What the Constitution Means to Me – Cast Interview In this episode of TOCA Backstage, host Christian Wolf, Executive Director of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, sits down with the cast of What the Constitution Means to Me - Jessica Hayes, Brian Singer, and Brooklyn Reiss -to explore one of the most acclaimed and talked-about plays of the last decade. Written by Heidi Schreck, What the Constitution Means to Me received multiple Tony Award nominations, along with Obie Awards, Drama Desk recognition, and widespread critical acclaim for its bold, deeply personal examination of the U.S. Constitution and its impact on American lives—especially those of women. In this candid conversation, the cast discusses the challenges and rewards of bringing this powerful work to the stage, why the play continues to resonate so strongly today, and what audiences can expect from upcoming performances at the James R. Armstrong Theatre in Torrance and Theatre West in Los Angeles. Don’t miss this timely and thought-provoking production—and go backstage with the artists bringing it to life. Subscribe to TOCA Backstage for more behind-the-scenes conversations with artists, creatives, and cultural leaders.

Broad Appeal Saturday January 10, 2026 – 8:00pm Get ready to be captivated by the combined brilliance of two vocal powerhouses, Janis Siegel and Cheryl Bentyne, in an unforgettable night of musical mastery—BROAD APPEAL. Longtime partners from The Manhattan Transfer, “Broad Appeal" highlights the extraordinary talents of these 10x GRAMMY winning artists, each revered for their distinctive voices and groundbreaking contributions to jazz, pop, swing, vocalese, and harmony music. Together, Siegel and Bentyne weave a mesmerizing tapestry of sound, seamlessly blending their voices in duets, solos, and improvisations. The show features a diverse repertoire, including jazz standards, pop classics, and original compositions. “Broad Appeal" is a celebration of the female voice and the magic that happens when two extraordinary women unite. Don't miss this rare opportunity to witness an evening of vocal artistry at its finest.

An Evening with Charles Phoenix Live Comedy Performance Celebrating Classic & Kitschy American Life & Style! Saturday November 1, 2025 – 8:00pm Retro Pop Culture Humorist, Charles Phoenix, launches into the classic living room slide show into a laugh out loud fun fest! With his keen expertise, unbridled enthusiasm, and eagle-eye for oddball detail, Charles unleashes the stories and glories of his madcap adventures in search of vintage space-age style, mid-century marvels, local landmarks, roadside wonders, fun foods, classic car culture, futuristic transportation and more! Prepare for your national pride to swell, imagination to be inspired and your spirit to soar! Tickets available at www.torrancearts.org

Kathy Kosins in To the Ladies of Cool Friday October 24, & Saturday October 25, 2025 – 7:00pm An Unforgettable Tribute to the Women Who Defined West Coast Jazz Step into a world of smoky lounges and cinematic elegance as acclaimed vocalist Kathy Kosins brings the golden age of West Coast Cool to vivid life. Ladies of Cool is more than a concert—it’s a lush, soul-stirring journey through the music of Anita O’Day, June Christy, Julie London, and Chris Connor. With her velvety tone, razor-sharp phrasing, and undeniable stage presence, Kosins doesn’t just cover these classics—she reimagines them. Backed by a world-class ensemble, Kosins breathes new life into the sultry ballads and swinging rhythms that made these women jazz legends. It’s a night of impeccable taste, timeless glamour, and musical storytelling at its finest. Whether you’re a devoted jazz lover or new to the genre, Ladies of Cool promises a spellbinding tribute to the style, swagger, and sophistication of a bygone era.

From China to Appalachia Sunday September 21, 2025 – 2:00pm GRAMMY Award winning American Roots artists Cathy Fink & Marcy Marxer join with Chinese classical hammered dulcimer player Chao Tian in this folk infused world music exploration. Chinese and American songs are accompanied on yangqin (Chinese hammered dulcimer), gourd banjo, five-string banjo, ukulele, guitars, dumbek, cello-banjo and mandolin. The group’s repertoire includes traditional Chinese and Appalachian music as well as contemporary and traditional music from around the world. Unusual combinations explore new arrangements to old music, such as “Dark Eyes.” Ukulele, yangqin and guitar create a new pallet for this Russian folk song turned jazz manouche tune. Cathy and Marcy join Chao in singing a Chinese lullaby, “Nani Wan” and Chao easily adds her love of American Old-Time music to fiddle tunes and songs. "The music is simply sublime, captivating, and above all, vastly entertaining… an enthralling performance music that perfectly distills the adage that music knows no boundaries” – The Hill Center, DC.

SYNERGY Tsuchigumo X UnitOne Saturday September 27, 2025 - 8:00pm Sunday September 28, 2025 - 1:00pm Join us for a groundbreaking show that merges the awe-inspiring talents of US-based UnitOne and Scotland's Tsuchigumo Daiko. This collaboration showcases the explosive power and rhythmic precision of Taiko drumming, delivering a performance that captures the spirit of innovation and cultural fusion. UnitOne: Based at Asano Taiko U.S. in Torrance, UnitOne was established in 2014 and features some of North America's premier taiko talent. Known for their electrifying performances and creative choreography, they bring a high-energy experience that resonates with all audiences. Tsuchigumo Daiko: This dynamic ensemble from Glasgow has been redefining Taiko since 2016. Their performances are marked by a blend of traditional beats and contemporary influences, creating a progressive sound that celebrates both the heritage and evolution of Taiko drumming. Don't miss this unique celebration of rhythm, energy, and artistic excellence at the Armstrong Theatre!

80s kids - A High-Energy Synthpop Singalong! Get ready to turn up the nostalgia and sing your heart out! Shannon Curtis and Jamie Hill are back on the road, bringing their mission of MAXIMUM JOY to life with 80s Kids—a high-energy, synth-driven concert packed with the biggest hits of the 1980s. From the irresistible melodies of a-ha and OMD to the electrifying beats of Depeche Mode and New Order, this show is a love letter to the decade of iconic anthems, neon dreams, and unforgettable movie soundtracks. You’ll hear classics from Pet Shop Boys, The Cars, Alphaville, Nik Kershaw, The Human League, and more—all performed in an authentic 80s synthpop style that will make you feel like you’re experiencing them live for the first time. Whether you grew up on these hits or are just discovering their magic, 80s Kids is an unstoppable, feel-good singalong experience for all generations. So grab your friends, dust off your leg warmers, and get ready for a night of pure 80s bliss!

Brother Yusef is coming to #Torrance, CA on March 6th & 7th! Tickets here: https://torrancearts.org/brother-yusef/ About Brother Yusef: #BrotherYusef has been described as a master solo guitarist, as well as a uniquely passionate vocalist. His performances are as raw, honest and real as the genre has ever aspired to be. Honed over thirty years, he calls his multifaceted style, fattback blues for it’s a rich mix of Delta, Chicago and Texas blues alongside a hard driving Louisiana stomp. #FattbackBlues combines “traditional” fingerpicking and slide guitar playing with the contemporary feel of urban blues, rock and funk. He uses his right hand thumb to beat out a percussive bass-line and shuffle, while the index finger plays rhythm and lead lines, creating a full band sound with a solo guitar. This event will be held at the George Nakano Theatre in Torrance. Take a look at more Performing Arts shows here: https://torrancearts.org/upcoming-shows/

We sat down with Mark San Filippo of #AngelTownCombo! They're coming to #Torrance on February 14th & 15th! Reserve your seat here: https://torrancearts.org/angel-town-combo/ About Angel Town Combo: Angel Town Combo is LA’s premier soul jazz, ska, and improvisational groove collective. Founded in 2013 by drummer Mark San Filippo, Angel Town Combo features some of the best musicians in the LA music scene. Band members include sultry vocalist Liela Avila, Scott Steen or Kyle Chris Lawrence on trumpet, Gabe Davis on bass, Jason Myers or David Marcus on guitar, Kyle O’Donnell on saxophone, Aaron Provisor tickling the ivories, and band leader Mark San Filippo on drums. Read more on our blog here: https://torrancearts.org/into-groove-angel-town-combo/ #PerformingArts