Growing and engaging our community
Front Street Productions, funded by the Outreach and Growth Fund, is excited to present events designed to engage our local community while attracting new visitors to our church campus. All of our events are free and require only a simple online registration so we can plan appropriately. Over the course of 2023 we hosted hundreds of attendees who enjoyed everything from cutting-edge author talks to soaring music events to rousing dance performances. For our 2025 season we're bringing folk music, opera, best-selling authors and much more. We hope you'll join us.
Get tickets to all of these great concerts at our Eventbrite page! |
Click to download a printer-friendly PDF.
|
Upcoming Events
Chimæra Ensemble
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:00 pm Saturday, June 7, 2025
The Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble is a new, semi-professional orchestra of talented instrumentalists who are passionate about making music together. They will share a program of some well known classical repertoire, along with music by Latin American composers not typically included in the Western classical canon. This concert is free with registration. Reserve your spot for this free concert while tickets last!
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:00 pm Saturday, June 7, 2025
The Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble is a new, semi-professional orchestra of talented instrumentalists who are passionate about making music together. They will share a program of some well known classical repertoire, along with music by Latin American composers not typically included in the Western classical canon. This concert is free with registration. Reserve your spot for this free concert while tickets last!
Past events
Colores del Alma: A Celebration of Latin American Music
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm Friday, June 20, 2025
Join us for a remarkable evening of music featuring Vox Artis and the Ghukasyan String Orchestra performing songs from Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela and Mexico. They will be joined by Las Voces de San Diego Choir as well as the Chalice and Women's Choirs of First UU Church of San Diego. We will premiere a special arrangement by Julio Morales created specifically for this concert and the orchestra will perform José Pablo Moncayo's exhilarating Huapango and Tierra Mestiza, a captivating piece for solo guitar and strings. Don't miss it! Reserve your spot for this free concert while tickets last!
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm Friday, June 20, 2025
Join us for a remarkable evening of music featuring Vox Artis and the Ghukasyan String Orchestra performing songs from Argentina, Peru, Bolivia, Venezuela and Mexico. They will be joined by Las Voces de San Diego Choir as well as the Chalice and Women's Choirs of First UU Church of San Diego. We will premiere a special arrangement by Julio Morales created specifically for this concert and the orchestra will perform José Pablo Moncayo's exhilarating Huapango and Tierra Mestiza, a captivating piece for solo guitar and strings. Don't miss it! Reserve your spot for this free concert while tickets last!
Allison Adam Tucker’s Women in Jazz Quartet
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, May 31, 2025
Enjoy an evening of smooth jazz and soulful melodies as these four masters deliver the perfect mix of elegance and energy. Get tickets.
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, May 31, 2025
Enjoy an evening of smooth jazz and soulful melodies as these four masters deliver the perfect mix of elegance and energy. Get tickets.
Peggy Watson and David Beldock
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, April 5, 2025
Join us in our beautiful meeting house to to kick off the 2025 Front Street Productions season! San Diego favorite Peggy Watson, with her purity of tone, pinpoint control and glorious range is joined by David Beldock's cracklin' country/jazz solos in this sparkling collection of original acoustic folk, blues and jazz. Together they share dazzling musicianship, beautiful harmonies, and a fun-loving stage presence. This concert is free with registration. Get tickets.
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, April 5, 2025
Join us in our beautiful meeting house to to kick off the 2025 Front Street Productions season! San Diego favorite Peggy Watson, with her purity of tone, pinpoint control and glorious range is joined by David Beldock's cracklin' country/jazz solos in this sparkling collection of original acoustic folk, blues and jazz. Together they share dazzling musicianship, beautiful harmonies, and a fun-loving stage presence. This concert is free with registration. Get tickets.
Peter Sprague and Fred Benedetti
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, March 29, 2025
Join us for an unforgettable evening! With their masterful technique and deep musical chemistry, Peter and Fred blend jazz, classical, and the blues, creating an experience that will captivate and inspire. With Danny Green on piano and Justin Grinnell on bass. "Sprague is simply one of the best guitarists on the planet, playing with everyone from Dianne Reeves to Chick Corea." This is a free event! Get tickets.
Presented by Front Street Productions
7:30 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, March 29, 2025
Join us for an unforgettable evening! With their masterful technique and deep musical chemistry, Peter and Fred blend jazz, classical, and the blues, creating an experience that will captivate and inspire. With Danny Green on piano and Justin Grinnell on bass. "Sprague is simply one of the best guitarists on the planet, playing with everyone from Dianne Reeves to Chick Corea." This is a free event! Get tickets.
Front Street Productions Presents Tret Fure!
7 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, February 1, 2025
Tret Fure is an award-winning singer songwriter whose music demonstrates a willingness to confront the most pressing issues of our day with courage, compassion and a deep sense of humanity. Her songs speak to the heart and the soul. This concert is free with registration.
7 pm - 9 pm - Saturday, February 1, 2025
Tret Fure is an award-winning singer songwriter whose music demonstrates a willingness to confront the most pressing issues of our day with courage, compassion and a deep sense of humanity. Her songs speak to the heart and the soul. This concert is free with registration.
Winter Schminter Solstice Concert
7:30pm Saturday, December 21st, 2024
All of humanity celebrates the winter solstice. Long before the Abrahamic religions came to be, tribal groups marked the darkness of the winter solstice with music and dancing to rekindle their hopes for the return of spring. We will celebrate with music from many different cultures including tunes as ubiquitous as the American classic "Christmas Time Is Here" to the Kurdish folk melody "Zivistane" (In Winter). Join us for this high-spirited evening of international song with ethnomusicologist Yale Strom and members of the Hot Pstromi Ensemble. Free admission with registration.
7:30pm Saturday, December 21st, 2024
All of humanity celebrates the winter solstice. Long before the Abrahamic religions came to be, tribal groups marked the darkness of the winter solstice with music and dancing to rekindle their hopes for the return of spring. We will celebrate with music from many different cultures including tunes as ubiquitous as the American classic "Christmas Time Is Here" to the Kurdish folk melody "Zivistane" (In Winter). Join us for this high-spirited evening of international song with ethnomusicologist Yale Strom and members of the Hot Pstromi Ensemble. Free admission with registration.
Navidad Latina: A Holiday Concert
Save the date: 7:00 PM Saturday, December 14th, 2024
Experience the holiday magic of Ensemble Vocal de las Californias (EVOCA) and the Ghukasyan String Orchestra, with guest musicians -- all joined by the First UU Chalice and Women's Choirs under the direction of FUU Music Director Tomás Acosta. This concert celebrates Hispanic holiday traditions, blending European and Latin American Christmas carols. We’ll include familiar traditional carols in Spanish as well as Latin American favorites, bringing a lively folk quality. With the added presence of the Ghukasyan String Orchestra, the music also gains a classical feel, creating a “crossover” atmosphere—elegant but upbeat. Free admission with registration. Get tickets.
Save the date: 7:00 PM Saturday, December 14th, 2024
Experience the holiday magic of Ensemble Vocal de las Californias (EVOCA) and the Ghukasyan String Orchestra, with guest musicians -- all joined by the First UU Chalice and Women's Choirs under the direction of FUU Music Director Tomás Acosta. This concert celebrates Hispanic holiday traditions, blending European and Latin American Christmas carols. We’ll include familiar traditional carols in Spanish as well as Latin American favorites, bringing a lively folk quality. With the added presence of the Ghukasyan String Orchestra, the music also gains a classical feel, creating a “crossover” atmosphere—elegant but upbeat. Free admission with registration. Get tickets.
2Spirit Emerence:
(re)Awakening our Collective Story with Juan Reynoso
7:30 pm Saturday, November 2nd, 2024
Storytelling has the capacity to bring us closer together. Since creation, Indigenous people(s) have engaged in community storytelling as a form of conflict resolution, culture and language sharing, preservation, joy, and community building. Our stories help us make sense of ourselves and the world around us. Now, ask yourself, What happens when these stories become blurred, hijacked, and even rewritten? Join me (nemuuly) for an evening of truth-telling, culture sharing, and personal community weaving. Admission is free with registration.
7:30 pm Saturday, November 2nd, 2024
Storytelling has the capacity to bring us closer together. Since creation, Indigenous people(s) have engaged in community storytelling as a form of conflict resolution, culture and language sharing, preservation, joy, and community building. Our stories help us make sense of ourselves and the world around us. Now, ask yourself, What happens when these stories become blurred, hijacked, and even rewritten? Join me (nemuuly) for an evening of truth-telling, culture sharing, and personal community weaving. Admission is free with registration.
Tasha Smith Godinez "A New Day" Album Release Concert
7:30 pm Friday, October 18th, 2024
Come join us in a concert celebrating the release of Tasha Smith Godinez' newest album "New Day"! Master musician Tasha Smith Godinez (electro acoustic and electric harps) will be joined by Domenico Hueso (viola & electric bass), Christopher Garcia (percussion) and Leonard Patton (vocals). Experience the magic of live harp music! Admission is free, registration required.
7:30 pm Friday, October 18th, 2024
Come join us in a concert celebrating the release of Tasha Smith Godinez' newest album "New Day"! Master musician Tasha Smith Godinez (electro acoustic and electric harps) will be joined by Domenico Hueso (viola & electric bass), Christopher Garcia (percussion) and Leonard Patton (vocals). Experience the magic of live harp music! Admission is free, registration required.
2nd Annual Summer Tardeada
Traditional Mexican Dance Party
2-5 pm Saturday, September 7th, 2024
Enjoy a traditional Mexican afternoon dance party with free refreshments and dance lessons. Bring your family and spend a wonderful afternoon making new friends. La Rondalla de San Diego consists of elders who gather to have fun creating beautiful music and shareing it with others. "Rondalla" comes from the Spanish ronda, meaning "serenade." Rondalla singers partner with guitarists and percussionists to perform beloved musical standards in Spanish and English from Mexico, Latin America, and the Caribbean including Mexico Lindo y Querido, Cielito Lindo, Harbor Lights, Volver Volver, and Piel Canela. In addition to First UU, La Rondalla performs at public libraries, senior facilities, schools, public events and community festivals. Free admission.
2-5 pm Saturday, September 7th, 2024
Enjoy a traditional Mexican afternoon dance party with free refreshments and dance lessons. Bring your family and spend a wonderful afternoon making new friends. La Rondalla de San Diego consists of elders who gather to have fun creating beautiful music and shareing it with others. "Rondalla" comes from the Spanish ronda, meaning "serenade." Rondalla singers partner with guitarists and percussionists to perform beloved musical standards in Spanish and English from Mexico, Latin America, and the Caribbean including Mexico Lindo y Querido, Cielito Lindo, Harbor Lights, Volver Volver, and Piel Canela. In addition to First UU, La Rondalla performs at public libraries, senior facilities, schools, public events and community festivals. Free admission.
3rd Annual Summer Arts Festival
3-5:30 pm Saturday, August 17th, 2024
Join us for the free, family-friendly afternoon of music, comedy, sing-alongs, food and fun. Free admission.
3-5:30 pm Saturday, August 17th, 2024
Join us for the free, family-friendly afternoon of music, comedy, sing-alongs, food and fun. Free admission.
Barbershop Harmony Showcase featuring
Los Bordershop
and special guests Royce's Voices and Solo Voce
7:30 pm Saturday, July 27th, 2024
Experience barbershop standards and originals in English and Spanish with the Los Bordershop Quartet! Next, thrill to the national anthem and other classics like you've never heard them before with Royce's Voices. And, finally, bask in the a capella perfection of Solo Voce - ALL in one night of lyrical delight. Tickets are FREE (wait, what?!) Yes, FREE but registration is required.
and special guests Royce's Voices and Solo Voce
7:30 pm Saturday, July 27th, 2024
Experience barbershop standards and originals in English and Spanish with the Los Bordershop Quartet! Next, thrill to the national anthem and other classics like you've never heard them before with Royce's Voices. And, finally, bask in the a capella perfection of Solo Voce - ALL in one night of lyrical delight. Tickets are FREE (wait, what?!) Yes, FREE but registration is required.
Legendary Singer Songwriter & Activist Holly Near
With Tammy Hall on piano, Jan Martinelli on bass and Sandy O and Pat Humphries on support vocals.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
5:00pm Sunday, June 16th, 2024
50 years into her globe-spanning career, Holly Near is still one of the most consistent and well informed voices for change. Her work is loving, challenging, funny, thought-provoking, and remains rooted in the global community. As an outspoken singer and ambassador for peace, Holly brings a unique integration of world consciousness and self-evaluation, always growing and sharing experience humbly and boldly. Help us spread the word - download and distribute or flyer. Admission $10.
With Tammy Hall on piano, Jan Martinelli on bass and Sandy O and Pat Humphries on support vocals.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
5:00pm Sunday, June 16th, 2024
50 years into her globe-spanning career, Holly Near is still one of the most consistent and well informed voices for change. Her work is loving, challenging, funny, thought-provoking, and remains rooted in the global community. As an outspoken singer and ambassador for peace, Holly brings a unique integration of world consciousness and self-evaluation, always growing and sharing experience humbly and boldly. Help us spread the word - download and distribute or flyer. Admission $10.
The
Chimæra Ensemble
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7 pm Saturday May 25th 2024
The Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble is a new, semi-professional orchestra of talented instrumentalists who are passionate about making music together. They will share a program of some well known classical repertoire, along with music by Latin American composers not typically included in the Western classical canon. Help us spread the word - download and distribute or flyer. Admission is free with registration. Get tickets.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7 pm Saturday May 25th 2024
The Tijuana-based Chimæra Ensemble is a new, semi-professional orchestra of talented instrumentalists who are passionate about making music together. They will share a program of some well known classical repertoire, along with music by Latin American composers not typically included in the Western classical canon. Help us spread the word - download and distribute or flyer. Admission is free with registration. Get tickets.
Emma's Revolution Concert
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Friday, April 26th, 2023
Known for fearless, truth-telling lyrics and melodies you can’t resist singing, Emma's Revolution is the award-winning activist duo of Pat Humphries & Sandy O. With one eye on the news, they consistently write songs about critical issues happening in the world and enthusiastically lend their voices to the movements those issues inspire. In their 20th year performing together, their songs have traveled around the world inspiring countless social justice and environmental achievements. Help us spread the word - download and distribute our letter-size flyer. or 11x17 poster. Free admission.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Friday, April 26th, 2023
Known for fearless, truth-telling lyrics and melodies you can’t resist singing, Emma's Revolution is the award-winning activist duo of Pat Humphries & Sandy O. With one eye on the news, they consistently write songs about critical issues happening in the world and enthusiastically lend their voices to the movements those issues inspire. In their 20th year performing together, their songs have traveled around the world inspiring countless social justice and environmental achievements. Help us spread the word - download and distribute our letter-size flyer. or 11x17 poster. Free admission.
Susan Straight Author Talk
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Saturday, March 16th
In the Meeting House at First UU Church of San Diego
On-site book sales by The Book Catapult
Susan Straight’s most recent novel Mecca, was a national bestseller, a finalist for The Kirkus Prize, and named a best novel of the year by The Washington Post and NPR, as well as a Top Ten California Book by the New York Times, and winner of the Southwest Book of the Year for Fiction.
In Mecca, the celebrated novelist Susan Straight crafts an unforgettable American epic, examining race, history, family, and destiny through the interlocking stories of a group of native Californians all gasping for air. With sensitivity, furor, and a cinematic scope that captures California in all its injustice, history, and glory, she tells a story of the American West through the eyes of the people who built it—and continue to sustain it. As the stakes get higher and the intertwined characters in Mecca slam against barrier after barrier, they find that when push comes to shove, it’s always better to push back.
"Susan Straight finds LA's secret heart in Between Heaven and Here and with a sleight of hand only the masters have, she creates an alley, a neighborhood, a history that is as rich and tragic as any Shakespearean tale." - Walter Mosley
In addition to her many novels and hundreds of short stories and articles, she is Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at the University of California, Riverside, where she has taught since 1988. Join us for an engaging evening of discussion with this acclaimed author. Admission is FREE with registration. Free admission.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Saturday, March 16th
In the Meeting House at First UU Church of San Diego
On-site book sales by The Book Catapult
Susan Straight’s most recent novel Mecca, was a national bestseller, a finalist for The Kirkus Prize, and named a best novel of the year by The Washington Post and NPR, as well as a Top Ten California Book by the New York Times, and winner of the Southwest Book of the Year for Fiction.
In Mecca, the celebrated novelist Susan Straight crafts an unforgettable American epic, examining race, history, family, and destiny through the interlocking stories of a group of native Californians all gasping for air. With sensitivity, furor, and a cinematic scope that captures California in all its injustice, history, and glory, she tells a story of the American West through the eyes of the people who built it—and continue to sustain it. As the stakes get higher and the intertwined characters in Mecca slam against barrier after barrier, they find that when push comes to shove, it’s always better to push back.
"Susan Straight finds LA's secret heart in Between Heaven and Here and with a sleight of hand only the masters have, she creates an alley, a neighborhood, a history that is as rich and tragic as any Shakespearean tale." - Walter Mosley
In addition to her many novels and hundreds of short stories and articles, she is Distinguished Professor of Creative Writing at the University of California, Riverside, where she has taught since 1988. Join us for an engaging evening of discussion with this acclaimed author. Admission is FREE with registration. Free admission.
Soprano Tamara Haskin "Transformation"
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Saturday, February 24th
In the Meeting House at First UU Church of San Diego
It’s that moment where the heart experiences a refreshing transformation, that changes aspects of who we are, what we do and the life we lead. Once transformed, the heart can never go back to exactly what it was before. In a compilation of unique 21st century songs by American composers, international opera singer Tamara Haskin takes you on an inspiring musical journey from darkness to light, sorrow to happiness, death to life and earth to heaven. Songs by Ricky Ian Gordon, Richard Taylor, Judy Collins, Adam Guettel and others, will rejuvenate in you a new appreciation for the beauty of life.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Saturday, February 24th
In the Meeting House at First UU Church of San Diego
It’s that moment where the heart experiences a refreshing transformation, that changes aspects of who we are, what we do and the life we lead. Once transformed, the heart can never go back to exactly what it was before. In a compilation of unique 21st century songs by American composers, international opera singer Tamara Haskin takes you on an inspiring musical journey from darkness to light, sorrow to happiness, death to life and earth to heaven. Songs by Ricky Ian Gordon, Richard Taylor, Judy Collins, Adam Guettel and others, will rejuvenate in you a new appreciation for the beauty of life.
|
America Soprano Tamara Haskin made her international stage debut at the Macedonian Opera in the title role of Verdi’s AIDA. Since that time, Haskin has performed close to 80 critical acclaim performances of Aida throughout Germany at the Staatstheater am Gärtnerplatz in Munich, the Theater Hof, the Theater Regensburg, the Theater für Niedersachsen, and in Poland at the Opera Śląska. Haskin performed the role of Elisabetta in Verdi’s DON CARLO at the Theater Hagen and the Theater Aachen in Germany. At the New York City Opera, Haskin sang the role of Sister Rose in DEAD MAN WALKING and the role of Bess in the 20th Century opera entitled, STRANGE FRUIT. A song cycle called REFLECTIONS, was written specifically for her by the renowned Cuban composer Tania Leon, in which Haskin performed the world premiere at the 2009 opening of the Gateway Theater in New York City.
|
|
Haskin has appeared as a regular soloist with the Klassicphilharmonie of Hamburg, Germany and guest soloist with the Setmana Lirica de Santanyi orchestra in Mallorca, Spain. She was also a featured soloist in a concert tour of Negro Spirituals in Jaca, Escaldes, Vielha, Amurio and Orense, Spain.
In the United States Haskin has performed as a soloist with numerous orchestras, including the Midland Symphony, New York City Opera’s American Composers Orchestra, the New Haven Symphony, the One World Symphony and the Gateway Symphony Orchestra. Tamara Haskin has received awards from the New York Vocal Artist Foundation, and the Altamura / Enrico International Voice Competition. She is a two-time winner of Vera Scammon International Voice Competition. To learn more about Tamara visit www.TamaraHaskin.com. Admission is FREE with registration. Free admission.
In the United States Haskin has performed as a soloist with numerous orchestras, including the Midland Symphony, New York City Opera’s American Composers Orchestra, the New Haven Symphony, the One World Symphony and the Gateway Symphony Orchestra. Tamara Haskin has received awards from the New York Vocal Artist Foundation, and the Altamura / Enrico International Voice Competition. She is a two-time winner of Vera Scammon International Voice Competition. To learn more about Tamara visit www.TamaraHaskin.com. Admission is FREE with registration. Free admission.
Jud Caswell Appearances on Jan. 27th Cancelled
We're sorry to announce that Due to unforeseen circumstances, the three appearances by Jud Caswell have been cancelled. Jud will be joining us at a future date and we'll let you know as soon as it's scheduled. Free admission.
We're sorry to announce that Due to unforeseen circumstances, the three appearances by Jud Caswell have been cancelled. Jud will be joining us at a future date and we'll let you know as soon as it's scheduled. Free admission.
Winter Schminter: A Celebration of the Winter Solstice
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Thursday, December 21st, 2023
Yale Strom's Hot Pstromi ensemble explores the history of celebrating the winter solstice through the folk music of the three Abrahamic religons and European paganism. "The choice of music, the performances, and the wealth of background information ... are exemplary. - A Green Man Review. Admission is free with registration. Free admission.
Brought to you by Front Street Productions
7:30pm Thursday, December 21st, 2023
Yale Strom's Hot Pstromi ensemble explores the history of celebrating the winter solstice through the folk music of the three Abrahamic religons and European paganism. "The choice of music, the performances, and the wealth of background information ... are exemplary. - A Green Man Review. Admission is free with registration. Free admission.
"Two Eyes" Feature Film Screening
6-9pm Friday October 20th, 2023
"Two Eyes" explores sexuality and gender in three storylines over the course of a century. Following the movie, we'll screen a 30 min, pre-recorded Q&A with the cast and filmmakers hosted by Alan Cumming. "Two Eyes" had me in tears of appreciation for the trans, nonbinary, non-conforming ancestors whose struggles reverberate to the present day" ~ Glenn Gaylord of The Queer Review. Co-hosted by Lifespan, Outreach & Growth and Rainbow Action with support from the Outreach and Growth Fund. Free popcorn and drinks! Free admission.
6-9pm Friday October 20th, 2023
"Two Eyes" explores sexuality and gender in three storylines over the course of a century. Following the movie, we'll screen a 30 min, pre-recorded Q&A with the cast and filmmakers hosted by Alan Cumming. "Two Eyes" had me in tears of appreciation for the trans, nonbinary, non-conforming ancestors whose struggles reverberate to the present day" ~ Glenn Gaylord of The Queer Review. Co-hosted by Lifespan, Outreach & Growth and Rainbow Action with support from the Outreach and Growth Fund. Free popcorn and drinks! Free admission.
Nishi La Tremenda: Opera Desconstructed
7:30-9 pm Friday, September 22nd, 2023
There is nothing like the visceral power of the human voice to build connections and reaffirm our shared humanity. With that in mind, this music is focused on deconstructing opera into its most basic elements, with the human voice, dynamic instrumentation and storytelling front and center. The opera-curious will delight in La Tremenda's ability to relate opera to modern life experiences with her gift for expressive storytelling folded into the pulses of Latin and urban America. All who love music and culture will appreciate this celebration of the vibrant synergy of elements coming together in the spirit of crossing borders. Anishka Lee-Skorepa is a distinguished vocal artist who lives, works, and creates as a fronteriza - an artist with a foot in both worlds, existing in the full flow of the border experience in the San Diego/Tijuana region. Inspired by a lifetime of connections she's experienced through music and performance- she set out to create a more accessible and agile version of opera to excite and attract new audiences. Free admission.
7:30-9 pm Friday, September 22nd, 2023
There is nothing like the visceral power of the human voice to build connections and reaffirm our shared humanity. With that in mind, this music is focused on deconstructing opera into its most basic elements, with the human voice, dynamic instrumentation and storytelling front and center. The opera-curious will delight in La Tremenda's ability to relate opera to modern life experiences with her gift for expressive storytelling folded into the pulses of Latin and urban America. All who love music and culture will appreciate this celebration of the vibrant synergy of elements coming together in the spirit of crossing borders. Anishka Lee-Skorepa is a distinguished vocal artist who lives, works, and creates as a fronteriza - an artist with a foot in both worlds, existing in the full flow of the border experience in the San Diego/Tijuana region. Inspired by a lifetime of connections she's experienced through music and performance- she set out to create a more accessible and agile version of opera to excite and attract new audiences. Free admission.
Album Release Concert by Zane Alexander S.B. and the Holy Ghost Ensemble
7:30-9 pm Friday, September 8th, 2023
Composer Zane Alexander S.B. will lead the 13-piece Holy Ghost Ensemble of distinguished San Diego musicians through a structured improvisation blending jazz, classical, and new textures in an idiom of his own - a composition that has surprised concert-goers with its sound and scope. Free admission.
7:30-9 pm Friday, September 8th, 2023
Composer Zane Alexander S.B. will lead the 13-piece Holy Ghost Ensemble of distinguished San Diego musicians through a structured improvisation blending jazz, classical, and new textures in an idiom of his own - a composition that has surprised concert-goers with its sound and scope. Free admission.
Summer Arts Festival - All Community Event on the Patio
3 to 5:30 pm Saturday, August 26th, 2023
Join us for this family-friendly event filled with music groups and performers made up of members and friends. More details coming soon.
Free admission.
3 to 5:30 pm Saturday, August 26th, 2023
Join us for this family-friendly event filled with music groups and performers made up of members and friends. More details coming soon.
Free admission.
SummerFest Community Concert by trioJEM and Quartet Integra
Presented in Partnership by Front Street Productions and La Jolla Music Society
7:30-9 pm Thursday, August 10th, 2023
Join us for a truly remarkable evening of music by the La Jolla Music Society's 2023 Fellowship Artists trioJEM (comprised of Elliot Wuu, piano; Max Tan, violin and Julia Lee, cello) and Quartet Integra (Kyoka Misawa, Rintaro Kikuno, violins; Itsuki Yamamoto, viola; and Anri Tsukiji, cello) in the acoustically-optimized Meeting House at First UU Church in Hillcrest. Free admission.
Presented in Partnership by Front Street Productions and La Jolla Music Society
7:30-9 pm Thursday, August 10th, 2023
Join us for a truly remarkable evening of music by the La Jolla Music Society's 2023 Fellowship Artists trioJEM (comprised of Elliot Wuu, piano; Max Tan, violin and Julia Lee, cello) and Quartet Integra (Kyoka Misawa, Rintaro Kikuno, violins; Itsuki Yamamoto, viola; and Anri Tsukiji, cello) in the acoustically-optimized Meeting House at First UU Church in Hillcrest. Free admission.
Summer Tardeada Dance Party
La Rondalla de San Diego and Mariachi Victoria de San Diego
2-5 pm Saturday, July 29th, 2023
Come to the inaugural Tareada by La Rondalla de San Diego elders and the young Mariachi Victoria offering a traditional afternoon dance party. Schmooze with friends and family. Dance as you like. Rondalla dancers will share tips and demonstrate dance steps to some of the songs. Enjoy free refreshments including a nacho bar, fruit, veggies and sweets. Free admission.
La Rondalla de San Diego and Mariachi Victoria de San Diego
2-5 pm Saturday, July 29th, 2023
Come to the inaugural Tareada by La Rondalla de San Diego elders and the young Mariachi Victoria offering a traditional afternoon dance party. Schmooze with friends and family. Dance as you like. Rondalla dancers will share tips and demonstrate dance steps to some of the songs. Enjoy free refreshments including a nacho bar, fruit, veggies and sweets. Free admission.
"Songs of Liberation" Martin Luther King, Jr.
Community Choir of San Diego
With special guest Marshall Voit, vocals and guitar
7:30pm Saturday, June 10th, 2023
Treat yourself to an evening of uplifting songs from the African American choral tradition, including traditional and contemporary gospel, Negro spirituals, anthems, and oratorios. Under the direction of Ken Anderson, the MLK Choir raises funds for educational grants for local college-bound students. The Choir will be joined by Marshall Voit, music director at First UU San Diego, opening the concert with protest music classics, original compositions, and social justice songs. Free admission.
With special guest Marshall Voit, vocals and guitar
7:30pm Saturday, June 10th, 2023
Treat yourself to an evening of uplifting songs from the African American choral tradition, including traditional and contemporary gospel, Negro spirituals, anthems, and oratorios. Under the direction of Ken Anderson, the MLK Choir raises funds for educational grants for local college-bound students. The Choir will be joined by Marshall Voit, music director at First UU San Diego, opening the concert with protest music classics, original compositions, and social justice songs. Free admission.
The Grossmont College Middle East Ensemble
7:30 pm Saturday, May 20th, 2023
Immerse yourself in a world of beautiful melodies and fascinating rhythms. The Grossmont College Middle East Ensemble is open to all instruments with players from both the college and the community specializing in music from the vast Afro-Asiatic region known these days as the "Middle East". Free admission.
7:30 pm Saturday, May 20th, 2023
Immerse yourself in a world of beautiful melodies and fascinating rhythms. The Grossmont College Middle East Ensemble is open to all instruments with players from both the college and the community specializing in music from the vast Afro-Asiatic region known these days as the "Middle East". Free admission.
MacArthur Genius Natalia Molina Author Talk & Book Signing -
A Place at the Nayarit: How a Mexican Restaurant Nourished a Community
7:30-9pm Sunday, April 30th, 2023
In the 1950s and 60s, a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles was much more than a popular eating spot: it was an urban anchor whose ethnic Mexican workers and customers formed a robust community. Molina illuminates the many facets of the immigrant experience from racism and segregation to family and community networks, the cross-currents of gender and sexuality, and the small pleasures of daily life. The Nayarit was a space where people could speak out, claim space, and belong. Natalia's editor, our own Isabella Furth, will be on hand along with staff from Libélula Books & Co, an independent book store in Barrio Logan, which will be handling book sales at our reception afterwards. Free admission.
A Place at the Nayarit: How a Mexican Restaurant Nourished a Community
7:30-9pm Sunday, April 30th, 2023
In the 1950s and 60s, a Mexican restaurant in Los Angeles was much more than a popular eating spot: it was an urban anchor whose ethnic Mexican workers and customers formed a robust community. Molina illuminates the many facets of the immigrant experience from racism and segregation to family and community networks, the cross-currents of gender and sexuality, and the small pleasures of daily life. The Nayarit was a space where people could speak out, claim space, and belong. Natalia's editor, our own Isabella Furth, will be on hand along with staff from Libélula Books & Co, an independent book store in Barrio Logan, which will be handling book sales at our reception afterwards. Free admission.
San Diego Children's Intermediate Choir in collaboration with the Piedmont East Bay Children's Intermediate Choir
April 2, Sunday, 6:30 pm, Meeting House. Front Street Productions presents the “San Diego Children’s Intermediate Choir and the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir” for a collaborative evening of spectacular singing by children and youth under the age of 18 from both San Diego and Oakland. Free admission.
April 2, Sunday, 6:30 pm, Meeting House. Front Street Productions presents the “San Diego Children’s Intermediate Choir and the Piedmont East Bay Children’s Choir” for a collaborative evening of spectacular singing by children and youth under the age of 18 from both San Diego and Oakland. Free admission.
Mali Irene in Concert with Joshua White
7:30 pm Sunday, March 26th 2023
Classics from Nina Simone, Mahalia Jackson and Abby Lincoln finished with a sweet dose of Spanish boleros. Mali Irene is a versatile vocal artist composer, scholar and collaborator. Her work breathes on an inspired continuum between opera, jazz, world, and electronic music. Joshua White is one of today’s most creative and technically accomplished pianists. Praised by legendary musicians like Herbie Hancock, Joshua has distinguished himself as a formidable leader and distinct voice among his peers. Free admission.
7:30 pm Sunday, March 26th 2023
Classics from Nina Simone, Mahalia Jackson and Abby Lincoln finished with a sweet dose of Spanish boleros. Mali Irene is a versatile vocal artist composer, scholar and collaborator. Her work breathes on an inspired continuum between opera, jazz, world, and electronic music. Joshua White is one of today’s most creative and technically accomplished pianists. Praised by legendary musicians like Herbie Hancock, Joshua has distinguished himself as a formidable leader and distinct voice among his peers. Free admission.
Una Noche de Barbershop with Los Bordershop Quartet
7:30 pm Saturday, March 11th 2023
Experience barbershop standards and originals in English, Spanish and Portuguese! Formado en 2019, Los Bordershop es el primer cuarteto mexicano de barbershop, y uno de los únicos del mundo que canta en español. No pierdas la oportunidad de ver su debut en los EEUU. Formed in 2019, Los Bordershop is Mexico's premier barbershop quartet, and among the only quartets in the world to sing in Spanish. Featuring special guests: MotleyQ and So Noted! Free admission.
7:30 pm Saturday, March 11th 2023
Experience barbershop standards and originals in English, Spanish and Portuguese! Formado en 2019, Los Bordershop es el primer cuarteto mexicano de barbershop, y uno de los únicos del mundo que canta en español. No pierdas la oportunidad de ver su debut en los EEUU. Formed in 2019, Los Bordershop is Mexico's premier barbershop quartet, and among the only quartets in the world to sing in Spanish. Featuring special guests: MotleyQ and So Noted! Free admission.
Introduction to Buddhism & Meditation with Jeffrey Zlotnik
Friday, February 3rd, 7:30 pm, Bard Hall
Free Community Event Series presented by Front Street Productions
Cost: FREE
Jeffrey is Co-Founder and CEO of the Dharma Bum Temple, Founder and CEO of The Meditation Initiative and Co-Ed Buddhist Fraternity at SDSU. Come see what it’s all about and learn! Free admission.
Friday, February 3rd, 7:30 pm, Bard Hall
Free Community Event Series presented by Front Street Productions
Cost: FREE
Jeffrey is Co-Founder and CEO of the Dharma Bum Temple, Founder and CEO of The Meditation Initiative and Co-Ed Buddhist Fraternity at SDSU. Come see what it’s all about and learn! Free admission.
Tasha Smith Godinez Jazz Harp with viola and percussion
Saturday, January 21st, 7:30-9pm
Cost: FREE
Featuring songs from her latest album "Out of the Desert" - help us spread the word, download a flyer. Tasha is a renowned harpist and she composed this album between 2020 and 2021, as a refuge from the chaotic world around her. Master musicians, Christopher Garcia on percussion and Domenico Hueso on viola, as well as others, join her to create a magical sound. This concert is free and is absolutely gorgeous for the ears and the eyes. Free admission.
Saturday, January 21st, 7:30-9pm
Cost: FREE
Featuring songs from her latest album "Out of the Desert" - help us spread the word, download a flyer. Tasha is a renowned harpist and she composed this album between 2020 and 2021, as a refuge from the chaotic world around her. Master musicians, Christopher Garcia on percussion and Domenico Hueso on viola, as well as others, join her to create a magical sound. This concert is free and is absolutely gorgeous for the ears and the eyes. Free admission.
Winter Schminter
A Hanukkah / Solstice Concert
Thursday, December 22nd, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Featuring Yale Strom & Hot Pstromi. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Free admission.
A Hanukkah / Solstice Concert
Thursday, December 22nd, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Featuring Yale Strom & Hot Pstromi. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Free admission.
The Grossmont College Jazz Ensemble with The Grossmont College Afro-Cuban Jazz Ensemble
Tuesday, December 13th, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Cost: FREE
Specializing in popular Afro-Cuban and Brazilian musical styles such as the Mambo, Cha-Cha, Bossa Nova, Samba, Merengue, and Afro-Cuban 6/8. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Free admission.
Tuesday, December 13th, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Cost: FREE
Specializing in popular Afro-Cuban and Brazilian musical styles such as the Mambo, Cha-Cha, Bossa Nova, Samba, Merengue, and Afro-Cuban 6/8. Doors open at 7:00 pm. Free admission.
Darryl F. Walker and The Saxations - Motown & More
Sunday, November 13th, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Cost: FREE
Performing pieces from their hit show "Motown and More", Darryl F. Walker and The Saxations righteously rocked the Meeting House. It was a great family-friendly evening the packed audience dancing in their seats and singing along. View photos. Free admission.
Sunday, November 13th, 7:30-9pm
First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego
Cost: FREE
Performing pieces from their hit show "Motown and More", Darryl F. Walker and The Saxations righteously rocked the Meeting House. It was a great family-friendly evening the packed audience dancing in their seats and singing along. View photos. Free admission.
10/7/22 Friday, October 7th, 7:30-9pm
La Chimi Flamenco Show with live music
Featuring singer Pepele Mendez from Southern Spain
Cost: FREE
Flamenco dancer, Lakshmi Basile "La Chimi" delivered a dynamic show to a full house last Friday night at First UU Church of San Diego. Accompanied by Jeff Basile on Bass, David Morales on violin, Kambiz Pakan on guitar and special guest singer Pepele Mendez, La Chimi guided the audience through a magical Flamenco journey - to enthusiastic applause. View photos. Free admission.
La Chimi Flamenco Show with live music
Featuring singer Pepele Mendez from Southern Spain
Cost: FREE
Flamenco dancer, Lakshmi Basile "La Chimi" delivered a dynamic show to a full house last Friday night at First UU Church of San Diego. Accompanied by Jeff Basile on Bass, David Morales on violin, Kambiz Pakan on guitar and special guest singer Pepele Mendez, La Chimi guided the audience through a magical Flamenco journey - to enthusiastic applause. View photos. Free admission.
8/19/22 - La Jolla Music Society's SummerFest Concert
An audience of about 280 enjoyed this evening of modernist classical music from the early 20th century by Taneyev, Schoenberg, Janáček, Ravel and others. Funded by the Outreach and Growth Fund and produced by Front Street Productions, this event featured the La Jolla Music Society's fellowship artists: the Aestas Trio and the Pelia Quartet. View photos. Free admission.
An audience of about 280 enjoyed this evening of modernist classical music from the early 20th century by Taneyev, Schoenberg, Janáček, Ravel and others. Funded by the Outreach and Growth Fund and produced by Front Street Productions, this event featured the La Jolla Music Society's fellowship artists: the Aestas Trio and the Pelia Quartet. View photos. Free admission.
7/30/22 - Summer Hootenanny
Hoot·en·an·ny: An afternoon of music and fun for the whole family, featuring live music, sing-alongs, food, drink, fun and games. Roughly 190 attendees enjoyed a musical afternoon on the patio of the First Church Hillcrest campus listening, singing along, clapping and tapping to the rhythms - enjoying being together and having a good time. Entertainers included the Front Street Troubadours, Carolyn and Tom Owen-Towle, Drew Massicot, the South Bay Singers, the Ferrier Brothers, Penny Whistlers, Keith Mesecher and more performing a sparkling variety of folk music. The UU Men’s Fellowship provided free snacks, drinks, ice cream bars and popsicles for everyone. Free admission.
Hoot·en·an·ny: An afternoon of music and fun for the whole family, featuring live music, sing-alongs, food, drink, fun and games. Roughly 190 attendees enjoyed a musical afternoon on the patio of the First Church Hillcrest campus listening, singing along, clapping and tapping to the rhythms - enjoying being together and having a good time. Entertainers included the Front Street Troubadours, Carolyn and Tom Owen-Towle, Drew Massicot, the South Bay Singers, the Ferrier Brothers, Penny Whistlers, Keith Mesecher and more performing a sparkling variety of folk music. The UU Men’s Fellowship provided free snacks, drinks, ice cream bars and popsicles for everyone. Free admission.
Who to contact
For more info, email [email protected]. Front Street Production events are funded by the First Unitarian Universalist Church of San Diego's Outreach and Growth Fund.
