TOCA Backstage

Welcome to TOCA Backstage, the official podcast of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, where we take you behind the curtain and into the stories behind the artists, performances, and unforgettable experiences coming to our stages.In this episode, we’re going to the dogs—in the best possible way—as we spotlight the wildly entertaining Stunt Dog Experience. Get ready for jaw-dropping tricks, hilarious antics, incredible athleticism, and heartwarming moments featuring some of the most talented rescue dogs in the country.Joining us is world-renowned trainer Chris Perondi, the creator of this fan-favorite show, who has wowed audiences nationwide with his amazing canine cast. We’ll talk about how these remarkable dogs are trained, the inspiring rescue stories behind them, and what audiences can expect when the Stunt Dog Experience leaps into town.So sit, stay, and listen in as we go backstage for a fun-filled conversation packed with laughs, inspiration, and plenty of wagging tails. This is TOCA Backstage.

Welcome to TOCA Backstage, the official podcast of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, where we take you behind the curtain and into the stories behind the artists, performances, and experiences lighting up our stages.In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Because You’re Mine – The Music of June Carter and Johnny Cash—a heartfelt and high-energy celebration of one of music’s most iconic love stories. Through timeless songs, unforgettable harmonies, and the spirit of two legendary performers, this show brings the magic, humor, and passion of June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash back to life.We’ll talk with the artists behind the production, explore the legacy of these country music legends, and give you a preview of the songs and stories that make this concert event so special.So sit back, turn it up, and join us backstage for a little music, a little history, and a whole lot of heart. This is TOCA Backstage.

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.???? Listen to the podcast now. ???? Then grab your tickets to see Yuko Mabuchi live in the Studio Cabaret!#TOCABackstage #YukoMabuchi #StudioCabaret #LiveJazz #SouthBayArts

????️ 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. ???????? Listen to 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 PreviewIn 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.

Broad AppealSaturday January 10, 2026 – 8:00pmGet 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.

 New TOCA Backstage episode!Join us as we chat with Sligo fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada, founder of Irish Christmas in America — a heartwarming celebration of music, dance, and storytelling that brings the spirit of the Emerald Isle to Torrance! ☘️????Don’t miss the show Friday, December 5th at the Armstrong Theatre.Listen now on the TOCA Backstage podcast and get in the holiday spirit early! ????✨???? TorranceArts.org #TOCABackstage #IrishChristmasInAmerica #TorranceArts #HolidayConcert

TOCA's Executive Director, Chris Wolf talks with retro pop culture humorist, Charles Phoenix. 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!  An Evening with Charles PhoenixLive Comedy Performance Celebrating Classic & Kitschy American Life & Style!Saturday November 1, 2025 – 8:00pm

Kathy KosinsTo the Ladies of CoolFriday October 24, 2025 – 7:00pmSaturday October 25, 2025 – 7:00pmAn Unforgettable Tribute to the Women Who Defined West Coast JazzStep 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 AppalachiaSunday September 21, 2025 – 2:00pmGRAMMY 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.

Unit One Artistic Director Young Kang is joined by the creators of Tsuchigumo Daiko, the Scottish Taiko group. Both groups will be performing in the upcoming show Synergy on Sept. 27 & 28, 2025.This 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!

Celebrating 50 years of friendship with Torrance’s sister city, Kashiwa, Japan, thisevening will highlight some of the talented past delegates who have gone on toprofessional careers in the performing arts.You will be treated to the likes of master storyteller Takekawa Shinoharu (Ittetsu Kojima) from Japan, MacIntyre Family Singers featuring Carol William (South High School alumni), Todd (Mama Mia), Katelyn, and Taiko drummer Alex Ito, will perform techno interpretations of traditional taiko pieces. The Torrance Civic Chorale who performed in Kashiwa in 1987 and greeted the Kashiwa delegates at Torrance City Hall in 2018 for the 45th anniversary will be performing selected piecesfor the occasion, plus other surprise guest performers.Don’t miss this once in a lifetime event and join in the celebration of friendship and the good work that the Torrance Sister City Association does.

Multi instrumentalist Alex Wersen talks about his new project, "Remember When the Music: The Songs of Harry Chapin".Harry Chapin’s short, but impactful life is celebrated in this world premier show.A master storyteller, his songs were full of heart and soul and included the hits “Cats in the Cradle,” “WOLD” and “Taxi.” Chapin was also a lifelong philanthropist and joined fellow musicians Gordon Lightfoot, James Taylor, and John Denver to form the Food Policy Center which monitored the President’s Commission on World Hunger.Join us for a night of incredible music guaranteed to uplift, move and inspire.

Montana natives turned Angelenos, Joselyn & Don’s intoxicating music feels like a walk through mountain wildflowers and Southern California Joshua trees. Enter their wild garden - where blues, folk and jazz form an understory illuminated with lyrical truth. Joselyn Wilkinson (the founder of women’s global fusion band, ADAAWE ) and Don Barrozo (a multi-instrumentalist, composer and producer with many album credits, also serves as film editor for long-running animated series, “The Simpsons.”) forage musical ideas from many sources and plant those seeds in rich Americana soil. These are deeply rooted songs reaching for new light.

This family-friendly performance features lively instrumental tunes on fiddle, flute, uilleann pipes and harp, along with thrilling Irish old-style dancing from Samantha Harvey. In addition, 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 2022.“Irish Christmas in America admirably refuses to pander to the lowest common denominator. By doing so, they all convey the spirit of the season with uncommon taste and integrity.” Irish Echo

Ayline Artin is a well-known South Bay vocal coach who is also a very talented singer/songwriter. She may be familiar to some from accompanying her students during previous South Bay’s Got Talent competitions or from the streaming concert she did for TOCA during the pandemic shut down of the theatre.TOCA Executive Director talks with Ayline about her music and her words of wisdom for auditioning for South Bay’s Got Talent. A truly giving artist and inspiring conversation.South Bay’s Got Talent auditions are February 5, 6 & 7, 2023Application deadline is January 23, 2023 and are available at www.torrancearts.org Performance will be February 25, 2023

Ali Angel Friday and Saturday November 18 & 19, 2022LA-native musician Ali Angel’s retro-soul production and classic songwriting style emanate a 1970’s influence, giving lovers of classic rock, indie, soul, and country music all something they can gravitate towards. Full of surprises, she keeps listeners intrigued by effortlessly shifting from sweet, daydreamy twang and gentle vocals to gritty soulful rock and attitude. Upon releasing her debut single, “Play Pretend” in April of 2021, the record amassed over 80k streams on Spotify independently and was added to more than 3k user-made and tastemaker playlists. She’s been featured by curators like Relix Magazine, DittyTV and Ones To Watch.

Perla Batalla - Songs and Sundries Variety Hour (and a half) Part 2Friday and Saturday October 21 & 22, 2022 Perla’s return to our cabaret will feature hand-picked selections from Batalla’s vast repertoire, including songs from her original Mestiza song cycle, Perla’s inspired arrangements of Spanish language classics, The Great American Songbook, and of course, personal favorites from her mentor, the great Leonard Cohen. Expect a surprise guest or two and plenty of laughs.Tickets available at www.torrancearts.org

Musician/actor Scot Bruce celebrates what made Elvis not only the king of rock & roll...but the king of cool! See the magic that made a generation swoon in the 1950’s and 60’s, before the white jumpsuit, sunglasses and the glitter of Vegas. Along with his rockin’ 4-piece band, Bruce meticulously and respectfully recreates the electrifying musical excitement of Elvis in his prime...right down to the vintage instruments, the hip ‘threads’ and the grease in the hair.  Bruce has performed in sold-out venues worldwide, and has won critical acclaim for his uncanny musical portrayal. This is one show guaranteed to have you all shook up!

UnitOne, a professional taiko group based under the umbrella of Asano Taiko U.S., presents their long awaited full length concert.  SHIKI (“four seasons” in Japanese) draws from intimate memories of the four seasons in Japan. From the fiery heat of summer to the frigid depths of winter, Shiki is a look inside UnitOne's memory of a distant place. Artistic Director Young Kang intertwines some of UnitOne’s popular pieces and brings a unique vision that will touch the soul.

Question: What happens when you invite veteran comedy writers and character actors to tell tales of their love able friends with tails? Answer: you get MY DOG IS BETTER THAN YOUR DOG, a hilarious and heartwarming evening of stories about our four-legged friends.  This story driven show features comedian Carol Leifer (Writer/Producer Hacks, Curb Your Enthusiasm and Seinfeld), Humorist and novelist W. Bruce Cameron (A Dog’s Purpose) and award winning actor and storyteller Stephen Tobolowsky (Groundhog Day, The Goldbergs), as well as a story and short film by Writer/Director Cindy Chupack (Sex and the City, Modern Family, Otherhood), plus some surprise guests. Hosted by Tasty Words’ Wendy Hammers.

Yesterday and Today: The Interactive Beatles Experience is the nation’s most innovative and unique show utilizing the works of the Beatles. This amazing group, anchored by brothers Billy, Ryan and Matthew McGuigan, does away the worn out “tribute” format of bad wigs and fake accents. Instead, they perform as themselves and leave the song choices completely in the hands of the audience. This is done through request cards that audience members fill out prior to the show. On those cards, the audience member only needs to fill out three things: their name, their favorite Beatles song and the reason why they chose that song. The cards are collected and two minutes before the show begins, a set list is created based upon the songs chosen by that particular audience. As an added treat, the reasons that the audience members chose those songs make up the narrative of the evening.Performing live at the Armstrong Theatre on Sat. May 14, 2022Tickets at www.torrancearts.org

Many of us recognize her from the platinum-selling Number 1 hit song “Stay (I Missed You)” from the film Reality Bites. Since then, she has enjoyed a successful career in music, film, television, voice-over work and children’s recordings. In addition to raising two children in LA, she stays busy working on her growing eyewear line, her music for grown-ups as well as books and CD’s for kids and families. Her most recent collection of songs is called “A Simple Trick To Happiness." TOCA is proud to bring you Grammy® winner singer/songwriter Lisa Loeb.Lisa will be in concert Saturday March 19, 2022 at 8pmTickets at www.torrancearts.org

A mime with noise, stand-up with no talking – drama with no acting. Viral sensation Tape Face has to be seen to be believed. Tape Face is a character created by performer Sam Wills; delightful, wry, many-layered, hilarious and with universal appeal. He accesses an inner child in us all that must be fed. Through simple, clever and charming humour, aimed at satisfying that hunger, this America’s Got Talent Finalist gives a performance which is delightful, wry, and hilarious. Through simple, clever and charming humour, Tape Face has created one of the most accessible and enjoyable shows the world has ever seen. Tickets available at www.torrancearts.org or the theatre ticket office at (310) 781-7171

Terry Casey and Chris Pierce talk about the band

Emmy® nominated, Irish singer - producer, Michael Londra is from the opera capital of Ireland, a small town on the South East coast called Wexford. He decided in his early 30’s to follow his heart and pursue a professional singing career. His leap of faith was rewarded when he soon became a leading man in musical theater in Dublin playing many roles culminating in becoming the lead singer for Riverdance and touring internationally.

Every now and again, something so cool comes along that I just have to share it with you.  Audiojack is a very unique experience that I highly recommend you give it a try. As the website describes it, it is an audio based movie with no words to mindfully engage your imagination.  In short, you close your eyes, listen to a bunch of sound effects that are specifically designed to elicit a response from your imagination. The story that is created is yours and yours alone. It was my pleasure to speak with David Tobin the creative genius behind Audiojack.   With a history of working in film, television and music, David stumbled upon the creation of this unique tool that is used not only for education and health programs around the world but to engage the imagination of everyone.  The best part is that it’s free to use (there is a subscription price to the app if you want to unlock all the “stories”) and it will help you escape to hustle and bustle of the craziness we are all going through.

Chris Jacobson is an enthusiastic businessman who learned about the plight of foster youth who are aging out of the foster care system. Rather than just feeling sorry for them, he took it upon himself to create a company that not only sells great coffee, but also involves these young people in hopes to give them a foundation for building their future. Building on the premise of helping those in need, Chris has set up a system to give 20% of coffee orders to selected non-profits. Just like TOCA. Coffee is available in whole bean, ground, Single Serve Cups, decaf and flavored. You can buy just one package or subscribe. Click here to check it out! goodstuffcoffee.com/toca

If you don’t have plans for this Saturday October 3, I can recommend the streaming performance by Los Angeles Virtuosi under the direction of Maestro Carlo Ponti.  To learn more about this event, check out our podcast here. Maestro Carlo Ponti has been bringing music to the world for over 20 years. From the Russian National Orchestra to the San Bernardino Symphony. In 2013, he founded the Los Angeles Virtuosi Orchestra – an ensemble emphasizing music’s educational value of which he is the Music and Artistic Director, and currently performing its’ sixth concert season (2020-2021) in Los Angeles, California. For tickets to the October 3rd event, https://www.eventbrite.com/e/carlo-ponti-the-los-angeles-virtuosi-orchestra-rising-stars-tickets-118365603707

Typically, these newsletters and podcasts are used to let you know about the exciting shows we have coming up. A quick glimpse into the background of the artist, a simple reminder to get your tickets or just come interesting information about TOCA or the art as they relate to the South Bay or Torrance. I feel, however, that I would be remise in my duties if I didn’t make you aware of a virtual program that is coming up on October 2. I first learned about “Mortified” over 12 years ago. I heard about the book, then discovered that they had a show in Hollywood. My wife and I drove out to a small performance venue on Hollywood Blvd not sure what to expect… we ended up laughing so hard and enjoyed the show so much we went several more times. Each time a new and different group. Hailed a “cultural phenomenon” by Newsweek and celebrated by This American Life, Entertainment Weekly, Time, Wired, The AV Club, The Today Show (twice), and beyond, Mortified celebrates stories revealed through the strange and extraordinary things we created as kids. It was great to speak with the Mortified artistic director, Neil Katcher who gives more details on what Mortified is and what it has become. Once just a small show presented in Hollywood, now shows being created around the globe, television series, podcasts, book and now a game you can play at home. If you can’t make their live event on Oct. 2, I highly recommend that you check out their Netflix documentary and series. 

It was a pleasure speaking with Oisín Mac Diarmada about his upcoming virtual performance, Breakfast in Ireland. This special performance will be Zoom live streamed from Sligo, Ireland with Oisín Mac Diarmada (fiddle) and Samantha Harvey (dance / piano) Fiddler Oisín Mac Diarmada has spent most of his musical life living in Sligo, an area noted historically for an extraordinarily rich fiddle tradition. Founder of leading traditional group Téada, with whom he has toured extensively throughout the world since 2001, Oisín’s solo performances have seen him play at specialist music festivals such as Masters of Tradition in West Cork, accompanying former Irish President Mary McAleese on a State visit to Romania and performing Charlie Lennon’s Island Wedding suite with the Southern Georgia Symphony Orchestra in the US and the Württembergische Philharmonie Reutlingen in Germany. Oisín has toured frequently in recent years with noted singer/accordion-player Séamus Begley, with whom he has released 2 duo albums. Most recently, Oisín was co-author along with fellow-Sligo musician Daithí Gormley, of Fiddlers of Sligo Tunebook, a publication focussed on the Sligo fiddle tradition. Providing masterful accompaniment on piano, Samantha Harvey originally from Ventura, California now living in Sligo, is also an award-winning step dancer. Samantha's energetic dance and musical performances on stage has seen her become an increasingly prominent touring performer and teacher. Samantha has toured with a number of touring shows such as Téada, Irish Christmas in America, Ireland – The Show, and Tomaseen Foley, including performances with orchestras such as the Omaha Symphony and Edmonton Symphony. Since this will be streamed via Zoom, you may want to make sure that you have your robe on.

With all the craziness going on in the world today, I have to confess that at times, it seems like we are riding an emotional rollercoaster. Some days we are truly optimistic and some days are filled with despair. Then you meet someone like Grace Fisher. I learned about Grace through an old friend of mine who shared some of her videos on her social media page. The video posts were mostly of a young girl in her mid-late teens playing music. She was full of life and you could tell that the music was inside her just waiting to come out. 5 years ago, Grace lost all ability to move. She can no longer strum her guitar, dance on the stage or do just about anything else that a young girl in her early 20s can do. Still, she has found a way to create music, stay optimistic and enjoy the beauty in life. This year marks that 30 year anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act. In light of this special day, Easterseals has put together a film challenge honoring people with disabilities. This year, Lynn Montgomery (the director of the feature length documentary ‘Amazing Grace’) entered a 5 minute documentary about Grace’s story. You can watch it here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=goLiaNItVrw&t=231s Easterseals’ social media contest for these short videos is an attempt to bring awareness not only to the organization but the ADA as well. The video that gets the most views and shares wins! You have until August 2nd to help Grace’s video win. Please watch, like, and forward this message to help us promote our short.  Grace also has a non-profit organization to help young people with disabilities experience the arts. Learn more here: https://www.gracefisherfoundation.org/

Jon Armstrong has won numerous awards including Close Up Magician of the Year. His special brand of humor and magic have been seen in 30 countries, not to mention “The Today Show”, “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and “Penn and Teller’s Fool Us” , which caused Penn to exclaim his act as “the most original I’ve ever seen!” When you see him live, Jon hopes that you laugh loudly, are amazed by his skills, and most of all, feel like you made a new friend. Jon will be performing a truly interactive 45+ minute performance that will blow your mind. Unlike any televised performance by a magician, you know that there are no camera tricks, edits or special effects as it is happening live via Zoom. The performance will be Saturday July 25, 2020 at 7pm

Bearing an ever expanding repertoire of, as she puts it, "obscure, lovely and naughty songs from the 1910s, '20s and '30s," Janet Klein is a musical archaeologist hiding in the body of an F. Scott Fitzgerald heroine. Her music is as timeless as her personality.

TOCA's SouthBay Festival of the Arts was supposed to be Saturday June 27th. However, due to the Covid 19 pandemic, we had to cancel the event. Still, with all that's going on in the world, we'd still like to share the arts with you this weekend. On Friday June 26th at 7pm, TOCA will present a live concert, streaming on our Facebook page. Jeff Bordes is an amazing musician who has appeared on TOCA's stages. Together with his guitarist, they will be streaming live from Jeff's porch in Northern California. Don't miss it!

The current COVID pandemic has taken its toll on performing arts organizations and performing artists. In hopes to support these artists who are critical to our success, we have created TOCA To Go. A way to support local artists and TOCA. Do you know someone who is missing the excitement of a live performance? Got a special occasion that you want to celebrate or need a special gift you want to send to someone? Try TOCA TO GO! With just a few clicks, we will send a performer to your home, place of work or to their email inbox. Laura Ellis is one of the performers you can hire. A singer, actress, and recording artist, Laura Ellis is known for her beautiful voice, her vintage vocal styling, and her sparkling stage presence Laura performs across country in her touring productions. With her retro jazz flair, she has graced cabaret and concert stages including the famed Jazz Alley in Seattle, Feinstein’s at the Nikko in San Francisco, and the Moonlight Amphitheatre in Vista, CA. Her broadcast credits include History Channel’s Route 66 and Modern Marvels documentaries, the HBO Carnivale series, and ABC’s Modern Family. In recent years, she has starred as the singing voice of the adventurous, Kat Knight, on the video game Contrast, by Compulsion Games, downloaded more than 1.5 million times. Her most recent recording, Broken, Lovely, was in consideration for a Best Vocal Jazz Grammy in 2016. Additional performers who are a part of TOCA To Go are: Janet Klein Janet is the very definition of an “old soul”. Growing up in a region of Southern California where the last vestiges of the “California Dream” were still barely in tact as strip malls proliferated, she linked historical images she’d seen of early turn-of-the century postcards with bungalows along palm lined streets, orange groves, grand Mission style hotels & onion-domed libraries- the way things were got into her blood, and today she’s the most refreshing anachronism to every materialize from the ether of the Prohibition. Klein doesn’t merely perform songs from “ lost America” –she actually lives them, and transports her audiences along the way. Klein considers herself a “musical archeologist and treasure hunter” digging up compositions by the likes of Wilton Crawley and A.P. Randolf and Robert Cloud, songs of the Victrola and lost Vitaphone films. She and her LA based band the Parlor Boys authentically resuscitate early jazz of the 1920s and 1930s with wild spirit, vigor and grand skill. SEND A TAIKO PERFORMANCE Yuta Kato Yuta Kato was born and raised in California to a Japanese speaking family.  Introduced to taiko by Kagami-Kai, a local rice-pouding group, he decided to further his studies with San Francisco Taiko Dojo at the age of 10. Since then he has been a part of UCLA Kyodo Taiko, Nihon Taiko Dojo, Getsuyoukai, and professional groups: TAIKOPROJECT, ON Ensemble, and Portland Taiko, Unit Souzou. From Fall 2007 until Winter 2011, he resided in Japan to study under masters of various traditional Japanese music. Upon returning to the US in 2011, he served as Coordinator for the 2011 North American Taiko Conference at Stanford University. Kato now focuses his attention to teaching taiko and currently resides in California serving as the principal and instructor for LATI (Los Angeles Taiko Institute) housed at  Asano Taiko US, which opened in 2013. He performs as a member of UnitOne (Torrance, CA). Isaku Kageyama Isaku Kageyama is a taiko performer, educator, and recording artist currently working with Asano Taiko US, Los Angeles Taiko Institute, and UnitOne.  His resume includes performances on networks such as NBC and VH1, venues such as Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and tours of across North, South, and Central America, Asia, the Middle East and Europe. Julia Asano Trio Julia Asano, then Julia Kato, began her taiko career under the tutelage of Seiichi Tanaka as a member of San Francisco Taiko Dojo Rising Stars Dream Team.  She was also a performing member of TAIKOPROJECT in 2005 and 2006 before moving to Japan and marrying into the drum-making Asano family.  She helped found Asano Taiko U.S., teaches at Los Angeles Taiko Institute, and performs with the Asano Taiko U.S. resident ensemble, UnitOne.

Arts organizations (as well as small businesses) was hit with Assembly Bill 5 (AB5) at the beginning of the year which outlines a new way to determine who is an independent contractor vs an employee. With the changes in the determination, many found that creative artists who were once paid per gig or as an independent contractor were now seen, in the eyes of this bill, as an employee. Needless to say, that has major financial repercussions for these organizations and business. Then, if that wasn’t bad enough, along comes Covid 19 which is close to being the devastating blow to most organizations. I reached out to Julie Baker the Executive Director for the Californians for the Arts organization to see if she could help answer some basic concerns.  Julie Baker is a seasoned arts and marketing professional. Prior to becoming Executive Director of Californians For The Arts and California Arts Advocates in October of 2018, Julie Baker served on the board for four years as chair of the membership committee and of Confluence, an arts advocacy conference. She serves as the California State Captain to Americans for the Arts', National Arts Action Summit and is chair of the visibility committee for the State Arts Action Network. From 2009-2017, Julie Baker served as the Executive Director of The Center for the Arts, a non-profit performing arts venue and California WorldFest, an annual music and camping festival located in Grass Valley, CA. Prior to moving to California, Baker worked in New York City at several prominent art galleries and the international auction house Christie’s before becoming the President of her family’s art marketing agency, Gerngross & Company Inc. In 1998, she moved with her family to Nevada City, CA where she was first employed as a Senior Executive Producer for Tristream, a 20- person web development and marketing/branding company. In 2001, she returned to her passion for the arts and opened Julie Baker Fine Art, a gallery of emerging artists. She was the co-founder of Flow art fair, a satellite art fair to Art Basel Miami Beach. She is active in her local community including serving on the high school Site Council and the board of California Heritage: Indigenous Research Project.  

During this time of social distancing and stay at home orders, sometimes the only way to stay connected with friends and family is through photos, videos and Zoom calls. We’ve all had times when we have taken a selfie or photo and instantly deleted it because we didn’t like it. Or maybe you are on a Zoom happy hour or business meeting and you look at your image compared to others and can’t seem to get the lighting just right. That’s one of the reasons I wanted to talk to Mark Comon from the Creative Photo Academy and Paul’s Photo in Torrance.  Mark and I met during one of the city of Torrance’s Arts Leadership meetings. We met again when he came on board to work with TOCA on the photo exhibit for the SouthBay Festival of the Arts. I’ve been following him on social media for a while and noticed that once the Covid crisis hit, he immediately started posting short videos about being creative and hints on how to take better, more creative photographs.  I thought, if there was one person out there that could help create better images, it would be him. Mark Comon is founder of Creative Photo Academy, PMA Academy and the PMA Certified Photo Instructor program. Mark has effectively taught photography to amateurs, hobbyists, professionals and other photo instructors. His passionate approach to creativity, simple explanation of technical topics and inspirational images will help your photography take flight. Mark loves to inspire you to take, make and keep better photographs. Mark teaches Photo Boot Camp, Advanced Classes and is a leader on many Adventures and Workshops. Mark is also available for one-on-one tutoring on any subject. Hope you enjoy this conversation. Be sure to follow him on social media or visit him at Paul’s Photo when you are able.

Magic Up Close One of the shows that we had lined up for this season before we had to postpone everything was Magic Up Close. This is one of my favorite shows that we produce. Changing the Nakano Theatre into a very intimate performance area, we bring in magicians to present a full length presentation of magic up close. This year we had scheduled Jonathan Levit and George Tovar for this intimate evening of magic. While we are waiting for the “all clear” to reschedule the performance, I thought we would share the interview we had done prior to the postponement. If you can’t wait until the new date is announced for an evening of magic, you can try a cyber magic presentation by Jonathan Levit by visiting his website: Cybermagicshow.com Or… do you want to learn magic? Here’s a great way to start, or if you’re like me, pick it up again after a REAL long time. The Night Academy of magic https://www.myboxofmagic.com The Night Academy was founded by world-renowned magician Nicholas Night. The Art & Illusion of Nicholas Night & Kinga, appeared on stage and television in over 30 countries with featured appearances in the U.S. on ABC's Champions of Magic, Masters of Illusion, and Magic on the Edge television specials. In addition to a full-time career in magic, for over ten years Nicholas worked as an executive in animation and gaming, creating and pitching original gaming, film and television concepts to top studios and networks such as Disney, MGM, Nickelodeon, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, NatGeo, PBS Kids and Cartoon Network. So what led him to start a mail-order magic school? Nicholas says, "Teaching magic and sleight-of-hand to my 10 yr. old son Jackson and his friends made me realize that "kid magic" - the kind you get in every magic set - was basically synonymous for "bad magic". The props are inferior, and the tricks are tired and old-fashioned. I decided to create professional quality, easy-to-master original magic tricks that can be performed by anyone aged 8 to 88!" And as a testament to the quality of the effects found in My Box Of Magic, a number of professional magicians have started to perform these tricks as part of their act - they're THAT good!

Prior to the arrival of the Covid-19 pandemic, TOCA was looking forward to presenting Go Now: The Music of the Moody Blues. Lead by Gordon Marshall, the drummer of the group for over 25 years, this was sure to be one of the highlights of the season. Needless to say, as the current health crisis began to limit travel, the group had to cancel their US tour, leaving us to have to cancel our April performance. However, prior to all this, I had the good fortune of speaking with Gordon for our TOCA Backstage podcast. It turns out the group was just as disappointed as the fans to have to back out of the tour, so they have created an hour long concert on video that they would like to share. To view, just click this YouTube link: https://youtu.be/UIoTPjzrviE   ABOUT THE ARTIST: THE MOODY BLUES.   They sold in excess of 70 million albums worldwide, were awarded 14 platinum and gold discs, and were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018.  But the band has not performed together in concert for the past few years and have no plans to return to touring. Gordon Marshall, the drummer with The Moody Blues for over 25 years, knew that there was a hunger in the market for Moody Blues music.  Five years ago, to fill the void, he put together an amazing group of musicians and formed the band GO NOW!, a tribute to the music of The Moody Blues.  Mick Wilson, the lead singer of GO NOW!, was the lead singer with 10cc for over 20 years. Mick was also the “singing voice” in the Academy Award-winning movie Bohemian Rhapsody for the actor who portrayed Queen’s drummer.  Gordon and Mick are joined on stage by Patrick Duffin, Ryan Farmery and Nick Kendall, and together recreate the magical music we all know, including all the major hits.  With 25 years’ experience with The Moody Blues, Gordon has created true-to-the-original arrangements, making every performance truly magical. In an endless sea of rock and pop formats, The Moody Blues distinguished themselves through four decades as that shimmering jewel vindicating rock music as a substantial artistic contribution to Western culture.  Since the 60’s, as a part of the historic original British invasion of Supergroups, The Moody Blues lit up the hearts and minds of millions of rock fans with inspiring anthems like “Nights in White Satin,” “Tuesday Afternoon” and “I’m Just A Singer (In A Rock And Roll Band),” which express universal themes of love, compassion and peace.  The band’s unique style of music consistently finds airplay on radio stations globally and continues to illuminate concert arenas around the world.  From being immortalized on The Simpsons to having their music featured in movies, television and in national advertisement campaigns such as VISA, The Moody Blues are embedded in not only music history but in pop culture.  They have sold in excess of 70 million albums worldwide and have been awarded an astonishing 14 platinum and gold discs; they were inducted into the Rock & Roll hall of Fame in 2018.  But the band has not performed together in concert for the past few years and have no plans to return to touring as The Moody Blues.   For the past four years GO NOW! have performed throughout the UK, selling out theatres and making many return appearances.  Their first venture into the U.S. in 2019 resulted in 12 out of 12 sold-out performances at venues in Arizona and resulted in a repeat 14-show run in Arizona and California in the spring of 2020.    Their April 2021 engagements with the Virginia Symphony, the Omaha Symphony and the Philly Pops have made it possible for more U.S. venues to bring the hauntingly beautiful music of The Moody Blues to Baby Boomer fans who still swoon when they hear those first magical notes of “Nights in White Satin”.

As I am fond of saying... "I appreciate dance, but I don't always understand it." So, I thought I would chat with someone who might help to understand this often underappreciated art form. Brenda Way received her early training at the School of American Ballet and Ballet Arts in New York City. She is the founder and artistic director of ODC/Dance and creator of the ODC Theater and ODC Dance Commons, community performance and training venues in San Francisco's Mission District. She launched ODC and an inter-arts department at Oberlin College and Conservatory of Music in the late 1960's before relocating to the Bay Area in 1976.

When it was decided that we wouldn’t be able to bring you interviews of the artists in our season due to the postponement of shows, I reached out to a number of people that I thought would be interesting to speak with. Kelly Freemon Craig, award winning film director and screenwriter was gracious enough to take me up on the offer. Kelly started out writing sketch comedy and spoken word poetry in college, then landed an internship in the film division of Immortal Entertainment, where she read her first film script and began to pursue screenwriting. She developed several screenplays during the 2000s, including a modern high school retelling of Cyrano de Bergerac and a comedic remake of the 2004 French drama Intimate Strangers for Paramount Pictures. One of her scripts, Ticket to Ride, caught the attention of Ghostbusters director Ivan Reitman. He bought the script under his The Montecito Picture Company as a directing vehicle for Reitman. According to Reitman, the script was rewritten at least 15 times. The film was released, under the new title Post Grad. The film was instead directed by Shrek director Vicky Jenson and was released in 2009 and starred Alexis Bledel, Michael Keaton and Carol Burnett. In 2011, Kelly completed another script titled Besties and sent the script over to James L. Brooks. Brooks bought the script and was announced that Kelly would direct the film and Brooks would serve as a producer and mentor for her in directing her first film. The film was released by STX Entertainment in Fall 2016 under its new title The Edge of Seventeen to critical praise. I was curious about how she got her start in Hollywood… knowing that she spent some time in community theatre, we talk about her inspiration to go to Hollywood, her past projects and the film she is currently working on. The project that Kelly is currently working on is a film adaptation of “Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret” by Judy Bloom. A book that Ms. Bloom once said she would never let be adapted for the screen. I was curious how she planned to make the film version of a Judy Bloom book that would appeal, not only to children but also to the adult who may have grown up reading her books. Coming from an authentic place and full reverence for the material, Kelly’s plan seems to be well thought out. Despite the fact that I have never read “Are You There God? It’s Me Margaret”, I know I will be anxiously awaiting its release next year.

While not a part of our upcoming season, it was an honor to speak with Tommy Chong.

Christian Wolf sat down to talk to the members of the Hot Licks Band about their performance in Torrance.  Upcoming shows here: https://torrancearts.org/upcoming-shows/   Dan Hicks passed away on Feb. 6, 2016 but his band, The Hot Licks, play on! The Hot Licks are original members of Dan’s backing band. They perform classic gems written by the Man himself as well as songs that Dan Hicks loved to cover in his own original style – Folk-Swing – A blend of Gypsy Jazz, Folk and Swing with lots of vocal harmonies. The Hot Licks are dedicated to preserving the original sound and spirit in the way Dan taught them! They carry the banner for Folk-Swing with his signature style that has inspired so many others. The Hot Licks:Paul Robinson, Guitar/VocalsDaria, Vocals/Percussion/MelodicaPaula Sonnenberg, Vocals/Percussion Featuring: David Boyden, Violin Alex Baum, Bass www.facebook.com/hotlicksmusic

Christian Wolf sits down with Jocelyn Argueta (AKA Jargie the Science Girl) about her upcoming show in Torrance: https://torrancearts.org/jargie-science-girl/   Explore the world through the eyes of Jargie the Science Girl! And her lab assistant, Benjamin the Penguin. Come visit her laboratory for an energetic, interactive scientific adventure that is sure to rattle the molecules of your mind. Bubbles, chemical reactions, rockets and dooblybloppers galore, this performance is filled with exciting experiments and demonstrations based on the next generation science standards.      

Take a comic journey from “love at first sight” through “‘till death do us part”, and all the funny stuff in between. Mark Cordes is an inventive comedian and humorist who has been hailed by critics as a “One Man Laugh Factory.” From his humble start at an open mic, he steadily worked his way up the comedy ladder.  Enjoy a hilarious peek into the real world of relationships, a decidedly positive view of “sweet togetherness.” Whether you’re searching or already with that hunk-of-burning-love, you can’t miss with The Spouse Whisperer.   Tickets to the performance on January 11, 2020 can be found by clicking here:  https://torrancearts.org/the-spouse-whisperer/    

Performance coming up in Torrance, CA on November 3, 2019. Reserve your seat here:  https://torrancearts.org/mostly-kosher/   Mostly Kosher, the acclaimed Jewish cultural revival band, radically reconstructs Judaic and American cultural musical roots through ravenous post-klezmer beats and arresting Yiddish refrains. Mostly Kosher is a musical feast that explodes into a global food-fight of Jazz, Latin, Rock, Hip Hop, and Folk. Led by Leeav Sofer, one of Jewish Journal’s “30 under 30” most accomplished professionals in the Los Angeles’ Jewish diaspora, Mostly Kosher is comprised of some of the highest regarded Los Angeles musicians: violinist Janice Mautner Markham, drummer Eric Hagstrom, bassist Adam Levy, accordion/trumpet Mike Bolger, trombonist Mike King, and guitarist Will Brahm.