Fall 2026
CLUE
Based on the screenplay by Jonathan Lynn
Written by Sandy Rustin
Additional Material by Hunter Foster, and Eric Price
Directed by Michael Mufson
October 2 – 11; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
It’s a dark and stormy night, and our cast of oddball characters has been invited to a very unusual dinner party. Each of the guests has an alias, the butler offers a variety of weapons, and the host is, well, dead. So, whodunit? Join the iconic oddballs known as Scarlet, Plum, White, Green, Peacock and Mustard as they race to find the murderer in Boddy Manor before the body count stacks up. Based on the cult classic film and the popular board game, Clue is a madcap comedy that will keep you guessing until the final twist.
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MASQUERADE AND MYSTERY
Palomar Comet Concert Band
Directed by Heather Barclay
Friday, October 16 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Celebrate the cool, crisp nights of Autumn and the spooky mystery of October. The Howard Brubeck Theatre will resound with the resonance of clattering chains, spooks, growling ghouls, and frantic murmurings of mysterious sounds. The Palomar Comet Concert Band welcomes you to join the opening concert of our season!
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PALOMAR CHORAL REUNION
Palomar Chorale, Palomar Chamber Singers, and Reunion Chorus
Directed by John Russell
Saturday, October 17 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Please plan to join Joe Stanford, David Chase, Sally Dean, John Russell, and a host of other alumni singers for a memorable Palomar Choral Reunion in honor of Palomar College’s 80th anniversary. Celebrate eight decades of music, community, and tradition as alumni, faculty, and friends come together for an evening of song and shared memories. Be part of this special milestone event, culminating in a performance by the Reunion Chorus, the Palomar Chorale, and the Palomar Chamber Singers.
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BACK TO SCHOOL BLUES
Palomar Day and Night Jazz Ensembles
Directed by Mackenzie Leighton
Wednesday, October 21 at 7:00p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
The only blues you’ll want this semester! Back to School Blues features the Day and Night Jazz Ensembles in a celebration of blues-inspired jazz, where soulful melodies, swinging rhythms, and dynamic improvisation take center stage. Experience the music that has shaped generations of jazz artists and discover why the blues remain the heartbeat of this enduring American art form.
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TOTENTANZ
Palomar Symphony Orchestra, featuring Dr. Michael Munson
Directed by Ellen Weller
Saturday, October 25 at 2:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
It is Autumn, and there are shadowy forces at play! We kick off our season by delving into the darker side of human emotion in three epic works. Featured pieces include Emilie Mayer’s Faust Overture, Franz Schubert’s Symphony No. 4 in C minor and the deliciously malevolent Totentanz by Franz Liszt with Dr. Michael Munson, piano soloist.
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INK TO SOUND – A Student Composers’ Recital
Directed by Madelyn Byrne
Thursday, December 3 at 7:00 p.m.
Performance Lab (D10)
Every piece of music begins as an idea on a page. Ink to Sound showcases the creativity, dedication, and artistic voices of our student composers as their original works come to life in performance. Drawing inspiration from the world around them—from personal experiences and stories to art, media, and imagination—our student composers invite you to experience an evening of original music that celebrates the boundless possibilities of creative expression.
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PROKOFIEV: MOLLY! THE ART OF DANCE
Palomar Symphony Orchestra
Directed by Ellen Weller
Friday, December 4 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 5 at 2:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Join us for a celebration of the choreography of Dr. Molly Faulkner as we feature the exquisitely danceable music of Sergei Prokofiev in this delightful family-friendly program! March from the Love for the Three Oranges, Symphony No 1 (Classical), Lt. Kiji Suite and Peter and the Wolf!
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BETWEEN LA ROSA AND THE SWORD
Written and Directed by Alejandro Moreno
Inspired by The Rivals by Richard Brinsley Sheridan
December 4 – 13; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:00 p.m.
Studio Theatre
Set in the romantic world of Old California, this Chicano comedy of errors blends mistaken identities, romance, rivalry, and swordplay into a story deeply connected to the heart of California and the communities that call it home. Caught between two worlds, characters search for love, identity, and a place to belong while navigating family expectations, cultural pressures, and the question of who they truly are beneath the roles they play. Through humor, passion, and adventure, Entre la Rosa y la Espada explores the ties that bind us to family, culture, and one another. Mostly in English with some Spanish.
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FACULTY SHARE THE SPOTLIGHT
Palomar Day and Night Jazz Ensemble
Directed by Mackenzie Leighton
Wednesday, December 9 at 7:00p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Join the Day and Night Jazz Ensembles for Faculty Share the Spotlight, an evening celebrating the artistry, collaboration, and mentorship that emphasizes Palomar’s music program. Featuring special performances by our talented music faculty alongside student musicians, this concert highlights the dynamic exchange of experience, creativity, and a shared passion for jazz. Experience an unforgettable evening where accomplished educators and emerging artists come together to make music on one stage.
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FESTIVE NIGHTS
Palomar Comet Concert Band
Directed by Heather Barclay
Friday, December 11 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Celebrate with the Palomar Comet Concert Band as we fill the Howard Brubeck Theatre with sounds of festivities heard throughout the year. Featuring a vibrant and eclectic program spanning a variety of musical styles and genres, Festive Nights promises an evening of energy, warmth, and celebration for audiences of all ages.
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READINGS AND CAROLS
Palomar Chorale and Palomar Chamber Singers
Directed by John Russell
Saturday, December 12 at 2:00 p.m.
San Marcos Lutheran Church
In the tradition of the great Festival of Lessons and Carols, the Palomar Choirs gather at San Marcos Lutheran Church for an evening of story, poetry, and song. Readers drawn from the Palomar community and beyond lend their voices to this celebration of winter, wonder, and the turning of the year.
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ILLUMINATE: WINTER DANCE 2026
Directed by Patriceann Mead
Friday, December 18, at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, December 19 at 2:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Modern, Ballet, Tap, Jazz, Hip Hop, World Dance, and Musical Theatre forms! Palomar dance students and faculty will warm your heart with outstanding original choreography, with a variety of dance styles and traditions to ring in the holidays.
Spring 2027
THE SPONGEBOB MUSICAL
Based on the series by Stephen Hillenburg
Book by Kyle Jarrow
Musical production conceived by Tina Landau
Music Direction by Sadie Holdaway
Choreography by Xavier J Bush
Directed by Gerilyn Brault
March 12 – 21; Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday at 2:00 p.m
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Plunge into this stunning all-singing, all-dancing, dynamic stage show! When the citizens of Bikini Bottom discover that a volcano will soon erupt and destroy their humble home, SpongeBob and his friends must come together to save the fate of their undersea world. With lives hanging in the balance and all hope lost, a most unexpected hero rises up. The power of optimism really can save the world!
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IN FULL SWING
Palomar Day and Night Jazz Ensembles
Directed by Mackenzie Leighton
Wednesday, March 24 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
The Day and Night Jazz Ensembles present In Full Swing, an evening celebrating the energy, artistry, and excitement of jazz. Showcasing the talent and versatility of Palomar’s student musicians, this concert features expressive improvisation, vibrant ensemble performances, and music sure to leave audiences tapping their toes.
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SPECTACULAR CLASSICS
Palomar Comet Concert Band
Directed by Heather Barclay
Friday, March 26, at 7 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Join the Palomar Comet Concert Band for Spectacular Classics. An evening celebrating enduring and beloved works from the theatre of opera, ballet, symphonic music, film, and more. This concert honors the timeless artistry that has captivated audiences across generations. Experience the beauty, drama, and excitement of music that continues to inspire performers and audiences alike.
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VOICES, GATHERED
Palomar Chorale, Palomar Chamber Singers, and Soloists from the Applied Music Program
Directed by John Russell
Thursday, April 8 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
The Palomar choirs join forces with past and present soloists from the Applied Music Program in an evening celebrating the voices that have shaped our community — and the ones still emerging.
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SPRING FEVER STUDENT SHOWCASE
Palomar Symphony Orchestra and the Crescendo Youth Orchestra
Directed by Ellen Weller
Saturday, April 10 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Spring has sprung, and the Palomar Symphony Orchestra is celebrating by featuring the newest crop of talented musicians. Our sprouting youth orchestra partner, Crescendo Youth Orchestra, directed by Shannon Yandall will kick things off, followed by Shostakovich’s energized Festive Overture, featured ripening Palomar music student performances and finish with Robert Schumann’s first orchestral fruits – Symphony No. 1 (Spring Symphony). Simply delicious!
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LATIN NIGHTS
Directed by Patriceann Mead
Friday, April 16 at 5:00 p.m..
PAC-216
Doors open at 5:00 p.m.; Salsa class begins at 5:45 p.m. Salsa band and open dance floor start at 6:15 p.m. Performance/Demonstrations Featuring Agogo-Cuban/Brazilian Drum and Dance 7:00 p.m. Latin Nights is a free event.
Cuban food/appetizers will be served. Join us for an evening of Cuban Salsa, Merengue, Bachata, and informal performances by Agogo, the Afro-Cuban and Brazilian Drum and Dance Ensemble, and World Drum and Dance Students. This evening also includes an open dance floor and live music by a local salsa band. Bring your salsa shoes! Founded and directed by Patriceann Mead.
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NOTES UNBOUND – A Student Composers’ Recital
Directed by Madelyn Byrne
Thursday, May 6 at 7:00 p.m.
Performance Lab (D10)
Experience music without boundaries in Notes Unbound, an evening dedicated entirely to original works composed and performed by our students. Inspired by everything from everyday life to the extraordinary, these emerging artists share their unique creative voices through music that reflects their passions, experiences, and imaginations. Join us in celebrating the talent, curiosity, and artistry of the next generation of composers.
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THE TEMPEST
by William Shakespeare
Directed by Michael Mufson
May 7 – 16 Thursday, Friday, and Saturday at 7:00 p.m.; Sunday at 2:00 p.m.
Studio Theatre
It’s been twelve years since Prospero, the deposed Duke of Milan, and his infant daughter washed ashore and claimed this magical isle. With all its indigenous forces under his control, Prospero seizes a chance to bring his enemies under his domain. But the island itself has a living spirit, and its cooperation comes at a cost. “Be not afeard; the isle is full of noises, sounds and sweet airs, that give delight, and hurt not.” Experience Shakespeare’s final masterpiece in a wondrous landscape of wind, percussion, breath and movement where the line between power and plunder, love and possession, has never been so beautifully, disturbingly thin.
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GENERATIONS OF JAZZ
Palomar Day and Night Jazz Ensembles
Directed by Mackenzie Leighton and Geoff Radant
Wednesday, May 12 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Celebrate the future of jazz as the San Marcos High School Studio Jazz Ensemble joins Palomar College’s Day and Night Jazz Ensembles for an evening of collaboration and performance. Generations of Jazz showcases the talent, passion, and artistry of student musicians while celebrating the traditions that connect performers across every stage of their musical journey.
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LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION
Palomar Comet Concert Band
Directed by Heather Barclay
Friday, May 14 at 7:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Take your seat and prepare for an unforgettable journey through the performing arts in Lights, Camera, Action. The Palomar Comet Concert Band explores the excitement, emotion, and spectacle of film music for the theater inspired by dramatic storytelling. From moments of triumph and adventure to scenes of wonder and imagination, this concert celebrates the music that brings performance to life.
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ORIGINS: FACULTY DANCE 2027
Directed by Patriceann Mead
Friday, May 21 at 7:00 p.m. and Saturday, May 22 at 2:00 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
Palomar Dance faculty members share their creativity with the Howard Brubeck Theatre audience by taking us on a journey of the imagination with this lively dance extravaganza, which will celebrate a variety of dance and music styles.
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SPRING CHORAL SHOWCASE
Palomar Chorale, Palomar Chamber Singers, and Guest Choirs from North County High Schools
Directed by John Russell
Sunday, May 23 at 4 p.m.
San Marcos Lutheran Church
Join us as we celebrate with our annual choral showcase featuring the Palomar College choirs with special guests from North County. Previous participants include San Marcos High School, Mission Hills High School, Mt. Carmel High School, Rancho Bernardo High School, and Mission Vista High School.
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INSPIRING JOURNEYS: MENDELSSOHN SYMPHONY NO 3 “SCOTTISH”
Palomar Symphony Orchestra
Directed by Ellen Weller
Saturday, May 29 at 7 p.m.
Howard Brubeck Theatre
At the age of 20, Felix Mendelssohn embarked on a visit to Great Britain. As he walked through the Scottish countryside, taking in the history and the ruins of that fascinating landscape he heard in his mind the beginning of a noble and mournful introduction. The 3rd symphony was not finished until 13 years later and was the last symphony he finished (but was the 3rd to be published). Join us for our final concert as we explore the nature of inspiration and the mystery of musical creativity.
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