TOCA Backstage: Unleashed – True Stories About the Animals We Love Join us backstage for a warm, funny, and heartfelt conversation with Wendy Hammers, Judy Carter, and Stephen Tobolowsky as they talk about Unleashed: True Stories About the Animals We Love. In this episode of TOCA Backstage, Wendy, Judy, and Stephen share what makes storytelling such a powerful way to connect with an audience, why the shared experience of live theatre continues to matter, and how our stories can bring us together through laughter, honesty, and a little bit of vulnerability. And, of course, they talk about the real stars of Unleashed—the animals we love. From the pets who make us laugh to the ones who change our lives forever, the conversation explores the special bond between people and their four-legged (and sometimes not-so-four-legged) family members. Get a behind-the-scenes look at Unleashed and meet three remarkable storytellers before they take the stage at TOCA. 🎭 Unleashed: True Stories About the Animals We Love 📅 Saturday, October 3, 2026 📍 James R. Armstrong Theatre, Torrance Learn more and get tickets at TorranceArts.org. #TOCABackstage #Unleashed #WendyHammers #JudyCarter #StephenTobolowsky #Storytelling #LiveTheatre #TorranceArts #TOCA #SouthBay #AnimalLovers

TOCA Backstage takes you behind the scenes of TOCA's exciting 2026–2027 season! In this episode, Executive & Artistic Director Christian Wolf sits down with Yuta Kato of UnitOne and Gastón San Cristóbal of Nikyokan Wadaiko to discuss KYŌWA, an extraordinary international collaboration that brings together the powerful traditions of Japanese taiko drumming with innovative artistry from across the Americas. Learn how this unique partnership was created, what audiences can expect from this one-of-a-kind performance, and how music can transcend borders through rhythm, culture, and collaboration. Whether you're a longtime taiko enthusiast or experiencing it for the first time, this conversation offers a fascinating look at the passion, dedication, and creative vision behind KYŌWA.

Join TOCA Executive Director Christian Wolf for this episode of TOCA Backstage as he sits down with Peter and Paul Luongo of the internationally acclaimed Langley Ukulele Ensemble. Discover the remarkable story behind one of the world's premier ukulele ensembles, hear what audiences can expect from their high-energy performance, and learn how this extraordinary group has spent more than 45 years redefining what the ukulele can do. The Langley Ukulele Ensemble performs at the James Armstrong Theatre on Sunday, September 20. For tickets and more information, visit TorranceArts.org or call the Ticket Office at (310) 781-7171.

Go behind the scenes with the leaders helping shape TOCA's future. In this special episode of TOCA Backstage, Executive & Artistic Director Christian Wolf sits down with members of the TOCA Executive Committee—President Camilla Seferian, Vice President Heidi Cunningham, Treasurer Winnie Seieroe, and Secretary Sara Baillie. Recorded through a series of individual conversations, they share their passion for the arts, what inspires them to serve, and their vision for the upcoming season and beyond.

Irish Christmas in America creator and performer Oisin Mac Diarmada talks about the show, his start in the industry and his passion for Irish/Celtic music. Irish Christmas in America will be at the Armstrong Theatre on Friday December 5, 2025 – 8:00pm Back by popular demand, the hugely popular Holiday show Irish Christmas in America returns in 2025, bringing a fascinating performance of music, song, dance and stories of seasonal Irish traditions. Produced by Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, the show features exceptional Irish music, song and dance in a family-friendly performance rich in humour and boundless energy. Evocative photographic images provide a backdrop to some of the rich historical traditions of Ireland. Take a memorable glimpse into the enchanting spirit of Christmas, as the finest traditional artists from Ireland bring you on a fun-filled start to the holiday season of 2025.

Go Backstage at TOCA with world-renowned dog trainer Chris Perondi of the Stunt Dog Experience! 🐾 In this quick, exclusive interview—recorded just before he headed back out on tour—Chris shares how he got his start in the world of dog training, what makes his high-energy show so special, and why these talented rescue dogs love to perform. Don’t miss the Stunt Dog Experience at the Armstrong Theatre on Saturday, May 9, 2026 at 2pm & 8pm—a jaw-dropping, tail-wagging spectacle the whole family will love! 🎟 Get your tickets now and see these amazing pups in action!

🎙️ New Episode of TOCA Backstage! What happens when two powerhouse performers come together to celebrate one of music’s most iconic love stories? Find out in our latest TOCA Backstage podcast episode featuring Charles Evans Jr. and Caitie Grady, the stars behind Because You’re Mine – The Music of June Carter and Johnny Cash. In this conversation, Charles and Caitie share how they created this heartfelt tribute to the legendary duo, the musical journeys that led them here, and what the future holds for them as artists and storytellers. 🎶 Get a behind-the-scenes look at the passion, history, and chemistry that bring the music of Johnny Cash and June Carter to life on stage. 📅 See the show live: Because You’re Mine – The Music of June Carter and Johnny Cash 📍 Armstrong Theatre 🗓 Friday, May 8, 2026 👉 Watch the podcast and then grab your tickets to experience the music live! #TOCABackstage #ArmstrongTheatre #JohnnyCash #JuneCarter #LiveMusic #SouthBayArts #TorranceArts #BecauseYoureMine

Get an inside look at the artistry, passion, and powerhouse talent of jazz pianist Yuko Mabuchi before she takes the stage in TOCA’s intimate Studio Cabaret! In this episode of TOCA Backstage, Yuko shares her musical journey, her inspirations, and what makes performing in an up-close cabaret setting such a thrilling experience. From high-energy swing to soulful originals, you’ll discover what drives her electrifying performances — and why audiences around the world can’t get enough. If you love jazz… if you love virtuosic musicianship… or if you simply love experiencing world-class talent right here in the South Bay… this is an episode (and a concert!) you won’t want to miss.

🎙️ New TOCA Backstage Episode! In our latest episode, Megan Dolan, writer and performer of Not the Right Mom—opens up about the deeply personal journey behind creating her show. She shares what it took to tell an honest, funny, and heartfelt story about becoming the mother of an autistic son, and why putting that experience on stage mattered so much. It’s raw, real, and incredibly moving and a powerful reminder of how theatre can help us understand one another just a little bit better. 💙 👉 Watch the full episode of TOCA Backstage and hear Megan’s story in her own words.