EXHIBITS
“Robert Henri’s California: Realism, Race and Region, 1914-1925”
Feb. 22 – May 31; Laguna Art Museum
Showcasing works from both public and private collections around the country, the “Robert Henri’s California” exhibit includes works from the renowned artist’s time in San Diego and Los Angeles. Considered one of the most influential American artists of the early 20th century, Robert was an avid traveler who was inspired by the people and experiences he encountered along his journeys. The dozen or so paintings in the exhibit include portraits of those he met in his sojourns and offer insight into the life of this inspiring artist. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
Sawdust Artist Video Series
March 8; Sawdust Festival Grounds
Started a decade ago, the Sawdust artist video series set out to not only document the history of the Sawdust Art Festival, but to capture the stories and techniques of the artists who participate year after year. To raise funds to revisit the project and create more films, the Art of Dining event was established with the support of Three Seventy Common Kitchen & Drink and its chef Ryan Adams. Thanks to this event’s success, the project was able to continue, and the most recent film (documenting 10 artists) will be screened, free of charge, at the Sawdust festival grounds. (sawdustartfestival.com)
PERFORMING ARTS
“Dirty Dancing”
Feb. 3-15; Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Anyone who enjoyed the 1987 classic film (starring Patrick Swayze and Jennifer Grey) will love the stage adaptation of “Dirty Dancing.” Featuring the most memorable scenes from the film, the musical aims to breathe new life into the story of Baby and Johnny. (714-556-2787; scfta.org)
Laguna Beach Music Festival
Feb. 12-15; Various locations
Over the past 12 years, many talented musicians and composers have performed at the Laguna Beach Music Festival. This year is no exception, as the event continues to serve as a platform for fine music appreciation and new discovery. In addition, the weekend will kick off with a Taste of the Festival—a reception with wine, tapas and chocolates, giving guests the opportunity to mingle with the performers. (949-715-9713; lagunabeachmusicfestival.com)
“Rock This Town Again!”
Feb. 21-23; Laguna Playhouse
The Laguna Concert Band, a nonprofit group with more than 70 volunteer musicians, will give a rousing rockabilly performance with The Stray Cats’ double bass player Lee Rocker. (lagunaconcertband.com)
“The Odd Couple”
March 4-29; Laguna Playhouse
For the past half-century, theatergoers have enjoyed watching the strained relationship unfold between the fastidious Felix and slovenly Oscar, two unlikely roommates who are forced to live together after both find themselves at the end of their marriages. Their hilarious interactions keep audiences laughing throughout the show—a Tony Award winner by Neil Simon—as the two bachelors struggle to decide whether or not they can live with each other’s quirks. (949-497-2787; lagunaplayhouse.com)
Upcoming Concerts
Ongoing; The Coach House, San Juan Capistrano
Talented performers take the stage at The Coach House this February and March: Kenny Wayne Shepherd Band (Feb. 4); Gin Blossoms (Feb. 7); Ottmar Liebert and Luna Negra (Feb. 13 and 14); Marc Seal (Feb. 21); Young Dubliners (March 6); Judy Collins (March 8); The Fenians (March 14) Tommy Castro and the Painkillers (March 15); and Johnny Lang (March 27). Visit the venue’s website for more concerts taking place this winter. (949-496-8930; thecoachhouse.com)
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Art Auction 2015: California Cool
Feb. 7; Laguna Art Museum
After the Laguna Art Museum’s Art of the Heist event in 2014 proved to be one of its most successful auctions to date, organizers are on track to host an even more impressive event this year. Themed California Cool, the 2015 fundraiser will showcase works from artists throughout the Golden State, allowing art lovers and museum supporters to take home some of these one-of-a-kind pieces for themselves. Guests and collectors also will be able to enjoy food and cocktails catered by local restaurants. (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
Orange County Restaurant Week
March 1-7; Various locations
Now in its seventh year, Orange County Restaurant Week has attracted an impressive number of the region’s top eateries offering special menus for the occasion. Though the participating restaurants stretch from San Clemente to Seal Beach, one of the most well-represented cities on the list is Laguna Beach. With 18 kitchens planning to take part (including 230 Forest Avenue, Maro Wood Grill, The Loft at Montage and Tortilla Republic), locals won’t need to travel far to experience the best of this Orange County culinary tour. (ocrestaurantweek.com)
Wonders of Wyland Reception
March 6; The Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel
Held in the Terrace Salon, the reception will include film highlights from Wyland’s campaign to create 100 marine life murals around the world. The artist will paint 12 original works that evening to be auctioned off at the event. (949-240-2000; ritzcarlton.com)
Ongoing
FIRST THURSDAYS ART WALK: First Thursday of the month, 6-9 p.m. (firstthursdaysartwalk.com)
FREE YOGA IN THE PARK: Monday-Thursday, Saturdays, 8 a.m.; Treasure Island Park (949-494-9928; yogainthepark.blogspot.com)
LAGUNA BEACH FARMERS MARKET: Saturdays, 8 a.m. to noon; Forest Avenue and Laguna Canyon Road
LAGUNA LAUGHTER YOGA: Sunday-Friday, 8 a.m., Saturdays, 10 a.m.; Main Beach (lyinstitute.org)
LIVE! AT THE MUSEUM: Second Thursday of the month, 7-8 p.m.; Laguna Art Museum (949-494-8971; lagunaartmuseum.org)
MONTHLY WINE TASTING PARTY: First Friday of the month, 6-9 p.m.; Laguna Canyon Winery (949-715-9463; lagunacanyonwinery.com)
NATURE HIKES: Various dates and times, Laguna Canyon Foundation (949-497-8324; lagunacanyon.org)
SAWDUST STUDIO ART CLASSES: Various dates and times; Sawdust Art Festival grounds (949-494-3030; sawdustartfestival.org)
ZEROTRASH BEACH CLEANUP: First Saturday of the month, 10 a.m. to noon, various locations (zerotrash.org/laguna)
