Rubicon Theatre Company, celebrating its 25th Anniversary Season, is proud to announce the launch of its exciting new special event series, “Ventura Live: Music, Laughter And Comedy,” featuring one-night and short-run concerts, jam sessions, new play readings, magic nights, comedy, and much more. The series runs from May 11 – June 15, 2024. From a reading of a new rock-and-roll musical, to a side-splitting comedy and soulful tributes, this diverse series promises to dazzle and delight audiences of all ages and tastes.
The series kicks off on Saturday, May 11 at 7 pm with “Make Your Own Kind of Music,” celebrating the iconic women of the 60s and 70s. Led by Heather Youmans (Dark of the Moon at Rubicon) and featuring an all-star band, this event will showcase musical guests from hit shows such as “The Voice,” “American Idol,” and “Dancing with the Stars.”
On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 12 at 3 pm, Tony and Emmy Award-Winner Lillias White will take the stage in “From Brooklyn to Broadway.” With a stellar career spanning 16 Broadway shows, including The Life, Fela!, and Hadestown, White will delight audiences with some of Broadway’s best-loved songs.
“The Folk Legacy Trio in Concert” on May 17 and 18, offers folk favorites featuring George Grove and Rick Dougherty (both Lifetime Grammy Winners with The Kingston Trio) and JERRY SIGGINS (The Diamonds). For theatre enthusiasts, Somebody to Love, a Plays-in-Progress of a new rock-and-roll musical in development will be showcased on May 20 with a post-show talkback.
Additional highlights of the series will include a range of musical tributes, including “Palomino Nights” on May 26, a Country and Rhythm Revue Benefit for Rubicon’s Education Programs featuring Beau Red, Mark Masson (Shaky Feelin), the Van Allen Twins, And Jay Ponti, “Marley’s Ghost” on May 30, and “Trevor and Sylvie Sing James & Joni” on June 4.
On June 1, audiences can enjoy a night of uproarious laughter with “Jerry Rocha Comedy Hour: Cancer Culture.” Known for his appearances on Netflix, Conan, Comedy Central, and Last Comic Standing, Jerry Rocha brings his unique brand of humor to shed light on even the darkest of subjects. “In Love with a Wonderful Guy” on June 2 featuring Golden Globe Award-Winner Amanda Mcbroom (“The Rose”) celebrates love in various forms in celebration of Rubicon Company Member (and her husband) George Ball’s big birthday!
“Forever Motown,” featuring the original New York cast, will run from June 6 to 9 with a tribute to Motown legends. Closing out the series on June 15 and 16, “John Carney in CarneyMagic” presents a show about secrets, mentors and the art of illusion. Regarded by his peers as one of the top sleight-of-hand performers in the world, Carney has won more awards from Hollywood’s Magic Castle than anyone in history.
All events will take place at The Karyn Jackson Theatre in Ventura’s Downtown Cultural District, 1006 E. Main Street. For tickets and prices, or more information about “Ventura Live” go to www.rubicontheatre.org or call (805) 667-2900.
