Bring in the weekend with ukuleles, a concert inspired by real-life letters and a magical movie musical.
The Ukulele Orchestra Of Great Britain Holiday Show
Music
Many people associate ukuleles with peaceful Hawaiian music, but that's not what you'll hear from The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain.
This group of musicians uses ukuleles to play everything from Tchaikovsky to David Bowie. The Ukulele Orchestra of Great Britain has a special holiday show that features beloved Christmas songs. The audience is even invited to bring their own ukuleles and play along to songs like "Jingle Bells" and "We Wish You A Merry Christmas" (find tutorials or download music via La Jolla Music Society).
Details: 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Sherwood Auditorium at MCASD: La Jolla , 700 Prospect Street , La Jolla. $30 to $70; find tickets.
"La La Land"
Film
While "Star Wars" fans are excited about the opening of "Rogue One," fans of movie musicals are just as thrilled for the opening of "La La Land," a new film starring Emma Stone and Ryan Gosling.
It’s a modern musical that also honors the classic song-and-dance films of the past. In it, Gosling plays Sebastian, a club owner and jazz pianist who meets Mia (Stone), a struggling actress wondering how much longer she should pursue her dreams.
The film is getting (mostly) rave reviews and is already racking up some awards.
Details: In local theaters; find tickets.
For The Sender Holiday Show
Music
For The Sender is a storytelling concert that's become a holiday tradition in local music circles.
For its third installment, singer/songwriter Alex Woodard performs music inspired by real letters he receives on topics that include everything from love to tales from war veterans.
This year Woodard will be joined by musicians Jack Tempchin, Sean Watkins, Jordan Pundik, Nena Anderson, Tim Flannery, Graham Nancarrow and other special guests.
Proceeds benefit Team RWB Surf Camp for Veterans.
Details: 8 p.m. Sunday. Belly Up Tavern, 143 S. Cedros Ave., Solana Beach. $18 to $32; find tickets.
