickets to “Riverdance,” visit www.SCFTA.org.

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It will be a family affair at the Pacific Symphony Pops concert on May 15 and 16 when Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez and the Pacific Symphony present a concert featuring the Three Mexican Tenors at the Segerstrom Concert Hall.

One of the three tenors is Jorge Lopez-Yañez, father of Enrico Lopez-Yañez. He is joined by fellow tenors Bernardo Bermudez and Alfredo Carillo.

It promises to be an enchanting evening that Pacific Symphony says blends the passion and tradition of Mexico with the universally beloved classical tenor trio. Expect to hear operatic classics such as “Libiamo” and “O Sole Mio” as well as Broadway tunes and pop hits.

Adding to the excitement, Mariachi Garibaldi de Jaime Cuélla joins the vocalists and orchestra for a vibrant celebration of Mexican musical heritage.

“This is a show that’s very near and dear to me, because one of the tenors is my dad,” explained Enrico. “He has sung everywhere, from the Metropolitan Opera to Opera Australia. He has been an international tenor singing everything from Rossini through to Puccini and Verdi. And for years now he has been doing these Three Mexican Tenors concerts around the world. We’ve created this sort of packaged version of it that really encapsulates a little bit of everything. You get traditional stuff from Neapolitan songs, opera and Broadway through to very traditional Mexican music, all wrapped up into one concert. it’s really a fun, cross generational show.”

The musical arrangements are said to be crafted to highlight each tenor’s unique vocal qualities, while also showcasing the harmonious ensemble and virtuosity as artists. With a blend of opera, Broadway, mariachi and pop, the show promises to be both joyful and meaningful for anyone who appreciates world-class singing.

“Not many people can say they get to work and perform with their son,” said Jorge Lopez-Yañez. “Because of my role with The Three Mexican Tenors, and my son’s position as a conductor, I have the pleasure of doing both. The Three Mexican Tenors highlight our love for a broad range of musical genres, from beloved romantic ballads to hit songs made famous by many cultural icons. Though our voices and upbringings are unique, when we come together in collaboration, the arrangement is vibrant and filled with emotion.”

Pacific Symphony’s production of “An Enchanted Evening with The Three Tenors” takes place Friday, May 15, and Saturday, May 16, at 8 p.m. in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall. Tickets are $50-$181.

Both performances include a “Cocktails with the Conductor” event before the concert, during which guests are invited to join Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez in the main lobby starting at 7:15 p.m. as he talks about the show.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (714) 755-5799 or visit www.pacificsymphony.org.

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It’s been a busy spring for the Environmental Nature Center in Newport Beach.

First came word that the Environmental Nature Center (ENC) has been named the 2026 Environmental Education Organization of the Year by the Association for Environmental & Outdoor Education, a statewide professional organization dedicated to advancing environmental literacy and outdoor learning across California.

Presented in partnership with Ten Strands and the California Environmental Literacy Initiative, this annual award recognizes organizations that demonstrate innovation, follow research-based best practices, and expand equitable access to environmental education.

ENC was selected for its comprehensive, community-based approach to environmental education, serving learners from early childhood through adulthood across its Newport Beach campus and the ENC Tucker Wildlife Sanctuary in Modjeska Canyon.

Programs include nature-based preschool, K–12 field trips, youth leadership development, teacher professional development, and community programming—creating a continuous pathway for lifelong connection to nature.

“This recognition is especially meaningful coming from a community of peers who are deeply committed to this work,” said Lori Whalen, Vice President of the Environmental Nature Center. “At the ENC, we believe that connection to nature isn’t a single experience—it’s a relationship built over time. We are honored to be part of a statewide network working to ensure that all people have access to meaningful experiences in the outdoors.”

Each year, the ENC serves tens of thousands of participants, including thousands of Title I students who receive access to hands-on environmental education programs. The organization is also a leader in sustainable operations, having achieved TRUE Platinum Zero Waste certification, modeling the environmental responsibility it seeks to inspire.

“This award reflects the collective efforts of our staff, volunteers, partners, and supporters,” added Whalen. “We are deeply grateful to our community for helping make this work possible.”

Summer Soirée

The Environmental Nature Center will be hosting its annual Summer Soirée on Saturday, May 30 from 5 to 10 p.m. at its award-winning campus in Newport Beach.

Set against the backdrop of native habitat, the Summer Soirée invites guests to enjoy an elegant evening under the stars featuring a chef-prepared dinner, curated drinks, live music, and a live auction—all in support of the ENC’s mission to connect people with nature through transformative environmental education.

The Soirée brings together community leaders, supporters, and nature enthusiasts to celebrate the impact of the ENC’s programs, which serve more than 30,000 people each year, including thousands of students from underserved communities.

“This event is both a celebration and a call to action,” said Bo Glover, President & CEO of the Environmental Nature Center. “At a time when connection to the natural world is more important than ever, the ENC continues to provide meaningful, place-based experiences that inspire the next generation of environmental stewards.”

Guests will enjoy a thoughtfully prepared outdoor dinner, specialty beverages, and live music in a relaxed yet refined setting. The evening also features a live auction with one-of-a-kind experiences—from private nature-based workshops to curated outdoor gatherings—offering attendees unique ways to engage more deeply with the ENC’s mission.

Proceeds from the Summer Soirée directly support the ENC’s educational programs, including field trips, camps, community outreach, and scholarships that ensure access for all. The organization’s commitment to sustainability is reflected throughout the event, with operations aligned to its TRUE Platinum Zero Waste certification.

Tickets to the Summer Soirée are $200 per person. Tables are available for $2,000. All ticket sales support the ENC’s programs, with sponsorship opportunities providing additional, deeper support.

For more information call (949) 645-8489 or visit www.ENCenter.org.

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Newport Beach based Decorative Arts Society (DARTS) has awarded $800,000 to 15 grant recipients for the 2026-27 year. This is a record year of giving for DARTS, which has granted over $5.5 million over the past 31 years to Orange County non-profit organizations that provide critical services to women, children, and families in need.

“Many of the non-profits we serve have suffered major budget cuts, and a lack of funding prohibits them from moving forward with projects and programs that make a significant difference in our community,” said Adrienne Garrison, President of DARTS. “All of us at DARTS are elated to grant a record amount to so many deserving Orange County non-profit organizations this year, which will fund vital support and services. We remain dedicated to bridging the gap for charities that offer valuable resources to women, children, and families.”

More than 50 donors and their guests attended a grant awards luncheon at the Pacific Club in Newport Beach on April 30 when Garrison and Edie Denning, the DARTS Grants Chair, presented charity representatives with their checks. Grant recipients included:

• Breast Cancer Solutions provides breast cancer patients with direct assistance, community referrals, and compassionate support.
• Family Support Network provides resources and advocacy for families and children with social, emotional, intellectual, and physical needs so they may reach their full potential.
• Fristers, which is committed to transforming the lives of teen parents by providing the education, resources, and support they need to build healthy, stable families.
• Hands Together provides preschool and licensed childcare to nearly 100 children each year.
• Homeless Intervention Services provides transitional housing, essential support, and community driven solutions to help individuals move from homelessness to stability.
• Hope Harbor consists of two homes that provide transitional and long-term housing and care for teens at risk of homelessness.
• Laura’s House offers shelter, counseling, and legal services to end the cycle of domestic violence.
• Mary’s Path empowers vulnerable teen mothers in foster care and their babies to create lives of dignity, hope, and self-sufficiency.
• Radiant Futures provides crisis support, services for all survivors, and education to prevent domestic violence and trafficking.
• SPIN (Serving People In Need), which is committed to providing housing and restoring Orange County’s individuals and families in crisis and at risk of becoming homeless or currently experiencing homelessness.
• O.Y. (Save Our Youth) provides a safe and welcoming space for teens to find hope, to nourish a sense of self and an ability to grow, and to develop interests and skills to become productive members of society.
• WISE Place serves unaccompanied individuals experiencing homelessness who often lack the support system of a spouse, significant other, or children.

In addition to the annual Grants Program, DARTS has announced that the organization is expanding its giving this year by funding special initiatives to support shelter and health basic needs in Orange County.

These one-time grants are benefitting Casa Youth Shelter, South County Outreach, and Thomas House Family Shelter.

Celebrating 31 years of giving, the Decorative Arts Society is a membership organization that offers an annual lecture series by nationally and internationally renowned experts in the decorative arts, including interior design, architecture, landscape, fashion, and other aspects of the arts.

Through subscriptions, donations, and other fundraising, DARTS provides grants to Orange County charities serving women, children, and families.

For more information on the Decorative Arts Society and membership opportunities, please visit www.decorativeartssociety.net.

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Beyond Blindness, a Santa Ana-based nonprofit working to empower children with visual impairments and other disabilities to reach their fullest potential, raised more than $325,000 at its 9th annual Vision Beyond Sight Celebration on Saturday, April 18.

The celebration welcomed 200 guests and marked the first time the nonprofit hosted the celebration on-site, offering supporters a direct look at how their contributions help fulfill

The event featured remarks from keynote speaker Craig Fitzpatrick, retired Air Force Veteran and former blind hockey forward with the U.S. Blind Hockey Team, and a panel of five Beyond Blindness young clients.

During the event, outgoing Beyond Blindness Outgoing Board Chair Carol Trapani of Corona del Mar was honored for years of service, along with her daughter, Lucie Courtois, a Beyond Blindness client and author.

Courtois (of Corona del Mar) has received services from Beyond Blindness. She is a graduate of Corona del Mar High School and post high school completed independent skills and academic program at the California School for the Blind. She has also completed acting and scriptwriting courses. Her goals are to act and create work that includes all different types of people, especially people who are blind.

The evening began with a cocktail hour where guests were invited to participate in a blind hockey demonstration in which Fitzpatrick aided sighted and visually impaired individuals of all ages in taking shots at the goal, showcasing just some of the obstacles blind people face when tackling a new hobby. Participants donned eye masks or goggles that mimic common vision impairments while using an oversized puck with a bell inside to experience the sensation. Other activities allowed guests to write their names in braille, tour the nonprofit’s sensory garden and try their luck with the opportunity raffle.

Beyond Blindness Board Chair-elect Geoff Kissel, Vice President, Structured Settlements at Pacific Life in Fashion Island, facilitated a lively panel conversation that featured four Beyond Blindness clients and one alumnus—all with various vision impairments—who shared personal stories of how early intervention, education and family support through the organization’s comprehensive Journey of Care model have shaped their lives, from early childhood through adulthood.

Beyond Blindness’ mission is to empower children with visual impairments and other disabilities to achieve their fullest potential. They are the only non-profit provider from birth to 22 years of age in greater Orange County with vision as a specialty and the ability to treat vision issues along with other developmental delays that accompany them. Areas of service include Early Intervention, Education and Enrichment, and Family Support, which aim to help children, no matter their abilities, live full and rewarding lives. The Beyond Blindness team embraces a people-first approach and values family, connection, impact, inclusion, stewardship, and optimism. Thery have been in the community since 1962.

To learn more about Beyond Blindness and its mission, visit www.beyondblindness.org.

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For a local definition of a festival, look no further than Newport Beach, which becomes Southern California’s “Festival Capital” in May and June.

Kicking off on Memorial Day Weekend, Visit Newport Beach has rounded up five back-to-back festivals that together paint a portrait of a destination that genuinely has it all.

May 22-24: Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival

The festival season starts Memorial Day weekend with the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival. Held at the iconic Balboa Bay Resort, expect three days of fun with sweeping views of Newport Harbor and the gleaming yachts beyond. The weekend unfolds across three distinctly curated experiences: A JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery Winemaker Dinner (Friday, May 22), the Grand Tasting (Saturday, May 23), and “Blanc on the Bay” White Party (Sunday, May 24). Details and tickets: https://balboabayresort.com/nbwinefestival.

May 29-31: Newport Beach Jazz Festival

Now in its 30th year, the Newport Beach Jazz Festival is one of the longest continuously-running festivals in Orange County, bringing together legendary jazz musicians, celebrated composers, and rising stars for three unforgettable days on the lush grounds of the Hyatt Regency Newport Beach. The lineup draws from the full spectrum of jazz, from smooth jazz to bebop, classic standards to contemporary fusion and more, making it a draw for music fans of all backgrounds. Food, vendors and giveaways are the cherry on top of this celebrated jazz event. Tickets: https://festivals.hyattconcerts.com.

June 4-7: Newport Beach TV Fest

Television’s finest descend on Newport Beach for four days of screenings, panel conversations, and intimate Q&As with the actors, writers, and creators behind today’s most talked-about shows. Guests this year include Seth MacFarlane (Maverick Award), Andy Cohen (Variety Creative Impact Award), Sebastian Maniscalco (Standup Comedy Special of the Year), “Hacks” showrunners Paul W. Downs, Lucia Aniello, and Jen Statsky (Showrunner of the Year Award), the cast of “Landman” including Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter, Andy Garcia, and Michelle Randolph (Outstanding Drama Ensemble Award), and the cast of “Shrinking” including Jason Segel, Christa Miller, Jessica Williams, Michael Urie, Luke Tennie, Lukita Maxwell and Ted McGinley (Outstanding Comedy Ensemble Award). Screening and panels are ticketed and open to the public. Visit https://www.nbtvfest.com.

June 13: Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival

A love letter to maritime heritage, the Newport Beach Wooden Boat Festival gathers some of the most breathtaking wooden vessels in the country at the Balboa Yacht Club. Festivalgoers can walk the docks, board featured vessels, embark on gondola rides, and enjoy live music, all against the backdrop of Newport’s glittering bay. The 2026 featured vessel is the Spirit of Dana Point, a storied tall ship with deep ties to California’s maritime history. Admission is just $10 (children under 12 free), making this accessible event a must-see for Father’s Day weekend. Visit https://www.newportbeachwoodenboatfestival.com.

June 26-28: NOBLE Wine & Dine Weekend

The Newport Beach festival season reaches its crescendo with NOBLE Wine & Dine, a three-day ultra-premium culinary event at the Five-Star, Five-Diamond Pelican Hill. The 2026 edition is headlined by Chef Daniel Boulud, whose accolades include multiple Michelin stars across Restaurant Daniel, Le Pavillon, and Café Boulud in New York, along with James Beard Awards for Outstanding Restaurant and Outstanding Chef of the Year. Joining him is a handpicked collection of California’s finest chefs for three days of epicurean adventures: a wine dinner, grand tasting, and champagne brunch. Visit https://www.noblewineanddine.com.

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Happy Birthday to Newport Beach!

Newport Beach has its 120th birthday in September 2026. The story of the city’s first 100 years has been told, but what about the last 20 years?

The Newport Beach Historical Society has the answer. The organization recruited four former mayors – Ed Selich, Nancy Gardner, Diane Dixon, and Joe Stapleton – to tell the tales of the past 20 years during a special event at the Harborside Banquet Room at the Balboa Pavilion on Wednesday, April 15.

The event was hosted by Don Webb, the 2006 Centennial Mayor and probably the only person to have walked every street in Newport Beach.

Between 2006 and 2026 there have been 20 mayors. Some, like Ed Selich, Diane Dixon, Keith Curry and Will O’Neil, served two terms (Selich served three terms). All will be remembered for their service to the city.

According to Mayor Webb, he reached out to the former mayors and asked them to fill out a questionnaire that talked about their time as a mayor and their time on the city council, and that as a basis for the talk.

Ed Selich covered 2006 to 2010, Nancy Gardner reviewed 2011 to 2015, Diane Dixon covered 2016 to 2020, and 2021 to 2025 was handled by the 2025 Mayor Joe Stapleton.

Ed Selich

Selich said he looked through the city council minutes for those five years to look for the significant things that, from his perspective, happened during that period of time.

“I looked at the council members that were elected in 2006, and I proclaimed that we were the Dream Team,” said Selich. “I did that because of the personalities of those of us that were elected, as well as the skill sets we had that were very complimentary. We all worked as a team, and I thought that we did a lot of great things for the city, and really worked as more of a corporate board of directors than a political body.”

Selich was appointed to the building committee for City Hall and became embroiled in a debate on the location of City Hall.

“We put together a building committee and a site review committee which consisted of people in the community. They came up with 15 sites. None of them worked out,” said Selich. “We started negotiating with the Irvine company on a site in the 500 block of Newport Center, and we were moving in that direction, but there was a movement to create the city hall in the park site on Avocado Street. At the same time, we started construction on the Santa Ana Heights fire station.”

Once Mayor Curry joined the council, Selich said he helped create a facilities financing plan.

The city also began the design elements of the OASIS Senior Center and started the Sunset Ridge Park project. After that came the designs for Marina Park.

“And then 2008 rolled around. We had to deal with the city hall in the park initiative,” said Selich. “It passed in February, and so at that point in time, even though the council had been divided on where the city hall should go, we came together and we put together design committees. We had a Citizens Committee that went out and solicited proposals from architects all around the world to design the City Hall. We had 51 proposals from all around the world, and the citizens committee selected five designs.”

Once a design was selected, the city moved ahead with the project. Other projects followed, including the Back Bay Science Center.

Then came the recession of 2009.

“We had to bite the bullet in our budget, probably one of the first times, and maybe the only time, the city has had to do this. But we really had to tighten our belt up. And one of the major things we had to do is defer a number of our capital projects, just to make sure that we could move on with a balanced budget.”

Other activities Selich mentioned: A charter update committee to do a major update to our city charter, and studies on raising the sea wall around Balboa Island.

Nancy Gardner

Gardner began by mentioning the city council “dream team” and how they functioned so well together.

“I think that the City Hall was a perfect example,” explained Grdner. “Four of us, when it came to council, voted no. I voted no because that whole area had been deeded open space in perpetuity, and I thought it was a terrible precedent that in Newport Beach in perpetuity meant less than 10 years. But they got on the ballot. They won, we lost, and it would have been a perfect opportunity for the four of us to say it’s your problem. But we didn’t. We immediately got together and said, ‘how can we make this the best project possible?’ And that’s when we began to expand it with the library expansion. I think the fact that we could disagree, as seven people always will, and yet, after every disagreement, just come right back together and get on with things.”

Gardner then focused on city finances and zeroed in on the pension fund liability.

“If we don’t get control of that, future councils are not going to be able to do anything, so we began the program to pay down that pension fund liability so the city would not have these horrific bills down the road. And we also took a firm we also took a firm stance with the city’s labor groups. I understand it’s more of a bromance now, but we had an arm’s length relationship. We wanted to do what was good in the long run for the city.”

Gardner then talked about making the city more efficient and at the same time effective. “We did some reorganization, and the overall effect was reduced staff by 13 percent but we did it without layoffs. We did it through attrition and buyouts, and we also made it more effective.”

“We also took back the Fourth of July,” added Gardner. “If you lived on the peninsula, at one point, people left town. It was just chaos. We said we’re going to put more resources into it. You’re welcome to come, but there are rules, and we are going to enforce them. And it became a family friendly holiday.”

Gardner also mentioned the John Wayne Airport settlement and the back bay dredging that occurred during the time period of 2006-2010.

Diane Dixon

Second District Assembly member Diane Dixon was elected to the City Council in 2014 and served until 2022. She was Mayor in 2016 and 2019. She flew in from Sacramento for the event.

“When I was elected in 2014, how fortunate we were to have had the dream team that proceeded me,” said Dixon. “They established the foundation for quality management and an excellent city staff. There was a legacy of good fiscal management that came from this dream team and thinking about how to build a contemporary, modern quality city, never losing sight of quality of life. It’s a factor that informed everything we did and continue to do”

Dixon also talked about the new City Hall and the fact that the budget ballooned from $40 million to $100 million, which caused displeasure with Newport Beach citizens. Dixon began holding a series of Town Meetings to have a dialogue with residents. She also helped mediate a dispute between Fritz Duda and Bob Olson, who were arguing over a city owned easement that ran between their two properties so Lido House Hotel could be built. She solved the dispute.

“I said we’ve got to get this hotel built, it’s important to the restoring, revitalizing and reinvigorating Balboa Peninsula, which indeed it has, as well as Lido village,” said Dixon. “I’m happy everything all turned out well. We were able to build a hotel and that’s been one of the greatest economic investments still today.”

In conclusion, said Dixon, “Newport Beach is unique because of the investment we all have in our properties. The pride that we have in our city is palpable. Serving all the people in Newport Beach for eight years, and being mayor twice, certainly was the greatest honor of my life. It’s the best job in the country, because the people are so grateful. They love their city. I’m grateful to serve the people to keep making this city the best it can be. I’m fighting the fight now in Sacramento, but I’m always fighting for Newport Beach.”

Joe Stapleton

Joe Stapleton served as Mayor in 2025 with the slogan of “Celebrate Newport.” He talked about the last five years including how the city navigated the challenges of the pandemic with virtual city council meetings.

“I joined the Chamber of Commerce when I was 24 years old, when I moved here from Arizona.,” recalled Stapleton. “I remember driving down MacArthur and thinking, what a unique place this is. And Newport Beach isn’t a world class city or utopia by accident. It’s because of all of you and these leaders and the legacy of leaders that came before us, and I’m just so honored to continue to be part of the fabric of community, protecting quality life for all of us.”

Stapleton mentioned various city council members and mayors that spearheaded projects that increased quality of life in Newport Beach. One of the most important issues he and others dealt with was homelessness.

“When I took office in 2022, we had 94 homeless in Newport Beach. Robin Grant, myself, Mayor Kleiman and a lot of others worked really hard to reduce that. I’m proud to stand in front of you today and say we have less than six homeless people,” said Stapleton. “Six homeless people the city of Newport Beach, an 85 percent reduction. It doesn’t mean we just arrested them all and put them in prison. The reality is we’re spending millions of dollars a year to give them the temporary and permanent shelter they need to get off the street. There’s no compassion for leaving somebody on the streets. We’re doing all we can as a community to make sure we get them the resources tools they need. If they don’t, if they refuse those services, we’re not going to just allow them to sleep on the streets. The reality is, when we do enforce our rules, they generally come back and thank us once they get the resources they need to get off the street.”

Stapleton said that when he was named mayor in 2025, for mayor Keith Curry told him “you don’t have to be good, but you have to show up.”

“So I showed up,” stated Stapleton. “I think I signed over 2,200 Letters. I did 85 proclamations and 500 certificates, and gave out three keys to the city. And I promised somebody years ago, if I ever became the mayor of Newport Beach, I will do the paddle for the Ben Carlson Foundation from Catalina Island to Newport, a 30-mile journey on a paddle board. And I did it, and we raised $450,000 for the Ben Carlson Foundation.”

“I spent all of last year celebrating the history, the people, the projects, the legacy of Newport Beach,” said Stapleton. “What the Historical Society is doing tonight is telling that story. The more we tell the story about the history of Newport, the more we’re going to preserve quality of life for all of us.”

For more information on the Newport Beach Historical Society, visit https://www.newportbeachhistorical.org.

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Growing up in Huntington Beach and later Newport Beach, there were four classic movie theaters (call them art houses) my friends and I frequented where nostalgia met Hollywood: Surf Theater in Huntington Beach, Balboa Theater near the Balboa Fun Zone, Port Theater in Corona del Mar, and Lido Theater near Lido Marina Village.

The Surf Theater and Balboa Theater were shuttered long ago, and Port Theater has morphed into an upscale movie palace with couches and a full bar.

The 520 seat Lido Theater, which opened in 1939, showed first run films as well as revivals and served as one of the venues use by the Newport Beach Film Festival until 2019, when theater owner Fritz Duda Company – which purchased the theater in 1986 – closed the venue for a much-needed renovation.

In October 2024, Fritz Duda Company unveiled a major restoration project that took five years to complete.

The extensive restoration included new seating, lighting, carpet, and a larger stage framed by a new red velvet waterfall curtain. The new exterior color palette was uncovered as the original shade of the stucco when the theater was built.

Also restored were the original box office, movie poster cases, the lobby and concession stand, the marquee with neon lighting, and an art deco neon starburst that greets visitors at the entrance. The restrooms were also restored, including a pink sitting parlor in the ladies’ room off the lobby, which was requested by Oscar-winning actress Bette Davis, who lived nearby when the theater first opened.

Mahogany doors and other decorative woodwork were refinished. Added back from the original design were new brass and copper finishes, along with cream-colored paint with subtle silver sparkles that can be seen in the lobby and staircase. The lobby and restrooms also boast restored Catalina-style tile, revered at the time for its colorful hand-painted beauty. The original terrazzo entry was also preserved.

Lido Theater’s auditorium walls were also refreshed, with its murals depicting underwater ocean scenes that appear to glow when the house lights dim. The classic balcony also remains a unique feature not found in modern theaters.

Now, the Lido Theater has been honored with a 2026 Preservation Award by The Art Deco Society of California—one of only two restored buildings to be given the prestigious award this year.

The annual Art Deco Preservation Awards recognize a commitment to preserving California buildings, art, and culture from the Art Deco era. The award was recently presented to Lido Theater project designer Margee Drews and project manager John Loper on behalf of owner, Fritz Duda Company, at the 41st Annual Art Deco Preservation Ball at The Hibernia in San Francisco.

The Lido Theater was designed by architect Clifford A. Balch, known for his Art Deco theaters, and was built by The Griffith Company, a firm that made significant contributions to the development of Newport Beach.

“We are deeply honored to be recognized for the preservation and meticulous restoration of the Lido Theater,” said owner Fritz Duda in a press statement. “As one of the most notable theaters in Southern California, The Lido and its Art Deco design allow guests to step back in time to the Golden Age of Hollywood.”

The Art Deco Society of California is a non-profit organization founded in 1981 by architectural historian Michael Crowe and other preservationists in the San Francisco Bay Area. The mission of the organization is to increase public awareness of the Art Deco era through the preservation and promotion of its art, architecture, music, design,

When The Lido Theater restoration was unveiled, Newport Beach native and movie producer Joseph “McG” Nichol was announced as the new operator, through his company River Jetty Restaurant Group, which also owns A Restaurant, CdM Restaurant, and several other restaurants.

The venue now offers the community a mix of movies, live entertainment, and rentals for corporate events and private parties.

The Lido Theater is located in Via Lido Plaza at 3459 Via Lido in Newport Beach. For more information or a schedule of upcoming movies and live events, visit www.thelidotheater.com.

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From fall through spring, Pacific Symphony calls Segerstrom Center for the Arts home.

In July and August (and even into September), Pacific Symphony migrates to the Great Park to present its annual SummerFest as the resident orchestra of Great Park Live, one of Orange County’s most exciting destinations for live music under the stars.

Presented by City of Hope Orange County with the venue underwritten by the City of Irvine, the five-concert 2026 SummerFest series offers a mix of beloved pop icons, a blockbuster film, John Williams’ iconic scores, disco music and classical masterpieces for one unforgettable summer of music.

From a patriotic celebration honoring America’s 250th birthday headlined by legendary soft-rock icons Air Supply, to the epic music of Star Wars, a live-orchestra presentation of Back to the Future, the electrifying hits of ABBA, and the beloved Tchaikovsky Spectacular with fireworks, SummerFest 2026 offers something for everyone.

A Summer of Five Spectacular Performances

Kicking off the SummerFest season, the legendary soft rock duo Air Supply joins Pacific Symphony’s “July 4th Spectacular: America 250” in a special headlining appearance celebrating the nation’s 250th birthday during their A Matter of Time tour. Led by conductor Chad Goodman, the concert blends patriotic favorites with the group’s timeless love songs, inviting audiences to sing along and dance beneath the summer sky before a spectacular fireworks show lights up the night.

The galactic adventure continues July 25 with “The Music of Star Wars,” conducted by Principal Pops Conductor Enrico Lopez-Yañez. Pacific Symphony performs some of John Williams’ most powerful and recognizable themes from the iconic saga, including selections from Revenge of the Sith, the heroic “Star Wars Main Title,” and the electrifying “Duel of the Fates.” Filled with sweeping melodies, thrilling drama and unforgettable moments, the evening brings the epic world of Star Wars to life in one of the most thrilling orchestral celebrations of film music ever written.

On August 1, audiences can experience a cinematic favorite in a spectacular live concert event with “Back to the Future,” featuring the full-length film projected on a giant high-definition screen while Pacific Symphony performs Alan Silvestri’s celebrated score live in synchronization with the movie. The 1985 blockbuster follows Marty McFly (Michael J. Fox), Doc Brown (Christopher Lloyd) and their time-traveling DeLorean on a high-stakes adventure through past, present and future that threatens to disrupt the space-time continuum. Adding to the excitement is a selection of brand-new music written by Silvestri specifically for the live orchestra presentation. The performance is led by conductor Scott Terrell.

Jump into the 1970s and sing along to popular tunes from Sweden’s biggest pop group, ABBA, on August 22. ARRIVAL From Sweden, one of the best-selling ABBA show bands, joins the orchestra in dazzling costumes to impersonate the energetic icons themselves. Performing hits like “Mamma Mia” and “Dancing Queen,” conductor Evan Roider leads the electric pop performance that’s sure to have everyone on their feet.

SummerFest concludes September 5 with the beloved “Tchaikovsky Spectacular,” conducted by Eric Jacobsen and featuring acclaimed violinist Randall Goosby. The evening opens with Tchaikovsky’s soaring and virtuosic Violin Concerto, one of the most cherished works in the violin repertoire. The grand finale brings the explosive drama of the 1812 Overture, complete with fireworks, for a thrilling outdoor experience that closes the summer season.

Continuing a Summer Tradition at Great Park Live

“Pacific Symphony’s SummerFest is one of our most popular and long-standing traditions, bringing a wider audience out to enjoy orchestral music in an easy-going atmosphere under the stars,” said John Forsyte, President of Pacific Symphony. “We are grateful to City of Hope Orange County and the City of Irvine for their continued partnership as we enter our third year at Great Park Live. With its expansive lawn seating, festive summer atmosphere and excellent acoustics, Great Park Live has quickly become one of Orange County’s favorite gathering places for live music and community celebration.”

Subscriptions are available now, with packages that include free parking and fee-free ticket exchanges. Table seating is reserved for subscribers and groups of 10 or more. Single tickets will go on sale May 18.

For more information or to purchase tickets, call (714) 755-5799 or visit www.PacificSymphony.org.

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“The Drama” is an American romantic black comedy written and directed by Kristoffer Borgli and released in the US by A24. It stars Zendaya and Robert Pattinson as a happily engaged couple whose relationship is tested by an unexpected revelation during the week before their wedding.

You might call “The Drama” a controversial film with controversial topics that evoke uncertain thoughts, but I fear we are missing the true points of the film: performance, psychological perception, and trauma.

The marketing of the film made me think one thing, while the actual film made me feel something different. I knew there was going to be drama (the film’s title gives it way).

The film starts off with a cute rom-com vibe, but then drastically changes into a psychological dramedy.

Emma (played by Zendaya) has a deep and personal secret, but we don’t know it yet.

We are sitting in a room with Emma, Charlie (Robet Pattinson), Rachel (Alana Haim), and Mike (Mamoudou Athi), when Emma drops a bomb on us. That scene shifts the vibe of the movie, opening the unexpected turn in the road. It made me wonder why did the film put us in this position? I was in shock like the rest of Emma’s friends, totally taken aback by what she just said.

If I was writing the script, why bring up this topic? Something so prominent and controversial. But that’s how the film gets your attention, forcing people to talk and others to think. I thought and then did some research. It made me realize that the film isn’t about school shootings, it’s about the subjectivity of forgiveness or how quick we are to shut someone down without hearing an explanation.

I sat on it for about a week and finally I thought, “Emma didn’t actually do anything to hurt anyone. But everyone else somehow did in a way.”

This was one of those films where it got me thinking about the what ifs, about human psychology and their limits. Not only just about the characters in the film, but also the people in the movie theater.

This film raises the question of how far is too far? I think this film makes you ask what does unconditional love really mean? How accepting are we of our loved ones? Where does love end and judgment begin? How does one thing someone says change our entire perception of them? Can we handle certain parts of other people, or certain parts of ourselves? Is it too much to ask for forgiveness?

This movie argues that people are too quick to judge. Everyone deserves to explain themselves, right? Every time I hear one of these stories on the news, I think “Why do people wake up and decide to hurt other people? What’s the motivation?”

I’ve always been curious about the darkness of the human mind. We all have a tiny section in our minds where we don’t want to explore, and we saw that with all these characters in the film.

Something else the film touches on is the act of being performative. The definition is made or done for show (as to bolster one’s own image or make a positive impression on others). And Charlie mentions that some aspects of him and Emma’s wedding are just performative.

I made the connection that the film might also teach us that all of us are just performative beings. We walk out the house every day, and we leave our secrets at home. It’s like we go up to present on stage and keep everything else backstage. If something were to slip up and the curtains opened and revealed everything, the show was worth nothing.

Going back to the idea that there are just some things about the human mind we suppress and ignite in favor of acceptance, that’s performative. That’s what this film did. It revealed a little bit of what the backstage looked like and it got us to really think, or made us really angry.

Was this film just a performance? No, it wasn’t. It was a risk, but it was something that really made you think about the depths of the human mind. How well can we handle the truth? Have we gotten too comfortable with performance?

“The Drama” is playing at The LOT in Fashion Island.

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