Enjoy Broadway-caliber holiday productions at a community college

The majestic and joyful sound of music is an important part of the holiday season for many families. One of the best places to find excellent, affordable entertainment that will please audiences of all ages is at a performing arts venue at your local community college.

Long known for a standard of excellence in performing arts, Citrus College’s vocal music ensembles are renowned throughout the world. Each year, the Haugh Performing Arts Center (HPAC), which seats in excess of 1,400 people, is host to more than 140 performances. The annual production of “Christmas Is…” has become a holiday tradition for many who reside in the communities of the San Gabriel and Inland Valleys and beyond.

In addition to beautiful vocal and instrumental music, shows feature sets, costumes, lightening and choreography that have often been compared to The Music Center and Broadway. In addition, student performances at the HPAC receive rave reviews. Typical comments include, “Beautiful theater with friendly staff; it was such a wonderful performance!” Also, “Great show and a great value at this venue. There is a whole season of wonderful shows happening here.”

One reason that community colleges can deliver such high-caliber entertainment is that they are preparing students for professional careers on stage and behind the scenes. Students are given a practical education by industry professionals that offer both traditional music education and hands-on performance training. By utilizing equipment and facilities that meet or exceed industry standards, students are able to consistently deliver exceptional, and often award winning, performances.

If you are looking for quality entertainment and a way to beat the crowds this holiday season, check out the programs offered at a nearby community college. You will save the time and hassle of freeway traffic and expensive, hard-to-find parking, and you will enjoy a truly memorable experience.

About the Author:

Dr. Edward C. Ortell is the senior governing board member at Citrus College and a Professor Emeritus at Pasadena City College. He has served on the California Community College Trustees (CCCT) state board of directors and eight terms as president of the Citrus College Board of Trustees.