FANTASTIC FIVE

A listing of special events to entertain you through the weekend and

beyond.

SATURDAY

Scandals and a love triangle. “The Countess,” a first play by Gregory

Murphy that became New York’s biggest off-Broadway hit last season,

starts its West Coast premiere this weekend with performances through

Dec. 3 at South Coast Repertory’s Second Stage, 655 Town Center Drive,

Costa Mesa. Show times are 7:45 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday, and 2 p.m.

Saturday and Sunday. $26-$47. (714) 708-5555.

SUNDAY

There is magic in the air. Magic and the Art of Illusion, a family

arts day with art activities, face painting, magic performances,

storytelling, gallery tours and refreshments, will be held from noon to 4

p.m. at the Orange County Museum of Art, 850 San Clemente Drive, Newport

Beach. Free. (949) 759-1122.

MONDAY

Young talent exposed. The Newport Beach Central Library’s Teen Center

will display art by Ensign Middle School students and work by digital art

students from Corona del Mar High School throughout the month. The

library is at 1000 Avocado Ave. (949) 717-3801.

TUESDAY

Unwind with poetry and music to get through your week. The Factory

Readings will feature poets Ben Trigg and Heather Melissa and musician

Ryan Strassburg at 8 p.m. at the Gypsy Den Cafe and Reading Room at The

Lab, 2930 Bristol St., Costa Mesa. Free, but donations are accepted for

the performers. (714) 549-7012.

WEDNESDAY

Love, sweet love. A poetry reading and live music titled “A Woman &

Two Men” will be held at 8 p.m. Wednesday at Alta Coffee House & Roasting

Co., 506 31st St., Newport Beach. Featured poets include Carole Luther,

Bil Luther and Lee Mallory. Musician Neil Miranda will perform. Free.

(949) 675-0233.