Chance Theater kicks off its 2026 season Friday night with the authentic and heartfelt musical, “Once,” which chronicles the compelling story of a Dublin street musician and a Czech immigrant whose music collaboration creates a surprising connection.
The musical is based on the Academy Award-winning film written and directed by John Carney, featuring the book by Enda Walsh and music and lyrics by Glen Hansard and Marketa Irglova. It is directed and choreographed by Chance Resident Artist and Literary Manager James Michael McHale. Music direction is by Chance Resident Artist Lex Leigh.
This show features an ensemble of newcomers and returning actors who play the hilarious and eclectic characters all around them on their musical journey.
The show runs through March 1 on the Chance Theater’s Cripe Stage at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center. Tickets are currently on sale, visit chancetheater.com.
Women’s Connection to celebrate love and friendship
A special celebration ahead of Valentine’s Day is planned for the next Anaheim Hills, Orange and Villa Park Women’s Connection, and all women in the community are invited.
This special fun event on Feb. 9 at the Black Gold Golf Club will include a program filled with love, friendship and laughter. Rick and Judy Talbot will share their gift of music as they provide the afternoon entertainment. Guest speaker Debbie Wheeler will pose the question, “Have You Ever Judged a Book by Its Cover?”
Doors open at 10:30 a.m. for socializing and shopping with onsite vendors; luncheon and program follow at 11:30 a.m. The day concludes at 1:30 p.m. There will be door prizes, hostess gifts and much more. Cost to attend is $35 per person.
Reservation deadline is Jan. 26 and can be made by calling Barbi Zipperian on her landline at 714-280-9062. Guests are encouraged to wear a favorite red Valentine outfit.
Library branches offer incentives to read
Anaheim Public Library’s annual Winter Reading Program, themed “Books on the Menu: Every Page is a New Dish” this year, ends Feb. 22.
It is open to all ages and is an opportunity to read books and win prizes.
Those wishing to participate can pick up a reading log or register at either Canyon Hills or East Anaheim Library branches and log reading progress on Beanstack, complete challenges, and find book lists. Keep in mind, the more you read, the more chances you have to win exciting prizes.
This fun event is sponsored by P.F. Chang’s, Panda Express, Red Robin and Wing Stop. For more information, call 714-765-6444 or 714-765-3887.
Food gets to where it can help
The recent food drive sponsored by First Team Realtors Lara Tooma and Madeleine Semaan resulted in a significant response of donations from the Anaheim Hills, Yorba Linda and Irvine communities.
Almost a half a ton of food was collected and delivered to the Second Harvest Food Banks, according to the organizers.
This amazing response enabled the food drive organizers to help those in need during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Congratulations!
New tech classes for older adults
The city of Anaheim’s Older Adult Program has partnered with Santiago Canyon College to recently launch a new Technology for Beginners program for older adults from 10 a.m. to noon every Tuesday at the East Anaheim Community Center.
This new program is intended to help seniors feel more confident using technology, as well as learn the basics, in a supportive, hands-on friendly environment. No experience is necessary, and there is no cost to attend.
All senior citizens are invited and encouraged to take advantage of this special opportunity. There is no cost to attend, and those interested can register at their first class.
For additional information, call 714-765-3907.
Kids club starting at local library
Did you know that there is a recently formed After School Club at the East Anaheim Library branch?
All kids ages 4-10 are invited to the 2 p.m. club hosted on Wednesdays.
Kids have the opportunity to expand creativity, enhance literacy and enjoy crafts and other hands-on fun.
There is no cost to participate. Call 714-765-3887 for more information.
Sharon Hlapcich writes about events and happenings in the Anaheim Hills area. Reach her by phone (714-998-4604 or e-mail (smhlapcich@sbcglobal.net).