Fair Game
By TOM JOHNSON
Get ready…this week is the calm before next week’s debut of the new Stu News redesign
This week, we’re dimming the lights in the Stu News newsroom to allow staff to be with family and friends over the holidays. It’s also a chance that allows them to rest, relax and recharge the old batteries as we prepare to kick off 2024.
And what a year it’s going to be right out of the gate with our first issue of the year. For months, we’ve been fine tuning a product redesign. It will debut in what we’re hoping is its new splendor come Tuesday, Jan. 2, 2024.
Here’s what you can expect. A much cleaner page set-up. Gone will be what we internally call the “right gutter.” It’s the single column that runs down the right side of the page and what many times competes with stories or photos, or both, that run down the middle.
So, expect stories to be presented in a clearer design running completely across the page; as, too, will ads. It should make for an easier read all the way around.
And trust me, a redesign is not something we take with a grain of salt. They are few and far between and completed after much thought.
But, we also realize that we’re not the judge and jury. You, our readers are, so let us know what you think after you spend a little time with it next Tuesday.
We also realize change is always difficult and some people, quite frankly, just don’t like it. So, disappointment is anticipated from some, but hopefully it will be few and far between.
We’re also hoping that the new design will make for a better home for advertisers to share their messaging with our growing number of readers.
Local news products are also not as commonplace any longer as the latest national statistics bear out, with many more failing and going out of business than beginning. Fortunately, we’ve been on the good side of that effort.
Still, we honestly could use more support. Not a week goes by when we don’t think of new things we’d like to add to our coverage, and we’re only limited by the funds to continually reinvest in our business.
Should you have a business, big or small, for profit or not for profit, we have a program that should work with your budget.
So, if you’d like to find out more, send me an email to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and we’ll collectively figure it out.
I remind you again that this week will be softer than a “normal” week, but we won’t just pass on any news stories that need to be told. We’re on it, even during the holidays.
So, Happy New Year! Here’s to a great 2024 together.
• • •
Poorman is at it again. For the third consecutive year, KOCI 101.5 Radio personality Jim “Poorman” Trenton will host a live 29-hour New Year Marathon show to celebrate the new year beginning at 6 a.m. on New Year’s Eve – Sunday, Dec. 31, 2023.
The broadcast will air live on 101.5 FM.
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Submitted photo
Jim “Poorman” Trenton
• • •
Speaking of the New Year, get ready for some King Tides right out of the gate. On January 11 and 12 and again on February 9, high tides will hit our beaches and low-lying areas.
Expectations anticipate tides up 6.84 feet on January 11 at 8:18 a.m. and up 6.83 feet on January 12 at 9:02 a.m.
When they return on February 9, tides will be up 6.80 feet at 8:12 a.m.
(All the above data is calculated for the Newport Bay entrance.)
Santa makes a special delivery to the Jordan Family, thanks to our Newport Beach Firefighters
Every year, the Newport Beach Firefighters adopt a local family during the Christmas season through their Fire Santa program. Their goal has always been to extend their service to the community they already serve by assisting those families who are unable to support themselves due to extenuating circumstances.
Fire Santa made a very special delivery on Christmas Eve this year! Newport Beach Firefighters and their supporters were able to raise more than $10,000 to assist the Jordan Family in Newport Beach, so they could experience a very memorable Christmas.
Laurie Jordan, a local widowed grandmother, is raising her three grandchildren – Haley, age 8; Wesley, age 5 and Damian, age 3. She is a strong, independent woman who took over as the children’s legal guardian with the recent unexpected death of their mother (her daughter) and only parent.
This holiday season, Laurie’s wish was to restore her grandkids’ beautiful smiles that have been dulled from traumatic events that no child should have to experience.
The NBFD reached out and Laurie and the youngsters enjoyed a fire station tour, a Christmas photography session, a Costco shopping haul, gifts for the whole family (from Santa, of course) and a fire engine gift delivery from Santa Claus, himself!
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Photos by NBFD PIO Joshua Leith
(L-R) NBFD Paramedic Brett McAllister; Haley, age 8; NBFD Captain Joe Harrison; Wesley, age 5; Laurie Jordan holding her grandson Damian, age 3; Santa Claus; NBFD Paramedic Cory Freeman; NBFD Engineer Robert Binkerd; NBFD Chief Jeff Boyles and NBFD Battalion Chief Nick Stocks
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Santa Claus making a special delivery in the NBFD fire engine to the Jordan Family home
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(L-R) Santa Claus and Newport Beach Fire Chief Jeff Boyles
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Santa Claus with his big red bag of toys and goodies
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(L-R) Santa Claus with Haley, Grandmother Laurie, Wesley and Damian
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(L-R) Wesley, Damian and Haley in front of their Christmas tree with presents
To the tune of “Jingle Bell Rock,” view the video here to watch Santa and the NBFD paying a heartwarming Christmas Eve visit to the Jordan Family.
The NBFD wants to thank everyone involved and to all who donated to make this a very special Christmas for the Jordan Family.
Another Airport Area residential project earns approval from commission
By SARA HALL
The Planning Commission last week unanimously approved another residential project in the Airport Area.
Commissioners voted 6-0 (Brady Barto was absent) in favor of The Residences at 1401 Quail Street project, which includes 67 for-sale condominium units and a 146-space parking structure. The Residences at 1400 Bristol, another large residential project in the area, also recently received unanimous support from the commission on December 7.
As they’ve seen other local projects proposed for the area, Commissioner Jonathan Langford noted that this project seems to integrate nicely into the overall plan for this neighborhood of the Airport Area, which is better than having “one-off” projects that don’t relate or connect to each other.
“I’m just generally excited to see that there’s a critical mass of housing projects going on here,” in this area, Langford said. “It seems like this community is being built in front of our eyes and…I like the direction (it’s going).”
He hopes more developers follow in the footsteps of the previously proposed projects and the area continues to grow.
It’s an attractive project coming from a quality builder, added Vice Chair Mark Rosene.
“It looks great. It’s going to fit in wonderfully to the community,” he said. “I feel really good about what’s being proposed here.”
Rosene also liked that the project is bringing for-sale housing units to the market.
Commissioner Lee Lowrey echoed the comments from his fellow commissioners and commented that the aesthetics and diverse square footage of the units are nice features of the project.
“That area there seems to really be coming along and that vision is coming along,” he said.
He also pointed to how the project contributes to the city’s state-mandated Regional Housing Needs Assessment, including the affordable housing goals. These recent Airport Area projects place Newport Beach in better shape than a lot of other cities struggling with RHNA housing numbers.
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Rendering by Robert Hidey Architects/Courtesy of Intracorp and City of Newport Beach
A rendering of the motorcourt and the Residences at 1401 Quail Street
The project will require demolition of the existing 22,956-square-foot office building and surface parking on the 1.71-acre site, explained Senior Planner David Lee.
The applicant, Intracorp Homes, is proposing to construct a multi-unit residential building designed as a “podium-style” structure that consists of five stories over one level of on-grade parking and one level of subterranean parking, Lee said. The building height would be approximately 81 feet, including architectural elements, parapet, rooftop mechanical equipment and roof access.
The 67 condominium units include 27 two-bedroom units and 40 three-bedroom units. The two-bedroom units would range from 1,304 to 1,963 square feet with four differing layouts. The three-bedroom units would range from 2,097 to 3,174 square feet in size.
Lee explained that of the 67 units, eight units would be for sale and restricted to low- and very low-income households. Of the eight affordable units, six would be for very low-income households and two would be for low-income households. The remaining 59 units would be market rate, he said.
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Arts Commission presents Lucie Galvin’s Paper Pictures: Washi, Scraps, and Souvenirs
Continuing through February 9, 2024, Paper Pictures: Washi, Scraps, and Souvenirs by artist Lucie Galvin is appearing at the City of Newport Beach Arts Commission exhibition at Central Library, 1000 Avocado Ave., Newport Beach.
Photos courtesy of NB Arts Commission
“Drain to Bay,” 2023
Galvin grew up in Newport Beach, attending Eastbluff Elementary and Corona del Mar Middle and High schools. She learned to sail the harbor, worked at Fashion Island, and volunteered at the old Newport Beach Library and Hoag Hospital. After studying art history at the University of Michigan, education at St. Mary’s College, garden design at The English Gardening School, London, and Craftsman gardening with the National Trust for Scotland, she returned to her husband in Newport to raise their family.
Galvin teaches and practices gardening and crafts. During the pandemic, she iPad-sketched portraits of missed family and friends, walked town Instagramming plants vernacular, and began the illustrative paper collages in her exhibition. She has recently returned from studying traditional and modern papermaking in South Korea and Japan.
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“The Surfer,” 2023
The pictures’ paper plant materials include – bamboo, banana, cotton, daphne, ficus, flax, gampi, hemp/jute, mango mitsumata, mulberry, nettle, onion, papyrus, rice, silk, snake plant, and anonymous hard and softwoods in upcycled modern card stock, cellophane, construction paper, greeting cards, grocery bags, parchment, pastry boxes, souvenirs, wrapping paper and vellum.
Some works on display are available for purchase. Contact the artist for pricing at www.luciegalvin.art.
On the Harbor: 2013 end-of-the-year wrap-up
By LEN BOSE
The customers ask me how long have I been selling boats. My reply this year has been, “Longer than I care to admit,” which is similar to telling someone how old you are. Well, I’m thinking the same thing when I count back how many end-of-the-year wrap-ups I have written. Some years, I referred to these stories as the “The good, the bad & the ugly,” “My 10 best stories,” “Looking back at this year’s highlights” and “Counting down my favorite 10 stories.” So, I am not going to tell you how long I have been writing these year-end stories. Let’s just get this party started.
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Photo Len Bose
Jennifer and Len Bose
Each year we must ring eight bells – “End of the Watch” – or when a sailor has passed away. This year was “Remembering Douglas M. West.” Go here to read it. For me, it was West’s personal touch, on topics he knew I had a personal interest in. He would meet with me for breakfast or lunch at his request. He was an extremely easy person to approach while sincerely considering many of my silly ideas. At the same time, I recall a couple of Harbor Commission meetings when he would firmly remind people when they were out of order.
I spent some time this year with Harbormaster Paul Blank. Go here to read “Touring Newport Harbor with Harbormaster Paul Blank Part 1” and go here for Part 2.
In the first interview, Blank and I discussed moorings, pump-out stations, public docks, liveaboards, Caulerpa algae and so much more. At the end of this year, I felt I should check back in with him. Read “Catching up with Harbormaster Paul Blank Part 1 here and Part 2 here.
This second time around the harbor, we reviewed harbor objectives, harbor code enforcement, reviewing all that had happened in the harbor this past year and dredging, and more. I ended the interview with “I should get Harbormaster Blank to sail with me on my Harbor 20; I’d never miss a wind shift again!”
One of my favorite stories this year was “Getting to know Carolyn Smith, the new BCYC sailing director,” which you can read here.
“When I received the phone call, it felt super nice to be thought of for this position. This is a passion for me, so accepting this position was a no-brainer,” said Smith. As I was leaving the interview, Smith came up with the quote of the year. After I had told her this story would be running in Stu News’ Friday edition, she said with a huge smile, “Stu News, that’s where I get all my Newport news.”
I stopped by to see one of my many old friends around the harbor this year. Catching up with Eberisto “Abe” Parra, owner of Larson’s Shipyard. Go here to read it.
The real reason I stopped by to say hello to Parra that week was I had heard a rumor that he was retiring and closing up shop. When I asked him about this, he laughed and said, “I have been here 43 years and plan on being around another 43 years.” This was good to hear, because the last thing we need is to lose another shipyard from our harbor.
Mooring Issues and changes are always a hot topic each year. Now to the elephant in the room – a proposed pilot program to change the mooring system within our harbor. The history of the mooring system is lengthy, so let’s dive into the murky sand below the surface. Harbor Commissioner Ira Beer has been tasked with providing the Harbor Commission with a recommendation that can be presented to the City Council. You can read about that column here.
Meeting Harbor Commissioner Steve Scully reminded me to stay more active within the harbor. I was able to contact Harbor Commissioner Chairman Scully for an interview, and after I leaned back in my chair realizing just how much I missed this summer by not attending the meetings. The good news to report is that the Harbor Commission has been busy, and taking their tasks to hand by completing their objectives. You can read the column on Scully here.
This is the perfect segue to Harbor Commission goals and objectives, which you can read here. I wanted to take the time to update you on what the Harbor Commission has been tasked with in the upcoming year by reviewing its objectives and goals, along with any observations I made from the commission’s meetings.
Finishing the year on a good note, let’s go back to my column, “Recognizing our annual sailing winners,” which you can read here.
The top-shelf award at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club is the Jon Pinckney Perpetual, which is awarded to junior sailors with the most outstanding racing record this year. This year’s recipients were Zarrin Harvey and Kingston Keyoung. I have never seen juniors more excited about receiving an award than these two deserving awardees.
The time sure goes by much faster when you are having fun, so let’s go sailing!
Sea ya next year.
~~~~~~~~
Len Bose is a yachting enthusiast, yacht broker and harbor columnist for Stu News Newport.
Guest Column
Daniel Langhorne
Communications & Website Manager
Sage Hill School
Summer at Sage unveils new hours, Lightning Athletics Academy
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Courtesy of Sage Hill School
Middle schoolers practice flag football during an athletic camp on Ramer Field in summer 2023
Summer at Sage will expand its popular Camp Sage program with longer operating hours and spin off its middle school sports programming into the newly formed Lightning Athletics Academy to better serve Orange County families in 2024.
Students entering grades 5-8 in fall 2024 can choose to attend either Camp Sage or the Lightning Athletics Academy. Both camps will run on the Sage Hill campus from 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. from Monday through Friday. Families can choose to extend their camper’s day at no additional cost with a pool party and outdoor games until 4 p.m. Camps will run in five week-long sessions from June 24 through July 26, 2024.
Under this expanded schedule, campers will still choose morning and afternoon activities each week. FLIK café employees will also continue a Teaching Kitchen session during the lunch hour (the Teaching Kitchen is for Camp Sage only, but a regular lunch is also provided for Lightning Athletic Academy campers).
“Summer at Sage is excited to now offer families the convenience of running for a full workday, including longer courses and workshops that allow middle schoolers to really dive into the Sage Hill experience,” Director of Auxiliary Programs Lynette Swanson said. “We look forward to seeing our returning campers again and welcoming families who are new to Camp Sage.”
Camp Sage offers workshops in a variety of topics like nature writing, journalism, art, coding, speech & debate, science, making music and more.
During the same hours as Camp Sage, Lightning Athletics Academy is intended for intermediate to advanced student athletes who plan to play their sport(s) in high school. Lightning Athletics coaches will lead this summer camp at our athletic facilities. Participating sports include Baseball, Basketball, Flag Football, Girls’ Lacrosse, Soccer, Tennis, Volleyball and Water Polo/Swim.
“We’ll be connecting with middle school athletes who have already invested substantial time and effort in their sports,” Director of Athletics Megan Cid said. “They will have the opportunity to work with our coaches, learning the Lightning way before ninth grade and hopefully continue their academic and athletic career at Sage. We will introduce more athletes to the Sage Hill Athletics community while working with other athletes with the same drive and determination.”
Lightning Athletics Academy will also give middle school athletes access to train with high-level coaches and some of their potential teammates.
Additionally, these summer programs help coaches better understand their individual athletes’ goals and how to best motivate them before they graduate to high school.
“Our vision for Lightning Athletics Academy is to continue to introduce Sage Hill as a strong academic and athletics environment,” Summer at Sage Co-Director Issac Sierra said. “We want this school to be a place where student athletes find success.”
As Head Coach of Girls’ Soccer, Sierra said having up to four additional summers with student athletes will give coaches more opportunities to show families their commitment to mentorship.
“Those summers will make a difference in building that trust and understanding between coaches and their athletes,” Sierra said. “I want my team to know I’m willing to go to bat for them.”
For more information or to register for Camp Sage or the Lightning Athletics Academy, visit www.sagehillschool.org/summer.
Newport Beach Master Community Calendar
The following are calendar links for regularly scheduled meetings and events in Newport Beach:
City of Newport Beach meetings & events calendar
www.newportbeachca.gov/government/data-hub/city-calendar
Newport Beach Public Library – everything at the library calendar
www.newportbeachlibrary.org/calendar
Newport-Mesa Unified School District news & events calendar
Newport Beach Chamber of Commerce community events calendar
Corona del Mar Chamber of Commerce community events calendar
NMUSD facilities update bodes well for exciting changes
To illustrate Newport-Mesa Unified School District’s (NMUSD’s) continued commitment to providing enhanced environments for students to continue to thrive in, here are a few updates regarding school facility projects.
Districtwide, NMUSD is in the process of developing a Facility Master Plan that will identify the district’s long-term maintenance and facility needs to continue to provide facilities that support quality educational programs. It is intended to guide the district in the planning of ongoing facility maintenance, such as flooring, paint, roofs and long-term capital improvement projects throughout the district.
The plan is being developed in collaboration with facility experts, school and district leadership, students and consideration of community input.
Across the District:
–It is anticipated that upgrades to various elementary school multipurpose rooms (MPR) will begin in summer 2024, with the installation of new audio-visual equipment and large ceiling fans for air circulation. A prioritized list of schools is expected to be available in the spring with the goal of every school MPR being upgraded by the end of the 2024-25 school year.
–A phased approach is planned to replace elementary school playgrounds which is expected to begin in summer 2024. This will include new playground equipment and shade structures, as well as the replacement of wood chips with rubberized flooring or artificial turf.
Newport Beach schools anticipated to get new playgrounds in summer 2024 include Eastbluff and Newport Heights, with additional schools to be scheduled in a phased approach through 2026.
–A phased approach for installing permanent shade structures at elementary schools is expected to also begin in summer 2024. Shade structures will be placed in lunch areas.
Newport Heights and Eastbluff are anticipated to get shade structures in summer 2024, with additional schools to be scheduled in a phased approach through 2026.
In the meantime, temporary shade structures are being placed at elementary school lunch tables and playgrounds.
–Relocatable classrooms will also be added to Eastbluff and Newport Heights in summer 2024 to accommodate expanded transitional kindergarten programs for the 2024-25 school year.
At Corona del Mar Middle/High School, it is anticipated that the varsity baseball scoreboard will be replaced in spring 2024. The project’s design has received approval from the Division of the State Architect (DSA) and is anticipated to be publicly bid in winter 2024.
Photos courtesy of NMUSD
Current CdM baseball scoreboard is scheduled to be replaced in 2024
Also, the replacement of the aquatics scoreboard is currently in early design and is anticipated to be replaced by fall 2024.
At Eastbluff Elementary, a project co-funded by the Eastbluff PTA and the District, calls for a multipurpose room refresh. The first phase is to complete a newly expanded stage, add new audio-visual equipment, the installation of tack boards and a permanent hand railing. The second phase will include painting the interior, new flooring and new window coverings. The second phase is anticipated to begin in early 2024 and be completed by summer 2024.
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A refresh including an expanded stage is planned for Eastbluff Elementary’s multipurpose room
To better support performances and a variety of school events, the district is developing a districtwide audio-visual standard for multipurpose rooms. Eastbluff Elementary will be the first school to pilot the system, which is anticipated to be installed at every elementary school districtwide.
At Ensign Intermediate School, construction of an outdoor student courtyard continues. Construction crews continue to work on concrete and brick seat walls, undergrounding utilities and landscaping.
The replacement of commemorative bricks, removed from a previous construction project, are anticipated to be placed in the new courtyard. The project is expected to be completed in early 2024.
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The outdoor student courtyard at Ensign is a work in progress
The Newport Coast Elementary field access project adds an accessible ramp and stairs to the upper grass fields from the lower playground and is nearly complete with landscaping still in progress.
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The walkway at Newport Coast Elementary is nearly complete connecting the upper grass field to the lower playground
Fortunately, because of a partnership with the Newport Coast Elementary School Foundation, construction also includes a concrete seating area and shade structures.
At Newport Harbor High School, the renovation of the varsity baseball and softball fields has been completed, which includes the replacement of grass, irrigation improvements, field regrading, sprinkler valve replacement and replacement of chain-link fence with netting.
As stated, grass has been installed and is in its growth and maintenance period. During the maintenance period, the contractor will continue to abate weeds and overseed.
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It’s nearly “play ball” time at NHHS
It is anticipated that the fields will be ready for use when athletes return from winter break.
Additional improvements, in a future phase, include the replacement of backstops for both fields, decorative windscreen fencing on the outfield fence, fencing along the solar panels and landscaping along the parking lot fence.
The NHHS Aquatics Complex project includes two phases, which will be combined to minimize downtime of the pool. The Division of the State Architect (DSA) approved the design for phase one, which includes shade structures, lighting and bleacher replacement. Phase two, which is currently in the design stage, includes a deeper pool, replacement of the pool deck, renovation of the pool building (which includes coaches’ offices, locker rooms and restrooms) and a new location for the scoreboard.
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A rendering of the anticipated NHHS Aquatics Complex
School and district staff will work collaboratively with the City of Newport Beach to relocate aquatic activities during construction, as the pool will not be available during that time. All efforts will be made to minimize pool closure timing and impact on aquatics programs.
This project is anticipated to begin in fall 2024, with completion in fall 2025.
The Newport Harbor Culinary Renovation is currently in the early planning stages to improve the culinary program kitchen and learning space. The project scope and timing are yet to be determined.
Additionally, the boys’ and girls’ restrooms in the Home Arts Courtyard will be renovated and updated to include two single-stall restrooms. This will include new flooring, paint, fixtures, accessories and lighting. The project is currently in the early design phase, and the construction start date for this project has not been determined.
Want to add in your two cents? Take the NMUSD facilities survey.
There will also be opportunities to provide feedback on the NMUSD Facility Master Plan once it is finalized in early 2024.
OCMA extends Jennifer Guidi’s exhibition And so it is. through February 18, 2024
Orange County Museum of Art (OCMA) will be extending Jennifer Guidi’s exhibition And so it is. through Sunday, Feb. 18, 2024, giving everyone more time to immerse themselves in her extraordinary work.
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Photo by Yubo Dong
Installation view – Jennifer Guidi: “And so it is.” (2023) at the Orange County Museum of Art
Be sure to save the date for the upcoming Artist Talk with Jennifer Guidi on Sunday, Jan. 28, 2024 at 3 p.m. OCMA will be in conversation about the spiritual and metaphysical world, the importance of place and Guidi’s rich history growing up right here in Orange County.
OCMA’s full calendar of programming is available on their website, with a little bit of something for everyone – friends, families and neighbors – this season.
Orange County Museum of Art is located at 3333 Avenue of the Arts, Costa Mesa. For more information, go to https://ocma.art.
Chamber Series brings stellar, world-renowned classical artists to Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents three incredible classical music concerts in Samueli Theater as part of its Chamber music series: Takács Quartet with Marc-André Hamelin on Saturday, Jan. 27, 2024 at 7:30 p.m., Schumann Quartet on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m. and Sir Stephen Hough and Castalian Quartet on Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 p.m. These three performances are wonderful opportunities to witness world-class musical talents perform beautiful and timeless pieces in an intimate setting, making for lovely evening outings this new year.
Tickets starting at $39 for all three performances are available for purchase online by clicking here, in person at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, or by phone at 714.556.2787. For group sales, call 714.755.0236.
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Photo by Amanda Tipton
Takács Quartet with Marc-André Hamelin on Saturday, Jan. 27 at 7:30 p.m.
Center favorite Takács Quartet is returning to Samueli Theater for a luminous performance with award-winning pianist Marc-André Hamelin.
This world-renowned quartet is known for the vitality of its interpretations. They are the first-string quartet ever to be inducted into the Gramophone Hall of Fame, and in their 48th year as an ensemble, they recently won their 4th Gramophone Classical Music Award for Chamber Music in 2021.
Takács Quartet is comprised of Edward Dusinberre on violin, Harumi Rhodes on violin, Richard O’Neill on viola and András Fejér on cello.
Pianist Marc-André Hamelin, no stranger to our music-loving audience, is known worldwide for his unrivaled blend of consummate musicianship and brilliant technique in the great works of the established repertoire.
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Photo by Harald Hoffman
Schumann Quartet on Friday, Feb. 16 at 7:30 p.m.
The Schumann Quartet, a German ensemble, consists of three brothers – Erik, Ken and Mark Schumann – and violist Veit Hertenstein.
Having been playing together since their earliest childhood, the musicians enjoy the way they communicate without words. Although the individual personalities clearly manifest themselves, a common space arises in every musical work, creating one cohesive sound for the group. It’s no surprise that the Schumann Quartet has a special connection that audiences and critics savor.
The ensemble’s openness and curiosity make for a thrilling and unforgettable experience for the audience. “A work really develops only in a live performance,” the quartet said. “That is ‘the real thing,’ because we ourselves never know what will happen. On the stage, all imitation disappears, and you automatically become honest with yourself. Then you can create a bond with the audience – communicate with it in music.”
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Photo by Paul Marc Mitchell
Sir Stephen Hough and Castalian Quartet on Saturday, March 2 at 7:30 p.m.
Great artists from Great Britain make for a dynamic evening of chamber music when the brilliant pianist and composer Sir Stephen Hough joins the Castalian Quartet.
Named by The Economist as one of Twenty Living Polymaths, Hough combines a distinguished career and a longstanding international following as a pianist with those of composer and writer. He is the first classical performer to be awarded a MacArthur Fellowship and only classical pianist to be knighted this century. One of the most distinctive artists of his generation, Hough’s awe-inspiring range and command is even more astonishing live, worthy of every superlative that he’s been given.
Since its formation in 2011, the London-based Castalian Quartet has distinguished itself as one of the most dynamic, sophisticated young string quartets performing today. Appointed the inaugural Hans Keller String Quartet in Residence at the Oxford University Faculty of Music in 2021, they are also the recipient of the Royal Philharmonic Society’s 2019 Young Artists Award. Musicianship of the highest order is guaranteed when Hough and the Castalian Quartet combine for this exquisite performance.
Upcoming productions in the Chamber Series, spring 2024 at Samueli Theater at Segerstrom Center for the Arts:
–Bennewitz Quartet, Arsentiy Kharitonov on April 5, 2024
–Ébène Quartet on April 22, 2024
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located to 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.
For more information about Segerstrom Center for the Arts, go to www.scfta.org.
Pet of the Week 
Stu News Newport is delighted to be working with the Newport Beach Animal Shelter to help get the word out in search of loving homes for pets that deserve a warm, nurturing environment and a place to call “home.”
The shelter presents Dalton, a 1 1/2-year-old German Shepherd, seeking his forever home. Dalton is a robust and strikingly handsome boy, and while he possesses strength, he requires a handler who can confidently guide him.
Courtesy of the Newport Beach Animal Shelter
Meet Dalton
Although he is a strong and sturdy companion, his good nature makes him an excellent fit for families or individuals seeking a loyal and affectionate friend. Dalton embodies the typical German Shepherd qualities of intelligence and loyalty and is eager to become an integral part of a caring family.
For more information about Dalton and the adoption process, please contact the Newport Beach Animal Shelter at 949.718.3454, or email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. to schedule an appointment.
The shelter does require completed application forms for their animals, so simply print one up from their non-profit’s webpage at www.fonbas.org. After it is completed, you can email it to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it., and upon review, they’ll call you to schedule an appointment. If you have any questions, call 949.718.3454.
Also, consider becoming a member of an incredible nonprofit that supports the city’s efforts with providing wonderful opportunities to stray, injured, ill and owner-surrendered domestic pets. Visit www.fonbas.org.
Outside SCR to present The Old Man and The Old Moon at Mission San Juan Capistrano
Embark on a grand adventure next summer with South Coast Repertory (SCR - Artistic Director David Ivers and Managing Director Paula Tomei) and their popular Outside SCR offering at Mission San Juan Capistrano, with the epic tale of The Old Man and The Old Moon, book, music and lyrics by Pigpen Theatre Co. The fourth summer of theater under the stars at the historic mission runs July 20-Aug. 11, 2024, with all performances beginning at 7:30 p.m.
The Old Man and the Old Moon replaces the previously announced Little Shop of Horrors. SCR Associate Artistic Director Kim Martin-Cotten will direct.
“Audiences are in for a terrific adventure in the best traditions of a transformational experience this summer. It’s amazing to think Outside SCR is moving into its fourth season in partnership with Mission San Juan Capistrano,” Ivers said. “The Old Man and the Old Moon is a beautiful, family-friendly, music-filled journey offering the finest of what has become so special about a night of theater under the stars. I’m thrilled Associate Artistic Director Kim Martin-Cotten is making her SCR directorial debut and I am confident her artistry will elevate the experience into an unforgettable gathering.”
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Courtesy of SCR
Outside SCR takes its epic adventure to historic Mission San Juan Capistrano in summer
According to Mechelle Lawrence-Adams, the executive director of Mission San Juan Capistrano, “Patrons of SCR will be enthralled with the Mission San Juan Capistrano’s unique setting and members of the mission will be captivated by South Coast Repertory’s incredible theatrical production of The Old Man and the Old Moon. Together, we will marry our best assets to create magical evenings under the stars. We can’t wait to welcome theatergoers who are discovering our partnership for the first time and those returning from the past three summers.”
The Old Man and The Old Moon takes audiences on an epic adventure across land, sea and sky – all in the name of love. Indie-folk music and ingenious staging transform this tall tale into a thrilling theatrical event like no other. The Old Man who keeps the moon filled with light wakes up one morning to find his wife has gone, lured away by a mysterious melody. In his quest to find her, he encounters colorful characters, gets caught in an apocalyptic storm and is swallowed by a giant fish. Can he find her before the moon runs out of light and the world plunges into darkness? The Old Man and the Old Moon is recommended for ages 7 through 97.
“The Old Man and the Old Moon is a magical adventure told by a shapeshifting indie-folk band that sails us across the sea, flies us into the stars and dives us into the belly of a giant fish – all in the pursuit of love,” Martin-Cotten said. “I am delighted we will be sharing this transformational tale in the gorgeous mission setting for audiences of all ages.”
Martin-Cotten joined SCR in 2021 as associate artistic director and is the co-director of the Pacific Playwrights Festival. A producer, director, actor and educator who held the positions of artistic producer and associate director of New Works for Kansas City Repertory Theatre before coming to SCR, Martin-Cotten has directed The Moors, an eight-person Twelfth Night and a solo adaptation of Othello for Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s young company. Her other directing projects include The Dumbwaiter, Cabaret, Death of A Salesman, Proof and The Taming of the Shrew, among others. Martin-Cotten also served as project assistant to Anna Deavere Smith on her initial production of House Arrest First Edition at Arena Stage.
The cast and the creative team will be announced at a future time.
Ticket prices range from $35-$60, with special pricing for those age 25 and under. Single tickets are on sale now, either online at www.scr.org, or by phone at 714.708.5555. More information is available at www.scr.org.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant on January 20
Segerstrom Center for the Arts presents Grammy Award®-winning jazz vocalist Cécile McLorin Salvant at the Samueli Theater on Saturday, Jan. 20, 2024 for two performances at 7 p.m. and 9 p.m. Tickets beginning at $59 are available by clicking here. Salvant’s program is a diverse compilation of her original compositions and covers.
To label Salvant as simply an award-winning jazz vocalist is an injustice to this musical storyteller. Besides being a multiple Grammy Award® winner and nominated this year for Best Jazz Vocal Album, Salvant is a singer, composer, a visual artist, MacArthur Fellow and Doris Duke Artist Award winner whose trajectory has moved at warp speed. Since first winning the Thelonious Monk competition in 2010, she has released five acclaimed albums, each one more daring than the previous.
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Photos courtesy of SCFTA
Cécile McLorin Salvant
She brings a historical perspective, a renewed sense of drama, and an enlightened musical understanding to both jazz standards and her own original compositions. Classically trained, steeped in jazz, blues and folk, and drawing from musical theater and vaudeville, Salvant embraces a wide-ranging repertoire that broadens the possibilities for live performance.
Her latest album Mélusine (Nonesuch Records) features a mix of five originals and interpretations of nine songs, dating as far back as the 12th century, mostly sung in French along with Occitan, English and Haitian Kreyòl. Its songs tell the story of the European folkloric legend of Mélusine, written by Jean d’Arras in 1393.
According to Mojo Magazine, “Mélusine retains the intellectual curiosity of Salvant’s jittery, questing catalogue. As with 2022’s Ghost Song, Salvant’s imaginative backdrops draw on jazz, blues, folk and vaudeville, double daring her audience to follow her next flight of fancy.”
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Salvant is a composer, singer and visual artist
“Ghost Song,” her twice Grammy-nominated Nonesuch debut, received tremendous critical praise, including spots on best albums of 2022 lists from the New York Times and NPR, among others.
Salvant, is a composer, singer and visual artist. The late Jessye Norman described her as “a unique voice supported by an intelligence and full-fledged musicality, which light up every note she sings.”
She has developed a passion for storytelling and finding the connections between vaudeville, blues, theater, jazz, baroque and folkloric music. Salvant is an eclectic curator, unearthing rarely recorded, forgotten songs with strong narratives, interesting power dynamics, unexpected twists and humor.
She has received three consecutive Grammy Awards for Best Jazz Vocal Album for “The Window,” “Dreams and Daggers,” and “For One To Love” and was nominated for the award in 2014 for her album WomanChild.
Born and raised in Miami, Fla., of a French mother and Haitian father, she started classical piano studies at age 5, sang in a children’s choir at 8 and started classical voice lessons as a teenager.
Salvant received a Bachelor’s in French law from the Université Pierre-Mendes France in Grenoble while also studying baroque music and jazz at the Darius Milhaud Music Conservatory in Aix-en-Provence, France.
Salvant makes large-scale textile drawings. Her visual art can now be found at Picture Room in Brooklyn, N.Y.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa.
Call 714.556.2787, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For Group Sales, call 714.755.0236. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.
Tickets on sale now for Disney’s The Lion King
Disney Theatrical Productions and Segerstrom Center for the Arts have announced the long-awaited return engagement of Disney’s The Lion King. Costa Mesa’s most eagerly awaited return will once again leap onto the Segerstrom Hall stage on Thursday, Feb. 1, 2024 for a limited engagement of four weeks through Sunday, Feb. 25, 2024. Opening night is scheduled for Thursday, Feb.1 at 7:30 p.m.
The Lion King will play Tuesdays through Fridays at 7:30 p.m., Saturdays at 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., and Sundays at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m. There will also be a 2 p.m. matinee on Thursday, Feb. 1. Premium Ticket Packages, which include a prime seat location, a souvenir program and a cinch bag are also available.
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©Disney/Photo by Matthew Murphy
Darian Sanders as Simba and Khalifa White as Nala in “The Lion King”
For more than 20 years, the North American touring productions of The Lion King have been seen by more than 21 million theatergoers. Having already played more than 9,000 performances in more than 90 cities across North America, The Lion King now proudly returns to Costa Mesa at Segerstrom Center for the Arts.
Celebrating 25 landmark years on Broadway, The Lion King continues ascendant as one of the most popular stage musicals in the world. Since its premiere on November 13, 1997, 28 global productions have been seen by more than 112 million people. Produced by Disney Theatrical Productions, under the direction of Andrew Flatt, Anne Quart and Thomas Schumacher, The Lion King has made theatrical history with three productions worldwide running 20 or more years and two others running 25 or more years.
Performed over its lifetime in nine different languages (English, Japanese, German, Korean, French, Dutch, Spanish, Mandarin and Portuguese), productions of The Lion King can currently be seen on Broadway; London’s West End; Paris; Hamburg; Tokyo; Madrid; Sao Paulo and on tour across North America and the U.K. and Ireland for a total of nine productions running concurrently across the globe. Having played more than 100 cities in 24 countries on every continent except Antarctica, The Lion King’s worldwide gross exceeds that of any film, Broadway show or other entertainment title in box office history.
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©Disney/Photo by Matthew Murphy
Company of “The Lion King” on Broadway
The Lion King won six 1998 Tony Awards®: Best Musical, Best Scenic Design (Richard Hudson), Best Costume Design (Julie Taymor), Best Lighting Design (Donald Holder), Best Choreography (Garth Fagan) and Best Direction of a Musical. The Lion King has also earned more than 70 major arts awards including the 1998 NY Drama Critics Circle Award for Best Musical, the 1999 Grammy® for Best Musical Show Album, the 1999 Evening Standard Award for Theatrical Event of the Year and the 1999 Laurence Olivier Awards for Best Choreography and Best Costume Design.
Ticket buyers are reminded that scfta.org and the box office at Segerstrom Center for the Arts are the only official ticket outlets for all performances at Segerstrom Center for the Arts. Ticket buyers who purchase tickets from a ticket broker or any third party should be aware that Segerstrom Center for the Arts is unable to reprint or replace lost or stolen tickets and is unable to contact patrons with information regarding time changes or other pertinent updates regarding the performance. Additionally, third-party ticket brokers often impose substantial fees and markups well beyond the face value of tickets.
Tickets are available online at www.scfta.org, in person at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa, or by phone at 714.556.2787. Orders for groups of 20 or more may be placed by calling 714.755.0236.
Segerstrom Center for the Arts is located at 600 Town Center Drive, Costa Mesa. For more information, visit www.scfta.org.
Get out and explore Buck Gully with three stunning hikes, assist with habitat restoration
Taking a trek in the Buck Gully Reserve, which connects Corona del Mar and Newport Coast, is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the cooler autumn weather. Explore this 300-acre natural habitat on foot, with three hikes led by the Irvine Ranch Conservancy staff and an opportunity to assist in habitat restoration.
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Photos by Emily Spain
The stream is running, making for a memorable late afternoon/early evening hike
–Buck Gully Upper Loop Evening Hikes: Explore the richness of Buck Gully Reserve as you hike during the beautiful early evening hours on Tuesdays, Jan. 9 and Feb. 20, 2024 from 3-5:30 p.m. The stream is running, and the rich plant and animal life are enjoying the cool, shady canyon making for an evening hike in a natural oasis amid the suburban surroundings. Walk along San Joaquin Hills Road, which overlooks Buck Gully for the first mile, then drop down into the canyon on the Bobcat Trail, looping back through the upper end of the gully along the Buck Gully Trail. This activity is conducted at a walking pace, approximately 3 miles per hour. The distance is 4 miles; duration, 2.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is open to those 8 years and older. This hike is free, but registration is required. Staging area is the Newport Coast Community Center at 6401 San Joaquin Hills Road. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.
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Enjoy panoramic views as you take in the canyon’s natural beauty
–Bridges of Buck Gully Hike: Buck Gully is a natural, coastal canyon which opened up to the public in 2012 with the installation of four bridges to allow for safe public access. Discover the bridges on Tuesdays, Jan. 23 and March 5, 2024 from 8-11:30 a.m., which facilitate exploration of the Buck Gully Reserve, and also provide viewing platforms from which to pause and observe the abundant life in and around the stream. The guided program starts with a short walk from the OASIS Senior Center to the beginning of the Buck Gully trail, offering a visually dramatic entrance into this special canyon. Open to those 12 years and older. Conducted at a walking pace at approximately 3 miles per hour. Distance is 5 miles; duration is 3.5 hours with moderate difficulty. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.
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Several bridges provide vantage points for taking in reserve vistas
–Buck Gully Loop Hike: Come and explore the entire Buck Gully Reserve trail system on Tuesdays, Feb. 6 and March 19, 2024 from 8-11:30 a.m. Beginning from the OASIS Senior Center, you’ll hike up through the almost three-mile length of the canyon, then along San Joaquin Hills Road for about a mile, stopping at Canyon Watch Park, where you will take in the panoramic view of the reserve and the Pacific coastline before descending back into the canyon along the Bobcat Trail. This hike is 6 miles; duration, 3.5 hours with high-moderate difficulty and conducted at a walking pace, approximately three miles per hour. It is geared to those 12+ years of age. This hike is free, but registration is required. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.
–Fourth Friday Habitat Restoration in Buck Gully on Fridays, Jan. 26, Feb. 23 and March 22, 2024 from 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Birds and other wildlife need healthy habitat to thrive. Simple things like planting native plants or removing non-native plants can greatly improve habitat for wildlife. You can be part of that positive impact while enjoying the beauty of Buck Gully. Come help with a variety of activities ranging from seed collection to weeding invasive plants. This activity takes place on sloped terrain and sturdy hiking boots are highly recommended. All training, tools and gloves will be provided to ensure your safety and comfort. Rattlesnakes are occasionally seen here and generally avoid people, but protective gear will be provided. Walking pace is approximately 3 mph with a distance of one to five miles and a duration of three hours. The difficulty is moderate. This is geared to 8 years+. Meet at the OASIS Senior Center auxiliary lot at 5th and Marguerite in Corona del Mar. Register at www.letsgooutside.org.