“A Weekend with Picasso” Theater Review
A review of “A Weekend with Picasso” at Caltech Live
Written by and starring Herbert Siguenza
Directed by Tim Powell and Todd Salovey
On-demand viewing beginning March 6—April 4.
How to Memorize a Solo Show
“To observe attentively is to remember distinctly.” -Edgar Allan Poe
You’ve spent months, maybe even years, writing and perfecting your solo show script. You’ve dedicated hours in front of your computer selecting the perfect adjectives, killing one precious darling after another, constructing clever sentences, punching up your punchlines, and highlighting the most memorable moments of your life.
All of that creative expression and dedicated work has culminated into a one person play that you can truly be proud of.
Now, you are looking down at page after page of this hour long play that you just printed off and you begin to ask yourself…
“How the hell am I going to memorize all of this??!?!?”
Your trepidation is certainly warranted because putting a solo show to memory is unlike the feat of recalling lines in a typical ensemble play. Afterall, it is solely you up on stage with no one else to bail you out if you go up on your lines and there are no backstage breaks to consult your script while your castmates carry the plot along on stage.
However, it is crucial that you face and conquer the fear of memorizing your solo show because it is impossible to perform from your heart if you are stuck in your head.
When you perform from the heart, you’re connecting emotionally to the content of your story. You are authentically and confidently expressing yourself. You are fully immersed in the world you’ve created. Your audience can sit back and relax knowing that you’ve got this so that they can simply enjoy the show.
Yet, if you’re stuck in your head, you’re so worried about the next line that your performance comes off as robotic and disconnected. Your audience senses your stress and they become worried about how you’re going to get through the show rather than being swept away by the drama of your solo story.
However, before you get totally psyched out and just give up, please know that you can totally do this!
I personally do not consider myself to be a quick memorizer and yet with the tips I am going to share with you in today’s blog, I was able to memorize, perform and tour two very successful solo shows for well over a decade. I have also aided hundreds of other solo artists in the memorization of their one person plays.
That said, I am here to support you in feeling cool, calm and collected when you hit the stage with your one person play.
Here are three of my tips and tricks to help you know your solo show inside and out.
1) Record & Relax
For this memorization exercise you will first record yourself as you read your entire script aloud to ensure that you are word for word, line for line, accurate. Pay special attention to emphasizing your CUE LINES (ie. the lines that prompt your technician to fire your lights, sound, projections, etc.). Be sure to keep a true pace of speech and capture as much real emotion as you can while you record to emulate how you will actually perform your show. Once the show is recorded, press play and begin doing something brainless like washing dishes, going on a walk, or painting with watercolors. Let the words seep into your subconscious mind as you do mindless tasks. Much in the same way we find ourselves reciting music lyrics or lines from movies we have listened to over and over again, this method will allow you to absorb your script on a subconscious level with little effort.
2) Speedthru
The goal of this memorization exercise is to eventually be able to run through your show in about half the time it would actually take you to perform it. For instance, if your runtime is one hour at a normal pace, then in a speedthru rehearsal you want to be saying your last line in approximately 30 minutes.
It takes time to know your show this well. So be patient with yourself. Start slow, a few lines at a time, repeating them out loud over and over again until naturally your pace increases. Every time you feel you can speed through a particular section of your show, go to the next section and add on a few more lines, gradually increasing your pace. Soon you’ll have memorized your entire show so rapidly that your lines automatically flow out of your mouth without any need to pause and think about what is next.
During a speedthru, you don’t need to speak at full volume and you certainly don’t want to emote during this type of rehearsal. But make sure to do all of your blocking. Bringing your body into this will help you develop your muscle memory, too. Knowing your show in hyperspeed enables you to be in control of your pace during an actual performance. You won’t be taking a “dramatic pause” as a stalling technique to recall your next line, instead the next line is right there ready for you when you feel inspired to deliver it. Once you have mastered your speedthrus, you will be able to step on stage confident that you have done the work and that your lines are truly there.
3) Knowing Your Chapters
The objective of this memorization technique is to know your show in broad strokes, not simply the line for line, word for word, small strokes. To begin “knowing your chapters,” take out your script and a separate piece of paper and pencil. As you read over your script, start to divide up your show into one or two word chapters. For instance, your opening monologue may simply be called “Introducing Myself” and perhaps after that you move into an opening song which you label “Power Ballad” and so on and so forth.
Continue on like this until your entire show has been mapped out into “chapters.” There is no “right way” to categorize your chapters. Just divide them up in ways that make sense to YOU. Next, you will physically walk through your show doing your blocking and saying out loud the order of the chapters. Talk yourself through your entire show in these broad strokes like this “First I enter from stage right and as I come center I introduce myself to the audience, then I cross further downstage and I sing my power ballad” and on and on like this until you get to the very end of your show. So rather than saying your actual lines, you are talking yourself through the chapters of your show. Consistently doing this type of rehearsal allows you to know the bigger picture of your play so that if you ever go up on a line, or forget a specific word, you can remain confident knowing the “chapter” you are in and then you may paraphrase your way to your next chapter and get on track again.
Try all three of these memorization exercises and see what works best for you. And don’t be afraid to mix it up! A combination of all of them can make memorization interesting and impactful.
If these tools resonated with you and you would like my full memorization guide for Solo Artists, complete with deadlines to aim for, then click here for your FREE COPY of my Memorization Road Map!
Jessica Lynn Johnson
Founder & CEO of Soaring Solo LLC
Enjoy these Solo Theatre Resources to further guide you on your solo journey!
Tune in and Support the Soaring Solo Community in the LARGEST streaming festival in the country, SOLOFEST 2021!
Start every Hump Day off right with FREE guided meditation and writing prompts with “Isolate Meditate Create.”
Keep the Spark Alive! Essential Survival Tips for Creativity-Starved Actors in Lockdown
Creative professionals throughout the country have been voicing their fears about the Coronavirus and its effect on the theater industry, and grappling with the realization that we may not be comfortable spending an evening in a windowless room packed with strangers any time soon. Some have taken their creative fire to Zoom classes and readings, while others have used this unprecedented time to step away from the industry or leave it altogether.
The Frontyard and The Garland Reopen!
The Front Yard, located at The Garland in North Hollywood, has reopened for outdoor dine-in service. They are committed to maintaining that warm, friendly atmosphere guests and locals have come to love, Their team also wants to ensure your safety remains the utmost priority.
The reservation-only dining (bookable through OpenTable) experience will allow guests to dine socially distant under the sycamores on their extended patio with the implementation of additional safety/cleanliness procedures including:
- Mandatory health screening and a temperature check on arrival (Guests and Staff)
- Guests are to call upon arrival. The guest must stay in their vehicle until notified the table is ready. The entire party must be present.
- All service and support staff will be required to wear face masks, shields and gloves
- Single use menus
- Modified restaurant entrance to prevent cross traffic with other guests.
- All menus will be single use and disposable
- Face mask is to be worn before and after dining, when moving about the restaurant, and whenever a staff member approaches the tables
- Per L.A. County guidelines, parties are limited to 6 persons or less. Parties cannot be combined and cannot be seated near each other if separate reservations are made. Parties should be from the same household.
Below are the hours of operation for The Front Yard as they adjust for reopening:
- Brunch: Saturday and Sunday — 10:30AM – 3PM
- Lunch: Monday and Friday — 11:30AM – 2:30PM
- Dinner: Sunday – Thursday — 5:30PM – 9:30PM AND Friday and Saturday — 5:30PM – 10PM
Additionally, the hotel is excited to reopen its doors for overnight stays starting Wednesday, March 17. Pack your bags and book their Valley Vacay package to receive 20% off our best available rate and a nightly $25 food and beverage credit! At The Garland, the health and safety of their guests and staff will always come first. The Garland continues to work with Ecolab, a longstanding sanitizing expert, to make sure that their cleaning protocols are comprehensive and in the interest of maintaining a safe environment. Learn more about The Garland’s We Clean, We Care Program here.
5 Tips to Celebrate Your Kid’s Birthday on a Budget
Some parents opt for over the top birthday celebration for their kids. It’s natural that you want to give everything to make your little one happy, especially on his special day. However, there is no need to spend a fortune for a birthday party. You can still throw one that would be fun without breaking the bank. Below are some tips on how to celebrate your kid’s birthday on a budget.
Do it at home
You’ll see parents renting a venue for the birthday celebration of their children, such as a restaurant or entertainment centre. Don’t be pressured to do the same because your child can still enjoy the party even if you have it at home. You may also have it at a nearby park if you wish to do it outdoors. There is no need to spend anything for the venue rental if you choose these two.
Find an affordable gift
A birthday present doesn’t have to be expensive either. You just need to find the right gift with an inexpensive price tag. Determine the interest of your child, and base your gift from there. You will see a smile on his face for sure. For instance, if your kid wants to be a paramedic, a Playmobil Ambulance would make him happy. This toy comes with three figures that include the crew and a cyclist, as well as various objects that you would see in a real ambulance like a stretcher and medical bag. Most of all, it’s budget-friendly.
Invite the closest
The bigger the crowd, the higher the expenses will be. Choose to make the party intimate. Ask your child to invite his closest friends. Besides, an intimate celebration is much more meaningful, and enjoyable since he will be celebrating it with the people dearest to his heart.
Create DIY invites and decors
Buying invites and decors are added costs. Why purchase when you can make them on your own. Use art supplies and party needs that you already have at home. There are also free ready to print invitations and decors that you can find online. Digital party invitations are also common nowadays. Some sites would let you customize the invites without a fee, then all you have to do is send them via email or through chat. If you ever need to buy something, go to the dollar store. There are a plethora of things that you can find there, and you wouldn’t have to spend much on them.
Do it at snack time
Having the party during lunchtime or dinner time will cost you more because you need to prepare a full meal for your guests. However, if you have a party during the snack hours like the time before lunch or before dinner, you will save a lot since you will prepare snack foods that do not cost too much.
A kid’s birthday celebration doesn’t have to be expensive for it to be fun and special. The tips above can help you plan an enjoyable birthday party for your youngster without spending a lot of money.
“Hold the Sun in Your Hands: The Erika Jacoby Story”
In the new Planet Classroom podcast, young East Valley filmmakers reflect on the Holocaust and lessons to be learned about anti-semitism, racism and dehumanizing people of different races, religions and sexual identities.
Everything You Need to Know About 4Ft LED Lights in 2021
Replacing your 2ft LED light bulbs or fluorescent lights with 4ft LED lights can be a daunting task. We’ve prepared a guide of everything you need to know before switching to 4ft LED lights in 2021.
What are LED lights?
Most people term LED lights as the future of lighting in homes as they consume a minimal amount of energy. Also, the LED lights instantly brighten up once they’re switched on, and are very durable.
The 4ft LED shop lights fixture from the early days were expensive and produced a lower light output. However, as time goes on, with advancements in technology, LED users can now enjoy the 4ft long lights. What’s better is that prices continue to drop every day.
The 4ft LED light bulbs differ from the regular bulbs by the way they produce light. While regular bulbs produce light after an electric current passes through a filament, LEDs produce light through the help of a light-emitting diode.
What are the benefits of 4ft LED lights?
Although the 4ft LED lightbulb is the most expensive type of light, they have a wide range of benefits over other lights.
Energy efficiency
The 4ft LED consumes 90% less energy as compared to regular lights. While you may incur extra money for the upfront costs, the difference in your electric bills is noticeable. The energy efficiency in LED lighting fixtures for the home means there is a reduction in demand from power plants and a decrease in greenhouse gas emissions. Do away with the power-mad 36 W CFL light with the energy-efficient 22 W LED bulb and benefit from significantly reduced lighting costs instantly.
Safety
The 4ft lights comprise nontoxic elements. Ordinary fluorescent strip lights commonly used in offices contain noxious elements like mercury. They end up contaminating the environment, especially when exposed to landfill waste. Users of these types of bulbs have to arrange disposal through a registered waste carrier.
Going for LED lights will help you avoid the time and cost of complying with disposal requirements. LEDs will help to safeguard the environment from toxic waste. Also, you don’t have to worry about your LED light bulb overheating to the extent of causing injuries to your skin.
On the other hand, once a CFL breaks there is lots of broken glass to clean up, not forgetting the hassle of decontaminating the mercury. LEDs are not subject to serious damages from external shock and do not contain harmful, toxic materials.
Durability
The durability of light bulbs means that there are fewer carbon emissions. The 4ft LED lights can last up to six times longer than typical lights, reducing the need for replacing frequently. That will result in fewer lights, meaning that there are fewer resources needed for the production, packaging, and distribution. The CFLs have a shorter lifespan if they are switched on-off within 15 minutes after lighting and heating up.
The 4ft LEDs can last up to 30 years, depending on the quality you buy and how well you use them.
Instant lighting
LEDs brighten up immediately after you flick your light switch. That means you don’t have to put up with dim lights as you wait for the lights to go on. Immediately after you switch on the 4ft, you get to the full brightness.
How the 4ft LED light operates
The 4ft LED lightbulbs replace the ordinary mercury and other dangerous materials found in CFL bulbs, making them the most efficient, reliable, and safe alternative.
The linear circuit board encompassed within a cylindrical gas shell contains a series of SMD LED chips. Manufacturers prefer glass rather than plastic to prevent warping, bending, and discoloring after a while.
Where regular lights would consume approximately 36W to emit 2150 lumens, the contemporary 4ft LED consumes just 22W. Combining the efficiency with the average lifetime of 40000 has the ability to save up to 90% on your electric bills. The 4ft LED light makes upgrading easier as well as removing the need for rewiring.
The 4ft LED lights are ideal for basements, utility rooms, garages, workshops, attics, and game rooms. These lights are bright, meaning that they are not suitable for dimming. Using LED lights in fresh food displays has proven to breed less bacteria than their typical fluorescent and halogen counterparts. The widespread usage of LEDs in residential and commercial usage in the next 20 years will save up to $265 billion.
However, the 4ft LED lights have their downsides, including few scenarios where the LEDs interfere with DAB radio signals. They can’t match the color rendering index (CRI) of ordinary incandescent and halogen bulbs. CRI is a measure of how light can reveal different colors. If you use mixed brands of LEDs, it’s hard to achieve the consistency of light output and color.
Final words:
Although the 4ft LED lightbulb is a little bit expensive, it’s worth the investment and may save you a lot of money. Get a 4ft LED light for your residential and commercial needs today.
Flyght Club “American Eyes” Single Release
Flyght Club is Shauvik Sharan, an Indian born, L.A.-based guitarist, songwriter and music producer. Flyght Club’s latest music release, “American Eyes,” is a love song of sorts. An homage to America, perhaps?
It’s psychedelic, electronic rock, with a gorgeous, fiercely surreal injection of sitar, all beautifully enigmatic and atmospheric…without being in the slightest bit obtuse.
Shauvik certainly has a unique sound. An accomplished and gifted guitarist, he blends epic solos with poignant sitar breaks and lusciously produced walls of sound. It’s all very progressive and harmonious, fluid and softly ambitious. Not world music exactly, but more other worldly.
Some musicians are hard to categorize, or rather difficult to put neatly into an easily referenced space. Flyght Club, or Shauvik Sharan, is that kind of tricky.
“American Eyes” seems as if it should be some kind of big noise, big haired love song, but it turns out to be melodious, flirty, intricate and quite beautiful.
The song has depth, longing and humor. It leaves you feeling lonely and wanting…in the best possible way. So maybe it is a love song, in the most sweetly, sadly and seductive way. It’s A bit ELO, a bit Kanye, a bit Pink Floyd.
I actually love this track!!!
Stream “Those American Eyes” on Spotify.
Watch the official music video via Youtube.
Musicians: bass, guitar, vocals, keys, synths, vocoder, samples – Flyght Club, Sitar – Sandeep Kumar, Drums – Hriday Jain
Websites:
Official Website: www.flyghtclubmusic.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flyghtclubmusic
Twitter: https://twitter.com/flyghtclub_
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flyghtclub_
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/04sc7vUeHWn4byAA2TqsNX?si=B-S_2uwFQqiwkgDFmplwHQ
Apple Music: https://music.apple.com/us/artist/flyght-club/1547355050
Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/flyghtclubb
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/FlyghtClub/
Adding new music to your playlists makes life so much better>>
Delyn Grey “Ghost Town”
Toronto based singer songwriter Delyn Grey paints a somber picture of what’s around her with her new track “Ghost Town.”
More of a reference to the world than anything else. The song is a cry to all to figure out our mess and learn to live together or die apart. It’s haunting, timely, poignant and thoughtfully created. Driven by a need to reflect the world around her, Delyn has made a song for her time.
She has an unusual and gorgeously accessible voice. A melody that’s simple, honest and immediate, song writing at its best.
Frill less, stripped back to the essence of the idea. Spiraling ideas and voice and guitar all mixed up until we can’t tell anything apart. And why would we need to?
Delyn Grey’s new single release “Ghost Town” is a great song. Soft and urgent, building to her point and allowing the story to lead her. I love this kind of fluidity, clever, unapologetic and keenly framing individual experience, making it universal and so reflective of us all.
I absolutely love this!!! Delyn has an EP on the boil, so I hope we get more from her soon!!!
Watch the “Ghost Town” music video on Youtube.
Stream “Ghost Town” on Spotify.
Websites:
Official Website: delyngreyofficial.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/delyngrey/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/iamdelyngrey
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsdelyn/
Add to your Spotify playlist
Stream on Apple music
Listen on Amazon
Ghost Town musicians:
lead vocals – Delyn Grey
keyboard – Delyn Grey
guitar – Chris Macfarlane
bass – Kyle Texiera
percussion Production – Delyn Grey
written by – Delyn Grey
mixed by Vic Florencia
mastered by Harry Hess
produced by Delyn Grey, Kyle Texiera, and Chris Macfarlane
Check out some new music to add to your playlists>>
Nancy Wenstrom “Vintage Tears” Single Release
Nancy Wenstrom’s new single release “Vintage Tears” is a beautiful song – sad, but beautiful, with echos of Neil Young and Joan Baez.
Nancy Wenstrom is a veteran musician and rock guitarist, having worked with Bob Weir, Chris Issac, Grace Slick, opening for Huey Lewis, Joe Cocker and the like. She is also a well-respected songwriter, which is not surprising given that this haunting song is absolute perfection.
Nancy’s new music release, “Vintage Tears” is gentle, gorgeously produced. Its simple melody belying a complex balance of guitars, harmonica and Nancy’s sultry vocals.
The song chugs along happily with its dark centre of heartache. It has a lovely loose, live feel, open, lofty, vital, free. The best kind of American mellow rock.
This single is off her upcoming, 2020, peri-pandemic recorded album. Something I am certainly going to look forward to! I imagine this song performed on a dusty stage, late, late at night, with Wenstrom surrounded by musicians as spectacular as she. The story of her ancient ache, her eternal broken heart pulling her down “in the cellar to hide.”
I love this track. It’s mournful and visceral and mystical with so much truth in it. Painfully, deliciously profound, cinematic and absolutely brilliant!!!
“Vintage Tears” is accompanied by a lyric video visual that brings the powerful lyrical metaphors to life.
Watch the lyric video on Youtube.
Musician Names/Instruments:
Nancy Wenstrom/ composer, acoustic & electric guitars, lead vocals, BVs,
Joel Jaffe/ electric slide guitar, BVs
Marc Levine/ bass
Billy Johnson/ drums
Hardy Hemphill/ harmonica
Producer Name(s): Nancy Wenstrom, Joel Jaffe
Websites:
Official Website: https://www.nancywenstrom.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook/nancywenstrommusic
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/badswedesongs
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/NancyWenstromCatania
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0XR7swOzeyvj24qkY9Qi9t?si=4oTIJCVkSPeRorQ7TE6PEQ
Soundcloud: https://www.soundcloud.com/nancywenstrom
Youtube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/user/nancywenstrom
New music reviews on nohoartsdistrict.com>>
Is the Future Dangerous for Loans?
2020 was a tumultuous year for the world with the rise of coronavirus, but also economically, politically, and culturally.
This has extended into 2021 and does not seem to be slowing down any time soon. There was a fundamental shift across all industries, but the world of lending was significantly disrupted and alternative lenders rose, which has left traditional creditors wondering about the future of loans. Here are a few of our predictions about the future of lending:
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Applicants Will Favour Alternatives To Payday Loans
Payday loans or emergency loans are typically take out to cover an unexpected cash flow issue or financial situation. However, these loans tend to be more expensive for borrowers, and so applicants are becoming more aware of the alternative options. Payday loans will not be regulated out of existence, but instead, people will favour innovative products that meet the same needs at a much lower cost. There is a growing awareness of the other credit options available, so while payday loans will still be on the market, they may become less popular.
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Banks Will Exit The Mortgage Battles
Traditional banks are already losing out to non-bank lenders in the battle of mortgage loans. We predict that this trend will only accelerate into the future and leave banks exiting the competition all together. Thanks to new technologies, conforming loans are now so simple to make that online lenders have been able to outcompete banks on speed of approval. While banks have been the more trusted lender for mortgages in the past, the ease and speed of the online lenders has been hard for applicants to ignore.
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The Introduction Of AI Monitoring For Loans
One area that is overdue some innovation is loan monitoring and maintaining a balance. For example, for small businesses, personal contact with a bank goes a long way to preventing defaults and missed repayments. With a specially designed AI tool, lenders could watch the macroeconomic trends and monitor a borrower’s finances. This could alert the lender when the loan is heading for trouble and give a warning that the borrower may not be able to meet repayments. That crucial advance warning can provide lenders with the opportunity to reach out and work on a proactive plan. It is one technological advancement that could help to cut down the time spent on monitoring and could be used across a variety of lenders.
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Non-Banks Will Continue To Expand Into All Forms Of Lending
There has been a huge shift in non-banks adapting to offer lending, such as Amazon offering loans to small businesses and Apple launching a credit card. Each of these financial products are outgrowths of the companies’ core businesses and concepts, furthering their customers’ opportunities to accomplish their goals. Big businesses with access to the best and latest tech tools will have the ability to break into the world of lending, using their customer data to offer convenient options.
While the world of lending has sifted a little, the future of loans definitely is not in danger. However, with the rising technologies and loan alternatives, there may be some interesting new trends up ahead.
I Care a Lot; Behind Her Eyes; Pretend It’s a City
As I was watching I Care a Lot, I found that, for various reasons I’ll go into later, I really did not care a lot for our fearless protagonist—or any obstacles or challenges she faced.
And why is that, you may ask—well mainly because the central character (played all too well by Rosamund Pike) is an attractive, amoral predator who targets vulnerable senior citizens and, with the help of an unscrupulous doctor and a legal system intent on looking the other way, basically imprisons these people in an assisted living facility (or nursing home) while summarily stripping them of all their assets. Pike’s business is thriving, as she (as well as her partner) take immense pleasure in the pain she inflicts on the victims and their families. And were one think this is all fantasy, if one were to do some research, one can see her character is indeed based on real-life “court-appointed caregivers” (especially one who operated in Nevada—until she herself found herself behind literal bars). Early in the film, Pike sets her sights on Dianne Weist, who is (according to Pike’s medical accomplice) a “cherry,” someone who has plenty of assets and no immediate family to contend with or pose legal challenges. Luckily for the film—(not so for Pike), Weist’s capable and competent “victim” does have some people who care about her—and miss her after she’s gone. Chief among them is Peter Dinklage, who has money, power and connections—and he is willing to do anything to engineer Weist’s release from her new environs.
When I think about I Care a Lot (and I probably won’t after I finish this review) J. Blakeson’s film aims to entertain and unsettle, and does a good job with both. The problem for this viewer is that it is so successful at showcasing the corruption and abuses within the system that one wishes the heartless protagonist to “receive her comeuppance” long before the end of the nearly two-hour running time. Assuming this is the reaction the filmmakers desire, then yes, the film is pretty effective, and does gain traction once Dinklage enters the scene. But then it makes the mistake of getting a bit soft in the middle (does this woman have a trace of a heart…??) before it somewhat recovers. Adding to the entertainment value is an excellent portrayal from Dianne Weist as the one senior citizen you don’t want to mess with, and several tense scenes of one-upmanship between Pike and her opponents with one particular scene, between Pike and Chris Messina’s clever, persistent lawyer, the highlight of the film. Without spoiling things, viewers can watch the film, be somewhat satisfied by the end—and have no need to ever watch it again. Available on Netflix.
Also on Netflix is the psychological thriller Behind Her Eyes, a limited series that I had to finish watching in a hurry, in the event that I accidentally glimpse an online explanation of the “puzzling, shocking ending.” I had stumbled upon the series and found myself sticking it out—and generally enjoyed it despite some (big) reservations. Simona Brown (superb) is Louise, a divorced mother of one living in a London suburb and making end meet doing clerical work in a doctor’s office. On a rare night out (her girl friend doesn’t show) Louise meets a handsome newcomer (Scottish accent and all), hits it off, but…he is married. The very next day, the practice is welcoming a new psychiatrist and who should it be but…her missed-opportunity one-night stand, Dr. David Ferguson (nicely played by Tom Bateman). And while she Louise and David try to establish the boundaries of their working relationship (as in “will there be boundaries?”), Louise bumps into—and becomes friendly with David’s wife Adele (Eve Hewson, excellent). If you continue with the series (and I’m thinking you will), there are any number of twists and turns, whether it’s in the evolving relationships, Dr. David’s treatment of the fragile Adele, flashbacks with Adele and her even more fragile friend Rob (Robert Aramayo) and mysteries concerning a fire, a well, a will—and some unconventional modes of travel. It’s a well-acted, well-paced, fairly creepy thriller—the extent that you enjoy it will probably depend on certain developments that occur in the fourth episode—and how much idiotic behavior you’re willing to accept from supposedly intelligent characters. I went with it, and was not too sorry.
Finally, if you have Netflix and you’re a Martin Scorsese fan who loves to see him laugh (who doesn’t), you’ll be beside yourself watching Pretend It’s a City, his documentary/profile of humorist Fran Lebowitz. Whether he is interviewing her onstage or more “informally” at the Players Club, he evidently finds Lebowitz consistently hilarious. The surprise, at least for me, is I did too. Lebowitz is an observant, wry, sardonic commentator, and much of her humor is quite self-deprecating (much to her and the viewer’s benefit). There are seven segments, each loosely based around a theme (sports, culture, transit) that gives Lebowitz free rein to recount her road to cultural prominence and to expound on everything she finds endearing and infuriating about New York (this was filmed before the pandemic). Alec Baldwin, Toni Morrison (a long-time friend), Olivia Wilde and Spike Lee also appear (the latter being genuinely and humorously shocked at Lebowitz’s disdain for sports, in one of the show’s highlights). If you give the first episode a try, I think you’ll stick around for the last one.
NoHo Home Alliance Launches NoHo Free Market to Help Our Neighbors
The NoHo Motto really should be: “NoHo is only as great as its people.”
In the case of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church, it is a whole team of people who dedicate their time to serving our North Hollywood community. St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church and their NoHo Home Alliance partnership are excited to bring some additional support to our NoHo neighbors who might need a bit of a helping hand to lower food and supply costs.
Beginning Saturday, March 20, from 11am to 1pm, NoHo Home Alliance, in partnership with the LA Food Bank and CalFresh, is launching “NoHo Free Market” at the edge of the NoHo Arts District. NoHo Free Market is a monthly (3rd Saturday of the month) free fresh produce distribution with other wellness-focused giveaways such as cookbooks, PPE, other healthy food items and more. Walk-up or drive-through on the campus of St. Matthew’s Lutheran Church.
WHERE:
Matthew’s Lutheran Church
11031 Camarillo Street
NoHo, CA 91602
Masks and social distancing required.
WHEN:
The THIRD SATURDAY of each month
Saturday, March 20 from 11am to 1pm
Saturday, April 17 from 11am to 1pm
Saturday, May 15 from 11am to 1pm
INFO:
VOLUNTEER:
Volunteers needed too!
officevolunteer@nohohome.org
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
Five Ways Modern Prosthetics Can Help Students
The combination of engineering and healthcare has brought many beneficial breakthroughs in science. For instance, biomedical engineering prepares students to develop life-saving technologies. It is especially relevant to the advancement of prosthetics.
Are leaning towards becoming a prosthetist? Then, you can build a meaningful career and use it to improve the lives of people around you. Of course, it will involve your enormous efforts to get the license to practice. And, you will have to experience several all-nighters or refer to https://essayhub.com/buy-an-essay to buy an essay. Despite all this, the aim can be completely fulfilled in the end.
For those students seeking to excel in this field, here are the latest modern advancements in prosthetics that you need to be aware of.
Prosthetics That Can Feel
Jacob Segil, the program director for the Center for Translational Research at CU Boulder, has been working on the project to design artificial limbs that can help amputees feel. The final goal is still far off, but the team has come a long way since its beginning. They have developed a unique “neural interface” that might give amputees a sense of touch back in their missing fingers.
According to the study in Scientific Reports, the project team has demonstrated a sensory restoration technology. It can be effective in helping an amputee adopt a series of postures. Segil has recently received a $1 million award from the VA to continue his work. It will allow him to finish this project and make the golden standard of a physiological hand a reality.
Ultrasound Technology in Prosthetics
The National Institutes of Health have recently awarded Siddhartha Sikdar and his team a Bioengineering Research Partnership grant to develop the use of ultrasound in prosthetics for commercial use. The idea is to make ultrasound instrumentation small enough to integrate it into a prosthetic socket. In effect, scientists expect the technology to use set algorithms to interpret the ultrasound signals and control prosthetic hands.
The team is working with the Walter Reed National Military Medical Centre to test this technology in the military population.
On the side, they are also completing studies in using a benchtop system in amputee subjects. The next step is to perform lab tests and clinical trials in preparation for FDA approval.
Image source: https://unsplash.com/photos/ptnM45oZkcw
AI in Prosthetics
It seems like AI has been playing a crucial role in every industry. As a student, you might be already relying on AI-powered search engines. For example, learners look up writing services reviews on https://nocramming.com/ or proofread their essays with online tools.
In robotic prostheses, AI has become crucial for all motor-driven upper limb development. Yet, it has been challenging to apply the concept to lower limbs.
In March 2020, the University of Michigan published a study documenting a new method to use the technology in other types of prostheses. Based on Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface, the technique suggests that surgeons use a small piece of muscle to wrap it around an amputated nerve to produce signals.
The specialists can then apply AI to convert the signals into movements in the prosthetic. Scientists expect this surgery to work on any amputated part.
3D Printing
If you are thinking “how can I write my essay on the latest advancements?”, you might not want to ignore the role of 3D printing in medical innovations. It has become a cost-effective method of creating functional prosthetics. The technology has been instrumental in producing prosthetics for children. Utilizing lightweight limbs can help them tackle a day a bit easier.
It can even add a touch of personality to the prosthetic arms, allowing children to express themselves.
Electronic Skin to Experience Touch
In 2018, a team of engineers at Johns Hopkins University succeeded in creating an electronic skin. This, when layered on top of prosthetic hands, allowed an individual to bring back a real sense of touch through the fingertips.
The e-dermis was made of fabric and rubber, with sensors added to replicate the nerve endings. The electronic skin can recreate the sensation of touch and pain. It senses stimuli and sends the impulses to the peripheral nerves. Engineers deem it one of the non-invasive ways to make robotic systems more humane for the betterment of lives.
Wrapping Up
As you can see, the field of prosthetics is going through a progressive phase. Today, the programs are preparing future graduates to develop valuable industry skills. They have the possibility to narrow the gap between engineering and medicine.
Becoming a biomedical engineer or a prosthetics is your path to growing into a leader in interdisciplinary research. You can help develop life-saving technology that brings in the new era of innovative medical engineering in the world. So, if you feel that this area is for you, start studying it right away!
NoHo News March 11
NoHo News: “damn Right.” Weekend With Picasso. TV Academy Internships. Dogs Are Better Than People. Naturally Tan. Yes?No?Maybe So? Weekend With Picasso. #KeepNoHoArtsy.
Here’s your NoHo arts community update! We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.
Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>
This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>
Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.
Follow NoHo News with Bloglovin
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
“The Green That Is Ireland”
***
“The Green That Is Ireland” is a poem by award-winning writer Waide Riddle.
Lush, the face of Ireland is.
Infinite rolling and cascading hills of rich green.
Sometimes she is the fury of a winter’s blistering blizzard.
Sometimes he is the awesome strength of a coastal white foam splash.
Other times she is gentle and caresses her face with the petals of her wild flowers.
Her fields are as soft as bed linen.
Other times he is anger; a roar that echoes from the past generations.
Battle cries that killed fathers and sons.
Always proud. Always courageous.
Carpets of green outline its canyons and layers of emerald trace its depths.
Grandeur.
As once my father told me as a small child, “This is the green that is the Irish. This is the green that is Ireland.”
And we sat in a mid-day sun shower and fell silent and breathless… beneath a behemoth rainbow of grand and majestic colours…I heard the song of birds…I smelled the perfume of the Irish earth.
The flash of rain… sheets of sun glint.
A crystal waterfall exploded over a jagged rock cliff.
My senses overwhelmed by each shade, blend, transition and cast of the green.
I kiss this nation.
I kiss my country.
And I close my eyes and I ponder the words of my papa from long ago.
His affirmation was clear and undeniable.
Truly, this is the green that is the Irish. This is the green that is Ireland.
“The Green That Is Ireland”
Originally published in CQ: California Quarterly 2012 by the California State Poetry Society; WINNER: Honorable Mention by the CSPS 2012. Archived in the UCLA Library of Special Collections. Audiobook beautifully narrated by Seth Reuben and cover art by Jorge Velasquez
How to Film Videos When You’re Stuck at Home?
Being stuck in your house does not imply that you cannot film professional-looking videos. The entire year 2020 –starting from March, served to be one of the longest years of the decade. It was because around one-third of the population in the world was in lockdown due to the novel coronavirus.
Six Tips to Find the Best Sources for Research Papers
Six tips to find the best sources for research papers
Writing a research paper without a doubt requires the utmost effort. Finding reliable sources for your paper is the first and primary objective when writing, this directly and indirectly has an effect on the outcome of your paper and your grades as well. Credible sources for research papers are usually difficult to find, especially if you are looking to make your work outstanding. Hundreds of students are often given research papers to write at the same time, maybe as an assignment or an exam, your aim will be to turn in a work that is not just a stale repetition of what every other person has done. Instead, find creative ways to make your work noteworthy and memorable, this is a great way of attaining the success level that you want. This can be done by finding unique and credible sources for your research paper.
So how do you find good research sources? You must know that it is not easy, often arduous, but it is doable with the help of this guide, but if you find researching too strenuous or difficult, you can use writing services like https://www.wiseessays.com/buy-research-papers. Learning how to conduct a study and do proper research is an asset to students and scholars and can be utilised not only in college but in other areas of life.
Firstly for the sake of clarity and to create a deeper understanding, we will first look at the three main categories of research paper sources.
Primary research paper sources: These are usually various materials that serve as a basis for different studies, including surveys, academic journals, interviews, as well as documentaries or already written research papers in the same field.
Secondary research paper sources: These sources contain a description of the primary source, examples are articles or books that contain a review or critique of other resources like textbooks, articles, documentaries, etc.
Tertiary research paper sources: These resources are used to organize and detect the primary and secondary materials and can be any of the following:
- Abstracts – They provide a summary of various primary and secondary resources;
- Indexes – They contain all the necessary information of different materials;
- Databases – They are online indexes which contain digital copies or abstracts of different credible sources.
The web is brimming with information and knowing which sources are reliable enough to use in your paper can be herculean. Academic work usually requires credible information that has been validated. Using good sources will strengthen your arguments but how do you know which to use? Here are a few tips.
Identify your research paper topics
Before you begin any form of research, you must have a good understanding of your given topic. This gives you a clear idea of what you should be looking for. If you do not have an idea of what exactly you are looking for, you will only end up wasting your own time without making any considerable progress, so this must be your first step. It is advisable to choose an extensive topic, one that you can truly express yourself in writing, it must have a scope with abundance of potential research materials. A topic with a narrow scope will only make things difficult for you and also make for a poor work.
Create a list of the key concepts
Once you’ve identified your preferred topic you should write out the key elements vital to that topic. You have to keep in mind the purpose of the work. There are different types of research papers and each has a different structure and purpose. You have to keep these in mind in order to find the most appropriate and relevant materials. Make a list of concepts, ideas and keywords that relate to the chosen topic, doing this will make the research much faster because you will know what to look for and where to find it.
Visit the library
Contrary to popular opinion it is wise to begin your research in the library, there you will find large catalogues of books related to your subject. Begin searching for the best sources, this will require a little bit of effort, but you will be able to get what you need without too much effort if you know what type of research paper sources you need to find.
Consider various sources of information
Research is not only limited to only textbooks and w
websites online. There are other great sources of information that can provide some statistical data beyond the traditional ones like documentary films, interviews, literature, newspapers, magazines, other written essays, video recordings and even letters.
The internet is your friend
There will be information that you won’t be able to gain access to in the library or other local sources, you should be able to find these obscure data on the Internet but be sure to always check every source for credibility.
Analyse and organise gathered data
When you are done with locating sources, take time to review all that you have gathered, make a careful analysis of your information and be sure that it represents your topic well, determine your key resources, organize them well, now you are ready to write your essay.
Welcome Vel Stacy to Loft Ensemble
NoHo’s motto should be: “NoHo is only as great as its people.”
Our one-square-mile neighborhood in North Hollywood has been home to 20 theaters over the last 20 years. The pandemic might close our theaters but they do not close the creativity and resilience of the people who create theater. We are happy to share some positive theater news.
NoHo’s Loft Ensemble has named Vel Stacy as the theater company’s co-artistic director. He joins Artistic Director Adam Chambers, and together they will lead Loft into a new era involving both digital and live production.
An actor, vocalist, and military veteran, Vel Stacy has experienced the worlds of film and stage in many capacities.
In addition to acting and directing, he has danced on stages such as The Kennedy Center with Diavolo Dance Group, and in 2020 released his debut single, “Tears,” now streaming on all platforms. Vel ventured to Italy to teach English Through Drama, earning a Teaching English as a Foreign Language Certification. He is an alum of both The American Academy of Dramatic Arts and Musicians Institute’s Independent Artist Program. Vel then joined Loft Ensemble in 2016 and has appeared in countless productions and performed in the company’s Dark Night Series as a dancer and musician. He most recently served as membership director.
Adam Chambers has been artistic director for Loft since 2012. Together, he and Stacy will shape the next chapter of Loft’s creative life by expanding the organization’s support of artists, stories, creators, and partners from all walks of life.
Stacy says, “I don’t want to talk about diversity; we’re here to talk about inclusion.”
They will coordinate with Loft’s artistic committee to curate seasons that can be produced both digitally and in person, and to prepare for Loft to resume live performance when it is safe to do so.
Loft Ensemble consistently offers high energy and groundbreaking productions.
Loft has won several Valley Theatre Awards including Best Lighting Design and Artistic Director Achievement (2018) as well as Best Company Ensemble of the Year and Best Actor in a Leading Role (2019). The company has won two Ovation Awards (2015), Best Ensemble at the New York International Fringe Festival (2013), and back-to-back Hollywood Fringe Festival Producers’ Encore! Awards (2015 and 2016). Two Loft productions earned a combined five nominations for the 2016 BroadwayWorld Awards as well as 10 nominations in 2017 and nine nominations in 2018 for the Valley Theatre Awards. In 2019, Adam Chambers was awarded a California State Senate Certificate of Recognition for his work as Loft’s artistic director.
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
We’re Listening to Audrey Nuna
We’re listening to R&B vocalist and rapper Audrey Nuna’s “damn Right” and “Party” on repeat.
Nuna’s latest track “damn Right” starts off with strong, expressive pop-trap vocals then folds in some smooth and sexy R&B vocals for the hook. It’s all layered on top of some danceable beats. Her quick-witted lyrics calling out judgey haters gives us a catchy, satirical song to groove to.
“damn Right” should be our reminder to not give a sh*t about haters, deflaters and imitators trying to steal our shine.
The video is a fun, literal translation of Audrey Nuna’s lyrics.
Nuna’s “Party” is a seductive, soulful trap ballad. It’s simply sumptuous. Get ready to have the lush chorus float, twirl and live in your mind for days. It’s a body roll song.
“Party
All you do is party (Party)
Sorry
Don’t tell me you’re sorry (Sorry)
‘Cause you cross my mind at like 95
Yeah, you cross my mind at like 95
(Cause I can’t fake it no more)”
Add Audrey Nuna to your playlist and follow her on Instagram for more crooning and smooth grooves.
Keep making music that moves us.
Reasons Why Cheap Essays Are Bad for Education
An essay is a routine for every student. It concentrates all your knowledge on a specific topic. Writing essays also teaches you to work with data, find useful resources and keep on track with important information.
A question you may ask right ahead is why do you need essays? It looks like a waste of time! Actually, it’s not. When you write papers you practice and develop critical thinking. It also helps you to gain some management skills. Additionally, when you work on your paper, you learn how to use the knowledge you already have to search for the content and spread your horizons. It is the best tool for learning the material – if you can write an exhaustive essay and answer all the questions regarding the topic.
Writing skill is a necessity for all students. And today, students have tons of resources and examples to help them out. It makes academic paper writing much more comfortable and saves a lot of your time.
Hundreds of social networks and thematic can help you find the information you need and discuss any problems regarding the essay. You can use online libraries and archives for some references and examples for structuring your work. You can use so many free sources for writing your essay!
However, students now are looking for effective techniques to do their homework faster and with less effort. There are only 24 hours in a day, and you always have to choose what to focus on and which projects are more important.
Even with such a seemingly simple problem as ordering an abstract, it can be challenging to cope with. Indeed, the market of companies offering academic writing is bursting with the number of firms and services provided.
But how to not let your money go down the drain?
First, you have to remember that essay is much easier to write than a research paper or, even more so, a thesis. However, it takes a lot of time and effort to make a high-quality text. All these aspects are reflected in the price.
If the papers you plan to order are extremely cheap, it may be the first alert for you. Writing explicit papers requires a set of skills and knowledge. You cannot really check the professional skills of a ghostwriter who works on your essay. That means no guarantee that your essay will be of adequate quality and free of plagiarism.
It is reasonable to visit a few websites and online services before choosing whom to entrust your paper. Besides, it may be informative for you to learn how to distinguish between good and bad writers. The cheapest essays are often found to be placed on the websites as essay samples. However, in most cases, it means that those are poor writing pieces. They are full of plagiarized paragraphs and do not comply with any formatting style.
The main reason why some essays are a lot cheaper than others is their style and content. Writers put less attention to the details, use non-credible sources, and do not stay consistent throughout the paper. A lot of them are written by students who just want to earn extra money. So, cheap or even free-downloaded essays won’t compare to the paper you get when ordering it from a professional.
A price for school essays consists of many factors, such as volume, topic, chosen references, number of sources, deadlines, etc. And all those factors you need to consider when thinking about whether the price is reasonable.
When taking an order, professional writers should ask you to specify all the essay’s parameters. It is not a curiosity but a necessity – the more clearly the task is, the more likely the written essay will correspond to it. If the potential writers are not interested in any parameters other than the topic itself, you have to think about whether they are real specialists seriously.
A professional essay writing service will place the bill for your order before receiving all the details about your task. There may be a starting rate per page. But a precise price calculation only follows after. So pay attention to that fact before placing your payment. If the price is low and estimated at fixed rates, the delivered paper will likely turn out to be copy-pasted. In this case, you may save some money, but having a good grade for such an essay is unlikely.
Don’t try to save on quality: a cheap essay, not accepted or rated low by the teacher, is a waste of money. You can spend less money if you order an essay in advance. Papers written the night before delivery are usually poor and plagiarized.
How to win the situation?
When you search for a reliable essay writing service, pay attention to the guarantees they offer. It is possible to find a compromise between high-quality and reasonable prices. If you are a student and need a cheap essay written by specialists you can trust – DoMyEssay.net is the best solution. The service provides transparency throughout the whole process. You specify all the details needed for your essay – topic, number of pages, formatting style, deadlines, issues that have to be covered, particular sources, and so on. DoMyEssay.net will ensure absolute compliance will meet requirements, and professional writers will do their best to follow your own writing style.
Finding professionals to entrust your essay is the only way to have a guarantee of high-quality, originality, and on-time delivery.
When ordering an essay, stay risk-free and take full advantage of DoMyEssay.net to achieve the best results.
MashUp’s International Women’s Day Festival
Join MashUp this weekend, March 5-8, for their International Women’s Day Festival!
Celebrating its fifth year, MashUp’s International Women’s Day Festival is BACK with a completely safe, pandemic-approved virtual dance experience! International Women’s Day recognizes the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women and marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. Each year the global campaign creates a theme to forge a gender equal world by redesigning and questioning the status quo. This year’s theme reigns true and as relevant as ever: CHOOSE TO CHALLENGE.
Participating in this global dialogue, while facilitating local connections, MashUp is excited to announce this year’s Festival line up. This event is crafted specifically for early and mid career dancers, and this year, MashUp is honored to have four renowned, unique choreographers teaching FREE master classes: Karen Chuang, Mary Ann Chavez, Sidra Bell (from New York City!), and Tina Finkelman Berkett of BodyTraffic.
Catch new choreography from Madison Hicks, Amy O’Neal, Azuki Umeda, Diana Schoenfield, Eugenia Rodriguez, Deborah Brockus, Kate Hutter and MANY more on Saturday night and during closing celebration!
Or if chatting is more your thing, join them for an intimate discussion with LA Contemporary Dance Company’s Artistic Director Jamila Glass and former Artistic Director Genevieve Carson on Sunday, March 7, followed by a discussion led by Christine Suarez about how we might reshape L.A.’s dance ecosystem as we re-emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Click here to register for all the FREE events or snag your ticket!
MashUp’s annual International Women’s Day Festival is generously supported in part by the City of Los Angeles’ Department of Cultural Affairs and the City of West Hollywood. MashUp Contemporary Dance Company is also supported in part by Los Angeles’ County Department of Arts and Culture.
For more dance news, head over to Dance Resource Centerr.
7 Timeless Self-Care Hair Products for Taming Your Mane
Controlling excess frizz, especially in the wintertime, is a constant struggle. Frizz doesn’t seem to care who you are, what you do, or how much you wish on a star: it’ll keep doing its thing. When it comes to taming your mane, the proper hair care matters, but that isn’t just limited to your shampoo and conditioner. These 7 products will do the trick, even on your worst hair days.
1. Hair Balms
Hair balms have a universal use and are exceptional at controlling frizz, especially on curly hair. It hydrates, softens, and smooths but also helps to define curls. Afro curls are a good pair for hair balms because it cuts down the ends without sacrificing volume. Most hair balms are usable on unruly, coarse, or treated hair and can be applied on wet or dry hair. Find a hair balm full of natural ingredients, like Aesop’s skincare products.
2. Use a Diffuser Instead of a Blow Dryer
Heat can lead to severe hair damage, but it’s hard to resist the allure of the hair dryer or straightener when you’re in a rush. While diffusers do use heat to dry your hair, it limits how much direct heat reaches the inner follicles. Diffusers also prevent hair from moving around and flying everywhere, which creates less fizz and more unruly volume. If you have curly hair, you should use nothing else, but diffusers can also work on all hair types.
3. Leave-in Conditioner
Leave in conditioners work similarly to a regular conditioner, except you, well, leave it in! The best leave-in conditioner comes in a misting bottle because it helps you use as little like the product as possible, which helps with not weighing down your hair. A quick spritz will detangle, condition, and ward off flyaways and frizz. Once your hair dries, you should be left with a mane that’s shinier and smoother regardless of hair type but works excellent with bouncy curls.
4. Anti-Humidity Oil
Humidity is a death sentence for almost all hair types but even worse for curly and coily hair. You can style your hair for hours, but once you hit the summer air, your mane will suddenly have a mind of its own! Don’t give up just yet; try an anti-humidity product filled with castor oil. Its heat-protectant and frizz-controlling elements will often last hours, depending on the product, and works perfectly for any wet climates to manage frizz-prone locks.
5. Anti-Static Spray
If humidity isn’t the case of your Medusa-like locks, then static will probably be your enemy. Multiple hair types can start standing up due to a dry climate, and sometimes your shampoo and conditioner won’t be enough to tackle desert-like temperatures. Reach for the anti-static spray for its multiple added benefits like vitamin and mineral-rich ingredients. Sprays are the perfect way to administer anti-static sprays because they also provide extra moisture.
6. Sleep on a Silk Pillowcase
Sleeping on a silk pillowcase provides more benefits than preventing frizzy hair; they can also prevent wrinkles, keep your skin hydrated and help maintain your healthy locks. Cotton absorbs moisture from the air, but silk keeps the hydration right where it belongs. Silk’s super smooth texture will help your hair glide over the pillowcase, which will reduce friction, leading to fewer mornings with messy, tangled bed head. On top of that, silk can help manage acne!
7. Hydration Serums
Serums are typically a jelly-like substance that can go directly onto your hair and scalp. Serums provide many benefits thanks to their blends of hydrating ingredients like almond oil, aloe vera, and marshmallow root extract. While not all serums will contain those ingredients, they will all boost shine and hydration and add definition to your curls – without giving the hair a ramen noodle appearance. Serums are usually really cheap in comparison to other anti-frizz products.
NoHo News March 4
NoHo News: Changes Are Coming to NoHo. “Fix” the Valley. Tiny Homes. Theater is ALIVE. SOLOFEST. NoHo Restaurant Delivery. Wear a mask so we can keep NoHo an arts district. #KeepNoHoArtsy.
Here’s your NoHo arts community update! We look forward to sharing lots of fun and unique news, events, profiles and updates on what’s happening in the NoHo Arts District.
Every Thursday we send out our NoHo e-News. Do you get it? It takes 30 seconds. Make sure you sign up, it’s FREE. Sign up HERE>>
This issue of NoHo e-News is about what’s going on in North Hollywood and a selection of some theatre shows. But we have a ton of them. Did you know that the NoHo Arts District has the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City? Just check out the NoHo Arts District Theatre Guide>>
Here’s a glimpse at what’s going on in North Hollywood.
Click on the image and to see the online version of our NoHo News…ENJOY NOHO!
Follow NoHo News with Bloglovin
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
Choosing art decorations: How to do it right?
Designing any home is usually based on the homeowner’s personal style and preferences. So, when you are decorating your interior, you already have an idea of which furniture pieces and decorative items you are going to implement in your decor.
However, the one thing you are probably not so sure about is your wall space. This is because wall hangings are considered the stylistic icing on your home and no interior can be complete without them. For that reason, it is important to choose art decorations that will be eye-catching and make your home more welcoming.
However, the main question is how do you do it right. While there are no particular rules for decorating a wall space, there are a few basic tips you should follow to help you select the perfect art decorations.
In order to help you with this project, take a look at these basic instructions to complete your walls perfectly.
Choose art based on personal preference
Your home is a representation of yourself and it should express who you are as a person. Just like you are relying on your personal style to choose your furniture, you should also follow your heart and select art pieces that show off your personality.
If you are into minimalistic styles, then you should go for simple black and white photographs to fill up your wall space.
Or, if you want to be bold and achieve more vibrancy in your home, then you should go for multicolored art prints. The great thing about these wall decorations is that they are very versatile and come in various shapes, sizes and colors giving you an opportunity to choose the one that will look best on your desired wall space.
Select art based on the type
Fortunately, there are countless wall art types you can choose from to complete your interior. From beautiful canvas prints and wallpapers to wall-hanging mirrors and plants, you have the opportunity to pick the one that you like the most and best fits your home decor.
For example, if you want to create a feature wall in your living room, then you can do so by using wallpaper. They come in various designs, colors and styles making them the perfect way to make a statement and add character, charm and individuality to your living space.
Plus, due to their versatility, they can be added to even the most unusual places in your home such as your bedroom nook where you have little room to work with to add wall ornaments.
Think about your existing decor
Another common and natural way to select wall art decorations is by taking into consideration your existing decor. No matter what the overall theme of your living space is, you should go for those art pieces that will best match your current interior design style.
For example, if the theme of your home is mainly contemporary modern, then you should opt for wall art decorations that include such elements in them. Matching corresponding styles this way will certainly help you achieve harmonious unity and cohesiveness in your living space.
Or, if you want to be daring, you could play around with styles. Instead of going for traditional art to complement your traditional interior design, try going for a modern art piece to give your decor a fresh new look.
Consider your available wall space
For many homeowners, the biggest issue that usually occurs when selecting wall art decorations has to do with scale. Unfortunately, people often make the mistake of choosing a smaller art piece for a rather large wall space and vice-versa.
So, in order to avoid this from happening, you should keep in mind several things. Firstly, larger wall spaces call for large-scale art. For example, wall hanging mirrors or canvas prints will make a really big impact in your interior as opposed to hanging smaller art decorations such as photo frames which are most likely going to get lost in the space.
Also, keep in mind the size of your furniture if you are thinking about hanging your wall art above the sofa in the living room. Make sure you have the right measurements so everything looks proportional.
Mix or match by color
Probably the most interesting way of selecting your wall art is by color. This means that you can either match your pieces with the color palette of your home interior or be bold and contrast it.
For example, if the color scheme of your decor is filled with neutral colors such as white or grey, you could go for art pieces that also include such soft shades. This is a great way to stick to your consistent scheme and have a cohesive look.
Or, if you want to add more excitement to your living space, then try going for art pieces with bright colors that stand out against walls with neutral backgrounds.
The whole point is to find something that compliments the space whether it is through matching or contrasting hues.
Hang your art properly
After you have made your wall art selection, you must do the final step of hanging it properly.
One of the most important things you should consider about this is the placement of the art. For example, if you are using it to create a focal point in the room, then you need to pick the right wall and the location of where the art piece is going to go. In most cases, this is usually above a piece of furniture such as your sofa or your fireplace.
You also need to think about how you are going to arrange it. Depending on the size and type of wall art, you can either create a gallery wall or keep it simple and add only a few pieces.
Photo by Minh Pham from Unsplash
Final thoughts
Whether you are looking to freshen up your interior or completely transform its look, incorporating wall art decorations is one of the most effective ways to do so. You have plenty of options available that give you the opportunity to turn even the emptiest space into a bold accent wall.
However, in order to do this perfectly, you must take into account several factors to help you improve your home interior while adding personality to the space. So, next time you are thinking about buying new wall art, make sure you use this article as a guide to help you make the right choice.
The Top Stylish Apartments in NoHo Right Now
NoHo’s come a long way since the 1960s. Once a low-key part of the city with streets lined with empty warehouses and lofts, no one would have thought twice about inhabiting a place there. That is unless you were one of the city’s aspiring artists, looking for a cheap place to set up a studio/residence.
NoHo was once the home of Andy Warhol, Robert Mapplethrope and Jean-Michel Basquiat. However, the downside is that as these artists began to create a romantic notion of the vacant lofts through their work, wealthy NY residents began to jump on the bandwagon.
From the 80s onwards, NoHo started to gain a reputation for being a trendy, bohemian neighborhood and well known property investors began to take over the premises. Today, there are a number of celebrities who reside in this small patch of New York, including Gigi Hadid and Kristen Stewart to name a few.
What’s more, since the 2000’s, there’s been a number of luxury developments with some impressive architecture that combines modern glass wall designs with the traditional loft designs of the 60’s. Let’s take a look at some of the most impressive.
Gigi Hadid’s $5.8 million refurbishment
Known for her catwalk glamour, Gigi Hadid has recently surprised her social media followers as she posted a picture of her refurbished NoHo apartment. Hadid’s unique apartment caused a lot of controversy after critics commented that her choice of furniture made the place look more like a teenager’s hostel than a celeb worthy apartment.
Taking it in her stride, Hadid thanked those who had helped be a soundboard for her ideas when decorating the apartment and commented that they had called her crazy when needed. Featuring ‘hip’ wall art and natural wood materials, mixed with sheek marble countertops in the kitchen and bathroom give the apartment that feel of the 1960’s class, combined with today’s luxurious decor.
25 Great Jones Street
Ok so it’s not an apartment, it’s an entire building of them. 25 Great Jones street is one of the most recent luxury developments in the area. The 11 storey building was designed by well-known architects BKSK and features 6 luxurious residential blocks. If you want a slice of this pie, prices start from $10 million upwards, with the penthouse suite said to set you back double this.
The design of the complex was inspired by the Warhol era residences and combines the open, rigid warehouse vibe with modern luxury. While many residents are now being priced out of the area, local real estate representatives have stepped in to ensure that rent prices remain stable for current residents.
That being said, the area still has the highest price increases year on year, in the city.
25 Bond Street
Converted from a parking garage in 2007, 25 Bond Street is perhaps one of the most surprising developments. Crafted from limestone, the once dilapidated building is now a popular home for the rich and famous, looking to keep their privacy.
This building really does provide luxury with an onsite gym, swimming pool, steam room and sauna. After residents have got their spa fix, they can head over to the onsite library, request assistance from the 24/7 doorman service or park a couple of their cars in the two parking spaces allocated to residents.
Insuring property in NoHo
You’ve taken the jump on renting a luxury NoHo apartment, so why take the risk of anything happening to it. In New York City, it’s not uncommon for residents to be affected by seasonal weather, crime or just general accidents that leave you in a muddle if you don’t have the correct insurance to cover the mishap.
Renters insurance NYC should cover you in the event of theft, accident or general damage and circumstances that are beyond control. It’s certainly worth having in case you ever do find yourself needing to make a claim.
Overall, while NoHo was once the forgotten district of NYC, today’s scene couldn’t be further away from that of the 60’s. With celebrity residents, penthouse suites selling for upwards of $20 million, and keen interest from real estate developers, it looks like NoHo is going to be one of the wealthiest parts of the city if it keeps up the game.
“Fix the Valley”
According to the ASPCA, approximately 1.5 million shelter animals are euthanized annually in the U.S. The number one solution to pet overpopulation: SPAY AND NEUTER OUR PETS! But how can you “fix” your pet for free in Los Angeles?
The Rescue Train has partnered with Spay4LA and the Central Lutheran Church in Van Nuys to provide free spay/neuter for low-income residents or pet owners experiencing homelessness in the San Fernando Valley. This is an ongoing monthly clinic. Proof of low-income, such as Medi-Cal, WIC, EBT, or Cal-Fresh can qualify and proof of financial loss due to COVID-19, such as a letter from their employer or EDD, is also eligible. To make an appointment, please call or text 818-473-9440.
The Rescue Train co-founder Delilah Loud.
WHEN:
March 13 and April 10
WHERE:
Central Lutheran Church
6425 Tyrone Ave, Van Nuys, CA 91401
RESERVATIONS:
Appointments only! Call or text 818-473-9440
The Rescue Train Co-Founder Lisa Young.
Spay & Neuter
One breeding pair of cats and their offspring can produce 420,000 kittens and one breeding pair of dogs and their offspring can produce 96,000 puppies over a seven-year period. That’s a lot of animals needing homes! The Rescue Train is dedicated to spay and neuter; we believe it is the solution to pet overpopulation. We offer referrals to free and low-cost services to pet owners in need and hold mobile spay-and-neuter clinics in the Los Angeles area.
FREE & LOW COST SPAY/NEUTER
If you can’t make this event but live in the City of Los Angeles, you may qualify for a voucher for free or discount pet sterilization. https://www.laanimalservices.com/general-information/spay-neuter/
Make sure to follow The Rescue Train on their socials for up-to-date information on events and maybe your next furbaby.
Facebook | Instagram | YouTube
ABOUT THE RESCUE TRAIN
The Rescue Train was founded in 2004 as a nonprofit, 501(c) 3, no-kill animal welfare organization. Today we are known as one of the most innovative and hard-working groups in Los Angeles run by dedicated volunteers. Through our unique programs and solutions, we’ve helped save thousands of animals’ lives. Our ability to collaborate and form partnerships to achieve our goals sets us ahead of the pack.
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
7 Spring Jewelry Trends For 2021
7 Spring Jewelry Trends For 2021
Jewelry, like any accessory, laps with time, but the obsession with beautiful gems will never change. As we look forward to spring 2021, we’re seeing a pattern of design elements that will stay constant throughout the year. Let’s take a look at the most trendy, creative, and versatile jewelry that you’ll want to add to your outfits that are available for purchase right now.
1. The Harry Styles Effect
Harry Styles has had his fair share of controversy over his outfits, including the 2019 Met Gala appearance with his single pearl earring and his Vogue centerfold where he wore a dress. Thanks to Harry Styles, more men are feeling confident to wear items they thought they couldn’t, and that’s a very good thing. Pieces like these gorgeous aquamarine studs, hoops, and strands of pearls look incredibly fashionable against masculine and traditionally male faces.
2. Long Necklaces
Long necklaces disappeared for a while and were replaced with chunky 90’s chokers for the past five years, but not anymore. It’s pretty refreshing to see long necklaces, layered or otherwise, make a comeback because it adds depth and complexity to any simple outfit. Chloé, Tory Burch, and Dior featured some sort of long necklace in their runway looks, which seems like a coordinated effort to usher a rebirth to this tried and true jewelry staple.
3. Diamonds Everywhere
Are diamonds ever not in? While diamond jewelry seems to always have a place in the fashion world, it seems like layering the ice on our skins will become more fashionable than a simple necklace or ring. Runway looks were abound with large, chunky diamond necklaces, full earpieces, and giant studs. There is even talk that diamond tiaras may make a comeback, though they may be challenging to wear for the average person. Still, it doesn’t hurt to try!
4. One Part Bag, One Part Necklace
A bag can pull together any outfit, which is why they tend to stay in style but in different ways. Last fall, the holder handbags were trending but, 2021 has quickly sent that concept away. Now, handbags are pulling double duty by acting as both a necklace and a place to store your credit cards, makeup, and keys. Chanel and Max Mara’s most recent collection showed a group of models showing off their newest handbags, just on their necks instead of their arms.
5. Layered Bangles
It’s hard to remember the last time bangles were popular with any crowd except for surfers and festival-goers. This year, Lanvin and Jacquemus took 2021 by storm by dressing their models with large, chunky bangles that knocked against their wrists. Other fashion designs have also layered smaller, slimmer bangles up their models’ arms, but the trend is staying firm. Whether they’re stacked to the brim or single statement, bangles are back in business.
6. Big Chunky Statement Pieces
There is no limit to how large jewelry can be, and Victoria Beckham proved that during her 2020 runways. Featured were large, metallic hoops that brushed shoulders and matching chain-linked necklaces and bracelets that were at least an inch or 2 long. If you’re capable of carrying this heavy load, we recommend pairing this jewelry with a simpler outfit. With this trend, bigger is always better as long as you can still lift your arms and move your head.
7. All Pearl Everything
Pearls are another classic accessory that goes in and out of fashion, but they’re typically associated with old Hollywood glamour and opulence. In spring 2021, the concept of using pearls to flex wealth is at a whole other level. Models that appeared in fashion shows had pearls hanging from their ears down to their waists, bracelets that went all the way up the arm, and pearl chainmail. 2021 features the most unique ways to wear pearls ever seen.
Independent Filmmaking News: When Can We Go Back to Work?
When can we get back to work??? Well that really is the question isn’t it!
And the answer is….it’s all depends.
It depends on whether you are working on a studio project, which means the proper rules and regulations and insurance coverage. So in that case the answer would be yes, but “On-location film production taking place at this time is subject to strict adherence to health and safety guidelines.” – FilmLA
This will of course drastically reduce the number of projects currently shooting, not just here, but anywhere in the country really. Entertainment unions, not just SAG, are notorious for safety…as the should be!
Independent films are of course an entirely different breed. So, while they are still giving out permits, if that’s your thing, they are few are far between, highly regulated and therefore will add substantially to the cost of filming.
So if you want to follow the rules, as usual, it will cost you.
I suppose if you want to do something small, like we have tried to do on and off during last year, then you could. Ensuring everyone is safe, masked, distanced, and not a ninny about covid.
To be honest, the few things we tried work okay, but once in the edit where disappointing. Because, I think, all this safety stuff, however necessary, seeps into performances and technique and, in the end, quality and purpose and results. Even if you don’t notice during the day, the pressure of covid and everyone involved’s stories connected to that – family members vulnerable, or ill already, etc – doesn’t exactly lift the mood, does it? Understandable, I think.
So why try then? Well, perhaps your experience might be different to my own, or perhaps you have something up your sleeve that is absolutely perfect for this nutty time. A solo project, something weird and wonderful that needs no one at all, or just your roommate or kid sister or your entire family with whom you are hunkered down, or your ”pod.” So my advice is to do only projects that are completely at ease with this shutdown. Don’t try to force anything that you would have shot before, in a way that you might have previously envisioned it anyway. Find something, not necessarily about covid, I’m sure we are all a bit over that, but something forged by it. Creativity, for some, is birthed in chaos after all.
I have nothing planned now. I am helping on a small something my husband is trying out, but I have set aside my project. I did plan to shoot my feature in 2020….oh how the universe chuckled over that one, I’m guessing. So now I am writing a book. Which seems sensible for the present. I’ll be last on the list for a vaccination, which Is fine, so seclusion and purpose and finally doing a thing I have promised myself I would do, sounds like a good idea.
While this doesn’t fit neatly into the realm of filmmaking, I do think that as creatives we have to adapt to our surrounding, our predicaments and our parameters. Actually that, in my experience, is the essence of making films. Nothing ever goes to plan, and sometimes that’s frustrating and sometimes that’s illuminating. But it is what it is….(I’m taking that back!).