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LIVEMAGS.NET MARCH>>10 13 THE MARCH TODO LIST La Mirada Theatre March Madness MARCH 5-27 WRITER>>NATE JACKSON C entered in between Orange County and L.A., the La Mirada Theatre of the Performing Arts continues to carve out a special niche in So Cal entertainment. And in March, the presence of this Broadway style venue reaches its peak. In a nonstop barrage of classic and riveting performances, dubbed March Madness, the La Mirada Theatre brings audiences eight diverse productions that include concerts, magic and drama. And just like the college basketball tournament that shares its namesake, this month-long showcase moves quickly---all of the shows during March are performed for one night only. What's most surprising (or maybe not so surprising for those who already visit this theater regularly) is the amount of old-school star power that contributes to the productions. This month, La Mirada Theatre welcomes stars like veteran actor Ed Asner (in Ed Asner as FDR), classic rock-n-rollers ,Three Dog Night, and actress/living legend, Debbie Reynolds. March Madness kicks off on March 5 with a performance by Journey Unauthorized, a seasoned touring tribute to legendary, all-American rock band Journey. Working the hotel and casino circuit for a number of years, a performance by a rock-n-roll tribute band may seem slightly out of place at Broadway-style theatre. However, the band's ability to play the part of each original member of Journey in their heyday (wigs and tight pants included) is a nostalgic stage show unto itself. Audiences will revel in their spirited performance and note-for-note musicianship on classics like "Lights," and "Open Arms." Not to mention their rendition of karaoke classic "Don't Stop Believin'" that is downright, uh, believable. La Mirada's affinity for classic sounds continues as audiences get reacquainted with the 50s, courtesy of Swing, Swing, Swing! featuring a cavalcade of golden oldie sounds. The show is a one-off gathering of memorable harmonizers the Four Lads and the Ink Spots, whose musical contributions crossed over into various genres including swing, doo-wop, pop and R&B. They'll be performing alongside Mary Ann Mobely, Jo Ann Castle, the Big Band All Stars and the swing time dancers. Part of what keeps people coming back to musical events of March Madness at La Mirada Theatre is the variety of acts they bring to the stage. Whether you're watching an impeccable recreation of the Beatles album Abbey Road by all- star musical troupe Classic Albums Live (on March 12 th ), clapping to the sweaty Celtic punk powerhouse the Young Dubliners (out March 13) or swaying to the soft rock anthems of Three Dog Night (on March 26 th ), the theatre's calendar is full of promise. And we're pretty certain they'll deliver. But what would a night at the theatre be without some drama, comedy and a little magic mixed in? For that, the La Mirada theatre turns to three very special productions. Packed with mystifying magic from some of the world's best illusionists, it's magic! (on March 14) is a one- of-a-kind experience that combines polished showman ship with world renowned skill that has made this production a hit for over five decades and counting. Currently scheduled to appear are illusionists Bruce Block Eric Buss, Danny Cole, Amos Levkovitch, Ray Pierce and David Zirbel. However, some of the real magic will take place when two of America's beloved, veteran actors take the stage. By all accounts multi-Emmy and Golden Globe winner Ed Asner is a vital presence in the Hollywood that has remained relevant to today's audiences, including his voice-over role as "Carl" in Pixar's 2009 animated film Up . This time, he'll be up on stage portraying one of America's finest presidents, Franklin D. Roosevelt in Ed Asner as FDR (on March 20 th ). Inhabiting the aura of FDR during decisions that shaped our country is a daunting task that Asner tackles with presidential power. Closing out March Madness is legendary actress Debbie Reynolds whose remarkable acting career has lasted six decades. Her one-woman show (on March 27 th ) is a mix of comedy and musical performance, offering a family friendly variety program that many might have once thought to be extinct. But as crowds continue to take a seat in the audience and stars begin to shine on stage, all the power and diversity of the La Mirada theatre line up proves that there is a method to their madness. For more information visit www.lamiradatheatre.com or call 562-944-9801. La Mirada Theatre Madness Dana Wharf Whale Watching OC Music Awards Finals LBMA After Dark St. Patrick's Day Bash Bamboozle Music Festival OCPAC - Dream Girls o 3 o 3 o 3 o 3 o 3 o 3 o 3