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“Hanging with My Sisters”

Lisa Bianconi
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“Hanging with My Sisters”

Four female musicians over 40, all seasoned pros, give us no-frills performances and engaging true stories about their musical journeys. The video-on-demand film “Hanging with My Sisters” was filmed live and unscripted at North Hollywood’s eclectic Kulak’s Woodshed.

The film, drawn from two live shows and a story-telling session, introduces you to Susan SurfTone, Kristen Speller, Joanne Lazzaro and Kama Ruby, each coming from a different genre with individual experiences that unite them and help them navigate the tough terrain of the music business.

Born from an idea Susan shared with Kristen in summer of 2018 about putting together a live show at Kulak’s, “Hanging with My Sisters” has become a series of shows featuring women who’ve paid their dues and a VOD film featuring live performances from these shows and narrative from the four featured performers.

Susan SurfTone is a former FBI Special Agent working in counterintelligence turned retro rocker. Ever the Elvis fan Susan picked up a guitar in 1964 after seeing The Beatles on The Ed Sullivan Show. Developing her own brand of surf, rockabilly, 1960’s garage music and a little 1970’s punk she established herself internationally as a retro yet modern guitarist and vocalist. Her music brought her to Europe for several tours to support three European record deals. Two of her original songs were featured in The Real World, Season 20, Sydney. Nissan (Italy) and the NBA Portland Trailblazers have featured her music, Nissan in a promotional video and the Trailblazers at live half-time shows. “Hanging with My Sisters” marks Susan’s entry into acoustic guitar music with acoustic performances of her originals “Little Bit Lied To” and “Out Of My Dreams.”

Kristen Speller comes from a family steeped in music known internationally as Tavares. Raised in the rich, musical culture of Cape Verde, Kristen brings an edgy R&B approach to her experiences growing up in Taunton, MA and as a survivor of domestic violence. The daughter of guitarist Leo Perry, Kristen absorbed an affinity for music at an early age. With songs reflecting the stories of a true survivor Kristen makes her point with a forceful no-holds-barred R&B vocal style often accompanying herself on the dulcimer or with Susan on acoustic guitar. Internationally recognized Kristen is a Global Peace Song Award Winner. In the film Kristen performs her hard hitting song “Addiction” with Susan on guitar.

Joanne Lazzaro is an internationally acclaimed classically-trained flutist and a dare-devil whose stories of actual lava walking caught Susan’s attention. Joanne and Susan collaborated on a tune inspired by Joanne’s unusual hobby and resulting song, “Lava Walker” is featured in “Hanging with My Sisters”. From an early age Joanne dedicated herself to the flute and offers insight into the world of classical music while exploring more non-structured improvisational approaches with Native Flute. Joined by percussionist Charles Lowrey Joanne gives us a performance from the heart of a musician truly inspired by the instrument that chose her. Her original song “Emerald Forest” is also featured in the film.

Kama Ruby hails from Bakersfield, CA and will tell you all about it with her award winning song, “The Badlands of Bakersfield” bringing the polish of a serious pop and jazz performer to country music. Accompanied by producer and co-writer Jane Getz on piano and guitarist Bob Tucker Kama indeed makes the badlands of Bakersfield come alive in “Hanging with My Sisters.” It’s a song that will stay with you long after the film is over.

The four performers give insight into their individual careers with never-a dull-moment stories while also discussing their views on the collaborative nature of “Hanging with My Sisters.”

Susan, Kristen, Joanne and Kama will team up once again for a live, third “Hanging with My Sisters” show at Kulak’s Woodshed on Thursday, September 12, 2019 8:00 pm to 10:00pm, Kulak’s Woodshed, 5230 ½ Laurel Canyon, Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91607. Admission is free.

For information regarding the film “Hanging with My Sisters’ please visit acmebrothersrecords.com for the upcoming release date and availability. (Acme Brother Records Production, Runtime: 63 minutes)

Susan SurfTone

“I never thought I’d make a documentary feature film. I really enjoyed the process, especially editing. After decades of playing with a band it is challenging fun to arrange and perform acoustic versions of my songs. I love working with Kristen, Joanne and Kama in all aspects of the “Hanging with My Sisters” project. We’re having a really good time collaborating and are grateful people are enjoying it.”

JOANNE LAZZARO

“I’ve seen that there is a movement building, a complete sea change, in how the music business works. Coming late on the scene to the “indie recording artist” I’ve found I have more in common with others who are also experiencing this same paradigm shift, regardless of their musical style. The four of us are in different musical genres, but our determination, motivation and outlook on music are similar, and as a group we found ourselves thinking along similar lines. Kulak’s was our “idea incubator” where we could try out our new music and relate to a local audience, almost like it was a “living room concert”. The movie was our opportunity to take the concept to a wider audience, and it all came together because as a group, we were able to work together really well.”

KRISTEN SPELLER

“When Susan approached me about doing a live show, which turned into two shows respectively, I immediately said yes. The concept of having an all female lineup was important to me, as well as the opportunity to perform live to showcase all of our talents. I’m excited to be a part of “Hanging with My Sisters,” performing “Addiction” with Susan, sharing our music stories, on our unique journey, in our own way.”

KAMA RUBY

“I love collaborating with different artists, so it was a no brainer to be involved in this project. Being in the company of smart, ambitious, and most importantly, supportive artists is the perfect place to be.”

Don’t miss them at Kulak’s Woodshed!

WHEN: Thursday, September 12, 2019 from 8-10Ppm
WHERE:  5230 ½ Laurel Canyon Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91607

Admission is free.

#KeepNoHoArtsy

**** 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.

All You Need to Know About Alternative Installment Loans

NoHo - North Hollywood
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It is always nice to have options.

The simple idea of having more than one choice gives you a sense of freedom that is so satisfying to your human nature. This is why loan companies have ensured that they have different kinds of loans to offer. Alternative installment loans have become one such popular choice.

As the name suggests, alternative installment loans offer borrowers loans that they have to pay in equal installments over an agreed period of time. This may sound like personal loans, but there is a major difference. These are the best alternative to accessing a loan that people with bad credit scores can get. Under normal circumstances, if you have a bad credit score, say below 550, you are not capable of accessing a loan, and if you do, you end up having to pay higher interests than another person with a good credit score would. Alternative installment loans enable you to access a loan fast, and from reliable sources, even with a bad credit score.

How Alternative Installments Loans Work

Alternative installments loans are available from both banks and non-institutionalized loan facilities. As such, all you need to do is apply for one either on the premises or on the online platforms available. Since you do not need to use your credit score as proof of credibility, what most companies require as far as proof of credibility is proof of payment of utility bills, proof of income, a valid checking account, and a valid ID to prove your identity and that you are of legal borrowing age. These are also the documents demanded while applying for the loan. Some may, however, also ask for your social security details.

When you get an alternative installment loan, your loan, plus the interest it gains, you have to pay back in equal installments over a specified and agreed-upon period of time. Each time you pay an installment, your loan decreases. Simple examples of installment loans include mortgage loans, student loans, and car loans.

Pros and Cons To Alternative Installment Loans

For starters, there is no collateral that is demanded. As mentioned above, as long as you can prove that you have a steady source of income and verify your identity, you can get an alternative installment loan very easily. It also follows that whether or not you are a bad borrower or have a bad credit score, alternative installment loans are easily available. Some companies actually deposit the money into your account the same day you apply, especially when you apply online. Another major advantage is the fact that with alternative installment loans, the purpose of the loan is not a priority. With normal personal loans for instance, the purpose of the loan can be used as a reason for denying you the loan. With alternative bad credit installment loans, most lenders seem not to care what you will do with the money, as long as you pay the agreed installments at the agreed time.

One of the disadvantages of taking an alternative installment loan is the fact that it may have no positive effect on your credit score. Since some of the lenders that offer these loans are not mainstream, they may not record the existence of your loan to Credit Reporting Bureaus (CRBs). As such, no matter how good a borrower you become, your credit score remains bad. On the flip side, if indeed you are recorded with Credit Reporting Bureaus and you fail to honor some of the installments, you could easily hurt your already shaky credit reputation.

Another major disadvantage is the interest rate offered. Most places that offer alternative installment loans know that you do not have a different choice. As such, you are offered a little money at a very high interest rate, little to the tune of $2,500. You may not even notice or feel the pinch of higher interest because you are given a long time to pay, but at the end of the day, you might end up paying up to 36% interest. Most lenders that offer these loans have very low limits. You will find that most only offer up to $20,000 as the upper limit.

Finally, alternative installment loans allow you to refinance mid payment. This means that if somewhere along the process, you have the need to get more money, you can refinance your existing loan and get a higher loan. Of course, there are terms and conditions of this depending on the state you are in. One such term is that some companies demand that before you refinance, you must first pay off the current finance charges.

How To Get An Alternative Installment Loan

There are a number of lenders that offer alternative installment loans currently. You have the choice of banks, credit unions or any number of lenders that are listed online. The best choice, however, is using a loan company that you have used before. This gives you an edge as you are able to predict their terms and rates. It also enables you to easily access all the information that you could need prior to signing up for one.  Alternatively, if you have no experience with loan taking, do some research and find out which lenders ask the lowest interest rates. Then dig more on any other details that may be hidden in the terms and conditions prior to applying for a loan. As part of your research, get your annual credit report just to ensure that, indeed, your best option is to take an alternative installment loan.

Conclusion

It is good to know that having a bad credit score isn’t the end of the world. You are still capable of applying and even accessing a loan that gives you a number of advantages. However, just as with every other form of loan, you should ensure that you pay the installments on time. Since this may not be reflected in your credit ratings because some lenders may not record it, it will work as a path maker for financial discipline. When you finally build back your credit score, you will be able to honor payments in time and keep a clean record from here on.

The Hudson Theatre Presents“Good Mourning”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Grief is a universal emotion.  We all feel it and if we haven’t already, we all will. 

These days it seems like a permanent national state of being.  But dealing with it is something that is as intimate and as deeply and individually personal a thing as anything could ever be.  Some people drink, some people sob, some people hide it all away only to find it explode around them unexpectedly and much, much later.  The one certainty is that it will take its own very particular shape in everyone and then shape you.

This one-man play is an exploration of a tortuously difficult time in one man’s life after the loss of his young daughter to leukaemia.  Alone in his apartment, he is at the end of a month-long leave of absence after losing her and it seems as if he has drunk his way through most of it.  The loneliness, isolation and grief have taken their toll on him and, in his despair, he reaches out to the only thing he feels connects him to his daughter, her toys.

Hosea Chanchez has written a profoundly moving play.  He navigates this terrible time with warmth and wit and honesty that brings both levity and tragedy to the stage of The Hudson.  An accomplished actor, Mr Chanchez plays this broken character as an everyman.  He gives him life along with this death.  He fills him with a sad humanity, struggling to survive something which many of us, I think, could not.  The toys he befriends, just as his daughter did, to bring him some solace, some peace, understanding and forgiveness as he delves deep into his own childhood to examine why he isolates himself even now when it could hurt him the most.

It’s a beautiful piece, a brave forage through dark moments and darker memories.  Mr Chanchez skillfully and with great pathos lays bare his soul as he seeks answers and reasons and release.  Who among us would not go a little mad if we lost a child?  Who among us wouldn’t die a little inside if as a child ourselves we were broken? 

We do whatever we can to survive grief, we can never get over it, only get through it and hope to feel it less acutely as time passes.  But it never leaves us.  Perhaps there is a way to let it be, to understand that it is necessary for us to feel it, if we want to remember love.  Bravo to Mr Chanchez for creating this elegant and very human moment for us to share the possibility.

http://www.onstage411.com/goodmourning

Written and performed by Hosea Chanchez

Directed by Christopher Richards & Danielle Mone Truitt

Running August 11 through September 8, Saturdays at 3pm, Sundays at 8pm

The Hudson Theatre, 6539 Santa Monica Blvd, Hollywood, CA  90038

NoHo’s Got Bikes!

Lisa Bianconi
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NoHo Gets Smart Metro Bikes.

Metro’s Bike Share Program just expanded to North Hollywood with a Smart Metro Bike Fleet! 

Did you know? This marks the first Metro Bike Share program to launch in the San Fernando Valley.

North Hollywood is getting more than 13 Smart Metro Bike Share, and more planned stations will be installed in the coming weeks. 

The Metro Bike Share system features 1,500 bikes available 24/7, 365 days a year in Downtown LA, the Port of L.A. and Venice. This latest expansion further develops first and last mile access to Metro bus and Metro rail lines, including the Orange and Red Lines, and gives residents an opportunity to explore and commute in L.A.’s NoHo Arts District.

How It Works

Unlocking a Smart Metro Bike is as simple as tapping your card to the screen on the bike’s handlebars.

Smart Metro Bikes via www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Smart Metro Bikes photo via Metro.net

There are three ways to unlock a Smart Metro Bike.

• Use a TAP Card: If you purchased a TAP card at a kiosk, or if you have a TAP card registered for Metro Bike Share, tap your card on the bike screen to unlock.
• Use an ID & PIN: If selected at the kiosk, use the User ID and PIN texted to you.
• Use the Metro Bike Share app: Metro Bike Share passholders can release Metro Bikes with the Metro Bike Share app and our partner app, BCycle.

Ride a Smart Metro Bike for just $1.75 for every 30 minutes. Purchase passes at any Smart Metro Bike Share kiosk or save time and purchase a pass online.

30-Day Metro Bike Share Passes are $1 when you use promo code MOREMETROBIKES at checkout. (Offer valid until October 1, 2019. Valid online only.)

https://www.instagram.com/p/B06ePiwgear/

**** 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. NoHo Gets Smart Metro Bikes via the official NoHo Arts District Guide; www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Theatre Rentals in NoHo – Los Angeles

NoHo - North Hollywood
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Theatre Rentals in NoHo – Los Angeles

Want your Event to Stand Out?

We have an extensive list of theatres that are available for Weddings, Birthdays, Anniversaries, Graduations, Music Concerts, Wrap Parties or Corporate Meetings

Check out the NoHo Theatre Rental Guide

Review of the Lion King

Mike Peros
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Review of the Lion King

Watching Jon Favreau’s remake of The Lion King left me with mixed feelings.

I’ll admit I didn’t see a need to remake the 1994 original, which I thought was an endearing, beautifully animated (and voiced) piece of work complete with some lovely Elton John songs. However, Disney has been remaking just about everything recently (with Mulan and Pinocchio to come—among others). Favreau usually displays a sure hand, the actors seemed to be well-chosen, but the fact that the film was to be a CGI extravaganza—with no effect neglected—made me think the magic of the original might be lost. I was not wrong.

It’s not that the new Lion King is a bad film—in fact, it is a perfectly competent, and sometimes visually dazzling film. The story still holds up, as noble Lion King Mufasa (powerfully, yet tenderly voiced, as in the original, by James Earl Jones) is killed due to the machinations of his scheming brother Scar (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who then succeeds in making Mufasa’s son/cub Simba (and rightful heir) feel mighty guilty. The young Simba flees (and is presumed dead), the kingdom become Scar’s (aided by a pack of hyenas), years pass, and it is left to Simba’s friend Nala (Beyonce) to set things in motion to make things right. Favreau and his craftsmen follow the story fairly faithfully (although this version clocks in twenty minutes longer—you feel it); some of the CGI is so “real” that it occasionally seems like you’re watching a restored Disney wildlife film from the 1960s. The voice actors are pretty capable, ranging from Chiwetel Eliofor’s proudly duplicitous Scar to Donald Glover’s Simba, to his companions Timon and Pumbaa (Billy Eichner and Seth Rogen).

Yet for all the verisimilitude on display, this new Lion King lacks the emotional impact the original had. While I was watching it, I felt a profound disconnect between the images and the voices. It’s as if they were two separate entities, so I was always aware that it was Glover or Rogen—not the characters they played. It was hard to be swept up in the proceedings—I found myself admiring elements on a technical level, but these did not coalesce into a moving, complete movie experience. I will say that the kids in the audience liked it (and I daresay many of the adults did).

NoHo News: John Waite. NoHo Artwork. Dance. Music. Theatre. Summer Fun.

Lisa Bianconi
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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!

 NoHo News: John Waite. NoHo Artwork. Dance. Music. Theatre. Summer Fun.

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.

Eye Beauty: How To Make Your Peepers Pop

NoHo - North Hollywood
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It’s no secret that everyone wants to look their best whenever possible.

Taking care of your skin and face should be a part of every effective beauty routine. The eyes are said to be the gateway to the soul, so following some very basic tips can help you let your light shine through.

Puffy eyes, fine lines and dark circles are signs of poor eye care. The skin surrounding the eye is some of the most delicate to be found anywhere on your body. If your eyes are looking haggard, it can ruin your whole look. What you want is for your eyes to help you look bright and refreshed, not frazzled and tired.

Once you know how to help your eyes look their best with things like the best eyelash serum and innovative makeup tips, regular care becomes a cinch. Add these tips to your daily routine to really help make your peepers pop!

Eat A Nutrient Rich Diet

What we eat can drastically affect the quality and look of our skin and eyes. When you switch to a more vitamin and nutrient-rich diet, it won’t take long to see the difference in how your eyes light up your face. Adding more vegetables, fruits, and nuts to your menu is a great way to start. The most important nutrients for excellent eye health include vitamins A, E and C, along with Zinc.

Vitamin A  –  Spinach, carrots, peaches and papaya 

Vitamin C  –  Oranges, mango, and strawberries

Vitamin E  –  Almonds, sunflower seeds and nuts

Zinc  –  Turkey, cereal grains, yogurt and chicken

Get Enough Sleep

Much of your cell repair happens while you are sleeping. If you aren’t getting enough quality rest, the first place that you will see it is on your face. When you get a minimum of 7-8 hours of sleep nightly you can start to see a decrease in the puffiness, dark circles and fine lines surrounding your eyes.

If you have a hard time getting the rest that you need there are a few things that you can try to improve your sleeping habits. Listening to soothing music, filling your room with relaxing scents by practicing aromatherapy or having a warm and comforting bath before you head to bed can help you fall asleep quickly.

Stay Hydrated

We are all made up of over 90% water, so hydration is the most important part of all areas of your general health. When you aren’t getting at least eight glasses of water every day, you will quickly start to see the results in the quality of your skin. When skin is dried out, it can lose its natural elasticity, creating fine lines and wrinkles.

Don’t Skip the Sun Protection

Your skin is your most valuable asset for looking and feeling your best. Protecting your skin is an important part of maintaining your healthy glow. Sunscreen is an absolute must every day. Depending on how much exposure you may get in a day you can choose a sunscreen with 15 – 100 SPF.

To help with the lines that are created by squinting in the bright sun, you should always wear sunglasses when you are heading out. Your goal should be to get a pair of glasses that not only dim the light but block the UV rays of the sun as well.

Conclusion

The most important step in taking care of your eyes and surrounding tissues is prevention and a healthy skin routine. Start with small lifestyle changes that are more about overall health and less about adding another product that makes big promises yet doesn’t deliver.

When You Apply for Insurance, Your Credit History Counts

Lillian Appleby
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When You Apply for Insurance, Your Credit History Counts

Did you know that insurance companies typically consider your credit history, whether positive or negative, when you apply for auto or homeowners insurance?

Insurers may use your credit information when deciding whether to approve your insurance application and when determining the premium you’ll pay.

Why does your credit history matter when you apply for insurance?

Studies by independent researchers and insurance industry actuaries have convinced insurance companies that a strong correlation exists between your credit history and the likelihood that you’ll file an insurance claim. Using information contained in your credit record, an insurer calculates your insurance score. If your insurance score is low, the insurer may consider you to be less of a risk than if your insurance score is high.

How is your insurance score determined?

Although methods vary, an insurance company typically calculates your insurance score by applying a mathematical formula to statistically significant factors on your credit record. These factors may include the amount of debt you have outstanding, whether you have serious blemishes on your credit report (such as past-due amounts, collection actions, and bankruptcies), and the number of times you’ve applied for credit within the past year.

Will a low insurance score prevent you from buying insurance?

Not necessarily. Because your insurance score is generally just one of the factors insurers use to decide whether or not to offer you coverage, an insurer may decide to approve your application even if you have poor credit. However, a low insurance score often places you in a higher risk category, and you may end up paying a higher premium for insurance.

Keep in mind, too, that every insurance company has its own underwriting standards. Even if one insurance company rejects your application due to poor credit, another insurance company may issue you a policy.

What if you have little or no credit history?

In many states, having little or no credit history automatically places you into the “average” risk category. Other states prohibit insurers from even using credit as an underwriting factor if you have little or no credit history. 

Can your insurer cancel or refuse to renew your insurance based on your credit?

In many states, an insurer can cancel or refuse to renew your insurance policy if your credit has deteriorated. However, some states have passed legislation prohibiting insurers from using your credit report as the sole basis for making decisions about cancellations and renewals.

Is there anything you should do?

Insurers must tell you if they look at your credit history when they consider your insurance application or when they determine the rate you’ll pay for insurance. To find out if your credit history has affected your ability to get insurance or your insurance premium, contact an insurance company representative. Here are some other things you can do:

  • Since laws vary from state to state, contact your state’s insurance department if you have questions about the regulation of credit-based insurance scoring in your state.
  • Know your rights. Under the Fair Credit Reporting Act, insurers must inform you that they’ve turned down your insurance application based on information in your credit report, and notify you that you have a right to request a free copy of that credit report.
  • Shop around for insurance coverage. Different insurers have different policies regarding the use of insurance scores. The cost of insurance premiums may also vary, so comparison shop for the best deal.
  • Check your credit report once a year. Order copies from the three major credit bureaus (Experian, Equifax, and Trans Union) and make sure they contain correct information. Dispute any errors with both your creditors and the credit bureaus.
  • Ask your insurance company to rerun your credit score if you feel that doing so would improve your insurance rating (many states allow consumers to request this once per year). But check insurance regulations in your state first–some states allow insurers to take adverse action against current customers based on downturns in their credit scores.

The information in this newsletter is not intended as tax, legal, investment, or retirement advice or recommendations, and it may not be relied on for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. You are encouraged to seek advice from an independent professional advisor. The content is derived from sources believed to be accurate. Neither the information presented nor any opinion expressed constitutes a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. This material was written and prepared by Broadridge Advisor Solutions. © 2018 Broadridge Investor Communication Solutions, Inc.

What Moves You?

Francesca del Console
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What Moves You?

What moves you? Have you asked yourself that question?  What moves the L.A. Cultural Exchange team and all the dancers that we’ve had in our cultural arts exchange program is, hands down, Movement Lifestyle, aka, mL, aka, our happy place.

The mL Studio’s vibe is happy. It’s open. It’s accepting. It feels safe. And that’s just when you walk in the studio. We’ll have to do another post entirely on the lineup, the choregraphers and the class vibe. They call everyone movers because they want everyone to feel like a mover no matter what level they are…or age.

This is on the front page of their site: “The mL Studio is a home where community lives. We hope dancers find this studio a place they can identify with and depend on for quality teaching/training. Come learn in a warm and friendly environment! Make mL Studio the foundation from which you can grow in your journey of becoming a professional dancer or choreographer.”

The Evaristo brothers, C.J. and Shaun, have put together a family of talented folks to efficiently run a studio focused on training, and it’s all done with a huge heart. This same mentality flows seamlessly to their work study team and our dancers feel it in waves, from the moment they step into the studio. “The front desk staff has been nothing but friendly and helpful when it comes to informing myself and fellow movers on which classes would be beneficial to build our craft,” said Kobe, a U.S. dancer from our 2017 inaugural Summer Dance in L.A. season who has now moved to L.A. “The classes have helped tremendously to build my foundation and technique for hip hop. Everyone at Movement is beyond welcoming and supportive. I couldn’t ask for a better environment to dance in.”

The L.A. Cultural Exchange staff is grateful to the mL team, for the help and care they’ve given our dancers throughout the years. They just celebrated seven years as a studio in the NoHo Arts District. How did they celebrate? They gave everyone the gift of free classes! This is how they give back and why they’re a cherished member of the North Hollywood arts community.

We got to chat with mL work study supervisors and professional dancers Vienna and David about the program and how it works.

So what does work study really mean?

You are working so you can study, study dance and nearly all aspects of running a studio! It’s important to understand studio logistics, scheduling, choreographers’ needs, social media, special event planning, the dancers’ needs, the community, etc. Movers learn this in the work study program but also time management, customer service, creative problem solving, good people skills and, ultimately, patience. It’s hard to find a better way to dance, learn how a studio operates and become a better person all at the same time than at mL.

So what are the requirements?

– Two shifts a week, four hours each.
– Every hour worked is a class so that means eight classes a week.
– You must take four classes a week. “Don’t forget to dance,” says David.

So you want to join the mL work study family?

You will have to commit to three semesters, which are four months each. It’s a constant group of new work studies – a constantly moving program of movers from all over – so there’s always someone there to help.

Semesters

1. For the first semester, the newbies, the focus is on respect, as in respecting people’s time, the check in process, the class etiquette, and respect to the choreographers and fellow movers. They do one on ones every semester and ask you about your strengths, like in event planning, admin, marketing, social media, etc., so they can have you do what you do best, or at least help you find out what you do best.
2. Mentorship with faculty. Once they decide what you’re focusing on and interested in and, good at, they pair you with a mentor. It’s required that you take your mentor’s class. These pairings are a way to build a bridge between faculty and the work study team but also collaborations. After all, we are a creative community and working together is not only smart, it makes for a better product, and a more efficient one. If a work study makes music and their mentor needs music, that’s a match made in heaven. We say don’t reinvent the wheel, collaborate. During this time you will have a mentor but also newbies under you. Remember, dancers help other dancers and in this case, movers help other movers.
3. During months 8-12 there are shift lead position available as well. This is a time where they focus on your career path and how they can help. Do you want to work in production, as a choreographer, as a dancer, in graphics, in admin? Now would be the time to take advantage of the mL knowledge base and network.
-Work Study Workshops – you get to have a workshop in the big studio with promotion, including flier and photo shoot. You can do whatever you want in your workshop space. It’s your space and time. You’ll get help preparing for your workshop via the Teaching Seminar – an open forum of sharing experiences like the creative process, gauging a class, etc.

So what are some of the other perks?

-Privates. You will have a monthly private faculty class with flexibility to do what you need like run it as a rehearsal, camera training, audition practice, freestyle, etc.
-Funday. We all need some fun and the Funday is a good to find your people, your tribe. They’ve done hiking, game night, mini golf and a bounce house. “We want everyone who works studies to becomes friends,” says Vienna.
– August once a year showcase. Anyone who has completed the full work study program within the last year can participate and showcase their choreography. They were here because they wanted to dance. And now they’re here showcasing their moves.

So you want to join the mL work study family?

Their suggestion is simple:

“Take a class,” says David. “If you dance here you know the environment. You’ll know if this is the environment you’ll feel happy.”

Check the mL Instagram for updates on work study submissions and deadlines!

Is there a success story?

There are many but the one that popped into Vienna and David’s mind was Kevin. He came for a summer and was there every day, like a piece of furniture, he slept on the bench just so he could take the most amount of classes. L.A. was not his scene, at first. But he applied for the mL work study program because he felt comfortable at the studio and the work studies became his friends. He’s dancing, living his life, still takes class, helps out when he can, living his best L.A. life and it all started with him feeling comfortable. He may not have moved here if it weren’t for his friends at the front desk.

“The greatest thing about this program is that you become friends,” says Vienna. It creates life-long friends, not just dance friends.”

We know this to be true, first hand. Stay tuned for our next post on the Gentle Ladies, our summer dancers’ mentors and former mL work study buddies. We’re big time fans. #GentleLadiesWassup

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bzei0JkHS6x/

The Group Rep Presents “Loose Knit”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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The Group Rep presents “Loose Knit,” written by Theresa Rebeck and directed by L. Flint Esquerra.

Five women come together through a knitting circle, and though they say they are there for the knitting, most likely they are there for the connection – to talk about their jobs, marital issues, and the lack of “good, available” men. 

They meet once a week in each other’s apartments. We see their fears and lack of confidence in themselves, and those moments in life that seem to barrel down on us when we feel alone and without anyone to understand us.  Sometimes they are funny, sometimes sad.  But, if we are lucky enough, there they are, your friends, or those in your knitting circle who are there to lift you up and see there is a light at the end of the proverbial tunnel.  And, so we have “Loose Knit” at the Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre.  

L R CathyDianeTomlin MarieBroderick StephanieColet JulieDavis LisaMcGeeMann photoDougEngalla

Bob (Doug Haverty) is married to Lily (Stephanie Colet), but is having an affair with Lily’s sister Liz (Marie Broderick).  Margie (Julie Davis) is looking for a man.  Yes, she is on the hunt to find her soul mate.  Gina (Lisa McGee Mann) is breaking down under the news she has lost her job.  Paula (Cathy Diane Tomlin) is a psychologist with her own feelings of insecurity.  Then we have Miles (Todd Andrew Ball) who is the one person who ultimately has ties to all these characters, and brings out their anger, fear and disenchantment with the lives they lead.  He insults all these women with his own feelings of superiority and elitism.  He is smug and annoying, yet provocative.  But of all the five women, ultimately Liz is the only one who really knows who she is and is not afraid to show it. 

L R JulieDavis ToddAndrewBall photoDougEngalla

Theresa Rebeck’s writing is crisp and witty, but at the same time biting and difficult to hear.  It’s funny and sad, honest yet sly.  We want to turn away from the intensity, but are drawn to it nonetheless.  It’s almost unnerving, but we can’t turn away.  You feel uncomfortable, but isn’t that how life sometimes is?  And the performances by all of the actors are exceptional.   There are truly emotional scenes, and they leave all of it on the stage.  All the characters’ flaws are laid bare. 

Now we’ve all had those moments when we need our friends – those women who get us through all the “stuff” and bring hope back into our lives.   Where would we be without them!?

Flint Esquerra’s direction gives us the full weight of each character and is a star of this production. The set design by Chris Winfield is wonderful, as always. Lighting, costumes and sound, all bring life to the play.

The Group Rep at the Lonny Chapman Theatre is having a fabulous season. 

Again, “Loose Knit” is a play not to be missed.  Excellent performances and a first-class production.  Summer at the Lonny Chapman Theatre is turning out to be hot, hot, hot. 

Enjoy!!!!!!!!

Cast:  Todd Andrew Ball, Marie Broderick, Cynthia Bryant, Stephanie Colet, Julie Davis, Doug Haverty, Lisa McGee Mann, Beccy Quinn, Sandi Steinberg, Cathy Diane Tomlin, Sascha Vanderslik

Director:  L. Flint Esquerra

Producer for the Group Rep:  Katelyn Ann Clark

Set Design:  Chris Winfield

Costume Design:  Angela M. Eads

Lighting Design:  Douglas Gabrielle

Sound Design/Assistant Director:  JC Gafford

Stage Manager:  Ariana Fernandez

Graphic Design:  Doug Haverty

Public Relations:  Nora Feldman

Photography/Videography:  Doug Engalla

Lonny Chapman Theatre

10900 Burbank Blvd

North Hollywood, CA 91601

Buy Tickets and Information: 

www.thegrouprep.com or 818-763-5990

Show Times: 

August 2  –  September 8, 2019

Fridays and Saturdays at 8 pm;   Sunday Matinees at 2 pm;

Talkback Sundays:  August 11 and August 25 after Matinee

General Admission: 

$25; 

Students/Seniors with ID:  $20;      

Groups:  10+:  $15

Approximate Running Time 2 Hours 10 Minutes

Actor’s Blog “Love & War”

Javier Ronceros
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Actor’s Blog “Love & War”

Today I found myself on set doing reshoots for a film I was in back in May.

The production team had also added a couple of additional scenes that I was newly written in to. It was great. I love to work. We shot these scenes on the property of the American Film Institute. While lights were being setup, I had a bit of a break underneath some shade (it was around 100 degrees on set. I drank water, I sat down and had an interesting chat with a young production assistant who said that he had just seen “Instant Family” and was kind enough to mention my performance and I thanked her. She went on to say that I will probably be famous now. It was a good thing I had just swallowed my drink of water. I was amused by the statement and at the same time, a bit nostalgic.

There have been many circumstances in my career where I believed, “This is it”, This part will be the one that launches my career into stardom.”

I have already mentioned that in my first year, I had three movies that I thought were my ticket to working actor status at the very least.

There was one event that I was actually told by one of the most powerful television producers, that I was going to be famous. At this time in my career, I was going out a lot on auditions and general meetings. On this particular day, I had three auditions. The first one was in the late morning in Santa Monica for a commercial. The second one was in the Mid-Wilshire area for an Independent film. And the third audition was in Venice for another commercial. My agent calls as I hit the 405 north and tells me that I have one last audition at Warner Bros for a television show. I safely make my way to Warner Bros right before rush hour.  I grab my sides and by the time I start to sit down, the casting director calls my name. I entered the room, smiled, and slated my name. I look at my one line and deliver it with complete earnestness, “Abe, we’re out of peanuts.” I thanked the casting director and was about to walk out of the room when she asked me if I could come back later in the day for a callback. I said yes, went across the street to a fast food restaurant and called my agent.

The two hours I waited at that fast food restaurant were absolute torture.

I found out that the show was a new show that was created and produced by Diane English, creator and multiple award-winning producer of “Murphy Brown”, and that the character I was reading for, was a possible recurring role. I was also asked to report to the stage to read for the director of the episode and for Ms. English herself. I walked into the soundstage and found that I was one of five actors waiting to have the chance to grab that brass ring, maybe. The role was for a waiter that works at “The Blue Shamrock”. It was one line, that didn’t even belong to the character. It was a line that was used to see who they would cast based on looks and the ability to make one line sound natural. The other four actors were either, taller, better looking, or lighter-skinned than me. I didn’t stand a chance. I read my line to the most powerful woman on television at the time, thanked her and the director and made my way back to my car. It was a very long walk. By the time I got to my car, my agent called me and said I booked the part. I was to start the following Monday.

That’s where the story should go on to say that the show ran for ten years and that I was nominated for five Emmys and on the fifth try won my first Emmy. I would go on to other shows where I was part of the regular cast and finally landing a show where I was the lead. This would translate to movies and so on and so forth. The show only lasted three seasons. I was in 56 episodes and all but three shows made the final cut. I felt I was so close again and after the show got cancelled, I had to start all over. What lesson could I possibly learn from this sadomasochistic experience? Success is always just around the corner, just as long as you are walking down the same street.

Every day brings a new adventure and this journey that I first embarked on October 6th, 1989 keeps unwinding in front of me and I will keep winding with it.

MOAH: Woven Stories

Raleigh Barrett Gallina
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MOAH: Woven Stories

If I mention Lancaster, CA, Angelenos hardly think rich, envelope-pushing, yet accessible art.

You probably don’t even think art gallery. You probably don’t even think standing structure with 4 walls, you think of Joshua Trees and Poppy fields. Okay so maybe that last line was hyperbole for the sake of illustrating that Angelenos consider the epicenter of art in SoCal to be Los Angeles. But striking distance from the DTLA art hub is MOAH: the Museum of Art & History.

MOAH is well worth the 1.5 hour drive into the desert.

Let’s be honest, it’ll take you longer in rush hour to get from LAX to Burbank, so I encourage you to make the trip. MOAH was founded in 1986 as the Lancaster Museum / Art Gallery and evolved in the last handful of years into a high desert epicenter dedicated to advancing art and history appreciation in the Antelope Valley. Committed to preserving the unique character of the AV, MOAH also connects residents and visitors with fine art exhibitions and interactive history-based programs.

May 11 – July 21, 2019, MOAH featured an exhibition entitled Woven Stories.

Woven stories contained Solo Exhibitions, Installations, and a Group Fiber Exhibition. Using embroidering, second-hand materials, wrapping, sewing, ripping, roping, typing, stiffening, the artists showcased in Woven Stories breathed life into this new, visually attractive collective exhibition.

Some ‘woven’ pieces were conceived of light, ethereal materials, while others were assembled from weighty textiles that tested the bounds of installations without ‘crutches’.

Off-center in the main gallery hall was even a faux tea-party with crocheted cakes, pastries, and desserts akin to a desert hipster’s Alice in Wonderland.

Upstairs (yes the MOAH is large enough to hold several floors) was Please and Your Everything by Nicola Vruwink.

Vruwink crocheted magnetically coated plastic film from cassette tapes, rather than yarn. Predominately texts about love (although abstract forms were also present), Vruwink’s obsolescence of choice materials was meant to highlight the loneliness of modern urban life. This tongue-and-cheek play is not lost on the fact that this exhibition is in the less-populated high desert of Lancaster.

The crescendo to the MOAH’s Woven Stories is Elisabeth Higgins O’Connor’s exhibition.

Gallery-goers caught a glimpse of the monolithic and slightly jarring forms in Blamethirst and Hate Stayed the Ending. Fantastical, Brothers-Grimm-esque forms of animals filled the room in Blamethirst.  Higgins’ use of familiar animal-like forms mimicked human experience and an intersection between nature and culture. Some animals struggled to stand upright, while others appeared fatigued. Each anthropomorphic form was constructed from second-hand shop materials stripped, chopped, and sewn in various styles. The unique application of thrifted equipment delivered a unique, heterogeneous sense of fatigue for each animal.

MOAH is an artistic oasis in the outer rim of Los Angeles’ art scene, and one well worth the trip that is equally as long as it will take you to get to the grocery store.

Gallery:
MOAH-  Museum of Art and History

Upcoming Exhibition:

LA Painting
August 10 – October 20, 2019

Address:

665 W. Lancaster Blvd
Lancaster, CA 93534

Price:
Free! With donations readily accepted

Parking:
Street parking (but you will find free parking)

Hours:           
Tues – Sun
11am – 6pm
Thurs extended hours
11am – 8pm

Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood

Mike Peros
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Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood

There are any number of stars from the late 1950s who saw their careers fade by the middle of the 1960s;

Tab Hunter and Troy Donahue are but two who come to mind. Quentin Tarantino’s romanticized, endlessly entertaining cinematic bon-bon/buddy film Once Upon a Time…in Hollywood isn’t about them, but Leonardo DiCaprio’s fictional protagonist Rick Dalton could be a blood brother. DiCaprio’s Rick Dalton, a former television western star, is feeling displaced and underused in the Hollywood of August 1969, reduced to playing the guest star villains on shows like The FBI and Bonanza to maintain his Hollywood lifestyle—which includes owning a house that is right next door to director Roman Polanski and his wife, the lovely Sharon Tate (Margot Robbie). Dalton’s best friend/ man Friday is his former stunt man Cliff (Brad Pitt), and they remain loyal to each other in a town where friendships can turn on a dime. In fact, the best thing (among many attributes) about the film is the easy camaraderie between DiCaprio’s Dalton and Pitt’s Cliff, as they both try to figure where their place is in a town which seems to be slowly overrun by hippies (did I mention Charlie Manson and his followers are in town…?)

This being a Tarantino film, there is room for clever banter and occasionally insightful dialogue; there are also the plot digressions which pull you out of the action but result in a greater understanding of character (I specifically cite the interlude where Cliff gets into an amusing altercation with Mike Moh’s Bruce Lee—it reinforces Cliff’s strength and skill and also suggests why he is currently a former stuntman.). Time and again, Tarantino impresses: the sequence where Robbie’s Tate goes to a Hollywood theater to watch herself in The Wrecking Crew, impressing the theater workers and soaking in audience reaction; Cliff’s pick up of a Manson acolyte (Margaret Qualley), followed by a trip to the Spahn Ranch, where Manson’s followers claim the ranch owner is fine. Cliff can’t help but investigate, and the tension of the scene is masterfully handled by writer/director Tarantino. There is also a beautifully crafted section where DiCaprio is shooting his guest villain role for Lancer (featuring the late Luke Perry). Included among the scenes of shooting (and sometimes blowing) his scene is DiCaprio’s tender interaction with a child actress on the set. He’s reading a book about a bronco buster past his prime…which resonates with Dalton and his current insecurity; the relatively innocent but wise actress (calling herself act-or) expresses interest and the ensuing scene contains some of the most understated, moving work in Tarantino’s career.

I could go on about this film, and if you have any memories Hollywood in the late 1960s, complete with the iconic television shows, movies, stars, the cars, the hairstyles, Sunset Boulevard, it should come as no surprise that Tarantino effortlessly recreates not only the glamour but the seedy side. It should also surprise no one that though fiction and fact intersect here, that Tarantino does not rely on history for his denouement. What seems to polarize viewers (and reviewers) is the last twenty minutes. I won’t tell you what happens—all I can say is that in the context of Once Upon a Time…(and the title) it really works, complete with what might be a perfect coda.

NoHo News: Ice Cream. Dance. Summer. Music. Theatre. Fun.

Lisa Bianconi
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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!

NoHo News: Ice Cream. Dance. Summer. Music. Theatre. Fun.

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 Write Act Repertory Presents “Summer Shorts”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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The Write Act Repertory Presents “Summer Shorts” at the Brickhouse Theatre, 10950 Peach Grove St, North Hollywood, 91601

Running July 27th, 28th, August 3 at 8pm, 4th at 2pm

A short run of short plays…

This is an excellent example of how a collection of short plays, written by the same playwright, can be as varied and disparate as a plays written by a collective.  Susan C. Hunter is a phenomenal writer.  She has given us a sublime slice of her writer’s mind with a selection of plays with subjects as varied as the treacherous world of online dating, the pressures to lift one’s face, dodgy prenups, and all hilarious and then a darker turn.  A dustbowl mother to ghostly children, women who lived with the enemy unknowingly repeating their patterns of pain, and a sweetly hopeful encounter between a widow and a mailman.

I love short plays.  It’s such an opportunity to cover subjects often overlooked. 

Things we can say with a look, or a poem or by the playing of a favorite 45.  Short plays are sweet glimpses of a story and, with the right actors, they can resonate as deeply as any three-act play can. 

These actors are just so perfectly cast, they all play numerous roles and do so absolutely effortlessly. Brilliantly becoming these funny, clever, sometimes sad and moving characters, full of the intimate and strange imaginings of this writer’s mind.

It’s only on for another weekend, in the lovely Brickhouse Theatre in NoHo, so I urge you to see it.  Supporting short-form plays is as much a duty to the continuing creative art of the playwright as it is, at least for me, a distinct pleasure.  The Write Act Repertory always brings their audiences someone authentic, something moving and something entertaining…this production is no exception.  Bravo!

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4288522

Written by Susan C. Hunter

Directed by Michael Eiden & Susan C. Hunter

Starring:

Franck Amiack, Jordan Carlson, Cruz William Castillo, Jonathan Harrison, Kathryn L. Hunter, Sherrie Lewandowski, Trevor Murphy, Yaron Shani, Georgia Ann Silva, Jamie Sowers, Venessa Verdugo and Jinny Wilcott.

Production by:

Jonathan Harrison and David Thomforde with graphic photography by Clark Hunter

Why Installment Loans are an Excellent Cash Option

NoHo - North Hollywood
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There are many reasons why online loans can be the best idea for an emergency cash flow issue.

We offer the type of online loan that is easy to handle as you are paying it back. That’s because we provide loans that aren’t due back immediately. Instead, you’ll be given an extended period of time to repay the money you owe. 

Understanding an Installment Loan

Unlike other loans, installment loans allow the borrower to repay the amount that is due over a longer period of time. Many other online loan companies are set up to get the loan back, along with finance fees, within a couple of weeks. This makes it much harder on a borrower who is all of a sudden faced with a looming loan payment even though they are still struggling financially. That is why choosing online loans are much easier overall. These types of short-term loans give you more time to pay the cash back. While borrowers will receive their money typically by the next business day after being approved, they will not have to pay their debt off right away. While each state varies, most loans can be paid back within six to 18 months.

Benefits of a Fast Loan

Many people find themselves in the middle of an emergency situation with no money to take care of it. For example, you may have an unexpected issue with your vehicle that you need to get fixed, or maybe your hot water tank broke down and you need to get it taken care of right away. You weren’t expecting these issues to happen, and you certainly don’t have the extra cash set aside to fix it. That’s exactly why online loans can help get you out of a bad jam. After you are approved, the loan is generally deposited straight into your account by the next business day. Many borrowers choose online loans for the following problems:

•Overdue utility bills
•Rent or mortgage payments
•Car payments
•Home repairs or improvements
•Medical or prescription costs
•School tuition
•Funeral expenses
•Wedding expenses
•Groceries
•Vacation costs

Installment loan companies do not need verification of what you will be using the loan for. The money is yours to do with as you please.

Credit Issues Aren’t a Problem

If you try to get a loan from your local bank or credit union, you will have to undergo a credit check. If your credit history is less than perfect, you will likely be turned down for the money you need. An online loan will not turn you away due to a low credit score. While it is true that some companies will consider your credit score, it will not be a factor when it comes to getting the loan. Even borrowers who have had to claim bankruptcy in the past or had a vehicle repossessed can still get approved for an installment loan. This makes it so much easier to find a loan when you are in a hurry to take care of an emergency situation.

Online Installment Loans- Easy to Repay

Taking out many online loans means having to repay them within the next couple of weeks. This is not the case when it comes to installment loans. When you choose online loans with monthly payments, you won’t have to worry about repaying the money right away. Instead, you will be set up with an easy payment plan that will give you months to repay the loan. Some borrowers repay on a bi-weekly or semi-monthly basis, while others are able to pay in one-month installments. Depending on the state you live in, you may have anywhere from five to 18 months to repay the loan. This gives you the freedom you may need to get your finances in order while you slowly pay off your debt.

Easy Application

Simply fill out an easy online form to get the cash you need right away. As long as you are 18-years-old, can prove you have employment and a checking account, you will likely qualify for an online loan. Don’t wait any longer than you have to when you need money fast- an online installment loan may be just the solution for your needs.

Welcome Loft Ensemble to NoHo!

Lisa Bianconi
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The NoHo Arts District is a theatre district. We have 20 theatre is a square mile, the highest concentration outside of New York City. But our neighborhood has many theatre companies that call NoHo home, too.

Let’s give a huge welcome to Loft Ensemble as they open their doors to entertain us live with a whole season of shows, in not one, but two theatres! They are one of the reasons we are able to #KeepNoHoArtsy!

Loft Ensemble will open their eighth anniversary season, but the first in their new North Hollywood location. The slate of plays will feature four world premieres, a holiday comedy, and five productions in Sawyer’s Playhouse, the company’s 40-seat space upstairs from the main stage.

Welcome Loft Ensemble to NoHo! via the official NoHo Arts District Guide; www.nohoartsdistrict.com

The season will open with “Our Lady of 121st Street” by Stephen Adly Guirgis in which a diverse group of people return to New York to mourn and celebrate the life of their mentor only to find that her body is missing. Directed by Adam Chambers, opening is August 10. Next up is the world premiere of “Art is Useless When You’re Being Mauled by a Bear” by Alisa Tangredi in which a woman is accompanied by a menagerie of creatures and a bear as she takes a fantastical journey through grief and madness after losing a loved one. Co-directed by Bree Pavey and JJ Mayes, opening is on October 5. Loft will celebrate the holidays with “The Gayest Christmas Pageant Ever!” by Joe Marshall. In the play, a theatre company in West Hollywood stages their annual Christmas pageant but this time there are some special guests. Directed by Bree Pavey, the show will run November 29 through December 22.

The new year will begin with “The Little Match Girl,” a world premiere by Elizabeth Suzanne. A young girl learns the hardships of life and the blessings of giving in this new play inspired by the Hans Christian Anderson short story. Under the direction of Tor Brown, opening is set for January 4. Next is the world premiere of “Death and Other Girly Things” by RJ Fontaine in which a young woman takes a road trip with her new … baby … learning about life, death, and everything in between. Co-directed by Mitch Rosander and Madylin Sweeten Durrie, opening is set for March 7. The season will close with the world premiere of “Try Not to Think About It, Alice Childress” by Chris Haas. A series of miscommunications turn into a night of survival when natural disaster strikes the Hollywood Hills. Directed by Mitch Rosander, opening is set for May 9.

The premiere season in “Sawyer’s Playhouse,” a 40-seat theatre space upstairs from Loft’s main stage, will feature limited runs of five plays: “Sound of Silence” by Travis Snyder-Eaton, “Growing Gills to Breathe in the Desert” by Zeb Elliot, “Birthday Wish” by Victoria Anne Greenwood, “Just One Moment” by David Evan Stolworthy, and “Branwell & the Other Brontës” by Stephen Kaplan. Directors and run dates for these shows will be announced soon.

We asked Loft Ensemble’s managing director, Bree Pavey, more about their move to the NoHo Arts District.

Why did you choose NoHo as your new home?

We have wanted to be part of the NoHo community for a very, very long time! Our company started in the Arts District of DTLA and we would often dream about what would happen if we could ever move and end up in NoHo. So when gentrification in DTLA forced us out of our original home, we immediately began looking for space in the NoHo Arts District. The energy and commitment to the arts in NoHo is such a unique thing in Los Angeles. Nowhere else in LA is there such a connected community of artists. The journey took longer than we’d hoped, but to FINALLY be part of the NoHo Arts family is a dream come true for Loft! 

What would you like to see more of in the neighborhood?

More theatres!! More dance studios! More art galleries! More outdoor performance spaces! And more collaboration between the arts businesses and non-arts businesses, aside from patronage.

Welcome Loft Ensemble to NoHo! via the official NoHo Arts District Guide; www.nohoartsdistrict.com

How can folks get involved with Loft Ensemble? Being a member, play submissions, other events?

We are a membership company and new members are always welcome! We also have monthly dark night shows open to performers and writers from outside of the company. Then we have open submissions for each season between January and March of each year for plays. Anyone can reach out to us at any time at contact@loftensemble.org for more info! 

Loft is a family and we everything we do is based in love! We are a 100% volunteer organization and we are dedicated to giving artists a platform from which to grow professionally and personally. And we are always happy to make new friends!

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). 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.

Loft Ensemble is located at 11031 Camarillo Street in North Hollywood, 91602.

For more, visit www.loftensemble.org.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwH5oZEgN48/

**** 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.

Directors Are the Captain of the Ship

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Directors Are the Captain of the Ship

Reshoots, additional scenes – finding out you don’t have the film you wanted.

So an actor friend of mine just spent the entire weekend on reshoots of a film he worked on in March…wow.

When you write a film you see it so clearly in your head.  Each character, each location, each motivation for each and every scene and it all seems to work so perfectly.  Then you shoot it and things change.

They can change because you lose a location and suddenly you are shooting a scene that was set in an office in a parking lot, or maybe you lose an actor at the last minute and can’t replace them, or the replacement throws the balance of the characters off.  Maybe you have an actor who just won’t do it like you want them to do it and you give up trying to explain and just let them do what they want and it makes no sense.  You can have technical issues, the light, the sound, the wardrobe, the makeup.  There really are an infinite number of reasons why what you get at the end of the shoot can look very, very different to what the script looked like in your head.

Of course, this can be a huge problem, and for the shoot my friend was on it appeared that the lead actor, not my friend, had somehow, subtly taken control away from the director and was running rogue with the story.  Sounds overly dramatic. But imagine if you hire an actor because they are experienced, love the script, work a lot, maybe even have a following and what you end up with is a megalomaniac who just won’t listen to what you want from them on set.

It’s happened to me and it’s very unpleasant. Some actors just don’t like to be directed.  But as the director you must have control on set otherwise you end up trying to do reshoots on the cheap three months later after you have spent hundreds of hours trying to put the pieces of your film together so it some how resembles what you originally imagined.  Nightmare!

It’s your film.  It’s your vision and, usually at our very, very independent level, it’s your bloody money.  But it’s a tough place to be in when your actor won’t listen.  It can throw everyone else off too, the rest of your crew as well as the other actors.  Everyone is looking to you for leadership.  They need boundaries not because they are infants but because the director holds the entire vision of the finished film in their heads.  As much as you can make a shooting script, hire a cinematographer and a script supervisor and an AD to help you fulfill your goals, it’s all on you…all of it.  So you had better have the ‘ovaries’ to make choices, make them quickly and make them stick.

This scenario is exactly why lead actors get fired from big films during the shoot and have to be very expensively replaced.  Because they think they know better than the director.  Even if that might be true, and occasionally it probably is, it just always has to be the directors movie.

This is also why directors get fired, the lead actor puts pressure on the studio or producers and they think they need them more than the director.  Or the director quits because they can’t lead on set…too much drama, too much mayhem, too much interference from producers or studios or lead actors. So many wonderful possibilities for disaster and that’s after you have spent years writing the script, raising the cash, casting, hiring crew, finding locations – all that work and then it all falls apart.

I’d love to tell you exactly how to avoid this, but honestly, it’s bound to happen at some point, just hope it happens on something small that you can correct fairly painlessly.  But to assume that you are special and that it will never happen to you because you “know what you are doing and have prepared for everything” just isn’t a reasonable expectation.

Disasters don’t mean you are useless.  Failure is how we learn. For the most part, it’s the only way we learn, actually.  That’s how our brains work so just accept it.

Directors have to be the captain of the ship, always.  Lives are at stake. Fortunes can be made and lost and there absolutely, definitely be monsters…Good luck!!

Here are some familiar films where this has happened…just to make you feel better.

“Moneyball” – Steven Soderburg was fired and replaced with Bennett Miller due to extreme creative differences with the film’s producers.

“Superman II” – Richard Donner was fired and replaced by Richard Lester due to the producers wanting the film to be more comedic and Donner’s annoyance at Marlon Brando’s paycheck.

“The Wizard of Oz” – Norman Taurog, Richard Thorpe replaced by George Cukor, Victor Fleming, King Vidor.  That’s a lot of directors and the reasons are endless.  The final film features footage directed by all of them, which is one of the reasons it cost so much I am sure!

“Gone With The Wind” – George Cukor was replaced by Victor Flemming.  Wow, it was quite the merry go round of directors, especially since “Gone With The Wind” and “Wizard of Oz” were shot simultaneously!

“Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas” – Alex Cox was fired and replaced by Terry Gilliam due to clashes with Johnny Depp and the producers. The film was 75% done and was totally reshot. It flopped.

This one surprised me…

“Jaws” – Dick Richards was fired and replaced with Steven Spielberg.  The film nearly killed the 27-year-old director and became the highest-grossing film of all time. Richards was fired because he kept calling the shark a whale.

How Long Is a Drug Detoxification Program?

NoHo - North Hollywood
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One of the side effects of a substance use disorder, or drug addiction, is a chemical dependency on the substance being abused.

The brain literally relies on the drug to help remain balanced, as regular abuse has led to alterations in the chemical pathways within the central nervous system and brain. The brain therefore no longer works as it once did. If the drugs are then removed suddenly, or as they leave the system, withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings may kick in.

Withdrawal symptoms can include both physical and psychological symptoms, and some may even be life threatening without proper care. Detox is the natural process of the body removing toxins and drugs from the body; however, medical detox supports this process with medical interventions, as needed, and oversight.

Some of the factors that may influence the duration of detox include:

  • Polydrug abuse: Use of more than one drug concurrently can extend the withdrawal timeline.
  • Level of dependence: More drugs used for longer periods of time generally indicates a higher level of dependence and a more significant withdrawal syndrome.
  • Co-occurring medical or mental health conditions: Other medical or mental health issues occurring simultaneously with drug abuse can prolong the withdrawal process.
  • Biological or genetic factors: a predisposition to addiction either through biological factors or a family history can impact withdrawal and drug dependence.
  • Environmental aspects: Support systems, stress levels, and previous trauma can play a role in the length and severity of withdrawal.

While detox is highly personal, in general, a detox program lasts 5-10 days, depending on the particular circumstances of the individual.

Detox Programs

There are a two main settings for detoxification programs: outpatient or inpatient. An outpatient detox program may have individuals come in for sessions once daily for a period of a week or so. This form of detox may work for those suffering from mild to moderate withdrawal symptoms.

Outpatient detox offers flexibility in scheduling. When someone has a strong support system at home with people who are all on board with helping the person to remain compliant, it may be beneficial.

A residential, or inpatient, detox program can range from 5-7 days most of the time (though some programs may last 10 days), depending on the particular needs of the individual. This type of detox is more comprehensive, structured, and supportive. Vital signs can be closely monitored 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and trained professionals can ensure that clients remain safe and are not a danger to themselves or others during this time. There is virtually no potential for a return to drug use during inpatient detox, and temptations can be more easily avoided in this setting. Acute withdrawal symptoms are managed during both forms of detox, which, depending on the drug, typically peak within the first few days and begin to taper off within a week or so.

Medical detox often includes the use of medications to manage withdrawal symptoms and drug cravings for both inpatient and outpatient programs. Particularly for addictions to certain substances of abuse, such as alcohol, benzodiazepines, and opiates, a medical detox program can help to diminish potentially dangerous withdrawal symptoms, often by slowly lowering the amount of drugs in a person’s system instead of stopping them suddenly and risking a fatal outcome.

Admission and First Steps in Detox

Individuals wishing to enroll in a detox program can usually contact the treatment provider directly in order to determine if they have availability in the program. Substance use disorder treatment, which includes detox, is considered to be one of the 10 essential health benefits under the Affordable Care Act, meaning that care is covered by insurance at the same level as other medical or surgical services are covered. In order to obtain insurance coverage for detox, the individual may need to first visit their primary care physician to get a referral for substance abuse treatment services. For many policies, detox must first be deemed “medically necessary,” and often, the chosen detox program is required to be in-network in order for coverage to be provided for the lowest out-of-pocket costs. Insurance companies, and substance use treatment providers, can help families and individuals to sort out their coverage and determine how to use it successfully to cover detox services.

Once admitted to detox, generally speaking, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) reports that there are three main components of a complete detox program: evaluation, stabilization, and preparation for entrance into a treatment program. An evaluation often includes both a drug screening to determine what substances are currently in the bloodstream, as well as a medical and mental health assessment. The drug screening can help treatment providers to better understand how to proceed with detox, what medications to use or avoid, and which type of program may be best suited for the individual.

Underlying medical or mental health concerns can influence treatment. Mental illness accompanies drug abuse about half of the time, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), and a dual diagnosis of a mental disorder and a co-occurring substance use disorder needs to be addressed during detox to avoid complications with the withdrawal process. NAMI further reports that inpatient detox for a period of up to a week is generally the optimal option for treating co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Once a detailed assessment has been performed, the bulk of a detox program then focuses on helping the individual to safely remove the drug(s) from the body and establishing a level of physical stability before continuing on with a substance abuse treatment program.

Beyond Detox

The National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA) publishes that detox may be an important first step in substance abuse treatment; however, it should not be used as a standalone form of care. Instead, it needs to be followed with a more comprehensive program that likely uses both behavioral therapies and medications. Many substance abuse treatment providers may discharge individuals from detox and enroll them directly into a treatment program. Comprehensive treatment plans may allow for seamless movement between levels of care as the need arises. Substance abuse treatment providers and the professional staff at detox facilities can facilitate the move from detox into a comprehensive treatment program.

Detox, in general, addresses the physical aspects of addiction and substance dependence, and a substance abuse treatment program focuses on the behavioral and psychological ramifications. Behavioral therapies focus on modifying thoughts and emotions that are negative and self-destructive, thereby helping to change potentially harmful actions and behaviors. It is only after a person is physically stable that the emotional side effects of substance abuse can be fully understood and managed. Potential triggers are uncovered and coping strategies for preventing relapse are learned during treatment. Detox is not a “cure” for addiction, but rather an important part of a more complete treatment plan that builds a strong foundation for a sustained recovery.

6 Psychological Tricks in Restaurant Menu You Should Know For a Romantic Evening

NoHo - North Hollywood
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The restaurant menu is not just a list of dishes. Professionals keep strict watch that it matches the style of the restaurant, is easy to read, and most importantly, contribute to the increase in income. In order not to become a victim of manipulation during lunch or dinner in a restaurant, you need to understand what tricks the menu composers use. So what do they do?

  • Limit choice

Menu composers always take into account the theory, called the “paradox of choice.” Its essence is that the more choices there are, the more we worry when making a decision. The ideal number of options is 7 for each category.

“If we add more items to the menu, the guests will start to get confused, and then, most likely, they will order a standard dish that they have already tried before,” says a menu designer Gregg Rapp. There is nothing wrong with giving preference to familiar and proven dishes, but a well-designed menu can encourage visitors to try something new, more expensive.

“Complicating the menu, we only torment the guests,” says a restaurant consultant Aaron Allen. “As a result, they leave the restaurant unsatisfied. This is partly due to the fact that they are starting to doubt – maybe I should have ordered something else?” And if they did not like the dish, they are unlikely to come here again. Given the fact that constant visitors generate about 70% of revenue, the main goal of any restaurant is to make a visitor want to come back again.

  • Add photos

If the menu is illustrated with beautiful pictures, visitors order an average of 30% more dishes. The scientists at the University of Iowa conducted an experiment: children who saw a picture of the salad were 70% more likely to order it for lunch. We react to the image of the dish as if it were lying on the plate in front of us. If you are hungry, the reaction will be: “I will order what is in the picture.”

However, moderation is also very important. Some visitors associate an excess of pictures on the menu with cheap eateries. Restaurants of the highest class try not to include pictures in the menu at all, so as not to taint the presentable image. Do not know how to choose a top-class restaurant for a date? Women for marriage know all about high-quality and tasty food. 

  • Try to make prices not striking

Another way to encourage guests to leave more money in a restaurant is to make prices on the menu as unostentatious as possible. “We got rid of the dollar sign as it causes unpleasant emotions, reminding visitors that they are spending money,” says Aaron Allen. For example, the price of a club sandwich is indicated in the menu not “$12.00” but “12.00” or even just “12.”

One of the mistakes in menu composition is the dotted lines from the dish name to its price. As at first, a visitor looks to the right side of the page, where prices are indicated, and only then he looks to the left, searching for a cheaper dish.

  • Expensive lures

Everything is relative. Another popular psychological trick – adding a very expensive dish to the top of the menu list, compared to which everything else seems quite affordable. Your waiter does not really expect you to order lobster for $300, but compared to it, a steak for $70 seems to be inexpensive, isn’t it?

Dishes at a slightly high but affordable price seem to be of better quality. As a result, guests leave the restaurant well-fed and satisfied. In one experiment, two groups of people were offered the same buffet dinner. But in the first case, it cost $4, and in the second – $8. Although the food in both cases was absolutely the same, those who paid more confirm it to be tastier. Remember this information for a successful romantic date with your loved one.

  • Use color design

The use of different colors can cause certain emotions and influence the behavior of visitors. Many restaurants know this fact and actively use it. Blue color has a calming effect. Red stimulates the appetite, and yellow attracts attention.

  • Ornate descriptions of dishes

Long, detailed descriptions of dishes increase the number of orders – according to some data, by 30%. The more detailed description of the dish is on the menu, the cheaper it will look to visitors – they seem to get more for the same money.

Moreover, visitors will feel the taste that you point. Phrases like “grown on a farm” and “made from native products” are very attractive to guests. Thanks to such comments, the dish seems to be of higher quality. This technique is so effective that in many US states the law prohibits restaurants from writing on the menu invalid information about the origin of products.

The Filigree Theatre Presents “100 Planes”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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The Filigree Theatre Presents “100 Planes,” Written by Lila Rose Kaplan and Directed by Elizabeth V. Newman.

“100 Planes” runs July 26th through August 4th, Fridays & Saturdays at 8pm, Sundays at 5pm

The Broadwater Theatre Black Box Theater, 6322 Santa Monica Blvd LA CA 90038

What a truly fascinating play.  Centered around three women and their experiences and struggles within the deeply misogynistic, combative and competitive world of the US Air Force. 

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“100 Planes” introduces its audience to three wildly different women who are drawn to this strange world for very different reasons and must now navigate it, as they deal with each other’s roles in unknowingly or otherwise doing their part to perpetuate these stale stereotypes and destructive, ridiculous myths. 

The youngest, a fresh-faced and hugely ambitious pilot, finagles her way to the base in Germany in order to meet and hopefully impress the Major, who holds the key to her goal of flying the newest and most sophisticated plane a women pilot could fly.  Air Force pilots are still restricted from serving in combat roles, so they are forced to fly freighters, rescue planes and cargo, much to their chagrin.

Dont Ask Dont Tell

The Major has been down this road before with other equally ambitious pilots, but she sees something else in this one and she bets the farm on her, while her own ambitions to prove her self in her own insecure position play havoc on her relationship with the third woman, the administrator and her lover.  She yearns for a real and open relationship with the Major, rather than the persistent policy of don’t ask don’t tell and an actual family.  The Major spirals as the decades of overlook and ignorance change her from driven and brazen to willful and reckless.

All this and a burgeoning relationship for the young pilot with an old school mate who cleverly makes his way to her in Germany by writing an article on the Major for a national newspaper.  Instead of sweeping the pilot off her feet, however, he puts even more pressure on her as she trains on a plane far beyond her experience.

It’s a riveting story and one that seems an unusual choice for a play.  But it’s precisely that which makes it work so well I think. 

Unexpected and inventive characters beautifully written and poignant, persuasive performances set in a world far outside most of your usual theatre-goers experience.  The staging is compelling and elegant, the direction simple and raw, the performances all outstanding, bold and gorgeously real.

I loved this play.  It’s a vivid and important depiction of a place full of contradiction and drama and urgency.  What could be more dramatic than the struggle to contain one’s seething ambitions in the constricted and claustrophobic military world?  Brilliant!!

TICKETS>>

Starring:

Brittany Flurry, Karen Harrison, Alani Chock, Brennan Patrick

Movie Review – Ari Aster’s “Midsommar”

Mike Peros
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Movie Review – Ari Aster’s “Midsommar”

Midsommar posits the notion that it may not be the best idea to take an idyllic summer sojourn with someone you’re seriously considering breaking up with.

It’s even less of a good idea if the vacation involves some insistently cheerful villagers dressed in their favorite Handmaid’s Tale attire, some seriously isolated scenery, a towering structure that is off limits, and a ritual that suggests it’s the quality of life that matters, not the quantity (heck, I’m just trying not to spoil things). This latest horror film from writer/director Ari Aster begins slowly but intriguingly, as tormented and needy heroine Florence Pugh (she has reasons for both) and conflicted boyfriend Jack Reynor (he loves her, kind of, yet needs to work on his PhD) head to Sweden at the behest of classmate Vilhelm Blomsgren. The occasion is a rare midsummer celebration (once every ninety years) in what appears to be a commune. The unsettling mood created at the beginning lingers despite the unending Swedish sunshine (though filmed in Hungary), as several hints are dropped (subtle and not-so-subtle) this won’t be a traditional joyous gathering. And shame on these graduate students for not having seen The Wicker Man—but I digress.

Writer/director Ari Aster proves once again adept at keeping the viewer off-balance and developing the characters’ conflicting relationships, including the tensions within the group of Americans (which include other graduate students of varying degrees of commitment), the reactions of a young British couple, and the respective webs that Pugh and Raynor find themselves entangled in. The problem is, once you get the big reveal, there are very few real surprises left, just the inexorable, overlong countdown to disaster. The actors are fine, the mood sustained, but the twists are lacking, and the ones that remain are pretty apparent.

The Whitefire Theatre Presents “Lost: The Musical”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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The Whitefire Theatre Presents “Lost: The Musical” with Book and Lyrics by Steven Christopher Parker and Steven Brandon, and  Directed by Steven Brandon

I caught this company’s previous production of “Shame of Thrones: The Musical” at the Whitefire earlier this year, which was excellent, so I was very happy when I heard about this. I’m a huge “Lost” fan…wow was that really 15 years ago??

I was not disappointed!! This show is hilarious!  The songs are set to music we are all familiar with, from Rolling Stones songs to Disney musicals and the perverted and totally confusing plot lines are amply and brilliantly recreated.

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The cast is superb, such fantastic casting.  Some of the actors play multiple roles and everyone appears to be having a lot of fun. Let’s face it, this is not a stuffy, serious theatrical piece, this is pure satirical bliss.

There are hand puppets and dog suits, hatches and balloon bombs, fake babies birthed onstage, polar bears and even a pretty impressive depiction of the mysterious wind cyclone thingies…so funny! 

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There were a lot of “Lost” fans in the audience, which helps really, there are many many ‘in’ jokes.  But if you have never seen the show you could still enjoy the evening, the performers are very impressive and the songs were so well written.

I loved it!! I hear that over the years quite a few of the original “Lost” cast members have sat in the audience, they all loved it, of course. Who wouldn’t love this kind of insanely clever and loving adaptation of their work!

This show runs through September 23rd and is only on Monday nights at the Whitefire. 

I fully intend to see it again!!! Let’s get retro and go back to the island!

https://www.lostparody.com

Running July 15th through September 23rd, Mondays at 8pm

The Whitefire Theatre, 13500 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks, 91423

The Porters of Hellsgate Present “The Two Noble Kinsmen”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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The Porters of Hellsgate Present “The Two Noble Kinsmen.”
Written by William Shakespeare.

The Whitemore Lindley Theatre, 11006 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood, 91601

This production marks the 29th of Shakespeare’s canon in The Porters of Hellsgate’s long journey through the entirety of Shakespeares works. 

They only have a handful of plays left and this particular one, “The Two Noble Kinsmen,” is one not often performed.

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Basically, it’s a tragicomedy, not uncommon for Shakespeare of course.  The plot is based on one of the stories in Chaucer’s “Canterbury Tales,” the “Knight’s Tale,” which is pretty standard fare in every English schoolroom.  So, since I remember my Chaucer, although I was completely unfamiliar with this play, I totally ‘got it.’  It is brothers pitted against each other, it is long-held grudges and bitter rivalries, it is battles and their aftermath and arranged marriages and heartbreak and torment and loss and rebirths and twists and turns. Oh yes, it is very, very Shakespearean indeed.

I adore The Porters of Hellsgate and not just for the sheer nerve of this monumental undertaking but for how deeply committed they are to each and every second of each and every play they produce.  This could have been a throwaway.  They could have had some fun and ticked it off their list and moved quickly on to the “big” plays. But they absolutely did not.  They instead give this smaller and far less well known of the Bard’s plays their undeniable and indisputable best.

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They fight the fights and fling the pentameters. They lean into the lusty lesbianisms and proudly display the sad parallels with our present world and the ageless, burdensome pressures for the wronged to be righted.  They weave the world created by these beautiful words so well we forget where we are.

We forget we are in this small dark theatre, somewhere in North Hollywood and instead we are swept up by the humor and the headache and the thrills of revenge.

Everyone is brilliant as usual and it’s worth noting that I have grown so used to their excellence in everything they do that I tend to forget just how good they are until I see another companies production that is…

We are so very lucky to have in our midst a company of players so hell-bent on educating us in the best possible way on the genius of Shakespeare.  Thank you, Porters of Hellsgate. I again salute you!!!

Directed by Will Block.

Jono Eiland and Tim Oakes will play the roles of the titular kinsmen; filling out the ensemble are Tina Van Berckelaer, Michael Bigley, Sean Faye, Katie Hotchkiss, Cameron Kauffman, Gus Krieger, Nicole Ledoux, Marie Osterman, Ian Runge, Rachel Seiferth and Jesse James Thomas.

Running July 13th, 19th, 20th, 26th, 27th, August 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th at 8pm. July 21st, 28th, August 4th, 11th at 2pm.

https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4278770

http://www.portersofhellsgate.com

The MaD JaCKRaTS – Improv at Theatre 68

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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 Upon entering Theatre 68 I immediately noticed how full the lobby was, with people already smiling and some laughing. 

I checked my phone to make sure I hadn’t missed the show, perhaps the crowd I encountered was exiting the theatre.  I was wrong, thankfully, and was quickly ushered into the theatre. 

The stage was set as if I was attending someone’s birthday party or the celebration of some holiday I didn’t know existed. I wasn’t sure what to expect.  I had been to many an improv show, some good, some not so much.  Usually, the stage is completely bare, waiting for the actors to create the scene and the atmosphere for the show. In this case, the director and creator of this ensemble and show, Lauren Patrice Nadler, greeted us all and gave us the ground rules.  She sat down to one side of the stage at a table and with a small silver bell.  The lights went down and once they came back up, we were on a wild and thrilling ride full of razor-sharp dialogue, insanely quick character changes, and enough laughs to fill 10 improv shows.

The cast as a whole was brilliant.  Each working off of each other like a well-oiled machine.  It was a long-form format, which is my particular favorite, with a few expert twists and turns that I don’t want to spoil for you.  This is a show that must be seen to be experienced.  The various costumes and wigs used for the performance were cleverly hidden away on both sides of the stage and after a bit, I had completely forgotten were even there.  The actors seemed to disappear and reappear in different costumes and in very different characters almost instantaneously. 

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This show gets everything right about the world of improv.

The best part for me was the skillful way the actors played the truth of the scenes instead of always going for the joke.  Don’t get me wrong, there were plenty of jokes, but they were brilliantly weaved in and out of the dialogue and the characters.  There was one particular stand out who I believe is ready for “The Not Ready For Prime Time Players.”  Micky Shiloh is The Tasmanian Devil of humor, he has a bright future ahead of him.

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The show is amazing and well worth your pennies and your time. 

It was sadly over before I knew it and, by the sound of the audience, we all wanted more.  I will most definitely follow these MaD JaCKRaTS anytime and anywhere they perform.  Do yourself a huge favor and go see this show!

The show is produced once a month at Theatre 68, check their website for exact dates and times.

http://lpnsimprov.com/index.html

Directed by: Lauren Patrice Nadler

Created by: Lauren Patrice Nadler

Produced by: Christina Orloff

Starring:

Micky Shiloah, Kuali’i Wittman, Christina Orloff, Andrew Gabriel, Rachel Thundat, Ricardo Adam Zarate

NoHo News: Summer. Music. Theatre. Fun.

Lisa Bianconi
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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!

 NoHo News: Summer. Music. Theatre. Fun. via the official guide to the NoHo Arts District www.nohoartsdistrict.com

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.

It’s Electric! Metro Orange Line Updates

Lisa Bianconi
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Here’s some Metro Orange Line news updates from Councilman Paul Krekorian’s office.

Metro is converting its entire fleet of buses to zero emission buses by 2030! The first phase will launch on the Orange Line with electric buses. In order to accommodate the zero emission fleet, Metro will install bus charging stations at the Orange Line North Hollywood Station.

Starting Monday, July 22, the Orange Line North Hollywood west parking lot will be temporarily closed through October 31, 2019 due to construction activity for the charging stations. For alternative parking, use the north, south or east parking lots at North Hollywood Station that are accessible from Chandler Boulevard or Cumpston Street.

The Orange Line North Hollywood Bus Terminal will also be temporarily closed beginning Sunday, July 28, through October 31, 2019, and pick-up and drop-off locations will be temporarily re-located.

The pick up/drop off locations will be relocated to the following:
• Board buses at northwest corner of Lankershim and Chandler.
• Exit buses at southeast corner of Lankershim and Cumpston.

As construction begins, Metro is encouraging riders to plan ahead and allow extra time to complete their trip. Red Line service at North Hollywood Station will not be affected.

**** 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.

Foothill Performing Arts Council Presents “Firebringer”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Foothill Performing Arts Council Presents “Firebringer” with Music and Lyrics by Meredith Stepien and Mark Swiderski.

The Foothill Performing Arts Council (FPAC) has been very busy building a reputation for mounting musicals that don’t get the attention they deserve or produced as often as they should. 

I have a theory about this.  The musicals FPAC choose to produce require a particularly high level of musical competence and technical flair.  They are challenging, not just relying on good music and familiar storylines. They demand as much from their audiences in some ways as they do from their cast.  But while this might make it harder for FPAC to produce the work, it makes it infinitely easier for us to love them for it.

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I was lucky enough to see their last show, “The Theory of Relativity,” which was absolutely brilliant, so I had pretty high expectations of “Firebringer.”  I was happily far from disappointed.

This is totally different from the poignant and moving “The Theory of Relativity.” 

“Firebringer” was developed by STARKID Productions and is a weirdly wonderful mixture of “Ice Age,” “Game of Thrones” and “The Flintstones”….set to music.

It centers around a small and disheveled tribe of prehistoric humans, led by a woman, who all worship a duck.  Always hungry, frequently cold and permanently scared of being eaten by enormous beasts, they eke out a fairly miserable existence until one of them accidentally discovers fire. 

Of course, this totally transforms their lives as they burn their way through vegetation, local food stocks and very nearly each other they learn many hilarious lessons along the way.  Much like children do when they play with matches.

The songs are spectacular and the cast is so talented they easily maneuver their way through every brilliant number, while also dancing and fighting and clinging on to their brief and wildly inventive costumes.  The set is simple and excellent and there is a wonderful star turn by a fantastic and gargantuan saber-toothed tiger.

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FPAC set the bar very high with “The Theory of Relativity,” but they have managed somehow to created a show just as excellent and equally entertaining.  They also look like they had an infinite amount of fun making it, and the exquisite ecstasy is apparent in every single minute.

This is a great show – funny, warm, uplifting and brilliantly produced.  Boy, do we all need to get out of our heads right now.

”Firebringer” is the perfect way to forget our troubled world and embrace our collective, messy pre-history….LOVED IT!!!

TICKETS>>

Runs throuh August 25

Book by Matt Lang, Nick Lang, and Brian Holden, with additional writing by Meredith Stepien

Musical staging and direction: Timothy J Borquez

The Tribe:

Jemilla – Sarah Cottier

Zazzalil – Tiffany Oliver

Keeri – Hope English

Emberly: Corrine Glazer

Grunt: Luke Martinez

Molag: Sabrina Velasquez (Saturdays & Sundays) & Dave Carter (Fridays)

Ducker: Brian Felker

Smelly-Balls: Cade Stedman

Chorn: Beth Redwood

Tiblyn: Kasey Furginson

Shwoopsie: Grace Gaither

Clark: Justin Taylor

Kid #1: Perla Rodriguez

Kid #2:Jaiden Oliver

Production:

Musical staging and direction: Timothy J Borquez

Vocal direction: Matthew Park

Choreography: Anne Marie Osgood

Music production: Alex Borquez

Sluka “Ready to Connect” Single Release

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Sluka “Ready to Connect” Single Release

Sluka is a San Diego based four-piece groovy goth rock band formed by the singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Christopher Sluka.

Christopher has more than thirty years in the music business, his first album has in fact just celebrated its 30th birthday!

Forming his music career in the ’80s when music was arguably at its most varied and commercially experimental has clearly imprinted on him a love for pushing boundaries and building a world within the music he makes.  This track is startling in its complexity and yet it feels commercial and humble and is beautifully produced.

There’s an edge to this song, but it’s not a sharp one. It’s spiraling and fluid and boldly esoteric.  But there’s nothing precious or contrived about it.  I love the openness of the production, gorgeously warm and tons of space between the instruments and the vocals.  Everything is showcased to really excellent effect.  It reminds me a little of XTC, a little madness and a lot of soul.

This band is a lovely blend of female fearless generosity, the three other band members are all women and slightly unhinged male perspective.  All mixed together with sublime the excellence of their musicality and some serious humor. It’s earthy, melodic, rhythmic and powerful…loved it!

Watch the music video via Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8Bf-VHgv9ic 

Stream/playlist via Spotify.

Links:

Official Site: http://www.sluka.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Slukaband/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/slukamusic/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCm1PlJyDpoArMazpTDRx3EA/featured

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/20GDHbeFKMYgJDnnxvT6i1

ReverbNation: https://www.reverbnation.com/slukamusic

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