San Diego – Broadway San Diego is the “big stage” musical spot in the city.  It has presented The Phantom Of The Opera, Miss Saigon, The Producers, Les Miserables, The Lion King and Wicked.  A few of their upcoming shows include Kinky Boots, Jersey Boys, Blue Man Group and Motown the Musical.  For the complete Civic Center calendar, visit www.broadwaysd.com.

The venerable Old Globe was built in 1935 to present Shakespeare’s plays during the California Pacific International Exposition. Today it produces 15 mainstage shows ranging from its Shakespeare roots to Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas. It is nationally acknowledged as a top-ranked regional theater.  For the schedule, logon to www.theoldglobe.org.

The award winning La Jolla Playhouse, founded in 1947 by Gregory Peck, Dorothy McGuire and Mel Ferrer, has three main stages. Located on the campus of the University of California San Diego, the two institutions share facilities, technical staff and training in theater arts. The Playhouse also provides residencies for UCSD graduate students in acting, directing, design and stage management.  Go to www.lajollaplayhouse.org for the lineup of plays

Cygnet Theatre is located in the “birthplace of California,” historic Old Town San Diego State Park.  Its cozy size makes it a perfect setting for off-Broadway type shows. The 2014/2015 season will include seven plays and the schedule always includes low price previews.  Visit www.cygnettheatre.com for information. 

The San Diego REP’s downtown Lyceum Theater features three intimate stages.  Founded in 1976, it has  received over 200 awards for artistic excellence. They produce over 300 performances and events a year (some are free). The REP’s relationship with the San Diego School for Creative and Performing Arts allows students to rehearse and perform with professionals.  More can be found at www.sdrep.org. Note: parking is validated at Horton Plaza.  

Las Vegas – Aside from the fabulous extravaganzas the Strip is known for, there are many opportunities to see Broadway musicals. Here are a few. 

Harrah’s presents the Tony Award winning Million Dollar Quartet, a “rock ‘n roll” tour de force.  In December of 1954, four of Sun Records’ biggest stars jammed in the Memphis studio. The re-creation of the historic evening that Elvis Presley, Jerry Lee Lewis, Johnny Cash and Carl Perkins got together is a rollicking celebration of great music.  This is a personal favorite. Go to www.harrahslasvegas.com for information.

It’s funny to think about the Jersey Boys in Paris but it’s the hotel on The Strip, not the city.  This is the Tony Award winning musical story of Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons that has a cult-like following. Take a look at www.parislasvegas.com for details. 

The Venetian Las Vegas is featuring GEORGIA ON MY MIND: Celebrating the Music of Ray Charles.  The show has a bevy of Emmy and Grammy winners including Clint Holmes, TAKE,  Kirk Whalum and six time nominee Nnenna Freelon.  Backing up this all-star lineup is the Las Vegas Mass Choir and the Las Vegas All-Star Big Band. Go to The Venetian’s website, www.venetian.com, and click on the Entertainment tab.

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