Chances are, you’ve heard of the Loch Ness Monster. But have you met the lady herself? In this whimsical new musical co-written by Marshall Pailet and A.D. Penedo, a scientist’s young daughter discovers herself — and a small, magical, and very reptilian creature — on the waters of the Scottish Highlands. Developed through our OTR reading series, Loch Ness is equal parts cheeky comedy, heart-warming family drama, and uplifting musical journey.
“an enjoyable treat and certainly one of the better musicals to hit Southern California regional theater in some time.”
— Stage and Cinema
“One of the freshest, smartest, and funniest musicals to come along in a very long time”
— Fullerton Observer
“This was stage magic — art and imagination combined to create something real but not realistic, something that bridged the world between the imaginary and the concrete”
— California Highways
“an adventure musical with wings, full of humor and bursting with creativity.”
— Broadway World
“Its fine staging at Chance shows that theaters taking a chance on a new, unproduced play can strike it rich”
— OC Register
“With a charming cast, sweet songs, and beautiful stage pieces, this show is not worth one viewing, but two.”
— Orange Curtain Review
Post-show chats, (free) 15 minutes on average
After every performance (unless otherwise noted)
Join us for one of our intimate post show conversations after each performance. Ask questions, learn more about the artists, reflect on what you've seen and share your response.
Backstage Chatter ($10, Free for members and subscribers), 105 minutes, includes an intermission
Saturday, February 14th at 11am
Join us for an in-depth conversation with artists from the production, led by Board Member Susie Dittmar. The first part of this special audience event will include a Q & A with co-writer/director Marshall Pailet, co-writer A.D. Penedo, scenic designer Fred Kinney and director of the first two staged readings of Loch Ness - Janet Roston. After a short intermission, the second part of the discussion with be with cast members Julia Cassandra Smith, Katie Brown, Jackson Tobiska, and resident artists Alex Bueno and Laura M. Hathaway. This event will also include a backstage tour. There may be spoiler alerts. Best if you've already seen it, but all are welcome.
Additional events like Designer Preview Parties, Opening Nights, Director Dinners, and Cast Parties are exclusive benefits of membership.Contact Erika Miller at [email protected] or call (714) 777-3033 for more information.
“Lochness” was excellent! The cast was awesome! Alex Bueno was hilarious as “Captain CJ” – or should I say “CJ”!!
The Gaelic songs were sung beautifully. I wasn’t sure how they were going to present “Nessy”. I was pleasantly surprised and captivated by the use of puppets. Your puppeteers were Awesome, what a team, moving as one. The ship was a brain storm, again Awesome.
I brought a few family members and they loved it as well. They wanted to buy a small Nessy! maybe next time.
Thanks for another great show.
— maddy
I loved this musical. Very entertaining and the talent was superb. I loved the way Nessie was presented. It was captivating. I would see it again!!!
— Mary Farrell
Great cast, set, experience. Would highly recommend.
— Renee Rehders
I believe this show has a very bright future. Kudos to the entire production team for a terrific theater experience. Once this show gets scaled for a Broadway house with even more exotic Lion King-like puppetry and staging (not at all out of the realm of possibility imho), the rest of the world will see something very special. Who needs chandeliers and helicopters when you’ve got a ship, a loch and a monster to showcase.? (Are you kidding me?) The seasoned cast delivered uniformly solid performances and the songs offered a nice mix of fun and introspection. This is the second Chance production in a row where Mark Takahashi’s star quality and comic timing were brilliantly showcased. Well done Chance! Keep the hits comin’.
— Dan Finn
I really enjoyed the singing, the puppetry and the story of young people searching for their parent regardless if the parent is lost or standing right next to them. The people moving Nessie during the show was a bit distracting at first but the that eventually became ‘invisible’ as the story progressed.
I would definitely recommend and even watch it a second time!
— Rebecca
Very creative use of an important character (Nessie) to help tell the story. Loved how you tied the search for someone or something together, surely all of us have that in common in some way or fashion.
— Cynthia Tiner
This show should be on Broadway!
— Maddy Fink
21 of us drove 6-8 hours to see Loch Ness this past Sat-Loved it!!!
— Leisa W
The commitment to creativity at the Chance Theater constantly amazes me. Each time I see a play at the Chance, I ask myself how they can top this experience with the next play, and they always seem to do so. Loch Ness had some actors working a puppet in a pit, supposedly out of sight of the audience; however I was able to see them and was fascinated how each of them remained in character with the current action of the play. I expected that they would be focusing on how to move the puppet next and to reflect those concerns facially, yet they were energized with the storyline and physically contributed toward telling that story despite their being in a somewhat invisible situation. I absolutely loved the song that started Act II, with all its percussion and its creative rhythms. A very energized cast who obviously loves what they’re doing, and this joy is absorbed by the audience. A very enjoyable, well-spent afternoon at the theater.
— Anonymous
This wonderful show is a great new arrow in the Chance quiver of innovative theater. It’s perfect for everyone in the family, has a theme that touches the heart– all wrapped in a colorful bright package of great lyrics and fine music. The cast is perfect, making the most of the talented stable of actors familiar to those of us who’ve been treated to recent Chance musical productions. I enjoyed it even more the second time I saw it!
— Fran Riggs
What a wonderful surprise. The production was terrific and the actors were exceptional. So impressed that we purchased season tickets. Thanks.
— John Harper & Judi Curtin
We really enjoyed the whole show! My kids attended (6 and 10) and they loved it, too! This is a great show for families!
Highlights: dance scene with captain and crew, beginning of Act II (jazzy dance number – choreography was great – wished there was more of this kind of dance in the show); set design – cool and innovative use of space, synchronization of music was tight; loved relationship between dad and daughter; daughter and Nessie; appreciated comedic relief of deck hands
— Anonymous
Where do I begin? The musical was filled with humor, sadness, excitement and imagination that kept me wanting to know the future of the characters lives. The musical was unique with such a loving story that tells about the Loch Ness monster and daughter’s relationship. I strongly recommend this wonderful musical.
— Carla Velez
Absolutely amazing and magical show …. as someone in the “talk back” said, “I smiled through the entire production!” Did not know what to expect, but was delighted to see a wonderful production that is not only realistic but also very human re portrayal of emotions and reality, yet a simple and beautiful message about hope and kindness and the power of love and believing. I can see this going to Broadway and being an absolute sensation! And this is a perfect show for ALL ages 🙂
— Judy Smith
What a fantastic show and wonderful cast! The portrayals were all very realistic and at one point even I had feelings for the Loch Ness’s plight to find home. The puppet was beautifully made and the actors gave it movement and life in such a believable way. I did get caught up in the story and the Lock Ness seemed to have its own voice not the actress’s voice. It was fun to see Julia Smith from In the Heights again. Keaton Williams also did a great job in this role that is so different from his role as Andrew Jackson. In fact all the actors in the performance deserve praise. There were many of life’s metaphors in the story so not only was it entertaining it also left you with some strong messages about surrendering, being who you are, and embracing the future ahead. The set and lighting was fantastic as well and allowed the observer to feel like you were in the environment and not just watching it. I really feel fortunate to have the Chance Theater right here in our community!
— Maryann Doe
“Loch Ness” is a musical about belief, reality, and fantasy. You will find yourself relating to the many emotions portrayed throughout the show. The innovative staging takes you on a journey and the remarkable actors, music and direction keep you engaged throughout the play. It is an enjoyable way to spend an evening with family and friends.
— Laura Young
Nancy,
Thanks so much for your questions! Please give us a call at 714-777-3033 and we’d be happy to help you work something out with your group.
— Chance Theater
My friend Judy and I attending last weekend preview production. We loved it. It was very clever, very entertaining and we have recommended to many friends. Living in Anaheim Hills, Chance Theater is such a gem and I am very happy it’s here. I loved, loved, loved Nessie!
— Britt Wachsman
Great show. Loved the storyline and how the platform moved back and forth. I especially liked the actress that played the role of Nessie.
— Donna Parfitt
I thought this was fantastic. I really do not like musical theater, so was pleasantly surprised. The acting was exceptional and it was funny as well.
Great job guys.
— Linda Bourke
Simply loved “Loch Ness.” Could not get over how well you made a musical out of it. Fell in love with Nessie and her tail; and how all that maneuvering around below… spectacular. All the set was unbelievable. Praising and recommending the play to all who will listen.
“Lochness” was excellent! The cast was awesome! Alex Bueno was hilarious as “Captain CJ” – or should I say “CJ”!!
The Gaelic songs were sung beautifully. I wasn’t sure how they were going to present “Nessy”. I was pleasantly surprised and captivated by the use of puppets. Your puppeteers were Awesome, what a team, moving as one. The ship was a brain storm, again Awesome.
I brought a few family members and they loved it as well. They wanted to buy a small Nessy! maybe next time.
Thanks for another great show.
I loved this musical. Very entertaining and the talent was superb. I loved the way Nessie was presented. It was captivating. I would see it again!!!
Great cast, set, experience. Would highly recommend.
I believe this show has a very bright future. Kudos to the entire production team for a terrific theater experience. Once this show gets scaled for a Broadway house with even more exotic Lion King-like puppetry and staging (not at all out of the realm of possibility imho), the rest of the world will see something very special. Who needs chandeliers and helicopters when you’ve got a ship, a loch and a monster to showcase.? (Are you kidding me?) The seasoned cast delivered uniformly solid performances and the songs offered a nice mix of fun and introspection. This is the second Chance production in a row where Mark Takahashi’s star quality and comic timing were brilliantly showcased. Well done Chance! Keep the hits comin’.
I really enjoyed the singing, the puppetry and the story of young people searching for their parent regardless if the parent is lost or standing right next to them. The people moving Nessie during the show was a bit distracting at first but the that eventually became ‘invisible’ as the story progressed.
I would definitely recommend and even watch it a second time!
Very creative use of an important character (Nessie) to help tell the story. Loved how you tied the search for someone or something together, surely all of us have that in common in some way or fashion.
This show should be on Broadway!
21 of us drove 6-8 hours to see Loch Ness this past Sat-Loved it!!!
The commitment to creativity at the Chance Theater constantly amazes me. Each time I see a play at the Chance, I ask myself how they can top this experience with the next play, and they always seem to do so. Loch Ness had some actors working a puppet in a pit, supposedly out of sight of the audience; however I was able to see them and was fascinated how each of them remained in character with the current action of the play. I expected that they would be focusing on how to move the puppet next and to reflect those concerns facially, yet they were energized with the storyline and physically contributed toward telling that story despite their being in a somewhat invisible situation. I absolutely loved the song that started Act II, with all its percussion and its creative rhythms. A very energized cast who obviously loves what they’re doing, and this joy is absorbed by the audience. A very enjoyable, well-spent afternoon at the theater.
This wonderful show is a great new arrow in the Chance quiver of innovative theater. It’s perfect for everyone in the family, has a theme that touches the heart– all wrapped in a colorful bright package of great lyrics and fine music. The cast is perfect, making the most of the talented stable of actors familiar to those of us who’ve been treated to recent Chance musical productions. I enjoyed it even more the second time I saw it!
What a wonderful surprise. The production was terrific and the actors were exceptional. So impressed that we purchased season tickets. Thanks.
We really enjoyed the whole show! My kids attended (6 and 10) and they loved it, too! This is a great show for families!
Highlights: dance scene with captain and crew, beginning of Act II (jazzy dance number – choreography was great – wished there was more of this kind of dance in the show); set design – cool and innovative use of space, synchronization of music was tight; loved relationship between dad and daughter; daughter and Nessie; appreciated comedic relief of deck hands
Where do I begin? The musical was filled with humor, sadness, excitement and imagination that kept me wanting to know the future of the characters lives. The musical was unique with such a loving story that tells about the Loch Ness monster and daughter’s relationship. I strongly recommend this wonderful musical.
Absolutely amazing and magical show …. as someone in the “talk back” said, “I smiled through the entire production!” Did not know what to expect, but was delighted to see a wonderful production that is not only realistic but also very human re portrayal of emotions and reality, yet a simple and beautiful message about hope and kindness and the power of love and believing. I can see this going to Broadway and being an absolute sensation! And this is a perfect show for ALL ages 🙂
What a fantastic show and wonderful cast! The portrayals were all very realistic and at one point even I had feelings for the Loch Ness’s plight to find home. The puppet was beautifully made and the actors gave it movement and life in such a believable way. I did get caught up in the story and the Lock Ness seemed to have its own voice not the actress’s voice. It was fun to see Julia Smith from In the Heights again. Keaton Williams also did a great job in this role that is so different from his role as Andrew Jackson. In fact all the actors in the performance deserve praise. There were many of life’s metaphors in the story so not only was it entertaining it also left you with some strong messages about surrendering, being who you are, and embracing the future ahead. The set and lighting was fantastic as well and allowed the observer to feel like you were in the environment and not just watching it. I really feel fortunate to have the Chance Theater right here in our community!
“Loch Ness” is a musical about belief, reality, and fantasy. You will find yourself relating to the many emotions portrayed throughout the show. The innovative staging takes you on a journey and the remarkable actors, music and direction keep you engaged throughout the play. It is an enjoyable way to spend an evening with family and friends.
Nancy,
Thanks so much for your questions! Please give us a call at 714-777-3033 and we’d be happy to help you work something out with your group.
My friend Judy and I attending last weekend preview production. We loved it. It was very clever, very entertaining and we have recommended to many friends. Living in Anaheim Hills, Chance Theater is such a gem and I am very happy it’s here. I loved, loved, loved Nessie!
Great show. Loved the storyline and how the platform moved back and forth. I especially liked the actress that played the role of Nessie.
I thought this was fantastic. I really do not like musical theater, so was pleasantly surprised. The acting was exceptional and it was funny as well.
Great job guys.
Simply loved “Loch Ness.” Could not get over how well you made a musical out of it. Fell in love with Nessie and her tail; and how all that maneuvering around below… spectacular. All the set was unbelievable. Praising and recommending the play to all who will listen.
Loved it. Wish I could see it again!