News Summary
Costa Mesa is hosting the jukebox musical ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ at South Coast Repertory’s Segerstrom Stage, showcasing a pivotal moment in rock ‘n’ roll history. The production features performances inspired by the legendary jam session of musical icons Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis at Sun Records in 1956. Directed by James Moye, this dynamic presentation combines energetic musical numbers with insights into significant events in rock history, creating an engaging experience for audiences.
Costa Mesa is currently hosting the jukebox musical “Million Dollar Quartet” at South Coast Repertory’s Segerstrom Stage, running through October 19. This production offers an engaging portrayal of a pivotal moment in rock ‘n’ roll history, inspired by an iconic photograph from 1956 that captured the legendary jam session between Carl Perkins, Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, and Jerry Lee Lewis at Sun Records Studio in Memphis.
The event, often referred to as the “Million Dollar Quartet”, was organized by Samuel Cornelius Phillips, a disc jockey turned producer who owned Sun Records. This chance meeting of four musical icons created a powerful moment that defined an era in music history.
The show features a book by Colin Escott and Floyd Mutrux, who also provided the original concept and direction. The current production is directed by James Moye, who has a rich history with the show, having previously directed it at SCR in 2022 and portraying Sam Phillips in the original Broadway productions.
“Million Dollar Quartet” captures the essence of early rock ‘n’ roll, depicting interactions, creative energy, and personal struggles of the era’s stars. Its score includes beloved tracks like “Long Tall Sally,” “I Walk the Line,” “Great Balls of Fire,” “Hound Dog,” and “Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ On,” alongside gospel hits such as “Down by the Riverside.”
Each character in the production offers a distinct interpretation, focusing on the emotional and interpersonal dynamics that likely occurred during that historic jam session. The performances have elicited enthusiastic audience reactions, including clapping and swaying, highlighting the infectious energy of the music.
The cast features Armando Gutierrez as Carl Perkins, JP Coletta as Jerry Lee Lewis, Chris Marsh Clark as Johnny Cash, and Rustin Cole Sailors as Elvis Presley. The actors diligently balance historical accuracy with imaginative interpretation of the artists’ interactions during the jam session, enhancing the overall experience for theatergoers.
In addition to the musical numbers, the show provides insight into important events in rock history, covering topics such as Chuck Berry’s “Maybellene,” Elvis’ debut on The Ed Sullivan Show, and the 1959 plane crash that tragically claimed the lives of Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens, and Jiles Perry Richardson (the Big Bopper). While the specifics of the jam session remain speculative due to limited eyewitness accounts, the performance both documents and celebrates the shared joy and competition among these artists.
The production culminates with themes of joy and artistry, resonating with modern audiences who seek connection through music. David Ivers, the artistic director at SCR, emphasizes that this narrative beautifully celebrates the bonds formed among artists in the thrilling world of rock ‘n’ roll.
As audiences flock to South Coast Repertory, “Million Dollar Quartet” serves not only as an entertaining evening of music but also as a reminder of a cultural moment that continues to inspire generations.
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Additional Resources
- Los Angeles Times: Million Dollar Quartet
- Wikipedia: Million Dollar Quartet
- Metro Philadelphia: Million Dollar Quartet
- Google Search: Million Dollar Quartet
- Newport Beach Independent: Million Dollar Quartet
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Million Dollar Quartet
- Greenville Journal: Million Dollar Quartet
- Google News: Million Dollar Quartet
- The Berkshire Edge: Million Dollar Quartet
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.
