Irvine just got a lot tastier. On Tuesday, October 15th, Galpão Gaucho Brazilian Steakhouse officially opened its doors with a ribbon-cutting event that was as grand as the flavors it serves. 

The event was a true celebration of Brazilian tradition and mouthwatering cuisine, with guests treated to tantalizing slices of the steakhouse’s famed offerings. From beautifully grilled meats to golden bites of indulgence, this opening was just a teaser of the feast awaiting Orange County diners.

Guests mingled around a stunning display of charcuterie, sipped on fine wines and cocktails, and savored each bite of the various meats. 

The real showstopper? The iconic 24-karat golden steak, a must-see luxurious dish. This steak isn’t just grilled to perfection; it’s wrapped in edible gold, offering a luxurious twist to your meal without any extra cost. It’s served sizzling on a Himalayan salt block, and sliced with a golden knife. 

But this was only a sneak peek. Now, foodies and curious newcomers alike can experience the full rodizio spread, with big chops ready to be sliced right at their table by skilled gauchos.

A Taste of Brazil in Irvine

The Irvine location is Galpão Gaucho’s eighth in the U.S. and continues the restaurant’s legacy of delivering an authentic Brazilian dining experience. Inspired by the traditional meals of the Brazilian cowboys, or gauchos, this family-owned gem offers an all-you-can-enjoy rodizio experience featuring 18 expertly grilled meats. 

Beef, chicken, pork, lamb, and seafood— the restaurant is a carnivore’s dream, complemented by a gourmet salad bar with over 45 delicious items, including various fruits and cheeses. 

Flipping the Card

The steakhouse’s signature Picanha cut—offering buttery, tender slices of sirloin—is a must-try. The bacon-wrapped filet mignon and chicken were also delicious. Seafood fans can dive into juicy shrimp and grilled salmon. 

There’s even caramelized pineapple for a sweet, smoky surprise – it tasted almost like a fresh apple pie. The unlimited meats, salads, and sides come with a simple flip of a card. Turn it green for more meats to arrive tableside or flip it red to take a breather and enjoy each savory bite.

Welcome to the Neighborhood, Galpão Gaucho

Located at 1830 Main St, near John Wayne Airport, the new Irvine restaurant blends rustic charm with modern sophistication. Warm wood accents, stone details, and cozy corners create an inviting atmosphere.

The lively atmosphere features a full bar with signature cocktails and wines (and large TV streaming sports games), a private dining room perfect for special events, and an expansive main space that can seat up to 350 guests.

Whether one is looking to indulge in an epic feast of Brazilian meats or want to sip on a Caipirinha and enjoy a casual bite, Galpão Gaucho is ready to serve. Their hours offer plenty of opportunities to experience their traditional dishes, with weekday lunch and dinner, plus weekend feasting.

For more details, visit https://galpaogauchousa.com/locations/irvine-ca/

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Tucked away in the vibrant city of Costa Mesa, Water Grill is a top spot for seafood lovers. Celebrated for its fresh catches and elegant ambiance, this upscale restaurant, just a couple of blocks from the Segerstrom Center for the Arts and South Coast Plaza, delivers a dining experience that blends culinary excellence with a lively, welcoming vibe.

Since 1989, Water Grill has been a staple in the Southern California dining scene. The upscale-yet-relaxed restaurant sources fresh seafood from local and international waters, ensuring a diverse and top-tier menu. The Costa Mesa location continues this tradition, drawing in locals and visitors alike with its various seafood from Australia to the Baja coast and everywhere in between.

Ocean’s Bounty on a Plate

The menu at Water Grill is a testament to the ocean’s bounty. The restaurant offers a wide array of fresh seafood dishes, from raw bar selections to expertly prepared entrees. Signature dishes include Wild Alaskan Halibut, Pacific Swordfish, and a robust selection of oysters sourced from the best regions around the globe. The raw bar features an impressive assortment of oysters, clams, mussels, and shrimp, served fresh and chilled to perfection.

For the adventurous palate, seasonal offerings provide a chance to indulge in the finest catches of the season. The chefs at Water Grill create innovative dishes that highlight the natural flavors of the seafood, using techniques ranging from classic grilling to sophisticated sous-vide preparations.

Nautical Elegance

The interior of Water Grill Costa Mesa reflects a nautical theme without being overbearing. Warm wood tones, elegant lighting, and tasteful maritime decor create a sophisticated yet relaxed environment. The spacious dining area accommodates both intimate dinners and larger gatherings, making it an ideal spot for any occasion.

Personal Touch: My Go-To Spot

For me, Water Grill Costa Mesa has been a cherished spot where I’ve enjoyed countless memorable moments with friends and colleagues over the years. It’s perfect for business lunches, where the refined atmosphere and delicious menu make every meeting relaxed and enjoyable. Before catching a show at the nearby Segerstrom Center for the Arts or South Coast Repertory, I’ve often indulged in dinner or a drink to set the stage for a nice evening at the theater.

But Water Grill isn’t just about special occasions or business meetings. Sometimes, it’s about the simple pleasure of enjoying a solo burger at the lively bar while watching the game. The restaurant’s two bars are always bustling with energy, making it a great spot to unwind and soak in the vibrant ambiance.

Just yesterday, my colleagues and I had an exceptional dining experience that exemplifies why Water Grill is one of my go-to spots. I started with a Bristol Street cocktail, a refreshing blend of vodka, strawberries, lemon, and tarragon served on the rocks. For appetizers, I savored the Bluefin Toro Tartare, beautifully complemented by green tea nori, warm sushi rice, a quail egg, and sweet soy sauce. I was also treated to an off-menu item: the Whole Fish Pink Bream Ceviche, a vibrant dish showcasing the chef’s creativity.

For my main course, I indulged in the Wild Columbia River King Salmon, perfectly cooked and paired with heirloom carrots and vadouvan curry butter. To celebrate International Burger Day, I also enjoyed a Bacon Cheddar Cheeseburger, topped with caramelized chipotle mayonnaise and served with crispy french fries. Each dish was a testament to the restaurant’s dedication to quality and flavor.

Commitment to Sustainability

One of the standout features of Water Grill is its dedication to sustainability. The restaurant works closely with sustainable fisheries and follows best practices to ensure that their seafood is not only fresh but also responsibly sourced. This commitment to environmental stewardship resonates with many diners who are increasingly conscious of their ecological footprint.

Exceptional Service

Water Grill Costa Mesa is not just about great food; it’s about a complete dining experience. The staff is known for their professionalism and attention to detail, ensuring that every guest feels welcome and well-cared for. From the moment you step through the doors to the last bite of dessert, the service is attentive, adding to the overall experience.

Water Grill Costa Mesa stands out as a beacon of seafood excellence in Orange County. Its commitment to quality, sustainability, and exceptional service make it a must-visit for anyone seeking a top-tier dining experience. Whether one is a local or a visitor, a meal at Water Grill is a must-stop for seafood lovers or a burger upgrade. For me, it’s a place where business, pleasure, and the joy of fine dining have come together time and time again.

WATER GRILL

Where: 3300 Bristol St. Costa Mesa, CA 92626

More info: 949.208.7060 or visit www.watergrill.com/southcoast

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Looking for the perfect way to welcome summer? Look no further than the Newport Beach Wine Festival at the Balboa Bay Resort. This Memorial Day Weekend, the luxurious waterfront resort will once again host the beloved annual event, now in its 19th year.

With a dazzling array of premium wines, gourmet cuisine, live music, and more, this three-day festival is set to be a unique experience for wine enthusiasts and food lovers alike.

“We look forward to this weekend all year long,” says Cindy Racco, Managing Director at Balboa Bay Resort and Club. “With our picturesque surroundings, it’s the ultimate destination to unwind with a glass of wine or explore a variety of spirits. We’re thrilled to host this extraordinary event once again.”

The festivities kick off on Friday, May 24, with the Justin Winery Limited Release Wine Dinner. This exclusive four-course meal, curated by Balboa Bay Resort’s Executive Chef Prabeen Prathapan and Master Sommelier Joseph Spellman, promises to be a culinary delight.

Guests will be among the first to taste JUSTIN’s new wines from outside of Paso Robles, including a Sonoma County Chardonnay and a Russian River Valley Pinot Noir. Hosted in the resort’s elegant Lighthouse Room, which offers sweeping views of Newport Harbor.

On Saturday, May 25, the Newport Beach Wine & Spirits Festival takes center stage. From 1-5 p.m., the resort will transform into a wine lover’s paradise, featuring a Grand Tasting of over 40 esteemed wine and spirits vendors.

Imagine strolling along the boardwalk and Bayfront Lawn, sampling exquisite wines and spirits from brands like DAOU, Whispering Angel, Flecha Azul, and Macallan, all while enjoying live music and the stunning marina views.

Guests can cap the weekend off with indulgence at the Veuve Clicquot Champagne Brunch on Sunday, May 26. Held in the Lighthouse Room, this lavish brunch buffet will feature fresh seafood and caviar, traditional brunch favorites, a carving station, and an omelet station, all accompanied by live music and the effervescent flow of Veuve Clicquot champagne.

For those planning to fully immerse themselves in the festival, Balboa Bay Resort is offering a special deal: guests who book a room for the Wine Festival over Memorial Day Weekend will enjoy a 10 percent discount on both guest room rates and festival tickets.

The resort has partnered with luxury electric vehicle brand Lucid Motors to provide complimentary chauffeur rides from its Fashion Island studio, making it easy to arrive in style. Due to limited parking, guests are encouraged to use this service or ride-sharing options.

Start the summer at one of Newport Beach’s most scenic locations. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit Balboa Bay Resort.

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FREE LONG BEACH FUN

PCH Raising Decibels: 2^ND & PCH live music concert series on Seaport Way will be 5-8 p.m. on select Thursday evenings throughout the summer. Featuring free face painting, airbrush tattoos, and a dance area. Guests are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets for first-come, first-served seating beginning at 11:00 am.

Headlining acts include:

• July 20th: RagDolls, The Ultimate All Female Aerosmith Tribute Band
• July 27th: Tomorrows Bad Seeds (Reggae)
• August 3rd: Blue Breeze Band (Rhythm and Blues)
• August 10th: Rod the Mod, Never a Dull Moment Tribute Band

For the full PCH Raising Decibels line-up, visit 2ndandpch.com.

PCH Movies & Moonlight: Enjoy free weekly outdoor movie nights with the summer series of along Seaport Way. Movie nights will take place every Friday at sunset July 14th through August 18th. Pre-show entertainment and complementary airbrush tattoos will be available prior to movie start times.

August line-up includes: 

• July 14th: Disney’s Raya and the Last Dragon
• July 21st: Lyle, Lyle Crocodile
• July 28th: Disney’s Beauty and the Beast (2017)
• August 4th: Disney Pixar’s Turning Red
• August 11th: Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
• August 18th: Disney Pixar’s Monster’s Inc.

For more info, visit: 2ndandpch.com

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After a two-year hiatus, the high-energy touring event is celebrating its 30th anniversary with a return to Angel Stadium of Anaheim for three consecutive weekends — beginning this Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 22 and 23, and returning Feb. 19, 20, 26 and 27. 

The much-anticipated tour will be the first Anaheim shows at full capacity since the Covid-19 pandemic halted its touring competitions in 2020. The family fun event will feature a roster of world-class drivers showing off their eye-opening speed and skill competitions in the dirt. 

Motorsports fans will witness the 12,000-pound Monster Jam trucks perform at their highest speeds around the stadium grounds, battling for points in freestyle, skills, donuts and speed. Twelve athletes will fight for the Stadium Series Championship to win an automatic bid to the Monster Jam World Finals to compete for the World Champion title in Orlando this May. 

Also returning will be the Monster Jam Pit Party fan experience prior to every event, in which fans can get up close to the trucks, have a meet-and-greet with drivers and crews, take photos and more. 

Monster Jam

Where: Angel Stadium of Anaheim – 2000 Gene Autry Way, Anaheim, CA 92803

When: 6:30 p.m. Jan. 22; 2:30 p.m. Jan. 23; 6:30 p.m. Feb. 19; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 20; 6:30 p.m. Feb. 26; 2:30 p.m. Feb. 27

Tickets: Tickets and Pit Passes will be available for purchase online at Ticketmaster.com

The post The biggest and baddest of Monster Jam returns to Anaheim appeared first on Backstage Socal.

The Southland tour already made its way through Los Angeles and Anaheim, and is currently performing at Toyota Arena in Ontario now through Dec. 27, before heading to the Long Beach Arena on Dec. 30 to Jan. 2. 

Backstage SoCal chatted with ensemble skater Morgan Johnson, a four-year Disney On Ice veteran, who is thrilled to be back on the ice after a year of canceled tours due to the Covid-19 pandemic. 

What roles do you perform in this year’s “Disney On Ice”?

You can see me in a variety of different roles. I perform as a fish under the sea, one of Cinderella’s stepsisters, a citizen of Arendelle. So lots of quick changes and lots of numbers.

What is it like going from changing up roles and costume changes every show? 

I love it honestly; every day is kind of different too, with all of the changes. I love getting to portray different characters and getting into all of the happiness. It’s a lot of fun, lots of varying levels, and it’s a dream come true.

How long have you been performing with Disney On Ice?

This is my fourth year with the company. I’ve always been ensemble, but I’ve also been able to understudy principal roles as well. So honestly, you pretty much do everything if you’re ensemble. You can kind of make your rounds around different characters, which is a lot of fun.

Can you share a little bit about this show’s theme? 

Yes, this year’s show is called Disney On Ice presents Dream Big, and we feature some of your favorite Disney movies. We have Moana, Prince and the Frog, Disney and Pixar’s Coco, Aladdin, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, some of the classics and some new movies as well. And we end the show with Frozen, which is always a fan favorite.

What would you say makes this tour unique from past Disney On Ice shows?

I really enjoy that you get a taste of the classics, but then also the new stories as well. And we have so many special effects. We have, spoil alert, a dragon that comes out and sets the ice on fire. We also have people swinging from ropes from a top deck down to the ice. So a lot of special effects and just a lot of fun. 

What do you want people to talk about in the car after your show?

You know, I always like to say for the short time that they’re here, they’re immersed in the Disney magic and just can forget about their worries and just have so much fun. And I love that our show’s called Dream Big, because the whole premise is that if you have a dream and you work hard, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. So really the optimism and the positivity that our show tries to portray is really special. 

What does it mean to you to be back in live shows again?

Oh, this means everything to us. This is our livelihood. I grew up going to see Disney On Ice every single year as a kid. And the time off was hard, so to be back, it makes me not take a show for granted. I’m just extra thankful to be here. And we know audiences are just as happy to be back. So it makes the show even more special. On those days when you’re tired, that’s like the final push that gets you through, knowing that you’re impacting someone’s day and knowing that I get to do what I love again. To see how quickly it was taken away from us, it really puts everything in perspective of how thankful I should be for this life. And how amazing life is getting to skate for Disney.

Disney On Ice Presents ‘Dream Big’

WHEN: Wednesday, December 22 – Monday, December 27

Toyota Arena – 4000 Ontario Center Parkway, Ontario, CA 91764

WHEN: Thursday, December 30 – Sunday, January 2, 2022
Long Beach Arena – 300 E. Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802

TICKETS: Family friendly ticket pricing available – tickets can be purchased online at Ticketmaster.com or in-person at the venue Box Office.

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There is talent. And then there is Marie Osmond.

In the third stop of her “A Symphonic Christmas” tour, the entertainment icon kicked off the Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts’ season with holiday glitz, glamour, nostalgia, fun, and jaw-dropping vocals that were sure to have left her large audience with an unforgettable evening.

Although the night was full of memorable highlights, here are standout moments that deserve a special shoutout:

Marie’s opera vocals are flawless and her stage presence is unmatched. Her personable nature, storytelling abilities, and warm wit make even a large theater feel intimate. The stage was full of lit-up Christmas trees, an award-winning orchestra, and the talented Cal State Fullerton chorus. Her dazzling fashion alone is a sight to see. 

As promised in her Backstage SoCal interview, she performed Christmas favorites, songs from her new album (out Dec. 10) “Unexpected,” and of course, her classics, including the hit single “Paper Roses” which launched her country career in 1973. She sang the iconic song with her younger self in past videos playing on a screen behind her.

While performing a fun rendition of “Boogie Woogie Bugle Boy” in a captain cap, the backdrop screen displayed historical images and videos of Marie performing and meeting U.S.S. servicemen over the past six decades. 

Singer David Osmond, Marie’s nephew and son of older brother Alan, joined her on stage for a holiday medley and a few solos. Before singing “Mary Did You Know?” he shared that his father who has Multiple Sclerosis always says, “I have M.S., but M.S. doesn’t have me.” Then he shared that he, too, has the disease but it doesn’t stop him from performing, proving that to the audience with impressive dance moves and vocals.

Also joining her on stage was multilingual/classical singer Daniel Emmet, a finalist on Season 13 of NBC’s America’s Got Talent, whose powerful opera vocals boomed over the theater in duets and solos. The three sang a couple of fun holiday medleys together, and finished with a powerful “Silent Night.”

In a poignant moment, she gently sang “Let There Be Peace On Earth,” with commentary recognizing the pandemic hardships the world has endured over the past year-and-a-half. There was plenty of fun as well, including bringing an audience member on stage with her, placing a Santa hat with a shield on their face, and having them sing “Blue Christmas.”

As a dedication to her late son Michael, who passed away in 2010, Marie sang a beautiful rendition of “How Great Thou Art,” leaving not a dry eye in the house. Her own tears shed as she thanked her fans for six successful decades, and dedicated an emotional Andrew Lloyd Webber’s “Unexpected Song” (from her new album) to her adoring fanbase.

For more information and tour dates, visit marieosmond.com

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Here are 8 notable highlights of the evening:

1. In true SoCal style, the Oklahoma-bred Chenoweth drank from a large In-N-Out cup throughout the show, stating the fast food joint is a “must” when she is in town.
2. She shared in excitement that her former professor was in attendance, and is a current professor at Chapman University. At one point she asked, “Where are my Chapman students at?” which received cheers throughout the venue. In true mentor style, she gave advice, pointed out vocal ranges, and even pointed out mistakes on her part to the students throughout the performance.
3. Her guitarist Josh Bryant took center stage with her to perform the Eagles’ rock ballad “Desperado.” At the end of the song, she leaned over and planted a smooch on the 38-year-old, snickering and saying, “I didn’t tell you how well I knew him.”
4. Before she sang a beautiful rendition of “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” she dedicated it to her dear friend, OC arts philanthropist Julia Argyros, who was also in the audience. Then she thanked her for buying her lunch at The Capital Grille earlier that day.
5. She paid homage to Julie Andrews, Judy Garland, Betty Buckley, and several Broadway stars that have influenced her throughout her flourishing career.
6. She made it Christmas in October, singing “(Everybody’s Waitin’ For) The Man With The Bag/Jingle Bell Rock” from her new holiday album, Happiness is…Christmas! released on Oct. 22.
7. She shared her love for binge-watching crime documentaries, Bravo’s Real Housewives series, and the Britney Spears documentary throughout the Covid-19 pandemic. After she saw the Spears’ doc, she jokingly said she called Britney up to offer her some advice, before belting out her iconic Wicked tune “Popular,” with anecdotes for Britney in between.
8. Not a dry eye was left in the house when she concluded the concert with a breathtaking rendition of “Smile,” sung entirely without her microphone.

After the past year-and-a-half void of live concerts and performances, Chenoweth was a pro at carrying her audience from beginning to end with a lighthearted yet sentimental performance that allowed everyone to reflect on how much the arts are truly needed.

For more information on upcoming performances at Segerstrom Center for the Arts, visit scfta.org

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Herb Alpert, Rock & Roll Hall of Famer and fierce philanthropist for the arts, will present the 27th annual Herb Alpert Award In the Arts on May 20. The annual awards, founded by Alpert and his Grammy Award-winning vocalist wife Lani Hall, awards 10 artists a $75,000 unrestricted prize and residency at California Institute of the Arts.

Last year, Backstage SoCal caught up with Alpert to discuss the 2020 winning artists and his passion for supporting the artists from all mediums through the Herb Alpert Foundation. The 27th HAAIA awards celebration will be held virtually on Thursday, May 20, 2021 at 2 p.m. PST.

When discussing this year’s winners, Alpert stated: “I’ve always loved the artists that travel the road less travelled… those are the artists that touch me.”

Here are the 2021 Herb Alpert Award In the Arts winners

DANCE: Will Rawls, Beth Gill

FILM/VIDEO: Kahlil Joseph, Adam Khalil

MUSIC: Toshi Reagon, David Virelles

THEATRE: Kaneza Shaal, Kimber Lee

For more information, visit herbalpert.com

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Herb Alpert is a fearless creator.

During times in which the arts have been stunted by a worldwide pandemic, the renowned Grammy Award-winning artist and philanthropist has continued to sculpt, paint and record original music and share it with the world.

When his organic conscious daughter was moving into her new home, Alpert created a housewarming painting made with real organic coffee. This inspired a series of paintings by Alpert that feature beautiful swirls of coffee swept across the canvas — now on display at Heather James Fine Art as an exclusive online exhibition through June 30.

In addition, Alpert and his wife, singer Lani Hall, have continued to give back to the arts and to those in need through the Herb Alpert Foundation. The couple have spent the Covid-19 lockdown relaxing, cooking, and recording music together in their Malibu home.

What is the process of creating your unique coffee paintings?

HA: Well, it’s like everything else. It’s like making music, sculpting, or painting with acrylics. I don’t know exactly what I’m going to be doing until I do it. And then it kind of starts giving me answers as I’m going along, then it kind of paints itself.

And your daughter inspired these creations?

HA: Well, she didn’t know it at the time, but yeah, she was moving into a new facility and she’s an organic person and I thought I’d do something that would be kind of off the wall and different. I first started painting with organic coffee and I realized I was having fun doing it. And I came up with a nice conclusion for the first painting. Then little by little, I started just doing other paintings and finally got off of the organic coffee, ’cause there’s no difference in the way the regular coffee seeps into a canvas. So, the coffee paintings are not organic anymore

They’re beautiful. You’ve obviously always been a creator, but it seems throughout this pandemic, you’ve really made a lot of new art and creations.

HA: Yeah, I have over a thousand paintings. I just paint and sculpt and make music just to stay healthy. Cause it’s my way of feeling like I’m a part of something. I’m an introvert, so it’s easy for me to be at home and do those things.

Does anything intimidate you when it comes to art?

HA: Hmm I don’t know if intimidation would be the word. I think people that are not kind to others intimidates me. That’s about it.

Will you be releasing new music any time soon?

HA: I have over 20 things that I’ve recorded since the pandemic actually. So I’m going to weed those out and, you know, do whatever I can to make the music that makes me feel good because when I do that, I feel I’m alive.

I heard that you and Lani have been making dinners together throughout the lockdown.

HA: Oh she’s been cooking. She’s really turned in to a really good chef. She also sings, so we did a couple of songs together. One song I actually arranged to help her to record. It’s one of the songs from ‘Rent’ that she always likes. So I surprised her with a track and then she put her voice on. She had a great time and that’s what I was hoping for.

Wow. Will you be releasing that?

HA: It’ll probably be released. Yeah.

So, what’s on the horizon besides your current virtual coffee painting exhibit?

HA: Well, we had to cancel all our concerts. We were scheduled to do 50 concerts in 2020. We had to cancel everything. We were going through Canada and the UK. We were playing at a famous jazz club in London and places around the United States. So we had to cancel all that and postpone it to the year 2021. And even with that, I’m a little reluctant, because we’re not going anyplace, unless the virus is totally under control.

I know that you and I have talked about the ups and downs of the arts since the pandemic started. The last time we talked was in the summer, and you had doubled your foundation’s awards for artists. What are your plans this year?

HA: Next awards is going to be a little different because we’re not going to double it. We’re going to take the monies that would have been doubled and share it around organizations that are helping people that are less fortunate.

Any specific organizations?

HA: Well, the food banks for sure. LA Food Bank here is really helping a lot of people. And then there’s this other organization called Chrysalis and they help wayward people find new jobs and dress them up and give them an opportunity to fend for themselves.

That’s so wonderful. You seem to always be on this continuous mission to contribute good things to our world.

HA: I think we all should do that. I think that’s part of the deal of being a human being. I don’t know. It doesn’t sound unusual to me. It just sounds like something we all should be doing.

What would you like to tell the world right now?

HA: Let’s all be kind to each other. Kindness is contagious.

For more info on the Herb Alpert Coffee Paintings online exhibition, visit: https://www.heatherjames.com/exhibitions/herb-alpert-the-coffee-paintings/

Or visit: herbalpertart.com

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For their fifth annual Season Premiere, OCSA presented a virtual concert on Sept. 25 that highlighted the best of previous premieres and features never-before-seen professionally recorded performances by four OCSA alumna superstars.

Hosted by Broadway actress Lauren Lim Jackson (Broadway: “Pretty Woman,” “Motown the Musical”; TV: “Almost Family”), the premiere featured performances from Broadway, television and film actors: Matthew Morrison (TV: “Glee,” “American Horror Story; Broadway: “Finding Neverland,” “Hairspray”), Krysta Rodriguez (TV: “Halston,” “Smash”; Broadway: “The Addams Family,” “In The Heights”), David Burnham (Broadway: “Wicked,” “The Light in the Piazza”) and Terron Brooks (Broadway: “The Lion King”; TV: “The Temptations”).

In addition to live music, the event hosted a weeklong virtual auction to support the public charter school’s arts conservatory programs.

I caught up with Matt Morrison about how he has spent his time in lockdown, discovering new talents, and his passion for his former grade school.

How have you been spending the time in lockdown?

Honestly, just a lot of the self-work. I’ve realized that this is like the first time in my life that I haven’t worked in like 25 years, you know? And I’ve been kind of going full-throttle for that long. So it’s been wonderful because I have a little one who is turning three pretty soon, and it’s just been wonderful to just be with my wife and my child, and just really focus on them and nothing else. That’s been rewarding, especially in a time in my son’s life where developmentally he’s in his prime. So, we’re just really getting that time in and seeing all the transitions and the animations and the mood swings and everything; just the joy as he develops his brain.

I’ve talked to so many different artists during this time, and it seems like on top of the rest period, there’s also this inspiration or creativity that’s come from having this time off. Have you experienced that?

Yes, absolutely. We are entrepreneurs. We’re actually slated to start this thing called Museum of Dance, which is an immersive theater experience that takes you through different decades of dance history. So you actually learn how like women’s suffrage led to flappers and how war time in the 1940s led to people just wanting to cut loose and swing dance. You’re actually seeing a Broadway-style show with amazing professional dancers, but they pull you into the story, so you actually get to learn the dances of the decades as you go through the experience. So you burn while you learn. So it was slated to open up in New York City in October, but obviously that’s not happening right now. So, we’re on hold with that project. But we just have been kind of finding out different ways to even make it better. I’m really excited about that one

I’m also getting more in the headspace of creating new things that really haven’t been done before. It’s been a lot of fun and I’ve got a project that I’m in negotiations with now, so I can’t really talk about it, but it’s a new musical project that’s going to be on television pretty soon. So I’m just kind of working on that character and just getting inside his head and stuff.

What would you say your dream role would be?

It’s so crazy hearing that question, because I think when I was younger, I had a lot of dream roles. Like Chris in “Miss Saigon” would have been one of them. But I’ve had such a blessed career that I didn’t even know some of these dream roles. I got to create some of my absolute dream roles. Definitely changing the landscape of television with ‘Glee’ was really just a wild ride. And so instrumental in the deepening of my work, and also just inspiring a whole new generation of people in making theater cool in a way. It’s been a wild ride. I think the one character that I’d absolutely love to tackle still, and it’s been a dream of mine for a long time is John Wilkes Booth.

Ah, I could see that from other darker roles you’ve taken on.

I like darker stuff. I’m kind of drawn to them cause I’m kind of a light person. I like to go into that other side. I definitely have gone darker with different projects, but I also like to be in a positive light. We’re (my family) is all about positivity and if you go into something with a positive attitude, usually the results will end up being a positive one instead of going to stuff like with apprehension or negativity. You get to shape the experience you want to have. And I’ve realized that as I’ve gotten older; going into things with a positive attitude really has a lot to do with the outcome of what the experience will be.

Many artists I’ve talked to have discovered new talents during this lockdown time. Have you discovered anything new that you didn’t know you were capable of doing prior?

Actually (laughs), yes, I’ve had a piano at my house for a long time, but it’s just kind of sat there. I’ll have like friends come over or Brad Ellis who was on ‘Glee.’ Now he’s also my music director. So he’ll come over to work on something and play the piano, which is great, but I never play it because I don’t know how. So I’ve actually started learning how to play during this time. I wouldn’t call it a special talent because I’m not great at it, but I’m hoping someday it will be a special talent that has been cultivated in this time of COVID-19.

Do you do any songwriting?

I do, well I did. My whole first album was a lot of songwriting that I did on my own, but I don’t delve into much because I know there are a lot more talented people, and I like singing good songs, and so I rely on people that have been doing it much longer and are really, really good at it. So, it’s not something that I pursue, but I do it for fun. I make up a lot of songs for my son, he’s an easy critic. So I’m focusing on that right now.

As an alum, you have always been such a supporter of Orange County School of Arts. How have they shaped you and your career?

Yeah, it honestly laid the groundwork for my entire career, that school. I mean, music has always been an influential part of my life since childhood, but I just owe so much to that school for the nurturing, educational environment. And also the great teachers that I had that really just molded my raw talent that I had as a young kid. They just really honed all my skills and gave me new goals and aspirations, and just really set my sights onto what I wanted for my career. And I went off to college in New York after, and I just felt like I was kind of relearning everything I learned in high school, but I just felt like I was ready and that kind of propelled me to want to go out and audition.

I think my third audition was for ‘Footloose’ and I got my first Broadway show at 19 and then I was just off to the races. So, yeah, it was just vital to have that kind of nurturing environment as a young student. And I love going back there. I mean, I can’t go back there now. So I guess this is my way to do that for the virtual concert. I loved being with the students because they’re like on a different level than when I was there. Like they’re so good. I think the arts in general has had this kind of resurgence with young people. There’s so many young people that are just thriving in and so much better than when I was at that age. I kind of came into dance at a later age and they’re already doing triple turns and singing and doing crazy acting scenes. I’m blown away by the students there and just students in general. I’ve actually learned so much from them. I’m just inspired that they’re doing their own thing and are authentically themselves; that’s something that I love to see. And that’s the way you get jobs is to find what you can bring to the table that no one else is doing.

Why was this virtual benefit concert important to you?

I released a Disney album in March and I was just coming off of the UK show ‘The Greatest Dancer’ as a mentor figure. So I released the album in March and I started promoting it in New York right when COVID was hitting. I think the last performance was on ‘Good Morning America.’ And I was about to do like a whole concert tour with my band. So that all changed. And thankfully the albums still did well. I think a lot of parents were drawn to it because they needed something to kind of help them with their children that were constantly at home.

So I never really got to fully perform any of these songs the way I wanted to. So for me, it was a great chance to kind of showcase what I’m bringing to this new album and to kind of show my reimagined album. They give me full clearance and access to anything of any size I wanted to do and do it any way I wanted to do it. So it was great. And like I said, I love to have great songs and great songwriters and these are some of the best. They’re sort of solid brick to our childhood, we all grew up on these songs. So it worked on so many different levels for me. I absolutely loved getting to show that in this this virtual performance. I did a couple of hits like, ‘You’ll Be in My Heart’ and ‘Friend Like Me.’, So it was fun. It was a very interesting experience filming this because we were on this little soundstage with a very limited crew. Everyone wore a mask and I was in a mask right up until this point, and it was so hot on the soundstage. But I’m happy.

What do you hope your audience will take from this benefit virtual concert experience?

I think now more than ever arts education is important. I believe in a balanced education between arts and core curriculums. But I think arts is something that has so many social benefits. From playing an instrument, and learning musical skills. I think it’s so therapeutic and music is the international language that we all speak and it connects us all. I think we can get so many positive vibrations and this is such a great cause to keep the arts going and alive. So people tune in, because they’ve really done a great job in making this a fun experience for people to just sit down and watch this amazing show with some incredible alumni.

The Season Premiere performance began Friday, Sept. 25 at 7 p.m. The virtual auction was live on Monday, Sept. 21 at 9 a.m. and closed Friday, Sept. 25 at 10 p.m. For more information, visit https://one.bidpal.net/SeasonPremiere

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From dominating in the music realm with over 72 million records sold, nine Grammy Awards, and co-founding and selling a multi-million dollar record label, to becoming a notable painter and sculptor, it’s safe to say Alpert has earned the title of “iconic.”

It’s the annual Herb Alpert Award in the Arts, however, that Alpert not only holds especially near and dear to his heart, but has given hundreds of artists the opportunity to make their own impact. Over the course of 26 years, Alpert and wife Lani Hall have provided five unrestricted $75,000 grants to five independent artists working in dance, film/video, music, theatre and visual art.

In 2021, however, the philanthropic couple have decided to double the amount of winners. Between the COVID-19 pandemic and harsh political climate, Alpert said he feels like artists need the support more than ever.  

Last time we talked, you were honoring the artists for the 2020 Herb Alpert Award in the Arts. I see now that you are doubling the amount of awards in 2021. What inspired that?

Oh man inspired. I hate to say I’m inspired by what’s happening in the country right now with the virus, but I think the artists are that important. I think the artists are the heartbeat and soul of our democracy, and I think having twice as many artists highlighted is the right thing to do. I think we should be more concerned with helping to support the artists. The artists are our second responders. When we want to feel something, we turn to art, and I don’t mean just music, it’s painting, sculpting, acting, poetry, whatever it happens to be. I think they’re that important for our society.

Are you looking for anything special or particularly unique in the artists this year?

The artists that we choose are artists that are on the road less traveled. They’re the ones that are just kind of doing their own thing. They don’t care whether they’re commercial or not. They’re just expressing themselves as best they can. And those are the artists that attract me. They’re not looking for attention, but they deserve to have attention, because I think they’re that important to our society.

In your new documentary “Herb Alpert Is…” (hitting theaters and VOD on Oct. 1), something that really stood out to me was you said you follow your instincts when you create music and art. Did you learn that or did that just come natural to you?

That’s a good question. I wonder if I did learn that? I don’t know. I think by listening to the artists that I really love, and meeting a lot of them through the years. All the great artists that I’ve met are all very spontaneous, very honest, very willing to just be themselves. I had a chance to play with Louis Armstrong one night. I interviewed him, and it was astounding how his personality and his goodness and his creativity came right through the horn. That wasn’t his horn. It was him. I’ve met a lot of other artists that are not necessarily wonderful people, but they have a wonderful way of playing. But Louis was an exception in terms of the way he sounded, what you heard was Louis Armstrong.

So, what does that mean to you to have this documentary made on your life?

It means I get to pass on some of the good and the bad that has happened to me. And I think it could be helpful to some other people. That’s about all I can think of. It’s not something that I was craving to do, but I thought, well, my story is pretty interesting.

You know, I started playing when I was eight years old, only because I had this opportunity in my grammar school. And I think kids should have that ability to explore their creativity at an early age. It shouldn’t be a privilege. It should be a right. Because if they do that, then they become innovators. If they, stick to an instrument or poetry, painting, sculpting, acting, whatever it happens to be, and they start feeling okay about themselves, maybe they can feel okay about other people that are trying for the same thing. And then if they don’t want to follow through and become a professional at it, I think just that experience can give them the impetus to be creative in their life, whatever that happens to be.

Is there any part of the documentary that’s particularly special to you or something that you want everyone to see?

You know, this sounds weird. I don’t honestly think about it like that. If I have to think about it, I’d say the part where I said I was rich, famous, and not happy. I think that’s an important part.

How has Lani played a role in your art?

Well, she’s a muse, she’s an angel. We’ve been married for 46 years. She’s extremely honest with her feelings and she’s become like my curator. If I paint something and I want to have a second opinion, I’ll bring Lani in and she’ll say something like, “I’m not sure you’re finished with this,” and that doesn’t mean I’m not finished, but she always has something interesting to say about the art, about the sculptures, and about music as well. She’s very creative and very honest, and it’s a pleasure to be around that type of person.

I loved your “Smile” music video that you just put out. Was that your idea to make it?  

Yes. It was my idea to do a video on “Smile.” I think it sends a nice message. I think in this time when we’re all kind of in the dumps about what’s going on, this gives us a chance to just think that there is a brighter way. There’s another way. You can be miserable, or you can turn the corner and smile and make the best of a situation. I want us to be uplifted. I wanted it to be uplifting. And I think the song itself, the melody itself, is uplifting and the lyrics as well. We’re getting tremendous feedback on it, so I’m happy about that.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f3xcybZ856Q

I have to know, how are you doing during this time? We talked in May and it seemed like we had been in isolation for so long. And to think it’s September now, how are you doing?

Well, all things considered, I’m very lucky. I’m a brain guy and wake up in the morning thinking about music, painting, and sculpting. So I get to do that. And that’s what I’d be doing. If it was a backup of a year or two from now backwards, I’d be doing the same thing. So I’m one of those lucky ones that gets to wake up in the morning and be excited about what I’m doing. I wish more people would have that feeling.

Herb Alpert’s documentary “Herb Alpert Is…” releases Oct. 1. The documentary premiere is free on Facebook Live on October l at 5 p.m. PST, 8 p.m. EST with a Q&A with Herb and John Scheinfeld, the director of the movie.

A three-CD soundtrack box set, also titled “Herb Alpert Is…” is set to release Oct. 2. For more information, visit www.herbalpert.com

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Despite the lockdown, the Herb Alpert Foundation and CalArts will host the 26th annual Herb Alpert Award in the Arts — virtually, of course — which provides five unrestricted $75,000 grants to independent artists working in dance, film/video, music, theatre and visual art. This year’s online awards presentation will be held on Friday, May 22 at 2 p.m.

Over the course of 26 years, the Awards have granted $8 million to working artists, making Alpert and wife Lani Hall one of the most influential and fiercest supporters of arts and arts education. I had the honor to chat with the always insightful and wonderfully engaging Alpert about why this award is more important than ever, his current projects, and what art means to him.

We’ve talked before and it’s always just such a pleasure, Herb. The last time we spoke you actually even had your trumpet in hand and played a little for me.

Well, I still have it on hand here. This is what I do. I play the trumpet, I record, I paint and I sculpt and that’s me all the time. 

So how have you been spending all of that creative energy during the lockdown? 

Well, I’ve been recording. I have a recording facility in my studio here and so I’ve been recording. And I’ve painted more pictures that I know what to do with, and I’ve also been sculpting.  I’m a right-brained guy. And this is why I love the arts so much. I think the soul of our country is shaped by our artists. And not just musicians, but actors and poets and dancers and everybody. We need them. Especially at this time. We need the arts. I mean, the artists are our second responders. They’re the people that keep us buoyant and keep us feeling, and that is so crucially important. That’s why Herb Alpert Awards are a part of it, but just a small part of it. We’ve got to get everybody to get on board, especially the politicians where they feel like the arts are dispensable. 

That’s a very good point. There seems to be a current divide between the essential and nonessential society right now, with artists and entertainers in the non-essential category. 

Yeah. Unfortunately they should be next in line. I mean, we need the first responders. They’re the ones that keep us alive. But the second responders are the ones that give us hope. That’s what we need. That’s why we need the artists, I believe. It’s a different time. Hopefully there’s an end. I don’t know if there’s an end in sight, but there’s an end someplace.

Something I find really interesting with the Herb Alpert Award in the Arts is that it supports mid-career artists, while so many foundations and charities support students or up-and-comers. Why is this important to you? 

I always look to honor the artists that go for the road less traveled, you know, the ones that are pushing it a little differently in a more experimental way. I think those are the real artists. Those are the ones that they don’t care whether you like it or not. They’re going to be doing their thing, and they are not doing it for the money. They’re doing it for their soul, for their art form. I mean that’s their passion. So I tend to gravitate towards those people. And you know my story; I had this opportunity when I was eight years old and I’ve been blessed way beyond my dreams, and it gives me pleasure to be able to help pass it on. 

What is the “it factor” for an award recipient?

Oh, well that’s a good question. It’s different for every artist, but everyone has their own idea of what art is and who’s great and who’s not. It’s very personal. But we try to bring together great people to make those decisions. I’m not involved in the decisions at all. Intentionally. But we have really qualified people that help guide us and I believe in their choices.

Have you checked in or kind of kept an eye out on various past award recipients?

Well, not really actually. I mean, overall I have, but this is our 26th year. So there’s a lot of artists out there; some have done really well, some are still looking for their spot in the sun. But it’s all worth it, because I think art plays such an important part in our society. I’m just one of many that feel the same. And unfortunately our politicians seem like they don’t get it for the most part. I’m not saying all of them, but a lot of them just don’t think that the arts are worth investing in. And some of the larger corporations are also kind of dialing down with the arts at this moment. Unfortunately it seems like they have other priorities. But I see priority number two for me is making sure we keep art alive. I’m not only talking about jazz and music; I’m talking about painting and sculpting and acting and dancing and singing and everything that has to do with the arts.

How has the current pandemic situation helped or hindered artists?

Well, it’s definitely hindered our artists. I mean there’s so many artists that were relying on doing live concerts and working with other bands and earning a living that way. And now they’re in a bit of a struggle. A lot of artists are not as active as they would like to be sadly. 

In your opinion, especially in our current pandemic situation, how do artists recover and keep the arts thriving? 

Well, that’s a really good question. You’re talking about the unknown. I don’t know how long this is going to last. We need some different leadership that would help people to respond to how great and how important it is to have the arts in our lives. I know what we’re trying to do is keep our communities alive, and we try to get into communities that are often overlooked and underserved. So the crisis has really shown a light on the inequities that have plagued our society for decades. So it’s a problem. I hope maybe there’ll be some different understanding when we get out of this of what we need to do; there’s some new things to think about. It’s really interesting. The times they are a-changin’. Bob Dylan said that. They really are changing. They’re changing dramatically. And unless we get on board, we’re going to be in trouble.

Have you ever experienced fear in your own career?

Oh yeah, fear is part of an artist’s repertoire. That’s what you do. That’s what art is all about. That’s what good art is all about. You know, you’re always wondering whether you can rise to the occasion, whether you’re playing jazz or standing in front of a blank canvas or creating something with clay. The fear is, do I know what I’m doing? Can I come up with something worth looking at? And I think fear is part of the repertoire of an artist. Cause there’s the unknown. That’s the thing that is so inspiring about art. It’s seductive because the arts are a mystery; you can’t put your finger on it. You can’t put your finger on what you like about it, or what you don’t like about it. 

When you think of all the great songs and things that have been written through the years in the Western lexicon, there’s 12 notes. Everyone has those same 12 notes. Mozart had those notes. Beethoven had those notes. Thelonious Monk had those notes. Charlie Parker had those notes. You know what I’m saying? It’s a great mystery of how do you get all these different combinations out of 12 notes? You can’t figure it out, even if you try to analyze it. And there are people that have tried to analyze it, but you can’t, because it’s in that other special place that has to do with feelings. And that’s why art is so important.

For more information, go to https://herbalpertawards.org/

2020 The Herb Alpert Award in the Arts Winners

MUSIC — Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah

FILM/VIDEO — Sky Hopinka 

DANCE — Karen Sherman

THEATRE — Phil Soltanoff 

VISUAL ARTS — Firelei Baez

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Pre-COVID-19 crisis, the OCSA students were three weeks into intensive rehearsals for their annual spring musical. When they received the news that schools and theaters were closing, the OCSA team and professional “Now. Here. This.” authors Hunter Bell, Susan Blackwell and Jeff Bowen pulled together to reimagine what the spring musical may look like in the modern world. 

Rehearsing over Zoom meetings, and shooting over six weeks from their own phones using smartphones and home computers, more than 30 OCSA students from musical theatre, acting, production, design and visual arts conservatories created a full-length digital theatrical experience for their audience, which will debut at 6 p.m. PST on Thursday, May 14 and can be viewed any time through Sunday, May 17. 

We chatted with writer, performer, and educator Susan Blackwell about the innovative theatrical production process.

Can you describe the process of creating a virtual theatrical experience? 

A little backstory: for the past year, the authors have been re-working our original musical NOW. HERE. THIS. We wanted to make it more flexible so that a theatre with any size cast could perform it, and musically it could be played on a keyboard or with a full band. We wanted it to be modular so that a theatre could do the full-length version, and then do a cutting for a theatre festival or competition. And we wanted it to be as non-gendered and inclusive as possible, so that many different performers could play all different parts. We were envisioning something with a ‘Choose Your Own Adventure’ element, with clear rules of engagement provided in the script. 

We were in the middle of testing this version of the show with an amazing team at the Orange County School of the Arts when the pandemic struck, and all live theatre was cancelled. At first we were devastated, but then we regrouped, and we all agreed to attempt one number virtually. Then one number became two, and two became four. 

Soon, the entire show was being recorded and shot on cell phones, home computers, and personal devices. It was rehearsed, costumed, location scouted, set dressed, lit, recorded and shot entirely by the OCSA high school students and their families in quarantine. 

Through the hard work and dedication of the creative team, the students, and their families, this virtual version of NOW. HERE. THIS. came into existence, one number at a time! 

How did the students react to the initial announcement that they will still be performing despite the COVID lockdown? 

We actually have footage of their faces when I suggested that they start thinking about what this show might look like in the virtual context. There were definitely some blank stares coming back at me through the Zoom conference. After the fact, I asked some of those students how they felt when I pitched the idea of creating a virtual musical.

Graduating senior Adam Castrillon said he was concerned about the logistics and how to get things completed and uploaded on time. 

Graduating senior Maggie Gidden said when I floated the idea, it seemed like an impossible task. She thought, “What happens when more than one person has to sing? What happens when I’m standing against a tan wall in my home, and someone else is standing in front of a neon orange wall in their home?”.

But I just had a sense, given the talent and creativity evident in this OCSA group, that this could be an excellent opportunity for all of us to stay engaged and creative during these strange times. AND it would be a great opportunity for the students to bring their awesome, weird, tech-savvy selves into the mix. It also could provide a chance for other departments to get in on helping make these pieces. And, it would give me and my fellow authors a chance to continue experimenting with this flexible version of NOW. HERE. THIS.

In what ways did this virtual theater open up the creative process for the students? 

Doing NOW. HERE. THIS. virtually from quarantine really gave the students a chance to be wildly creative and self expressed. 

For the number ‘Golden Palace’, lead performer Tristan Leach wanted each performer in the number to portray their ‘golden palace’–that space where they felt most creative. For Tristan, it was coloring. She put her colored pages up on the window of her home, making it look like a stained glass window–that was how she represented her ‘golden palace’ in her footage. 

Matthew Kontur, who is featured in the number ‘Kick Me’, said the process was super-fun because he basically became the costume designer and prop master–he made his own prop flag out of a shirt and a broom. He loved having that much creative freedom, which he probably wouldn’t have had if they had performed the show traditionally on stage. He even cast his family in his piece, and he said they loved being in it, too!

What is the premise of the reimagined “Now. Here. This.”? 

NOW. HERE. THIS. is a musical that explores our pasts and futures, and why living in the present is life’s greatest gift. Timely lessons for today, to say the least. Told in over 20 mini-musical scenes that delve into life’s big questions with a lot of heart, humor and humanity. Because of the way it’s structured, it really lends itself to a flexible, virtual approach.

What do you hope the audience (viewers) will take from this production? 

First, I hope the audience will simply enjoy the show–that they will be moved by the material and the beautiful work of these young artists. 

Secondly, I hope that people will be inspired by what’s possible. I was talking with the Gidden family, including graduating senior Maggie Gidden, who thought at first that this whole thing would be impossible. Her mom, Gina Gidden, said, “This whole experience gave the students something they could control. It gave meaning to this time. It gave them purpose. This proved that impossible things can be done.”

I can’t say it better than Gina Gidden: I’d love for audiences to know that seemingly impossible things can be done, even during challenging times, even during a pandemic, even under quarantine. 

Are there any particular standout performers that you would like to share by name? 

The entire cast is stellar. Truly. But I do want to shout out the graduating seniors. This is their last high school musical, and I couldn’t be more proud of their hard work and their fine performances: Nathan Burke, Adam Castrillon, Therese Fontese, Emily Frazier, Cambria Gallo, Maggie Gidden, Audrey Hempel, Matthew Kontur, Tristan Leach, Noi Maeshige, and Mariah Williams. Each one of them is an excellent human AND a gifted creative. Plus, SENIORS RULE!

How were the general theatrical production elements — set, props, costumes, etc. produced/coordinated? 

It was all handled by the students and their families. Thankfully, the material is pretty contemporary — they weren’t trying to costume A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC. So the students could use things that they and their parents had around the house.

What do you want theatergoers/viewers/readers to know about this unique production? 

If anyone is moved to do something like this themselves, a great place to start is with one scene or musical number. If you enjoy the creative process, try two! If you’re really feeling it, keep going! And if you and your theatre would like to perform NOW. HERE. THIS. virtually, this new flexible version will be available for licensing through Concord Theatricals. We can’t wait to see what you do with your production!

Now. Here. This. will air exclusively on OCSA’s YouTube channel at www.youtube.com/weareocsa. The premiere begins at 6 p.m. PST on May 14, 2020, and the full presentation can be viewed anytime through Sunday, May 17, 2020. 

The Authors and OCSA are suggesting donations to the OCSA Foundation (Donation Link), Educational Theatre Foundation (Donation Link) and GenZStayHome (Donation Link) in lieu of tickets.

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The show will stream on The Locher Room YouTube channel and Facebook to entertain fans around the world during the COVID-19 crisis at 8 p.m. EST. Co-hosted with Laura Wright (Carly from ‘General Hospital’) and Alan Locher, host of The Locher Room, the live event is produced by Daytime Cares, an organization that celebrates and highlights the heroes of the COVID-19 pandemic, encourages volunteerism, and assists those who are in need.

We caught up with ‘Days of Our Lives’ veteran actress (AKA Nicole Walker) and Daytime Cares co-founder Arianne Zucker to discuss her charitable organization, life in lockdown, her new podcast “Everything From A to Z,” and what’s in store for the soap queen.

What was the inspiration behind co-founding Daytime Cares?

It’s always so interesting how people begin new businesses, create ideas and collaborate together. As my fellow co-founders, Bob Wall and Sonia Blangiardo and I were working on some other ideas, the corona virus hit us all pretty hard. We decided to put our project on hold and Daytime Cares was created by Bob and Sonia. We all spoke about how we wanted to do something more because people are now at home during the day looking for ways to help or donate or looking for resources to help their family and neighbors.

What are the goals of Daytime Cares?

Daytime Cares is in its early growth stages, but the long term goal for this website is to be interactive in more than just finding non-profits they can donate and volunteer. We are working on providing informative videos on what people can do financially during COVID-19 and we will provide updates as the weeks progress. The most important goal for us is to make sure people can receive the answers they need to find the help they are looking for. We are available through email and take those questions and provide vidoes for the Daytime Cares website. We know many people have the same question, so it is great for us to be able to share answers to the best of our ability on the website.

We are focusing on two nonprofits:

Disaster Responder Assets Network https://disasterassets.org/ focusing on hosting free and confidential online support via Zoom for front line Healthcare workers and First Responders and so much more.

Feeding America https://www.feedingamerica.org helps millions of children and adults get the meals they need to thrive.

We will have the two organizations on our https://www.daytimecares.com/ home page and you can donate directly to one or both organizations and watch the donations grow through the evening.

Tell us about your “Everything From A to Z” podcast. What do you hope to achieve with it? Who do you hope to feature on it?

Everything From A To Z was actually inspired by my friend Sonia Blangiardo. I write, host, edit and post the show. Everything From A to Z is about helping people “Find the Hero in you”. Since I was young, I always knew I was supposed to give back and do more to help in this world. I always believed that each and every one of us has a superpower and it’s just a matter of who or how someone says something that resonates with you to help you find your hero within yourself.

My long term goal is helping people on an individual, corporate and goal oriented level which I have just begun to do with “Sunset Sessions and Aloha Vibes” which you can find out more information on my website http://www.ariannezucker.com/.

I’m earning my way interviewing some wonderful guests who have incredible journeys and inspire others to do the same. I have so far interviewed heroes such as a Principal, a Life Coach, an Accounting Professional, a Doctor of Chiropractic, and the list is growing. Of course, as time goes on, I imagine my guest list to grow as I do.

In what ways have your fans reached out to you during this isolation time?

The fans really enjoy seeing Tik Tok videos I do with my daughter. I’ve done about three of them with her and fans seem to go wild for them. However, between the podcast, Daytime Cares, Cameos and Tik Toks, I have to find time for my family. It seems as though I’m busier now than before the isolation. Which is wonderful.

What are your favorite qualities of Nicole Walker?

I have one big favorite quality of Nicole. She is slowly growing into an HONEST woman. She has learned from her mistakes. Even though her mistakes were always because of her long desire for love and affection.

Here is what I miss. All of her “Bad Girl” qualities. She was funny, savvy, dressed great, and didn’t care what anyone thought of her.

What has been a pivotal moment in your career that has helped shape you today?

Probably a few years ago when I realized my value. I actually took a year off of work and I found out some wonderful things about who I am as a person. Not working will do that for you. It makes you deep dive into who you are and where you want to be in your life. Not to say that working on yourself isn’t difficult because it is. I just always find the positives in that difficult journey. Let’s not forget some tears. I look back and see where I am now and I truly believe when you believe in yourself from the depths of your stomach (soul), that dream, that wish, that goal has already happened for you.

Where is your Soap Opera Digest Award currently?

Flashback! My Soap Opera Digest Award is exactly where it should be. On the book shelf holding up my series of Twilight books! Thank you for asking.

What is your current favorite quarantine activity?

My daughter’s P.E. time. She can play a mean game of handball. It gives me one heck of a workout!

What can we expect in the near and/or distant future of Arianne Zucker?

If all goes well, I’ll be hosting a show somewhere in a studio, not in quarantine at home, while still working on “Days,” filming and narrating shows. Along with building my podcast, and all the things I talked about early in this article. Girls gotta dream.

For more information, visit https://www.daytimecares.com/

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