San Clemente’s beloved Cabrillo Playhouse, a cornerstone of local arts for more than 70 years, has returned to full strength following the most extensive renovation in its history. After a nearly six-month closure, the historic theatre underwent major upgrades to its stage, lighting, acoustics, and audience amenities, made possible by community support and a dedicated fundraising campaign.
In January, the refreshed space reopened to audiences with the sold-out run of the Stephen Sondheim musical Company, followed by The Cottage, a fast-paced comedy that had audiences laughing and reaffirmed the Playhouse’s place at the heart of San Clemente’s cultural life.
Now Cabrillo shifts gears with a darker, more suspenseful offering. The Birds, opening April 10 and running through May 3, brings a chilling psychological thriller to the stage. Performances are Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings at 7:30pm, with 2pm matinees on Sundays and select Saturdays.
Adapted by acclaimed Irish playwright Conor McPherson from Daphne du Maurier’s 1952 short story, the same story that inspired Alfred Hitchcock’s iconic film, The Birds explores fear, trust, and the unraveling of human relationships under pressure.
When a relentless and deadly slew of birds begins attacking humanity, strangers Nat and Diane struggle to survive together in an isolated cabin. Soon after, the young and attractive Julia arrives seeking shelter, bringing with her suspicion and distrust. As the uneasy trio becomes a trio, paranoia begins to take hold, revealing an internal threat that rivals the murderous birds outside. What unfolds is a tense and unsettling examination of human nature in the face of societal collapse.
The production is directed by Eric Mooyman, an Orange County-based theatre director whose credits include Every Brilliant Thing, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and the comedy Puffs, which he also directed at Cabrillo Playhouse. He brings a strong sense of atmosphere and character-driven storytelling to this production.
“I’ve always loved the immersive dread found in suspenseful horror stories like The Last of Us, Silent Hill, and Resident Evil, and I’m excited to bring that atmospheric tension into my directing approach,” Mooyman said.
With its intimate staging and psychological intensity, The Birds promises an immersive theatrical experience that contrasts sharply with the lighter shows earlier this season, showcasing the range and ambition of Cabrillo’s programming.
For tickets to The Birds and other productions this season, visit cabrilloplayhouse.org.
Looking ahead, the season continues in late May with Home, I’m Darling, winner of the 2019 Olivier Award for Best New Comedy, followed in July by the musical The Spitfire Grill. Patrons can also visit the website to support the theatre through fundraising efforts or learn how to audition for an upcoming show and become part of the Cabrillo community.