Gus & Mary Chabre
Myrna Hamid
Louise & Steven Koch
Samuel & Tammy Tang
Corporate Sponsor
The Prepared Performer
Associate Producer
Laurie Smits Staude
Supporting Producer
Chris & Steve Sumpter
EXTENDED BY POPULAR DEMAND THRU MARCH 2nd!
On the Cripe Stage…
Get ready to experience the heart and soul of Once! This intimate musical, based on the Academy Award-winning film, tells the story of a Dublin street musician and a Czech immigrant whose chance encounter sparks a week-long collaboration full of music, dreams, and unexpected connection. He’s trying to move on from heartbreak, she’s a bit of a mystery, and both are a bit stuck as they deal with their own pain and loss. But together, they create songs that capture the joy, struggle, and beauty of life, music that has the power to speak to their souls and offer some healing. This unlikely friendship blossoms into something powerful, complicated, and brings the possibility of something more…
An ensemble of actors play the hilarious and eclectic characters around them – parents, immigrants, a struggling shopowner, and more – Once shows how music can create unlikely community out of disparate people. Scored with evocative, emotionally charged music and performed live by the ensemble of actors themselves, Once is a raw, heartfelt, and joyous musical journey. It’s a must-see for anyone who has ever been swept away by stories of hope, connection, the transformative magic of music, and love. Don’t miss the chance to experience this celebrated, Tony Award-winning musical in a whole new way!
“A revelation! This is some of the best live theatre in Southern California.”BroadwayWorld
“Top 10! Recommended!”Stage Raw
“A musical so magical and memorable, you might even want to see it twice.”StageSceneLA
“A true paradise for theatre lovers!”Glamagical
“intimate, raw, and authentic… with breathtaking skill and emotional truth.”Fanboy Nation
“Incredibly phenomenal from start to finish…you won’t want to miss.”SoCal Thrills
Community Partners
Interested in becoming a Community Partner? Find out more HERE!
Join us before and after the performance for a happy hour. Schedule is subject to change. Saturday, February 14, 2026 starting at 2:00PM.
2:00 PM - Mingling in the Chance lobby over light bites and Happy Hour drinks!
3:00 PM - The show begins! We can't wait for you to see this performance!
5:30 PM - Participate in a post-show conversation with the Cast.
5:45 PM - The event comes to an end.
PRIDE NIGHT
Join us for our Pride Night, where theater lovers who share an identity can connect over refreshments and conversation before enjoying a performance. Schedule is subject to change. Saturday, February 14, 2026 starting at 7:00 PM.
7:00 PM - Mingling in the Chance lobby over light bites and Happy Hour drinks.
8:00 PM - The show begins! We can't wait for you to see this performance!
10:30 PM - Participate in a post-show conversation with the Cast and each other.
Back by popular demand, Wine Night features a signature wine for the first 50 patrons in the door. Members and their guests receive priority access. Schedule is subject to change. Friday, February 13, 2026 starting at 7:00PM.
6:45 PM - Check-In Starts
7:00 PM - Wine Night starts. Enjoy free exclusive wines!
7:45 PM - Wine Night ends. Get prepared for the show!
8:00 PM - Show starts, feel free to bring in your cup!
Are you part of a Community Organization? Contact us at [email protected] for information on special discounts and fundraising opportunities.
IN PERFORMANCE
Emma Laird and Morgan Hollingsworth in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
The cast of “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Jennifer Richardson, Leota Rhodes, and Emma Laird in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Jennifer Richardson, Will Huse, Mike Bradecich, Austin Ledger, and Joseph Dailey in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Emma Laird and Morgan Hollingsworth in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Emma Laird and Morgan Hollingsworth in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Mike Bradecich, Morgan Hollingsworth, and Emma Laird in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Jonah Meyer, Leota Rhodes, Austin Ledger, and Jennifer Richardson in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Will Huse, Lex Leigh, and Leota Rhodes in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Mike Bradecich, Lex Leigh, and Leota Rhodes in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Emma Laird and Amy Sorensen in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Morgan Hollingsworth and Emma Laird in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Jonah Meyer, Will Huse, Joseph Dailey, and Jennifer Richardson in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Austin Ledger, Leota Rhodes, Becca Last, Emma Laird, and Jonah Meyer in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Morgan Hollingsworth, Leota Rhodes, Jennifer Richardson, Jonah Meyer, and Austin Ledger in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
Morgan Hollingsworth in “Once” at Chance Theater. Playing January 23 – March 1, 2026 at the Bette Aitken theater arts Center on the Cripe Stage. Photos by Doug Catiller.
IN REHEARSAL
Bring the Kids to Chance Theater During "Once"
Parents can enjoy the magic of Once at Chance Theater while their children dive into their own creative adventure! On Sunday, February 22, during the 3 PM matinee, kids ages 5–12 can join a hands-on theater workshop led by our talented teaching artists.
Through games and activities inspired by the show, kids will explore storytelling, music, and performance in a fun, safe environment—leaving parents free to enjoy the performance.
The cost is $20 per child, with a $10 discount for Chance Theater members (Please call us to redeem your member discount). Performance tickets not included.
If you're interested, please select the February 22 performance and select the "Childcare add-on" when purchasing tickets. For questions, call 888-455-4212 M-F 11a-3p or email [email protected]
It was such wonderful show! The performs and musicians were absolutely amazing!
— Anonymous
Cast sound lighting venue 100% professional love the small intimate setting…bonus was the pre show concert and artist talk after! We loved it…will be back for other shows!
— Cheryl Keim
It seriously was one of the best performances I’ve ever seen in live theater. Still thinking about the show 4 days later.
— Judith Hedstrand
The chemistry between the two leads was heartfelt. The Girl was outstanding. Her eyes were so expressive. Showed wonderment, playfulness, love. I was totally enthralled and couldn’t take my eyes off of her. I would see anything she was in.
— Anonymous
High energy, good music, some good comedy, quirky characters
— Anonymous
Amazing venue with amazing staff. Great cast and overall production!
— Michelle
It was overall, a good show, intimate setting and friendly staff. It was very nice to meet and speak with the performers. The performance I was at was very well done, music acting, singing. Loved it all.
— Anonymous
So well done!
— Loui Cronholm
love this play. great lead characters
— Anonymous
Excellent
— Joe Chiles
The actors and musicians were fabulous!
— Mary Lee Lindquist
Live theater at the Chance is the best deal in town…
— Alan Lowe
The performers were outstanding & the production was as good as any Broadway musical. Also, I loved the theme of play; had me shedding tears.
— Yvonne Realini
The productions are great and the talent is great. It’s a challenge space and you do great things. I didn’t have enough time to enter the contest. I was typing and was given like a few seconds.
— Kenneth Lin
The actors were fantastic! They were all multi-talented. Their voices were great. Many played multiple instruments and were excellent. The choreography was interesting and energetic. The show had a lovely story but the enthusiastic, high energy, music by the cast was really fun and extremely enjoyable. We are so thankful that we chose Once as our introduction to the Chance theater. We left with smiles on our faces and songs in our hearts. I phoned the theater twice and had wonderful little chats with Jake who answered all of my questions and concerns. He greeted us at the door and remembered who I was and my party. Our two guests had never attended nor heard of the Chance either, so we were all wonderfully pleased with everything. It was a bit confusing to find the theater in the dark for the first time, but we’ll know next time.
— Mary
Delightful. Fun. Inclusive.
— Anonymous
Great cast and fun show!
— Anonymous
It was a great show all told. Great singing, high energy.
— Anonymous
Everything was fantastic…intimate venue, fantastic cast/singing/dancing and engaging story. The performance was fantastic. The pre-play concert was so much fun and the after-play q&a with the cast was informative and educational.
— Anonymous
Love this broadway show
— Anonymous
What an amazing and friendly staff. The product quality was way score expectations. The show was a 10/10
— Rob Saiz
Great theatre, cozy, amazing performers, enjoyable pre-show!!
— Pamela Harmon
Talent was exceptional. Loved the intimacy of the small theater. Really enjoyed our night.
— Anonymous
I love a small theater experience! There is nothing like feeling so up close and personal with the show! It reminds me of my high school theater that I was involved in! All your staff was very friendly!
— Anonymous
We love the venue and had gone to several productions prior to Covid. Nice Lobby / Beverage Sales, and wonderful theatre seating. Very entertaining, talented performers and very engaging with the audience.
— Danielle Deleon
From the pre-show entertainment all the way to the end it kept me engaged and smiling
— Anonymous
It was very well; produced and very entertaining. Great performers! The review in the Register was correct – A great show!!
— Anonymous
Outstanding production
— Anonymous
Great show and excellent sound amplification and speakers
— Roger Sorensen
LOVED everything about my experience. Music was great, acting phenomenal and I can’t wait to go back. Loved it!!
— Angela Donatoni
Great casting, good choice of show for this theater, excellent performance, impressed with the quality of your productions, which make supporting local theater higher on my priority list when thinking about how much time I can commit.
— Anonymous
This is the 3 production I have seen at the Chance. They have all been great. I have seen Once, the play three times. 1st time in London in 2013. I thought it was better than the movie. I went to a production of Once at the Pantages in 2014. I had high expectations, but it was awful. There was no chemistry between the leading characters. I decided to give the play another chance at the Chance, due to the wonderful performances I had seen there before. The Chance production did not let me down. It was WONDERFUL! All of the actors were GREAT! I will be back.
— John H. Krueger
Outstanding production
— Anonymous
Great show and excellent sound amplification and speakers
— Roger Sorensen
LOVED everything about my experience. Music was great, acting phenomenal and I can’t wait to go back. Loved it!!
— Angela Donatoni
Great casting, good choice of show for this theater, excellent performance, impressed with the quality of your productions, which make supporting local theater higher on my priority list when thinking about how much time I can commit.
— Anonymous
This is the 3 production I have seen at the Chance. They have all been great. I have seen Once, the play three times. 1st time in London in 2013. I thought it was better than the movie. I went to a production of Once at the Pantages in 2014. I had high expectations, but it was awful. There was no chemistry between the leading characters. I decided to give the play another chance at the Chance, due to the wonderful performances I had seen there before. The Chance production did not let me down. It was WONDERFUL! All of the actors were GREAT! I will be back.
— John H. Krueger
We already have recommended it to friends! Loved the music, the story and the actors were terrific! We were not familiar with the play or movie, but, we were with the song. A beautiful rendition by the Chance troupe!
— Anonymous
The show itself was beautifully performed, choreographed in such a clever way with the stage design, the voices and instrumentation of that cast was incredible. I love the vibe of the theater and the invested back of house staff it truly felt as if everyone was in love with their job, it could just be “acting” but it was refreshing to feel welcomed and see folks who are showing kindness. The audience was so receptive and engaged. The parking was amazing, I love the theater size. I have been literally raving to my friends about this experience. I already rambled a lot. I am just so grateful for this experience, I have been down in the dumps over the heaviness of life and the whole situation with what is happening in our country and for two hours, I forgot all about that. Thanks again
— Anonymous
This was the most incredible assembly of musicians. I liked the diversity of age, race, personality – so well cast. Interesting collaboration of variety of instruments (can’t remember the last time I saw an accordion). The choreography and movement of the musicians around the stage was stunning as they interacted with the couple and with each other. The “couple” actors are gifted and talented both vocally and instrumentally (guitar and piano). The five person acapella vocal in the 2nd half was beautiful. The Chance Theater is truly a gift to our community.
— Anonymous
This performance of “Once” was fantastic!!! The talent of the performers/musicians was beyond outstanding! The show was beautifully done, and the preshow brought the stage to the audience! The Chance theater has once again outdone themselves!!! A couple right near us asked if all the shows at the Chance were this good! Of course, I said yes, and I encouraged them to be members!
— Vinnie and Hoyle Leigh
Intimate Setting and Friendly Staff
— Anonymous
Loved the lively pre-show. Set the energy for the evening. Such talented musicians and vocalists, who can also dance. Great timing, emotive, beautifully executed. Staff is cordial, helpful, patient and fun.
— Cathy
outstanding production on every level in an intimate setting. A+++
— Dean Mancina
Really amazing musicians and the acting and singing were great. Really loved the pre show before the real show started!
— Anonymous
The cast/musicians were amazing.
— Anonymous
Incredible cast and production
— Anonymous
Great show.
— Kevin McDuff
It was my first time at the Chance Theater although I have known about it for years. It truly is a gem in our community.
— Anonymous
I thought the actors were all so incredibly talented. Both the direction and musical direction were fantastic and I loved the space. I was sitting in the last row and I’m short and a man at least 6’5” sat in front if me. During intermission I asked the ushers if there was anything to move to on the side and they were very accommodating which I greatly appreciated.
— Anonymous
Loved everything about this show. The acting, singing and production quality was top notch. I have seen larger productions at bigger venues I did not enjoy as much! No notes, perfect show all around
— Anonymous
The level of talent was incredible. Seeing people play multiple instruments was impressive.
— Anonymous
I really like this theater! And this cast was extremely talented, all being musicians, singers and dancers as well as actors. Great seats, great performances.
— Anonymous
All performers did an outstanding job.
— Alan Lowe
I thought the production was charming, and every actor contributed meaningfully. And critically, the music was solid. I don’t live nearby, but based on this experience I will definitely consider future productions. Sorry to have missed THE CHINESE LADY.
— Anonymous
Once has always been my favorite show. The way it was done in such an intimate setting really punctuated everything happening on stage. That closeness also allowed to the audience to be part of the show. This place puts on quality productions.
— Anonymous
It was a great show with talented cast, comfortable seats and loved the pre show
— Anonymous
FANTASTIC Music and energy from the performers and loved the story. Made me want to re-watch the movie!
— Anonymous
It was a great show with talented cast, comfortable seats and loved the pre show
— Anonymous
FANTASTIC Music and energy from the performers and loved the story. Made me want to re-watch the movie!
It was such wonderful show! The performs and musicians were absolutely amazing!
Cast sound lighting venue 100% professional love the small intimate setting…bonus was the pre show concert and artist talk after! We loved it…will be back for other shows!
It seriously was one of the best performances I’ve ever seen in live theater. Still thinking about the show 4 days later.
The chemistry between the two leads was heartfelt. The Girl was outstanding. Her eyes were so expressive. Showed wonderment, playfulness, love. I was totally enthralled and couldn’t take my eyes off of her. I would see anything she was in.
High energy, good music, some good comedy, quirky characters
Amazing venue with amazing staff. Great cast and overall production!
It was overall, a good show, intimate setting and friendly staff. It was very nice to meet and speak with the performers. The performance I was at was very well done, music acting, singing. Loved it all.
So well done!
love this play. great lead characters
Excellent
The actors and musicians were fabulous!
Live theater at the Chance is the best deal in town…
The performers were outstanding & the production was as good as any Broadway musical. Also, I loved the theme of play; had me shedding tears.
The productions are great and the talent is great. It’s a challenge space and you do great things. I didn’t have enough time to enter the contest. I was typing and was given like a few seconds.
The actors were fantastic! They were all multi-talented. Their voices were great. Many played multiple instruments and were excellent. The choreography was interesting and energetic. The show had a lovely story but the enthusiastic, high energy, music by the cast was really fun and extremely enjoyable. We are so thankful that we chose Once as our introduction to the Chance theater. We left with smiles on our faces and songs in our hearts. I phoned the theater twice and had wonderful little chats with Jake who answered all of my questions and concerns. He greeted us at the door and remembered who I was and my party. Our two guests had never attended nor heard of the Chance either, so we were all wonderfully pleased with everything. It was a bit confusing to find the theater in the dark for the first time, but we’ll know next time.
Delightful. Fun. Inclusive.
Great cast and fun show!
It was a great show all told. Great singing, high energy.
Everything was fantastic…intimate venue, fantastic cast/singing/dancing and engaging story. The performance was fantastic. The pre-play concert was so much fun and the after-play q&a with the cast was informative and educational.
Love this broadway show
What an amazing and friendly staff. The product quality was way score expectations. The show was a 10/10
Great theatre, cozy, amazing performers, enjoyable pre-show!!
Talent was exceptional. Loved the intimacy of the small theater. Really enjoyed our night.
I love a small theater experience! There is nothing like feeling so up close and personal with the show! It reminds me of my high school theater that I was involved in! All your staff was very friendly!
We love the venue and had gone to several productions prior to Covid. Nice Lobby / Beverage Sales, and wonderful theatre seating. Very entertaining, talented performers and very engaging with the audience.
From the pre-show entertainment all the way to the end it kept me engaged and smiling
It was very well; produced and very entertaining. Great performers! The review in the Register was correct – A great show!!
Outstanding production
Great show and excellent sound amplification and speakers
LOVED everything about my experience. Music was great, acting phenomenal and I can’t wait to go back. Loved it!!
Great casting, good choice of show for this theater, excellent performance, impressed with the quality of your productions, which make supporting local theater higher on my priority list when thinking about how much time I can commit.
This is the 3 production I have seen at the Chance. They have all been great. I have seen Once, the play three times. 1st time in London in 2013. I thought it was better than the movie. I went to a production of Once at the Pantages in 2014. I had high expectations, but it was awful. There was no chemistry between the leading characters. I decided to give the play another chance at the Chance, due to the wonderful performances I had seen there before. The Chance production did not let me down. It was WONDERFUL! All of the actors were GREAT! I will be back.
Outstanding production
Great show and excellent sound amplification and speakers
LOVED everything about my experience. Music was great, acting phenomenal and I can’t wait to go back. Loved it!!
Great casting, good choice of show for this theater, excellent performance, impressed with the quality of your productions, which make supporting local theater higher on my priority list when thinking about how much time I can commit.
This is the 3 production I have seen at the Chance. They have all been great. I have seen Once, the play three times. 1st time in London in 2013. I thought it was better than the movie. I went to a production of Once at the Pantages in 2014. I had high expectations, but it was awful. There was no chemistry between the leading characters. I decided to give the play another chance at the Chance, due to the wonderful performances I had seen there before. The Chance production did not let me down. It was WONDERFUL! All of the actors were GREAT! I will be back.
We already have recommended it to friends! Loved the music, the story and the actors were terrific! We were not familiar with the play or movie, but, we were with the song. A beautiful rendition by the Chance troupe!
The show itself was beautifully performed, choreographed in such a clever way with the stage design, the voices and instrumentation of that cast was incredible. I love the vibe of the theater and the invested back of house staff it truly felt as if everyone was in love with their job, it could just be “acting” but it was refreshing to feel welcomed and see folks who are showing kindness. The audience was so receptive and engaged. The parking was amazing, I love the theater size. I have been literally raving to my friends about this experience. I already rambled a lot. I am just so grateful for this experience, I have been down in the dumps over the heaviness of life and the whole situation with what is happening in our country and for two hours, I forgot all about that. Thanks again
This was the most incredible assembly of musicians. I liked the diversity of age, race, personality – so well cast. Interesting collaboration of variety of instruments (can’t remember the last time I saw an accordion). The choreography and movement of the musicians around the stage was stunning as they interacted with the couple and with each other. The “couple” actors are gifted and talented both vocally and instrumentally (guitar and piano). The five person acapella vocal in the 2nd half was beautiful. The Chance Theater is truly a gift to our community.
This performance of “Once” was fantastic!!! The talent of the performers/musicians was beyond outstanding! The show was beautifully done, and the preshow brought the stage to the audience! The Chance theater has once again outdone themselves!!! A couple right near us asked if all the shows at the Chance were this good! Of course, I said yes, and I encouraged them to be members!
Intimate Setting and Friendly Staff
Loved the lively pre-show. Set the energy for the evening. Such talented musicians and vocalists, who can also dance. Great timing, emotive, beautifully executed. Staff is cordial, helpful, patient and fun.
outstanding production on every level in an intimate setting. A+++
Really amazing musicians and the acting and singing were great. Really loved the pre show before the real show started!
The cast/musicians were amazing.
Incredible cast and production
Great show.
It was my first time at the Chance Theater although I have known about it for years. It truly is a gem in our community.
I thought the actors were all so incredibly talented. Both the direction and musical direction were fantastic and I loved the space. I was sitting in the last row and I’m short and a man at least 6’5” sat in front if me. During intermission I asked the ushers if there was anything to move to on the side and they were very accommodating which I greatly appreciated.
Loved everything about this show. The acting, singing and production quality was top notch. I have seen larger productions at bigger venues I did not enjoy as much! No notes, perfect show all around
The level of talent was incredible. Seeing people play multiple instruments was impressive.
I really like this theater! And this cast was extremely talented, all being musicians, singers and dancers as well as actors. Great seats, great performances.
All performers did an outstanding job.
I thought the production was charming, and every actor contributed meaningfully. And critically, the music was solid. I don’t live nearby, but based on this experience I will definitely consider future productions. Sorry to have missed THE CHINESE LADY.
Once has always been my favorite show. The way it was done in such an intimate setting really punctuated everything happening on stage. That closeness also allowed to the audience to be part of the show. This place puts on quality productions.
It was a great show with talented cast, comfortable seats and loved the pre show
FANTASTIC Music and energy from the performers and loved the story. Made me want to re-watch the movie!
It was a great show with talented cast, comfortable seats and loved the pre show
FANTASTIC Music and energy from the performers and loved the story. Made me want to re-watch the movie!