News Summary
Huntington Beach celebrates local talent Devin Cortez, who is making his national debut in the musical ‘Some Like It Hot’ at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts. A graduate of the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, Cortez’s journey in theater began early and has now culminated in a starring role in this modern adaptation. The show runs until October 19, rekindling Cortez’s childhood dreams and showcasing themes of identity and acceptance through vibrant performances.
Huntington Beach is celebrating the return of native son Devin Cortez, who is performing in the national tour of “Some Like It Hot” at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts from now until October 19. This marks Cortez’s debut on a national stage, fulfilling a lifelong dream of performing in a theater that played a significant role in his artistic journey.
Cortez, a product of the Huntington Beach Academy for the Performing Arts, has had a rich background in musical theater throughout his childhood. He began his theatrical adventures with the Orange County Children’s Theater, where he auditioned for a role in “The Sound of Music”. Although he was not cast initially, this experience ignited a passion for performance that has shaped his career.
“Some Like It Hot” is a musical adaptation of the beloved 1959 film directed by Billy Wilder, which starred Hollywood icons Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon. The storyline centers around two musicians who disguise themselves as women to escape from gangsters, weaving themes of humor, identity, and acceptance throughout the narrative.
In this adaptation, Cortez performs in the ensemble and serves as an understudy for the character Osgood, a wealthy suitor known for his humorous romantic pursuits. This dual role allows Cortez to connect with both the ensemble’s camaraderie and the challenge of preparing for a principal part, providing him with invaluable experience on stage.
Returning to Segerstrom, where he once dreamed of performing as a child, has brought emotional fulfillment to Cortez. The familiarity of the space and the community support he has received from family, friends, mentors, and teachers have made this experience thoroughly rewarding. His castmates affectionately refer to him as the “Mayor of Orange County” due to the number of familiar faces that greet him at the stage door after performances.
Despite the challenges that come with playing two roles, Cortez relishes the opportunity to portray Osgood, noting the character’s rich comedic nuances. The role requires him to delve deep into the humor and complexity of his character, presenting an enriching experience that captivates audiences. The show features vibrant choreography, with Cortez mentioning a favorite moment in the opening number that symbolizes his “arrival” in the performance.
The musical has been well-received for its fresh and relevant take on the classic film, particularly in addressing contemporary themes of self-discovery and acceptance. It consciously moves away from the original film’s comedic portrayal of gender and sexuality, offering a more progressive narrative experience. The new adaptation emphasizes tap dancing and classic jazz music, infused with modern stylistic influences that enhance the overall vibrancy of the production.
“Some Like It Hot” remains an essential part of the theatrical landscape, renewing discussion around identity in the performance arts. Cortez’s journey from Huntington Beach to the national stage exemplifies the potential for local talent to achieve their dreams and connect with broader audiences.
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Additional Resources
- Broadway World: Interview with Devin Cortez
- OC Register: Review of Some Like It Hot
- Broadway World: Review of Tony Winning Some Like It Hot
- Newport Beach Indy: Segerstrom Center 2025-26 Season
- Modern Luxury: October Events in Orange County
Author: STAFF HERE COSTA MESA WRITER
COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER The COSTA MESA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECostaMesa.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Costa Mesa, Orange County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the OC Fair, Concerts in the Park, and Fish Fry. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Costa Mesa Chamber of Commerce and Boys & Girls Clubs of Central Orange Coast, plus leading businesses in retail, fashion, and technology that power the local economy such as Vans, Experian, and South Coast Plaza. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAnaheim.com, HEREBeverlyHills.com, HERECoronado.com, HEREHollywood.com, HEREHuntingtonBeach.com, HERELongBeach.com, HERELosAngeles.com, HEREMissionViejo.com, HERESanDiego.com, and HERESantaAna.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into California's dynamic landscape.
