Short List: January 2025

AGNES OF GOD
Jan. 24 – Feb. 16 | Ojai
When a newborn is discovered at a convent under unusual and unnerving circumstances, a psychiatrist bent on seeking out the truth is called to investigate. The doctor’s skeptical nature is pitted against a devout Mother Superior and the young nun under scrutiny, whose alleged innocence is shrouded in enigmas. This story explores faith, facts and discerning between miracles and reality. When you come to see “Agnes of God,” you’ll be caught in the intrigue and eager to know the truth of the matter. $20. Ojai Art Center Theater, 113 South Montgomery Street, Ojai, ojaiact.org.

CHINESE NEW YEAR GALA
Jan. 25 | Camarillo
The Ventura County Chinese American Association invites the community to celebrate the Lunar New Year and the Year of the Snake. Bring the entire family to enjoy this celebration! Enjoy live performances featuring traditional Chinese dance and music, as well as delicious food, exciting raffles, delightful games and more! Members: $15. Non-members: $20. Free for children 5 and under. Tickets available at the following Camarillo locations: Peking Inn, 330 North Lantana Street, #31; Chester’s Asia, 2216 Pickwick Drive, #6410; Sesame Garden, 1775 East Daily Drive, Suite G; and Tiptop Coin Laundry, 383 Carmen Drive. Festivities take place in the Pleasant Valley Parks and Recreation’s Community Center Auditorium, 1605 East Burnley Street, Camarillo, on Saturday, Jan. 25, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. For more information and QR code, visit visitcamarillo.com/event/chinese-new-year-celebration/.

PLANT FEST
Jan. 25 | Oxnard
Native Plant Fest brings together our community to celebrate and showcase local plant-inspired culture, food, traditions and creativity! This festival is community-led by plant enthusiasts of diverse backgrounds who will share their plants, services, artwork, culinary creations, products, educational resources and much more! November through the Spring is prime planting season in California and OPAC wants to bring together seasoned and newbie plant aficionados for this special event. Guests will enjoy an opening blessing and land acknowledgment; vendors selling art, crafts, plants, garden accessories, food and more; interactive activities and art-making; food trucks; educational speakers and workshops; nonprofit exhibitors offering free plants, information and resources; and special musical performances. There’s plenty for kids to do too, such as making seed bombs, flower crowns and much, much more! Free admission. Saturday, Jan. 25, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oxnard Performing Arts Center, 800 Hobson Way, Oxnard, www.theopac.org.

LES BALLETS TROCKADERO DE MONTE CARLO
Jan. 30 | Thousand Oaks
The world’s foremost all-male comic ballet company brings its internationally beloved troupe of dancers to Thousand Oaks as part of its landmark 50th anniversary season, featuring gems from across the company’s groundbreaking repertoire. The company dances en travesti with razor-sharp wit and breathtaking pointe work, performing polished parodies of works that span the classical ballet canon. $19-$57. Fred Kavli Theatre at the Bank of the America Performing Arts Center, 2100 East Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, 805.449.2787, bapacthousandoaks.com.

HOTBED HOTEL
Through Feb. 1 | Thousand Oaks
Terry and Brian Cody are hoping to sell their “One Star Hotel” in the Florida Keys, to the only man who has expressed any interest in buying it, a Mr. Sam Lewis from New York. In order to bolster Mr. Lewis’ interest, Terri and Brian devise a plan to make the hotel appear busier and more prosperous than it actually is. Their staff will masquerade as paying guests, thereby, giving Mr. Lewis the impression that the hotel is overflowing with loyal customers and vacationers. But their plan has one hitch, as their entire staff consists of a maintenance man named Hopkins and a sexy housemaid named Maureen. $20-$22. Through Feb. 1 at the Conejo Players Theatre, 351 South Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks. For tickets and more information, call 805.495.3715 or visit
www.ConejoPlayers.org.

LÄRA’S VERSION: A CELEBRATION OF TAYLOR SWIFT THROUGH THE ERAS
Feb. 1 | Simi Valley
The Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center Foundation proudly presents “Lära’s Version: A Celebration of Taylor Swift Through the Eras” featuring Lara Lafferty! For the first time, Lara Lafferty, the viral sensation who captured millions of viewers online, brings Taylor Swift’s iconic music to the stage in an electrifying, theatrical concert experience. From dazzling creative staging to powerhouse vocals, this high-energy show reimagines all your favorite Taylor Swift hits in a bold, fresh way. Don’t miss the moments that took the internet by storm — now live on stage with new surprises you’ll love. Perfect for fans of all ages, this unforgettable experience will have you singing and dancing through every era. All tickets are for reserved seating — choose your seats online 24/7! Tickets are $30 each. A limited number of VIP tickets are available at $50 each and include a reserved seat as well as a pre-show Meet & Greet with Lara Lafferty at 5 p.m. in the DownStage Theater. This special VIP Meet & Greet includes a dance call experience, a friendship bracelet and refreshments. Show takes place on Saturday, Feb. 1, at 7 p.m. Please note there is an additional $2 per ticket surcharge on all ticket sales both online or in person. Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 Los Angeles Avenue, Simi Valley, www.svvac.org.

EMERGENCE
Feb. 1-21 | Camarillo
Celebrating the work of Studio Channel Islands to showcase and support emerging artists in our community. The jury for the Thomas and Patricia Award for Excellence will select three winners from the student work. First place winner will receive $1,500 and two runner ups will each receive $750. Only those who are currently enrolled as a student in Ventura County are eligible to receive the award. In addition there, will be a poetry contest on Feb. 15. Come experience the community’s most promising artists! Opening reception on Saturday, Feb. 1, 4-6 p.m. Studio Channel Islands, 2222 Ventura Boulevard, Camarillo, studiochannelislands.org.

TWO TRAINS RUNNING
Through Feb. 2 | Ventura
Step into the soul-stirring world of “Two Trains Running,” where the vibrant streets of 1960s Pittsburgh serve as the backdrop for an unforgettable journey of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. Set in a bustling diner, this compelling narrative weaves together the lives of its diverse characters, each grappling with the winds of change sweeping through their community. With powerful storytelling and poignant dialogue, “Two Trains Running” explores themes of race, identity, and the resilience of the human spirit. We are honored to partner on this production with The Acting Company, which was founded by John Houseman and launched the careers of artists like Kevin Kline and Patti Lupone. During this run, the cast will also offer performances of “The Comedy of Errors” and “How I Learned What I Learned” on select nights. Tickets start at $20. Rubicon Theatre Company, 1006 E. Main Street, Ventura, 805-667-2900, www.rubicontheatre.org.

POTUS
Feb. 7 – March 9 | Santa Paula
When the President unwittingly spins a PR nightmare into a global crisis, the seven brilliant and beleaguered women he relies upon most risk life, liberty and the pursuit of sanity to keep the commander-in-chief out of trouble. Be advised: This play contains mature humor and language. This original work by Selena Fillinger is presented by the Santa Paula Theater Center. $24-$26. 125 South Seventh Street, Santa Paula, 805.525.4645, www.santapaulatheatercenter.org.

VALENTINE’S DAY AT VENTURA HARBOR VILLAGE
Feb. 14 | Ventura
Escape to the romantic charm of Ventura Harbor Village this Valentine’s Day, where love is in the salty air and seaside views set the stage for a truly enchanting experience. Enjoy a romantic waterfront walk, dine in one of the many fine restaurants (many with extraordinary views), treat yourself to ice cream or chocolate, shop for a special keepsake or just enjoy the beautiful scenery and breezy vibe. It’s all waiting for you and that special someone at Ventura Harbor Village! 1583 Spinnaker Drive, Ventura, www.venturaharborvillage.com/event/valentines-day-seaside/.

ZACHARI DUNES ROSÉ TASTING
Feb. 28 | Oxnard
As a celebration for the coming season, we invite you to taste rosé wines featuring California wineries. You’ll be guided through the selection by a knowledgeable and informative wine expert. Best of all, you’ll enjoy these wines on the beautiful grounds of Zachari Dunes on Mandalay Beach, just steps from the sand. $50 per person; free for Dining at the Dunes Members ( inquire about becoming a member at sbazd_memberships@hilton.com). 2101 Mandalay Beach Road, Oxnard, 805.984.2500, www.zacharidunes.com.

WINTER WHALE WATCHING WITH ISLAND PACKERS
Through April 30 | Ventura
Hop on board for an Island Packer’s Winter Whale Watch excursion, with trips departing from Ventura Harbor through April. This three to three-and-a-half hour cruise takes you to the Southern California waters of the Santa Barbara Channel, with views of the Channel Islands National Park. Afterward, enjoy dining at the Ventura Harbor Village eateries and indulge in sweet treats just a short walk from the boat. These waters off the coast of Ventura Harbor are known for their marine mammal diversity, and you may get to see other species of marine mammals along with the migrating gray whales. Seals, sea lions and several species of dolphins along with occasional orca whale pods may also be seen on your trip. Fun for all ages! The fare is $47 per adult, $43 per senior (55+), and $34 per child. Island Packers’ Ventura location is at 1691 Spinnaker Drive, #105B in Ventura Harbor. Be sure to check out offerings leaving from Channel Islands Harbor as well: 3600 Harbor Boulevard, Oxnard. For more info and booking, contact Island Packers directly: 805.642.1393 or Islandpackers.com/trips/whales-and-wildlife-cruises/winter-whale-watching/.

ON THE HORIZON

CAMARILLO WEDDING EXPO
March 29-30 | Camarillo
At the Camarillo Wedding Expo, you’ll find plenty of inspiration to make your celebration truly special. Nearlyweds, along with friends and family, are all invited to attend. This very special event will feature a wide range of vendors, plus music, tastings and gift giveaways. Start on Saturday night, with a tour of lighting and sound at eight different venues. Then, on Sunday morning, begin on a drive in the country to experience the unique peacefulness and beauty found in eight of Ventura County’s outdoor venues. General Admission Tickets: $20 per person. Tickets will be available for purchase online and at the door for $25 per person on March 30 at The Wedding Expo. $5 from each ticket will be donated to The Mountain Fire Emergency Fund through the Ventura County Wildlife Relief and Recovery Fund. For more information, visit www.camarilloweddingexpo.com.