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The Lido Theater Expands Live Entertainment

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Newport Beach Film Festival uses The Lido Theater for its TV Fest programming. Photo by Chris Trela.

Hollywood Producer Joseph “McG” Nichol and Jordan Otterbein of River Jetty Restaurant Group took over operations of The Lido Theater in 2024, and they have been ramping up programming to include not just classic movies but concerts and comedians as well as offering The Lido Theater as a special event venue for organizations that include the Newport Beach Film Festival and TV Fest.

The theater has shows planned into 2027, featuring renowned performers including comedians Rita Rudner, Billy Gardell, Morgan Jay and Margaret Cho as well as musicians Al Di Meola, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy and Pete Yorn, further cementing The Lido Theater as a leading live entertainment destination in Orange County.

“We’re excited to welcome these incredible artists to the stage,” said Otterbein. “From nationally recognized comedians to acclaimed musicians, we’ve curated a lineup that offers something for every kind of fan while showcasing the unique atmosphere that makes The Lido Theater unlike any other venue in Orange County.”

Inside the beautifully restored Art Deco theater, every seat feels close to the stage, creating an intimate, electric experience for concerts, comedy and films. With no drink minimums and convenient parking, it offers a refreshingly accessible and effortless night out in Newport Beach.

Additionally, the inaugural charity concerts, Lido Legacy Live featuring The Righteous Brothers – Bill Medley and Bucky Heard, will be held at The Lido Theater on Thursday, Sept. 10, and Friday, Sept. 11, benefiting the Newport Beach Junior Lifeguard Scholarship Program and Friends of OASIS Senior Center in Newport Beach.

The Lido Theater view from the balcony. Photo by Bob Hodson

The Lido Theater’s upcoming entertainment schedule includes:

  • Billy Gardell – Less is More Tour: August 22, 2026
  • Morgan Jay – The Goofy Guy Tour: September 4 & 5, 2026
  • Lido Legacy Live Benefit Concerts Featuring the Righteous Brothers – Bill Medley & Bucky Heard: September 10 & 11, 2026
  • Al Di Meola – The Guitarchitect Tour: September 18, 2026
  • Margaret Cho – The Choligarchy Tour: October 9, 2026
  • Hinder – Back to Life: October 11, 2026
  • Natural Science – The Rush Tribute Band: October 24, 2026
  • Rita Rudner: November 1, 2026
  • Devotional – The Depeche Mode Experience: November 7, 2026
  • Big Bad Voodoo Daddy: November 19, 2026
  • Andy Grammer – Greater Than Pt. II: A One Man Show: November 29, 2026
  • 25th Anniversary of musicforthemorningafter – Pete Yorn Solo Acoustic: December 11, 2026
  • An Evening With The Phantom of the Opera & The Music of Andrew Lloyd Webber: January 30, 2027

Located in Via Lido Plaza and near Lido Marina Village, The Lido Theater is part of a growing entertainment, dining and hospitality district, offering guests a unique, walkable experience in the heart of Newport Beach. For more information about live events at

The Lido Theater, originally opened in 1939, is one of Orange County’s earliest movie houses and a celebrated example of Art Deco design. Restored to its original grandeur by Fritz Duda Company, the theater now operates as a premier entertainment venue, showcasing films, live music, comedy and special events. Located at 3459 Via Lido in Newport Beach, The Lido continues to serve as a vibrant gathering place for the community.

A collaboration between partners Joseph “McG” Nichol and Jordan Otterbein, River Jetty Restaurant Group (RJRG) brings extensive expertise and a depth of resources to each of its restaurant and hospitality concepts. RJRG was established in Newport Beach in 2007 with the founding philosophy of creating experiences that offer inspired cuisine and exemplary service in an inviting atmosphere. Dedicated to supporting the communities it serves, RJRG extends its hospitality to local schools and charities to continue to build a strong local culture. RJRG’s collection of eateries includes A Restaurant, A Market and A Crystal Cove in Newport Beach, CdM Restaurant in Corona del Mar and A PCH in Long Beach.

Visit www.TheLidoTheater.com.