TOCA Backstage: Unleashed – True Stories About the Animals We Love

Join us backstage for a warm, funny, and heartfelt conversation with Wendy Hammers, Judy Carter, and Stephen Tobolowsky as they talk about Unleashed: True Stories About the Animals We Love.

In this episode of TOCA Backstage, Wendy, Judy, and Stephen share what makes storytelling such a powerful way to connect with an audience, why the shared experience of live theatre continues to matter, and how our stories can bring us together through laughter, honesty, and a little bit of vulnerability.

And, of course, they talk about the real stars of Unleashed—the animals we love. From the pets who make us laugh to the ones who change our lives forever, the conversation explores the special bond between people and their four-legged (and sometimes not-so-four-legged) family members.

Get a behind-the-scenes look at Unleashed and meet three remarkable storytellers before they take the stage at TOCA.

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???? Saturday, October 3, 2026

???? James R. Armstrong Theatre, Torrance

Learn more and get tickets at TorranceArts.org.

#TOCABackstage #Unleashed #WendyHammers #JudyCarter #StephenTobolowsky #Storytelling #LiveTheatre #TorranceArts #TOCA #SouthBay #AnimalLovers

Join TOCA Executive Director Christian Wolf for this episode of TOCA Backstage as he sits down with Peter and Paul Luongo of the internationally acclaimed Langley Ukulele Ensemble. Discover the remarkable story behind one of the world's premier ukulele ensembles, hear what audiences can expect from their high-energy performance, and learn how this extraordinary group has spent more than 45 years redefining what the ukulele can do.

The Langley Ukulele Ensemble performs at the James Armstrong Theatre on Sunday, September 20. For tickets and more information, visit TorranceArts.org or call the Ticket Office at (310) 781-7171.

Go behind the scenes with the leaders helping shape TOCA's future. In this special episode of TOCA Backstage, Executive & Artistic Director Christian Wolf sits down with members of the TOCA Executive Committee—President Camilla Seferian, Vice President Heidi Cunningham, Treasurer Winnie Seieroe, and Secretary Sara Baillie. Recorded through a series of individual conversations, they share their passion for the arts, what inspires them to serve, and their vision for the upcoming season and beyond.

Welcome to TOCA Backstage, the official podcast of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, where we take you behind the curtain and into the stories behind the artists, performances, and unforgettable experiences coming to our stages.

In this episode, we’re going to the dogs—in the best possible way—as we spotlight the wildly entertaining Stunt Dog Experience. Get ready for jaw-dropping tricks, hilarious antics, incredible athleticism, and heartwarming moments featuring some of the most talented rescue dogs in the country.

Joining us is world-renowned trainer Chris Perondi, the creator of this fan-favorite show, who has wowed audiences nationwide with his amazing canine cast. We’ll talk about how these remarkable dogs are trained, the inspiring rescue stories behind them, and what audiences can expect when the Stunt Dog Experience leaps into town.

So sit, stay, and listen in as we go backstage for a fun-filled conversation packed with laughs, inspiration, and plenty of wagging tails. This is TOCA Backstage.

Welcome to TOCA Backstage, the official podcast of the Torrance Cultural Arts Foundation, where we take you behind the curtain and into the stories behind the artists, performances, and experiences lighting up our stages.

In this episode, we’re shining a spotlight on Because You’re Mine – The Music of June Carter and Johnny Cash—a heartfelt and high-energy celebration of one of music’s most iconic love stories. Through timeless songs, unforgettable harmonies, and the spirit of two legendary performers, this show brings the magic, humor, and passion of June Carter Cash and Johnny Cash back to life.

We’ll talk with the artists behind the production, explore the legacy of these country music legends, and give you a preview of the songs and stories that make this concert event so special.

So sit back, turn it up, and join us backstage for a little music, a little history, and a whole lot of heart. This is TOCA Backstage.

Get an inside look at the artistry, passion, and powerhouse talent of jazz pianist Yuko Mabuchi before she takes the stage in TOCA’s intimate Studio Cabaret!

In this episode of TOCA Backstage, Yuko shares her musical journey, her inspirations, and what makes performing in an up-close cabaret setting such a thrilling experience. From high-energy swing to soulful originals, you’ll discover what drives her electrifying performances — and why audiences around the world can’t get enough.

If you love jazz… if you love virtuosic musicianship… or if you simply love experiencing world-class talent right here in the South Bay… this is an episode (and a concert!) you won’t want to miss.

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???? Then grab your tickets to see Yuko Mabuchi live in the Studio Cabaret!

#TOCABackstage #YukoMabuchi #StudioCabaret #LiveJazz #SouthBayArts

????️ New TOCA Backstage Episode!

In our latest episode, Megan Dolan, writer and performer of Not the Right Mom—opens up about the deeply personal journey behind creating her show. She shares what it took to tell an honest, funny, and heartfelt story about becoming the mother of an autistic son, and why putting that experience on stage mattered so much.

It’s raw, real, and incredibly moving and a powerful reminder of how theatre can help us understand one another just a little bit better. ????

???? Listen to the full episode of TOCA Backstage and hear Megan’s story in her own words.

✨ New TOCA Backstage Episode ✨

What if a “fashion show” wasn’t about trends or rules—but about you?

On the latest episode of TOCA Backstage, host Christian Wolf chats with renowned stylist Erin Stoll, creator of the Style Thief Fashion Show. Erin shares why this isn’t your typical runway event—it’s an interactive, empowering experience where audiences get real-world fashion tips, ask questions, and learn how to own a personal style that actually fits their life.

Whether you’re fashion-curious, style-stuck, or just ready to feel more confident in what you wear, this episode is for women and men who want to dress with intention and authenticity.

???? Watch / listen now and get inspired to steal your own style.

Go backstage with the artists bringing one of opera’s most beloved comedies to life! In this episode of TOCA Backstage, host Christian Wolf sits down with members of Angels Lyric Opera to talk about their upcoming production of L’elisir d’amore (The Elixir of Love), coming to the James R. Armstrong Theatre on Saturday, February 28 and Sunday, March 1, 2026.

Written by Gaetano Donizetti, L’elisir d’amore is a sparkling romantic comedy filled with unforgettable melodies, heartfelt emotion, and laugh-out-loud moments. In this candid conversation, the artists share insight into the characters, the timeless humor of the story, and what makes this opera such a favorite for both longtime opera lovers and first-time audiences. They also discuss the rehearsal process, vocal challenges, and the joy of telling a story where love, hope, and a little bit of magic collide.

Whether you’re an opera enthusiast or simply curious about what happens behind the curtain, this episode offers a warm and engaging look at the people and passion behind the production. Tune in, then join us at the Armstrong Theatre for an enchanting weekend of live opera.

TOCA Backstage | Honey Whiskey Trio – Studio Cabaret Preview

In this episode of TOCA Backstage, TOCA Executive Director Christian Wolf sits down with Courtney Gasque Politano and Ann Louise Jeffries Thaiss of the Honey Whiskey Trio for an intimate conversation ahead of their upcoming Studio Cabaret performances on February 6 & 7.

The pair of the trio shares the story behind Honey Whiskey’s rich vocal blend, genre-hopping sound, and deep musical chemistry—along with what audiences can expect from their cozy, up-close cabaret shows. From musical influences and songwriting to the joy of performing in an intimate space, this candid chat offers a glimpse into the artistry and heart behind the music.

Whether you’re already a fan or discovering Honey Whiskey Trio for the first time, this episode is the perfect prelude to a soulful night of harmony, storytelling, and connection.

Subscribe to TOCA Backstage for more behind-the-scenes conversations with the artists bringing TOCA’s stages to life—and don’t forget to grab your tickets!