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Premieres, Exhibits, and Performances Taking Center Stage in Orange County in 2025

Issue # 0319

Author

Joshua Tjia
09 Jan

In this Irvine Insider Issue . . .

😁 Laugh Of The Day

🌤️ Irvine Weather

🎨🩰🍴 Premieres, Exhibits, and Performances Taking Center Stage in Orange County in 2025

🍞🍺 Irvine’s New Sandwich Spot Has Landed—$9.99 Meal Deals Await

🤸🏻🎪🪭 Experience the Magic of The Peking Acrobats: A Mesmerizing Blend of Tradition and Innovation

⚠️💨 IUSD Alert: Safety Tips for High Wind Conditions

🥼🩺 Celebrating Excellence: 200+ UCI Health Doctors Honored for Changing Lives

🎠🎈Great Park Attractions Temporarily Closed, Updates Coming Soon

🌸🖌️🌸 Experience the Serenity of Nature: Visit Minna Chow's Brush Painting Exhibit Today

🎼🎼 Upcoming High School Music Calendar

🐩🐾 Wrangle Your Pup’s Manners : Join Canine Essentials Training in Irvine

🏀 Myles Che Named Anteater of the Week After Leading UC Irvine Men’s Basketball to Three Wins

🏀🏐🎾⚾ UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

🏀🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS

🏀 University High Boys Basketball Ends Losing Streak with 72-68 Comeback Over St. Margaret's

🏈🎾 High School Athletics Calendar

🚓🚲 Thieves Steal $1,200 from Cycle Bar Locker, Attempt $11K Mall Purchase

🍏🥭🍑 Local Farmers Markets

🌟🏪🎉Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

📅📅 Lots of Local Events

📞💡 Useful Contact Information

An iPhone and a firework were arrested on New Year's Eve.

One was charged, and the other was let off.

We hope this joke brings some laughter to your day! 😁

Premieres, Exhibits, and Performances Taking Center Stage in Orange County in 2025

Orange County is packed with arts and cultural highlights for early 2025, offering everything from theater premieres to visual art exhibits, dance performances, and live music. Notable events include:

  • The U.S. debut of The Winter's Tale ballet by the American Ballet Theatre in April at Segerstrom Center.

  • The OC Museum of Art presents Su Yu-Xin’s first solo museum exhibition outside Asia (Jan. 31-May 25)

  • while the Martha Graham Dance Company celebrates 100 years with GRAHAM100.

  • Music lovers can enjoy performances like Ben Folds with Pacific Symphony in April

  • and traditional Irish music by Danú at Irvine Barclay Theatre (March 20).

  • Culinary and cultural festivities, such as OC Restaurant Week (March 1) and Lunar New Year celebrations across the county, round out the vibrant lineup.

Irvine’s New Sandwich Spot Has Landed—$9.99 Meal Deals Await

Board & Brew has officially opened its newest location in Irvine at 5643 Alton Parkway, bringing its signature sandwiches to the local community. Open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM, the restaurant is offering $3 beers throughout the month and a special $9.99 meal deal, which includes a Turkey Deluxe or Turkey Club half sandwich with chips and a drink. Known for its delicious food and unbeatable prices, Board & Brew invites guests to stop by and enjoy their offerings.

Find more at the website

Experience the Magic of The Peking Acrobats: A Mesmerizing Blend of Tradition and Innovation

The Peking Acrobats invite audiences to witness an extraordinary display of artistry and skill on January 18. Known for their gravity-defying stunts and mesmerizing performances, these world-renowned acrobats blend centuries-old Chinese folk traditions with modern innovation. From towering pagodas of chairs to breathtaking tumbling, juggling, and contortion, their show is a celebration of precision, agility, and creativity. This dazzling spectacle promises to push the limits of human possibility and leave audiences in awe.

IUSD Alert: Safety Tips for High Wind Conditions

With a High Wind Warning in effect yesterday and expected to continue today, families are advised to take extra precautions during school pick-up and drop-off times. Stay informed by following the City of Irvine, Irvine Police Department, and Orange County Fire Authority on social media, and sign up for emergency alerts at AlertOC. Report downed trees to the City of Irvine at cityofirvine.org/howcanwehelp or call 949-724-7000. Safety remains a top priority.

Celebrating Excellence: 200+ UCI Health Doctors Honored for Changing Lives

UCI Health celebrates over 200 of its physicians being named 2025 Physicians of Excellence by the Orange County Medical Association (OCMA), the most of any health system in the region. This prestigious recognition, featured in Orange Coast Magazine's January 2025 issue, honors doctors who excel in leadership, research, community service, and patient care. Dr. Richard A. Van Etten, director of the Chao Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, is among the honorees. UCI Health applauds these physicians for their exceptional contributions to advancing healthcare and improving lives in Orange County.

Great Park Attractions Temporarily Closed, Updates Coming Soon

The carousel at Great Park is temporarily closed due to wind damage, with no estimated reopening date. The Great Park Balloon will also remain closed today as safety evaluations are conducted. Officials emphasize safety as the top priority and will provide updates when available.

Experience the Serenity of Nature: Visit Minna Chow's Brush Painting Exhibit Today

Discover the exquisite brush paintings of Minna Chow, a celebrated artist with over 40 years of expertise in traditional Chinese brush painting, at Irvine City Hall. Her latest exhibition, "Minna Chow: Traditional Chinese Brush Painting," highlights the beauty and serenity of nature through intricate brushstrokes and timeless artistry. The exhibition runs from December 13 to March 21 during City Hall's regular hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m., and Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. Visit cityofirvine.org/artatcityhall for more details.

Upcoming Northwood High School’s Music Calendar

No events scheduled for January.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://timbmusic.org/events/

Upcoming University High School's Choirs Calendar

  1. January 10, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Winter Show, Performing Arts Center

  2. January 23 - 24, 7:00 PM: Legends Concert, Big Theater

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.uhschoirs.org/2024-25-season.html

Upcoming Woodbridge High School's Music Calendar

  1. January 10, 7:00 PM-10:00 PM: Winter Show, Performing Arts Center

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.whs-music.org/

Upcoming Woodbridge High School’s Vocal Music Calendar

  1. February 8: SCVA Vocal Jazz Festival, Saugus HS (Santa Clarita).

  2. February 27 - March 1: Shrek the Musical, WHS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://woodbridgechoirs.weebly.com/calendar.html

Upcoming Irvine High School's Music Calendar

  1. March 5-8, 7:00 PM: Mary Poppins Musical, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  2. March 13, 6:30 PM: Festival Concert, Irvine Performing Arts Center.

  3. March 15, All Day: Irvine Jazz Festival, Irvine High School Campus.

  4. March 18, 7:00 PM: District Jazz Festival, Woodbridge HS Performing Arts Center.

For the latest updates or additional details, please visit https://www.vimb.info/calendar

Wrangle Your Pup’s Manners : Join Canine Essentials Training in Irvine

Struggling with a pulling leash or excessive barking? Sign up for ClickStart Dog Academy: Canine Essentials, a group training class offered by the City of Irvine. Starting Sunday, January 12, from 3–4 p.m. at University Community Center, this class teaches basic commands, loose-leash walking, and more using positive reinforcement techniques. Perfect for first-time or seasoned dog owners.

Spots are filling fast—register at cityofirvine.org/yourirvine.

Myles Che Named Anteater of the Week After Leading UC Irvine Men’s Basketball to Three Wins

Sophomore guard Myles Che has been named Sgt. Pepperoni’s Anteater of the Week after a standout performance in three consecutive UC Irvine men’s basketball victories. Che scored 12 points with four assists in a 71-63 win over California Baptist, followed by a 22-point game with five rebounds and three steals in a 98-89 overtime win against Cal Poly, marking an Anteater first since 2011 with three players scoring 20+ points. He capped the week with 16 points, a career-high seven assists, and three rebounds in an 81-57 victory over UC Riverside. Averaging 16.7 points, 4.3 assists, and 3.0 rebounds on 54.8% shooting, Che helped power the ‘Eaters ahead of their Jan. 9 road game at CSUN.

UCI Anteaters Upcoming Home Games

Women's Basketball

  1. Thu, Jan 9: vs CSUN, 6:00 PM

  2. Sat, Jan 11: vs UC San Diego, 2:00 PM

Men's Basketball

  1. Thu, Jan 16: vs Cal State Fullerton, 7:00 PM

  2. Sat, Jan 18: vs Cal Poly, 7:00 PM

🏐⚽🏀 Upcoming home games for the IVC LASERS 

Men’s Basketball

  1. Fri, Jan 17: vs Saddleback, 6:00 PM

Men’s Baseball

  1. Fri, Jan 17: vs Mt. San Antonio (Scrimmage), 11:00 AM

Women’s Basketball

  1. Wed, Jan 15: vs Riverside, 6:00 PM

University High Boys Basketball Ends Losing Streak with 72-68 Comeback Over St. Margaret's

University High School's boys basketball team ended an 11-game losing streak with a 72-68 victory over St. Margaret's in the opening game of Pacific Coast League play. Overcoming a 23-7 first-quarter deficit, the Trojans secured the first varsity coaching win for interim head coach Kendall McHugh. Senior Isaac Evans led the comeback with 17 of his 19 points in the second half, while Shervin Moarrefian also scored 19, including five 3-pointers. Junior Josh Thio added 11 points off the bench and sealed the win with late free throws. Contributions from Faris Harb, Eli Pretto, and Savion Ruth rounded out the effort. St. Margaret's was led by Jack Shea and Botty O’Kane with 16 points each.

High School Athletics Calendar

** Updated With January Schedule

Upcoming Irvine High School’s Varsity home games:

January 2025

Friday, January 10

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Soccer (VR) vs. Portola at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Saturday, January 11

  • 10:00 AM - Boys' Wrestling (VR) - Andrew Pena Classic at Irvine High School Game Gym

Tuesday, January 14

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. Laguna Beach at Irvine High School Game Gym

Wednesday, January 15

  • 5:00 PM - Boys' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Wrestling (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Friday, January 17

  • 5:00 PM - Girls' Soccer (VR) vs. St. Margarets Episcopal at Irvine High School Stadium

  • 5:30 PM - Girls' Basketball (VR) vs. University at Irvine High School Game Gym

  • 7:00 PM - Boys' Basketball (VR) vs. Northwood at Irvine High School Game Gym

Thieves Steal $1,200 from Cycle Bar Locker, Attempt $11K Mall Purchase

On December 17, three suspects stole $1,200 in cash and credit cards from a secured locker at Cycle Bar. While two suspects distracted an employee, the third used a master locker key to access the victim's belongings. One suspect later attempted an $11,000 purchase with the stolen credit cards at a nearby mall. If you have information about these suspects, contact [email protected].

Irvine’s Best Kept Secrets: Is Your Business One of Them?

We know our community is brimming with businesses that have fascinating stories and big hearts. If you’re a local business owner making waves, crafting unique experiences, or simply putting a smile on our faces, we want to chat with you! “Irvine Insider” is eager to shine a light on the unsung heroes of our city. Let’s collaborate and let the community know what makes your business special.

Click the link below and fill out the Local Business Spotlight Application Form to be featured and let’s celebrate the spirit of Irvine together!

Irvine Insider is sent to a local audience of Irvine residence Monday through Friday with 50% - 60% open rate. Our newsletter is a great way to reach Irvine residents.

  • Kaiser Permanente Irvine Farmers Market

  • Saturday Farmers Market at Mariners Church Irvine

    • When: Saturday, 8 AM - 12 PM

    • Where: 5428 Bonita Canyon Dr, Irvine, CA 92603

  • Great Park Certified Farmers Market

  • Manassero Farmers

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 4:30 PM

    • Where: 33 Irvine Valley, Irvine, CA 92604

  • Tanaka Farms

    • When: Daily, 9 AM - 5 PM

    • Where: 5380 3/4 University Dr, Irvine, CA 92612

    • More Info:Tanaka Farms

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