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.

✨ New TOCA Backstage Episode ✨ What if a “fashion show” wasn’t about trends or rules—but about you? On the latest episode of TOCA Backstage, host Christian Wolf chats with renowned stylist Erin Stoll, creator of the Style Thief Fashion Show. Erin shares why this isn’t your typical runway event—it’s an interactive, empowering experience where audiences get real-world fashion tips, ask questions, and learn how to own a personal style that actually fits their life. Whether you’re fashion-curious, style-stuck, or just ready to feel more confident in what you wear, this episode is for women and men who want to dress with intention and authenticity. 🎧 Watch / listen now and get inspired to steal your own style.

Go backstage with the artists bringing one of opera’s most beloved comedies to life! In this episode of TOCA Backstage, host Christian Wolf sits down with members of Angels Lyric Opera to talk about their upcoming production of L’elisir d’amore (The Elixir of Love), coming to the James R. Armstrong Theatre on Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, March 1, 2026. Written by Gaetano Donizetti, L’elisir d’amore is a sparkling romantic comedy filled with unforgettable melodies, heartfelt emotion, and laugh-out-loud moments. In this candid conversation, the artists share insight into the characters, the timeless humor of the story, and what makes this opera such a favorite for both longtime opera lovers and first-time audiences. They also discuss the rehearsal process, vocal challenges, and the joy of telling a story where love, hope, and a little bit of magic collide. Whether you’re an opera enthusiast or simply curious about what happens behind the curtain, this episode offers a warm and engaging look at the people and passion behind the production. Tune in, then join us at the Armstrong Theatre for an enchanting weekend of live opera.

TOCA Backstage | Honey Whiskey Trio – Studio Cabaret Preview In this episode of TOCA Backstage, TOCA Executive Director Christian Wolf sits down with Courtney Gasque Politano and Ann Louise Jeffries Thaiss of the Honey Whiskey Trio for an intimate conversation ahead of their upcoming Studio Cabaret performances on February 6 & 7. The pair of the trio shares the story behind Honey Whiskey’s rich vocal blend, genre-hopping sound, and deep musical chemistry—along with what audiences can expect from their cozy, up-close cabaret shows. From musical influences and songwriting to the joy of performing in an intimate space, this candid chat offers a glimpse into the artistry and heart behind the music. Whether you’re already a fan or discovering Honey Whiskey Trio for the first time, this episode is the perfect prelude to a soulful night of harmony, storytelling, and connection. Subscribe to TOCA Backstage for more behind-the-scenes conversations with the artists bringing TOCA’s stages to life—and don’t forget to grab your tickets!

Welcome back to TOCA Backstage, where we sit down with the artists who bring our stages to life. I’m Christian Wolf, Executive Director of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, and today I’m thrilled to be joined by Amanda Castro of the Amanda Castro Band. We talk about her musical journey, the stories behind her songs, and what audiences can expect when her band takes the stage. It’s a great conversation with a truly dynamic artist—so let’s head backstage and get started.