Preatorean LLC Productions presents “Fool For Love,” written by Sam Shepard and directed by Fred Mancuso.
Sam Shepard is one of my favorite playwrights.
His work is deceptively simple and I’ve seen his work done well, but his characters deserve such energy and life force that is sometimes missed in their portrayals. Preatorean Productions, however, have a knack for infusing a still, quiet fire in their productions. This play is a perfect excuse for exactly that kind of approach.
It’s a love story at its heart. Although a broken one by anyones measure. The two lovers are trying their best to stay apart from each other, and have done for some months but now something is drawing them back together. Maybe it’s fate, maybe it’s love, maybe it’s addiction, I doubt they even know themselves. But that is what’s so magical about this play. We discover them as they discover themselves.
The twist is that they are half brother and sister. There’s always a big twist in a Sam Shepard play. They fell in love before they knew and when their families found out everything fell apart. Their father, who appears as a kind of ghostly narrator speaking directly to each of them, lived two lives and hated himself for it.
What this play is about is how we tear at each other without understanding why.
How we need to love and then hate the need in us. It’s not really about the incest, that feels almost incidental really, like an excuse they both use to hurt each other. This play is about forgiveness and empathy and longing. And in all that darkness and tearing there is a lot of humor. The kind of humor that pops up when we least expect it…at a funeral, or during a break up or when disaster calls.
It’s a breathtaking piece. Done well it can be a revelation, moving, excruciatingly painful in the most wonderful way. This production is tender rather than violent, which some are. It’s gentle and sad and still, which is quite lovely. The performances are strong and defined, the character arcs interesting and unexpected. The direction simple and real and refined. It’s a one-hour version, which is enough to understand the impossible place these people find themselves and how none of us could ever truly judge them.
I urge you to see “A Fool For Love.” Never miss an opportunity to see a Sam Shepard play, especially when it is produced with such love and reverence as this one. Bravo!
There’s just something about funk music that everyone loves, no matter how old you are or where you come from.
It’s joyous, it’s soulful, it’s earthy and vital and when you hear it you can’t help but sway your body and nod your head feel glad to be alive.
The Black City band are from Turin, Italy and they put their heart and soul into this really excellent album. From the very opening bars of “Wake Up. The Funk” it’s clear you are in for something very, very special. I love Martin Craig’s lead vocals, all rusty and husky and full of resonance and texture. It’s a perfect blend with the warm pulsating rhythms and the gorgeously deep base. The drums and percussion are fantastic too, all asymmetrical, haunting and sexy.
It’s a truly brilliant album. I love the mix of Italian and English lyrics and the philosophical and beautifully written songs. Nothing is thrown away, no cliches, nothing I’ve heard before, all unique and stunningly original…I’d love to see these guys live, apparently, they frequent a little funk club in Rivoli, Birraceca Pub82, on the Thursday nights jam sessions. Wouldn’t that be an amazing reason to fly to Italy!?
They kind of feel like a funky Gorillas, tough, sarcastic, opinionated with something to say and a particularly gorgeous way of saying it. Some of the songs are dark, hence the name I suspect, but the music pulls you in and keeps you moving. It’s uplifting though, hopeful, the music fills you up while the lyrics make you think.
I love, love, love this record, another one for the summer rotation! Viva l’Italia!
“Chamelon” is a gorgeous, sweetly, slowly unfolding song celebrating the power and the transformative magic of change.
Juliette Reilly gives a really beautiful, cinematic and deceptively simple vocal performance, all multiple tones and resonances and the kind of crystal clear high notes that we all wish we could make.
The production is equally brilliant. Again there’s this extraordinary simplicity to this track that belies its masterful techniques and musicianship. The voice morphing and dipping and shadowed by a deeper darker presence is genius. It’s playful and light, summery even, but aching and mournful, and deeply personal.
This spectacular group of musicians hail from vastly different backgrounds, US, Middle East, Bengal, Europe and the music seems to hint at every place they have ever been. This collective experience echos in the song, subtly, quietly, but with a warm, powerful kind of confidence. It’s pop, it’s EDM, it’s dance, it’s a collective story told from a group of seriously broken hearts. But then, as the song goes, “The sun don’t shine as bright without the rain.” Love, love, LOVED IT!!!!!!
Award-winning SoCal retail chain Collector’s Paradise to take over for Blastoff Comics, NoHo’s cherished, departing vintage-comic boutique. Now this is some good news for the NoHo Arts District and comic book fans all over L.A.
Let’s give a huge WELCOME to Collector’s Paradise and thank them for keeping a locally owned comic book shop in the neighborhood and, ultimately, for helping to #KeepNoHoArtsy!
Blastoff Comics and Collector’s Paradise are pleased to announce that they have entered into an agreement that will allow Collector’s Paradise to take over Blastoff’s popular brick-and-mortar location at 5118 Lankershim Boulevard. The new Collector’s Paradise NoHo store, joining Collector’s Paradise’s existing locations in Canoga Park and Pasadena, is expected to open its doors August 2019.
“Once we had made the decision to close our doors, there was only one choice when it came to passing the torch: our friends at Collector’s Paradise,” said Blastoff’s co-owner Jud Meyers. Blastoff Comics previously announced its shuttering in late June, citing Meyers’ relocation to San Diego and new position at IDW Publishing as the primary reason behind the closing.
“We’re very excited for the opportunity to become North Hollywood’s local bookstore, and to offer the same amazing customer service and in-store events that we’ve long offered our Pasadena and Canoga Park communities,” said Edward Greenberg, managing partner, Collector’s Paradise. Collector’s Paradise plans to carry on Blastoff’s traditions of emphasizing graphic novels, personalized customer service and a respect for the history of comics, while at the same time introducing North Hollywood to some of its own innovations, like their one-of-a-kind online subscription service and graphic novel club, a wide selection of exciting new product lines, and their many special themed events and release parties designed to bring creators and readers together. “It’s going to make Collector’s Paradise NoHo a destination like no other,” said Greenberg.
“North Hollywood was more than just the neighborhood to Jud and me; it truly embraced us and our little comic-book shop,” said Blastoff co-owner Scott Tipton. “It became our home. And we’re delighted to be able to leave NoHo with a world-class comic-book shop like Collector’s Paradise.”
Customers should watch both Blastoff and Collector’s Paradise’s social media for the latest news on the birth of Collector’s Paradise NoHo.
https://www.instagram.com/p/BztmWnQhy6b/
Blastoff is the creation of Scott Tipton and Jud Meyers. It is a retail and warehousing destination devoted to offering customers the best and most exciting pieces of comic-book memorabilia, from vintage comics and toys to hard-to-find hardcovers and animation art. Blastoff Comics was recently named one of the five best comic-book shops in the world by Vera Magazine.
Collector’s Paradise was created in September of 1994, when Edward Greenberg and Joseph Zelich bought an existing comic-book store in Canoga Park, and refined it to a retail destination that specialized in graphic novels and customer service. The store changed again dramatically in 2009, with the opening of its full-time gallery, and in April 2010 opened its second location in Old Town Pasadena. Collector’s Paradise has been repeatedly honored with the title of “Best Comic Book Store in Los Angeles County” by a Fan Poll operated by LA HOT LIST.
We can only hope and press that more unique, independent and creative businesses like Blastoff Comics and Collector’s Paradise continue to make the NoHo Arts District their home. #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.
The Garland’s Songs of Summer Concert Series comes to North Hollywood.
Summertime, and the livin’ is easy at The Garland! What better way to enjoy summer than an outdoor concert in their dreamy outdoor event space, Beverly Park. Enjoy live music, craft cocktails and delicious bites from The Front Yard.
Impulse Country at Songs of Summer at The Garland. Photo via West Coast Music.
Fronted by four of L.A.’s most sought after singers, Impulse takes their audience on a concert like tour through genres spanning the last six decades… Whether it’s Queen, Journey, Michael Jackson, and Frank Sinatra, or Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez and the Black Eyed Peas, you’ll wonder how they did that and beg for more.
8/15 Midnight Special – Door proceeds benefiting North Hollywood Interfaith Food Pantry
The Midnight Special at Songs of Summer at at The Garland. Photo via West Coast Music. West Coast Music’s NEWEST band is a strong and versatile mix of classic American dance tunes spanning 1950s Rock n’ Roll to chart topping radio requests of the moment.
Doors open at 7:00PM, Concert starts at 8:00PM
Please note: $5 entry benefiting a local charity | 21+ (adults only) event | bites and bar available for purchase
The Garland 4222 Vineland Avenue North Hollywood, CA 91602
Welcome to The Garland, an urban oasis where you can enjoy the casual comforts of home and immerse yourself in the action of LA, all in our backyard. Your experience is made complete with a welcoming vibe and modern amenities to keep you plugged in, yet completely relaxed. We’re perfectly situated minutes away from LA’s best attractions, large entertainment and production studios.
And with our restaurant, The Front Yard, you can find yourself sharing a meal on the stunning outdoor patio or sipping perfect cocktails by the fireplace. The approachable menu celebrates the Los Angeles food scene.
It’s all happening here — check in and check us out.
**** 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.
“Echo In The Canyon” was a decent attempt at telling the story of Laurel Canyon’s history in the California Sound back in the day.
It did look like the director Andrew Slater and star/executive producer Jakob Dylan went shopping on a list of contacts from their Rolodexes.
This worked well for some of the contacts such as Dave Crosby, Graham Nash, Roger McGuinn, Michele Philips, but to bring up The Beatles and Ringo specifically was a stretch when Joni Mitchell, The Doors or LOVE’s Johnny Echols could have been introduced as they have a more solid standing in the history of Laurel Canyon. Singer Jackson Brown also made an appearance as well as Brian Wilson of the Beach Boys.
I spent a lot of time hanging around Laurel Canyon back in the day and walked it, hitch hiked it and hung out. I went to a lot of parties on the Canyon and, believe me, The Beatles and Ringo were not music figures that would translate into Laurel Canyon history for creating a large part of the California Sound. They were more like Laurel Canyon adjacent.
I have read that the main reason for leaving LOVE/Johnny Echols out of the film is because they were too obscure of a band to factor in as well as there were just too many stories to include them all. I’ll buy into the volume of info, but not the obscurity of LOVE/Johnny Echols. And what about Joni mitchell? She is a much bigger place holder in the sound of Laurel Canyon than Ringo is or was. Don’t get me wrong, I adore Ringo, but not as a creator of the Laurel Canyon/California Sound.
The Doors also played a huge role in the mystique of Laurel Canyon and I’ve heard many stories from neighbors telling me how the droaning of Ray Manzarik’s organ used to drive them crazy. The Doors’ frontman Jim Morrison had a home by the Country Store whose street was renamed “Love Street” in 2018 at The Love Fest, which is held annually on Laurel Canyon. This was no small feat to accomplish and would have taken an action by the Los Angeles City Council which would involve a great deal of effort. For those of you that don’t know, “Love Street” is a song that The Doors made famous. There’s a line out of “Love Street” that goes “ I see you live on Love Street. There’s this store where creatures meet. I wonder what they do in there.” The store refers to the Country Store.
Granted, it was nice to hear the songs from back in the day performed by talent from Andrew Slater’s client list and see David Crosby being interviewed and being very candid about his relationship with his former band mates. To me, it seemed like he was trying to make amends for his horrible behavior of the past, forge a new artistic/creative bond, and leave the door open for a reunion of some sort. Wouldn’t it be cool if that could be done right here in the San Fernando Valley?
Up until July 3, I had not seen David Crosby live since we filmed “The Big T.N.T Show” in 1965. This segment would be edited as a Byrds video and would find its way to the UK where people saw me and let me know what music producer Phil Spector had done. I was also on the back cover of “The Big T.N.T. Show” video case. My full screen appearance comes toward the end of “Mr. Tambourine Man.”
It was great to see Crosby live for the first time in 54 years and he sounded fantastic. He was partnered with famous axman Waddy Wachtel, notably from the Expensive Winos and Stevie Nicks.
Aside from the concert that was also titled “Echo In The Canyon” there wasn’t really any music. I will not mention the names of those performers in protest for leaving out so much of Laurel Canyons’ famous faces.
Jakob Dylan is the son of Folk-Rock singer and composer Bob Dylan who does have a past with Ringo. Jakob Dylan’s performances and interviewing skills were acceptable and I did enjoy them.
Getting back to who was left out of the film’s perview, artist manager Elliot Roberts, who ran Lookout Mgt., and whose first client was Joni Mitchell and as a manager spoke to Neil Young daily, guiding his career through good and bad. In addition, working with David Geffen, a record deal was secured for Crosby, Stills and Nash. Stephen Stills described Roberts as the kindest, gentlest and funniest and Crosby described Roberts being “A cat like us.” In addition, he managed Bob Dylan and Tom Petty. So why no mention of this guy who helped forge careers for much of the California Sound?
Instead, we get a lot of Jakob Dylan chatting with other talent from the concert talking about the music with stacks of vinyl LPs and inserts of the final product…a concert at the Charleston Music Hall marketed as “Echo In The Canyon.” The thing wasn’t even filmed or performed in L.A. let alone anywhere near Laurel Canyon.
We could have done without the client list that was used by Slater and Jakob Dylan’s contact list.
My time on Laurel Canyon was spent staying at industry people’s homes and learning the ropes from them. They were television executives, record company executives and film executives. It was at one of these parties I was asked to dance, to show director Henry Saperstein my “talent” and cast for “The Big T.N.T. Show.” I was always more than happy to dance for any of those executives even if I was only 14/15 years old during this time. It did get me onto shows to dance.
It was really great that “Echo In The Canyon” did interview Tom Petty and Michelle Phillips from The Mamas and The Papas who had some great stories to tell. Phillips is still beautiful and she also sang at The Love Fest in 2018.
Petty was talking about Roger McGuinn’s Rickenbacker guitar and how it developed the sound of The Byrds which McGuinn had developed as an answer to The Beatles. Weak connection at best.
Phillips spoke about the song “Go Where You Wanna Go” and the story behind it. Apparently she was having an affair with someone and John Phillips found out about it and wrote the song.
Had they followed Tina Malave’s lead when she wrote, directed, produced and hosted “Eye on L.A.’s” “The Legends of Laurel Canyon” in 2012 which still stands up to scrutiny…. The viewing party of that episode read like a who’s who of the Laurel Canyon scene that included media consultant Eliott Mintz who lived on Laurel Canyon at one time. Malave described this segment as “a work of love” at 2018’s Love Fest.
At the end of the day does “Echo In The Canyon” stand up to scrutiny? In a way yes, but is by no means a definitive work that will cover the essence that was Laurel Canyon. It’s not even a seminal piece of work. It’s a nice film that covers a tiny slice of the magic that was Laurel Canyon at the time.
L.A.-based Hip Hop artists Young Goats release their new album “Goat Life Vol 1,” full of retro styled 90s & 2000s classic dance-based Hip Hop.
It’s reminiscent of Drake, Wyclef Jean and Big Sean with that Caribbean tropical twist. It’s all love songs and hook up songs and there’s a good bit of Timbaland influence in here too, lots of layered vocals and gentle rap breaks.
There’s some great 80s references, maybe it’s the sounds, all the brilliant percussion, with a great live feeling. The production is really excellent. A light touch, all echo and space and shadowy backing vocals. Favorite tracks…”Gaze On” and “Got It All.” Very nice!!!
This is a classic summer album. Fun, really well-written songs, great Island vibe, gorgeous vocals, nothing over thought, nothing contrived. They had a lot of fun making this album and you can feel it in the tracks, hear it in the smiling vocals. Great album, love the short tracks too, they let the songs get straight to the point and it works brilliantly as a complete album. You want to let it play, one track to the next. Leave it on and have some fun!! Love the videos too…
How do you keep up staying glamorous, be the best mom to your children, and have a rewarding professional career all at the same time?
Over the decades, this has been traditionally a universal cry for working moms.
Office or work at home, your naughty kids or your other personal issues, whatever is keeping you busy, your self-care routine gets voluntarily sacrificed.
As a new mom, it’s even harder for me to get some profound solitude and silence in the washroom. The mighty rush starts promptly from the very first hour in the morning.
But in between all of this stress and anxiety, I finally managed to fit in a better routine than before, and this time even more prepared for a second child.
Time to Take Care of the Mom!
From waking up early in the morning, taking care of your babies, complting work, and other household chores, moms always have too much on their plates.
Amidst these, we moms tend to forget to take care of ourselves. It’s saddening sometimes, but it’s not necessary to give up all of our lavishing habits.
To support all of the moms who are internally screaming, Faveable has come up with ten life-changing beauty hacks compiled from the experience of a lot other accomplished mothers.
#1. Set Hair Overnight for Waves and Curls
This clever hack can completely save you from the rush and extra effort and set your hair ahead of your time. There are many overnight hair hacks to avoid heat ruining your hair. Follow all those tricks set your hair overnight to get great wavy or curly hair in the morning.
There are even effective methods to straighten your hair while sleeping. That way, you won’t have to struggle with straighteners or heat in the morning anymore.
#2. Stick with Natural Nails
A well-polished nail can thoroughly represent you as a very sophisticated woman with a good sense of cultivated taste and sensuous beauty. On the direct contrary, half-bitten nails with a not so polished state can show how messy your life is. But how about not dealing with nails at all?
Just regular care with well-filed nails is more than enough to make you look great. Stick to your manicure and pedicure appointments, and leave them with a clear topcoat.
#3. Master the Top Bun
Say hello to a bad hair day with a happy top bun if you have no idea how to braid or work out unwashed hair. A top bun covers all of it. Add a clip to finish the bun, and you are ready to go.
Start trailing tutorials and become a bun master in two minutes. As it stays away from your face, it’ll also give you comfort.
#4. Use Multi-tasking Products
A few products will serve you several benefits in one package. Try having these products. A tinted moisturizer with sunscreen is one perfect example it’s three skin care steps in one.
Save your precious time by having multi-use products.
#5. Get a No-Maintenance Haircut
To go for a no maintenance haircut, the first necessary step you should take is to enthusiastically embrace your natural hair. There was a time I wouldn’t step out of the house without the wavy texture of my hair.
But after having my first son, let alone go near the straightener, dry shampoo and braids became my best friend. So help yourself and get a minimal to a no-maintenance haircut.
#6. Use Sheet Masks
When a new blessing enters your territory, your baby’s routine becomes your own new routine. And it’s normal not having enough time to pamper yourself. In this case, to soothe your skin and mind, use sheet masks and instantly relax for a few minutes. It will give you comparative comfort and good skin.
#7. Hide Dark Circles
Babies keeping their moms awake at night is one of the most memorable parts of parenthood. At the same time, dark circles hit the face quickly. Get used to the appliance of different types of concealers and keep some with you always while going out.
Even if you don’t put on anything else, apply some concealers to positively enhance your look.
#8. Use a Lip Tint
As a busy mom, you will try hard to keep looking good but at the same time stay comfy. For this purpose, lip tints are the best choice. They tend to give sheer moisturizer on your lips with slight bliss of colorful shades.
#9. Go for Brow Embroidery
Who doesn’t know the trending beauty impacts of eyebrows? It can simply lift your eyes and make your look stand out. But every morning, drawing a perfect brow and taking a few stable minutes away from your kids might be impossible.
Try recent eyebrow embroidery methods to get a natural perfect brow every day without much-concerted effort.
#10. Embrace Your Natural Beauty
When it typically hits you too hard to keep on track with your beauty routine, it’s better to finally start embracing your natural beauty and eliminate a few makeup routines from your schedule.
Rice water, milk, and honey, sake bath, olive oil — elements like these can help you keep your skin and hair naturally beautiful. In this way, you can look better without putting much effort into makeup and other skin care routines.
Finally,
It’s hard to be yourself when you become a new mom. But still, what’s the harm in taking some shortcuts to beauty roads and feeling confident? Don’t forget trying out these hacks while you are messing around with your toddler.
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>>
**** 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.
I was teaching an Introduction to Acting class in Boyle Heights last week.
I had just explained all the topics we would be covering in the next 10 weeks. I asked the students a few basic questions; “What is your name? Where do you live? And what are you doing here?” Many of the students answered; “I want to be a storyteller,” “I want to play roles that are so far away from who I am,” and “I want to express myself through acting.” Then a student asked me how long I had been an actor and without hesitation I said, “This is my 30th year as an actor. After a few oohs and ahhs, I suddenly feared that the next question might possibly be, “Why are you not famous and why are you still teaching?” Fortunately, that question never came up, but it did take me back in time to the day I decided to move back to Hollywood and commit to being a full-time actor.
There was a stagehands strike in 1992 and suddenly auditions as well as TV and film jobs dried up for a bit. Couple this with my disenchantment with teaching tennis at two clubs in Connecticut, the discovery of my new found love for acting, I had to make a change. I had been living a very financially comfortable life as the head tennis professional at a winter club and a summer club making a ridiculous amount of money, but suddenly that wasn’t enough. I wanted to move back to Hollywood and continue to work as an actor. I thought about it long and hard and then discussed it with my family. I was about to take my family away from a life of leisure and a degree of privilege to an unknown life in the big city and the knowledge that I may not find a job right away. So, we loaded up the truck and moved to Beverly, Hills that is. Swimming pools, movie stars. Well, not quite. We arrived back in Hollywood with all the optimism in the world. After all, I had three films coming out with small but memorable roles.
“Thrasher Road” movie 2018
I managed to get a job teaching tennis at the La Cienega Tennis Centre. It was a part-time job that would suffice until our savings dried up. I acquired a theatrical and commercial agent almost right away. Between tennis lessons, auditions and commercial work, I really thought I had arrived. Now it was all a matter of time before I got famous. The first film to come out was, “Hangin’ with the Homeboys” and it won the grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival. Just before the film was released in L.A., I found out from a friend in New York who informed me that he and I were cut out of the film. No problem, I have two more films being released soon. The next film was, “The Super” starring Joe Pesci. The director, Rod Daniel, decided to do reshoots in the scene I had with Joe Pesci, but I was in L.A., so, once again I was left on the cutting room floor. Three’s the charm they say, the third film that would cement my overnight stardom was “Other People’s Money” starring Gregory Peck and Danny DeVito. This time I heard from a friend of my in New York that said he saw the movie at a test screening and that my part, along with a long monologue, had made the cut. That’s all I needed to hear. I bundled up the family and I purchased five tickets opening day. The premiere was in New York, but I was going to have my own premiere. We sat in the dark waiting for my big monologue and the beginning of my new life as a Hollywood big shot. It never came. My scene was cut and the film got mixed to unfavorable reviews. I was gutted, but my family celebrated anyway. I was famous in their eyes. I always would be.
So, what is the moral of the story?
I learned that I cannot control a great many things in this business. Will my agent get in the room of big roles? Will I have auditions five days a week, three times a day? Will I be discovered from a short film and thrust into stardom? The only thing I have control over is the work I put into my craft and putting myself out there. The only other thing that I know I can always count on is the fact that this business is a marathon and to the hangers on go the success. The hangers up, not so much. Success and fame come in all sorts of guises Every time I get an audition, a callback, book any job, and perform, it’s a kind of success and fame. And so goes on the journey.
Jay Clark Band “The Time is Now” album release. Big sound, huge drum solos, hard-driving rhythms, screaming melodic guitars.
Feels like we are right back in the 80s. Where’s the MTV video with flashy cars and too much smoke and babes?
This is power music, unapologetic, unadulterated, turn it up and air guitar away. Polished country rock, ZZ Top, Van Halen, Metallica are all echoed in this ambitious record. The production is excellent, walls of gorgeous harmonics and spiraling cranking melody.
It has that great blend of tight production and a live feeling, especially with the vocals. Jay Clark sings like he’s standing right next to you. He’s full of soul, emotion and stories of love and family. It’s great, big-hearted music. One track after another of head banging, climbing on the roof of your car, howling at the moon music.
It’s American rock in all its glory…great summer music with a love for the retro sounds of Alice Cooper and Motley Crue. If you still love your mullet – and there’s absolutely nothing wrong with that – then break out your leathers, dust of the motorbike and let’s go for a ride!!
Seneko “Soul Number” EP Release. I absolutely bloody love this EP!!
It’s gorgeously warm and welcoming, soulful and humorous, with a glorious chorus of angelic sirens shamelessly infusing these to these fantastic, deceptively simple songs with a Motown/Atlantic Records twist. Kind of a Velvet Underground, Leonard Cohen-esque, Springsteensy thoughtful yet riotous ride to church.
The tracks are heartfelt and a little heartbreaking in a beautiful, achingly retro way. Seneko’s voice brings a wistful, melodic longing to every song. His raw, delicious tones know this heartache, this loss, this pain. He sings his soul out, so confessional and brutally honest are his lyrics, as if his story is all he has…it’s brilliant. Theatrical, dramatic, classic, the kind of music you stumble across in some dusty bar somewhere that totally changes your life.
Each track is a movie. Each one a story, a journey, a lesson learned, a tragedy un-averted. There’s a country vibe I guess, but not in an obvious way, much more blues than twangy guitars. And his voice is definitely not country, so the results of this blend is epic, transformational and inspirational.
I am not kidding when I say that I will be playing this EP at every opportunity, in my car, in the house, all summer long. It’s just that bloody good.
They keys slam, the rhythms rock, the harmonies rise and Seneko sings in his gritty, effortlessly mournful, careless and careful way.
Every breath meaningful, every tremor real….love, love, love, this….buy it!!!!!
Written by Joe Correll. Directed by Ann Hearn Tobolowsky
Running June 28 through July 21
I think it’s true to say that there is nothing so dark and despicable as family…and nothing brings out the old rivalries and ancient festering jealousy like a death.
“The Favorite” is a perfect blend of dark humor and even darker truth. The matriarch of the family has died, after a long illness which the eldest daughter has helped her through and now it’s time to clear out the garage, decide what to do with the house and air our some very dirty laundry…so to speak.
Photos by Grant Palmer
All families have secrets, things they would rather not discuss, things better left alone. But this family really takes the cake. Betrayal, lies, affairs, missing fathers, a little light incest…it’s all here. The stories these two sisters, one adopted brother and a husband drag out into the open will set your hair on end and make you feel more fortunate than ever before that you have only your own crazy family and their much less glamorous skeletons. Speaking of skeletons, there are a several of those as well…big ones!
All in all it’s a funny, dark, insightful glimpse into just how bad families can get. The characters are well drawn, fully fleshed and expertly played by this rather excellent cast. The set is amazing too…reminds me of my own neglected garage and is a very important character in the plot.
Photos by Grant Palmer
Boldly written with searing, sarcasm and all too shamefully familial plot twists and hilarious, cruel and competitive fights the likes of which only two sisters can have. “The Favorite” is a slightly sinister farce where revelation after stunning revelation forces the characters into a position they rarely seem to find them selves in…honesty.
Great writing, spirited performances and wonderful direction…Bravo!
The Avery Schreiber Theatre, 4934 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, 91601
Cast:
Michael Bouson, Tracey Rooney, Laura Philbin Coyle, Karl T. Wright
“Fight to the Death,” the last of his trilogy of EPs which includes, “Light Years Away” and “The Glass River.”
Coincidentally, a few months ago I got a chance to review his excellent single release, “The Resistance,” which is also included on this EP.
Paul Maged writes protest rock songs. Songs with agendas and positions and difficult things to say about the world around us. He voices his opinions without limitations and with no fear of reprisal or criticism. He is honest and bold and, most importantly, his songs are beautifully wrought and thoughtfully written.
It’s great rock with solid beats, jangling keys, melodic guitars and powerful heartfelt vocals. The songs are epic, big, ambitious and cinematic. He really should be writing a rock opera!
Paul Maged’s signature song “Fight To The Death” has been selected to be featured on UFC Fight Pass and Titan Fighting Championship to promote their upcoming event on UFC Fight Pass on June 28th, 2019 to 150 countries around the world. Many of the songs from his previous EPs have also received TV and film placements and received much acclaim around the world. Seems like I am not the only one who appreciates that his particular voice is out there in the zeitgeist.
He’s a brilliant mind with much to say and very clever and melodious ways to say it. The world needs Paul Maged…looking forward to his next release!! Keep shining your light on the ugly side of humanity and please keep writing great songs about it!
The L.A. Department of Sanitation will hold their mobile waste collection event on Saturday, July 6. Marie Kondo your life and bring your clean/used motor oil, new/used tires, paint, or e-waste to this free event.
Let’s keep North Hollywood clean, safe and pretty to look at!
WHEN:
Saturday, July, 6 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM
WHERE:
North Hollywood Rec. Center 11430 Chandler Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601
WHAT:
– Paints and solvents – Tires – new or used tires for vehicles – Oil – limit of 15 gallons of used motor oil per participant per day. – E-waste – computers, monitors, printers, network, equipment, cables, telephones, TVs, microwaves, video games, cell phones, radios, stereos, and VCRs. See link for details:
IMPORTANT
Transportation limit for chemical related items: It is against the law to transport more than 15 gallons or 125 pounds of hazardous waste to collection sites. Please pack your waste properly to prevent tipping or spilling of the waste during transportation.
THEY ACCEPT:
These items: paint and solvents; used motor oil and filters, tires, anti-freeze, and other automotive fluids; cleaning products; pool and garden chemicals; aerosol cans; all medicine except controlled substances; auto batteries; household batteries. E-waste: computers, monitors, printers, network, equipment, cables, telephones, televisions, microwaves, video games, cell phones, radios, stereos, VCRs, and electronic toys.
THEY DO NOT ACCEPT:
✭ Business/commercial wastes ✭ Bulky items such as furniture and large appliances ✭ Ammunition ✭ Explosives ✭ Radioactive materials ✭ Medical/biological wastes ✭ Marine flares/firecrackers
Late Night stars the illustrious and invaluable Emma Thompson as a veteran late-night talk show host faced with declining ratings, the deteriorating health of her husband (a fine John Lithgow), increasing irrelevance and advancing age.
Her writing staff is of no help, partly because of complacency and partly because they’re too intimidated by her (any hint of rebellion is usually met with a pink slip). In addition, the new network boss (Amy Ryan—at times coming across a little more villainous than the part requires) wants to replace her with a younger, more hip, and more irreverent (read vulgar) comedian. Fortunately, for chemical plant worker/aspiring comedy writer Mindy Kaling (who also wrote the screenplay), Thompson’s search (under duress) for a diversity female hire coincides with Kaling’s interview with Thompson’s producer. Lo and behold, Kaling is the first female in the all-white, all-male writers’ room-and needless to say, she’s got a number of (valid) opinions about the state of the show—and more importantly (after some prodding), how to correct it.
Kaling, the scriptwriter also makes a number of good points about not only the overall state of late night shows, but of the little rivalries that can impinge on quality, the challenges faced by women in an environment usually dominated by men, the difficulty of asserting yourself when a professional criticism might be interpreted as a personal attack, and how indiscretions from the past can haunt you in the present (in an interesting but underdeveloped subplot that puts a spin on “me too.”) Lest I make this sound too ponderous, Late Night is also pretty darn funny, with engaging performances by both Kaling and Thompson. Kaling (aided by her amusing screenplay) projects intelligence, warmth, and more than a modicum of good humor. You root for her to succeed, whether in Thompson’s employ or elsewhere. Thompson is also terrific throughout, whether she is being acerbic, proud brusque, brittle, proud, or contrite and vulnerable. More importantly, Thompson’s comedic chops leave us in no doubt as to the brilliance her character once possessed but now lies dormant—at least until an unexpected appearance at a benefit performance where she rediscovers her values and humanity. The power of that moment makes some of the later plot developments seem forced—however, it is so winningly played by all concerned that the happy ending seems credible and well-deserved.
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>>
**** For information on Los Angeles theatre, tickets to theatre in North Hollywood’s NoHo Arts District, theatre reviews, the NoHo Event Calendar, restaurants, news and local businesses in NoHo, or anything and everything about the NoHo Arts Community, bookmark nohoartsdistrict.com. Follow us on Twitter @OfficialNoHo. On Instagram @NoHoArtsDistrict and Facebook @NoHoArtsDistrict.
We are really proud of our NoHo Arts District businesses that are unique, independently owned, and actually care about the neighborhood they call home, the one that supports them.
UPDATE: YES! Hooray! Some great news for the neighborhood! Blastoff Comics Welcomes Collector’s Paradise to #NoHo!
Over the years we have grown to admire and learn about comics from our friends Blastoff Comics. But what makes them such a gem in the NoHo arts community is not only their dedication to the comics art form but also to charitable giving. They donate proceeds to a different non profit every month. Blastoff Comics is an example of a NoHo business that is locally owned, experts in their field, and simply kind. We could only hope that more North Hollywood businesses would be as community focused as Blastoff Comics has been. So it is with a heart filled with sadness but hope that Blastoff Comics will be closing their doors at the end of July.
“A thing isn’t beautiful because it lasts.” – The Vision, Avengers: Age of Ultron
Why? Here’s a letter from our friends.
Opportunities arose that could not be passed up, and with Jud’s recent move to San Diego to take on the role of Director of Sales at IDW Publishing, the realities of operating the store remotely simply weren’t feasible. Jud has always been the beating heart of the store, and with the departure of our faithful manager Chriss on the horizon as well, rather than allowing the store to languish in unfamiliar hands, we have decided to leave the stage instead.
It has been a marvelous and miraculous seven years with you all. We’ve served an entire city of families, spread the gospel of comics to local schools and libraries, donated tens of thousands of dollars and an unending supply of comic books to dozens of charitable organizations, and we’ve built reading rooms at hospitals and brought joy to sick children all over the country. We don’t regret a single second of it.
For our subscribers, we ask that you please come in and pick up your comics as soon as possible, and please note that as of next week, Wednesday, June 26, we will no longer be receiving new books.
And now for the fun part. For the next six weeks, we’ll be executing our largest sale ever, with selected trades and hardcovers 60% off, all new comics 50% off, all remaining trade paperbacks and hardcovers 40% off, and all vintage comics, statuary and wall art 30% off. We hope you’ll come in, pick up those books or pieces you’ve always had your eye on, and celebrate our time together with a few more visits.
Thank you for your fellowship and your support. It has been a privilege to be among you.
Jud Meyers & Scott Tipton
Wishing you lots of happiness and Marvel-eous moments.
We can only hope and press that more unique, independent and creative businesses continue to make the NoHo Arts District their home.
#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.
This is a tough show to review without giving away its secrets. So I will try my very best not to. Suffice it to say it is definitely one of the best shows I have seen this Fringe and anywhere.
It begins pretty traditionally. The lead takes the stage and all too soon we understand that this play was written with the idea that he could unburden himself from his terrible past somehow. Find clarity, meaning, or simply tell his story as a cautionary tale, sharing his pain with a view to dissipating it.
But it all takes a very unexpected turn when a member of the audience, in a rather vocal diatribe of extreme umbrage, unceremoniously pontificates about his time being wasted by yet another opus from a broken man seeking solace. As the man takes to the stage to confront the by now very confused and stumbling actor, we are taken on a ride down a deep, deep rabbit hole, one that I will not soon forget.
This kind of play where the fourth wall is completely shattered and the actors flail about in their response to it is technically very ambitious and easy to get wrong. But “Sins” gets it very, very right. So right in fact that even up to the very end we are holding tight on to the velvety arms of our seats, holding our breath and grinning from ear to ear.
It’s theatre at its most intimidating and surreal, but without any of the flash. It’s challenging and compelling and unforgiving. The actors are absolutely excellent. They sell their stupefaction and their sublime horror at the cocky interloper with shocking expertise. It feels real, to the point that, for a good few minutes after this stranger mounted the stage, I thought it could be. Each of them reacted with brilliant and perceptive elegance. Each of them owned everything they did on stage and the result was absolutely incredible…
It is theatre far beyond the average. It is clever and sad and interesting and devastating. Love, love, loved it!!!
One of the joys of photography is seeing people looking at and enjoying a great image. Their eyes light up and then they say… “WoW, that’s beautiful”.
But how do you make sure that people get that same ‘wow’ experience when looking at your shots?
In this article, we’ll be looking at a few handy hints and tips that will help you improve your composition.
Watch Your Background
When it comes to composition, the background of your photo is just as important as the foreground. A good background can add depth to your photo, help the viewer’s eye concentrate on the main subject and improve the whole image. It’s important to make sure that your background has no distracting objects or over bright areas that will make your subject get lost.
How can you fix this? Plan your shoots in advance if you can. The best time of day to shoot is in the hour after sunrise and the hour before sunset. This is known as the ‘golden hour’. The low sun gives a beautiful, soft light as opposed to the harsh glare and shadows of a midday sun.
Use lights and shadows
The effective use of light is one of photography’s core principles. Use shadows to show depth, to add a different feel to an image, or to add contrast. Light will illuminate your subject and draw the eye to exactly where you want it to go. There are even special techniques called Rembrandt lighting and low key photography for this purpose.
Shadows can be used creatively, and are very effective when used in a black and white image. Use shadows to convey mystery or a sense of the unknown. If you are photographing a person, it’s very effective and dramatic to have half of their face in shadow.
Change Your Perspective
Rather than stand in front of your subject and snap a quick shot, look at different angles. Walk from one side to the other for a different viewpoint, or get up high in an adjacent balcony or down low at the ground for a low angle shot to change the perspective and create a more diverse picture.
Tell a story
Local events, festivals, and parades are great but what if there’s nothing going on while you’re there? One of the most obvious decisions is to photograph people. Try to tell a story with your images. If someone interests you, try to add them to your image.
Cropping
Cropping is a powerful tool for aiding composition. It can help you to create a frame that will draw the viewer’s attention to the subject of your photo. The simplest way to get a close crop is to move closer to your subject. If you have a quality zoom lens, you can change your focal length, but if you are using a camera phone, never zoom as it destroys the image quality.
If getting closer to your subject isn’t possible, you can crop your image to look better in picture editing software.
Finally…
All of the big ‘photography rules’ can be used as a guideline. It’s worth learning about them so you understand how they can help you create better images, but you don’t have to stick rigidly to them. It costs nothing to experiment so start today!
Greenwood 1964 – Great Friends, Different Approaches, One Goal
“Greenwood 1964,” written and directed by Mohammed Ali Ojarigi as performed at The Hollywood Fringe, was a joy to watch and an important moment of reflection to witness.
The two leads portraying Harry Belafonte, played by the wonderfully sincere Thomas Ramseur-King, and Sidney Poitier, played with an intense charismatic energy by Eli Goree, were perfectly matched by temperament and honesty.
It is a volatile and unwelcoming situation for, arguably, the most famous black men in America at that time. And even though this was a fictional story based on true events, it does not take away from the power of the message.
The actors’ interaction brought the audience into the stark and inelegant hotel room and kept us there.
The exchanges and sharing of fears and hopes by both men at times raised to such a tense level that I could feel the audience shifting in their seats. None of this would have been possible without the heartfelt and deft writing and direction by Mohammed Ali Ojarigi. The set, light and sound design was an integral part of this important play and the addition of real footage of the struggles of the civil rights movement was a sobering reminder that, in some cases, we have not travelled that far from 1964.
The Autry celebrates the American West, and the Autry After Hours series celebrates everything LA.
Once a month, the Autry opens its doors until 9pm, and opens a space for you to listen to a lineup of local poets, dope DJs, all while having a cocktail and taco from the taco bar. From 6:30pm to 9:00pm, the Autry also keeps its exhibitions open for you to browse during this series.
The draw for me for the May 22nd Autry After Hours event was Yesika Salgado. She’s a bomb Angeleno poet who’s work is the most truthfully written poetry about Los Angeles that I’ve ever read. It was an honor to see her live (on a random Wednesday), but the magic didn’t stop there. My friend and I walked to the back veranda to find the poet lineup, and although we saw Yesika Salgado Emceeing, Yaw Kyeremateng held the mic at the front of the packed balcony as he brewed and chanted, and took the hearts of the crowd (Later Yaw took Venmo from the audience, as people crowded him to get a signed booklet of his poetry).
I had already hit the high notes of the night (or so I thought), so my friend and I finished our wine as two female DJs animated the crowd between galleries. We still had several hours until the Autry closed, so we walked into the first of two galleries – which are 100% reason to visit the Autry during regular hours.
I was blown away by Harry Fonseca and David Bradley’s exhibitions. I think I had subconsciously strayed from the Autry for fear of under representation of Native artists, but Harry Fonseca’s Coyote Leaves the Res, and David Bradley’s Indian Country paints a complex and textured experience as a Native in a colonized 21st century.
Coyote Leaves the Res: The Art of Harry Fonseca. Paintings, sketches, and lithographs are used by Fonseca to tell a story of a creature perceived as a trickster, shape shifter, and storyteller who can move fluidly between worlds. Fonseca’s work is rife with double entendre and deeper underpinnings, particularly when you understand that Fonseca was a Nisenan Maidu, Hawiian, Portuguese man who identified as LGBTQ, and embraced a multitude of identities in contemporary times.
Indian Country: The Art of David Bradley is a dynamic, Santa Fe-inspired exhibition that unites Renaissance art and pop culture for a fun (yet thoughtful) contemporary body of work. As a Minnesota Chippewa, Bradley helped form the Native American Artists Association to combat misrepresentation of Native Artists. With a sense of humor tinged with serious reflection, Bradley mirrors work by Rene Magritte, Henri Rousseau, and many others, but with a personal flair that speaks his truth.
Fonseca and Bradley are two reasons to visit the Autry during regular hours, but the narrowly curated exhibitions are just two of many. While the galleries (and certainly poetry lounge) were packed, I expect the Autry After Hours to gain much more guests in the coming months.
Museum: Autry Museum of the American West
Location: 4700 Western Heritage Way – Griffith Park Los Angeles, CA 90027
Event: The Autry After Hours Series
Price: $5 non-Members; Free for Members (Event)
Next Event Series: Wednesday, June 19, 2019
Current Exhibitions:
Coyote Leaves the Res: The Art of Harry Fonseca
Indian Country: The Art of David Bradley
Investigating Griffith Park
On Fire: Transcendent Landscapes by Michael Scott
Art of the West
Out of the Ashes: Snapshots of the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake
It’s something I see constantly. The root of MANY unwanted behaviors starts with an anxious dog. What do I mean by anxiety?
Well, there are many ways to spot anxiety, but for the sake of this article, I’m going to hit on some specific points and what you can do about it to see a potentially quick change if you are committed (and everyone in the home is committed!).
Some ways to spot anxiety:
-whining when you leave the room.
-excessive drooling in specific situations like car rides or when you leave for work.
-heavy stress panting when someone comes to the house.
-following you around everywhere to an obsessive level and always underfoot.
-being in a different room from you is stressful for them.
-whining, heavy breathing, hard pulling outside around dogs, people, vehicles, etc.
If you are having these issues with your dog, or maybe you aren’t sure, but your dog is reactive (barking at other dogs), barking a lot in the house, demanding attention a lot of times and you’d really like to see if you can have a more calming effect on your dog and help them with these issues, below is a CHALLENGE! 🙂
I’m going to outline a few key things for you to do in two scenarios. First is if your dog is crated while you are away and the other is if your dog is not crated. Then I am going to give you a long-term exercise you can work on if you are inspired by your dogs progress with the first set of tips.
Key things to do (and everyone in the home must do) for four days. I’ll unpack why these things work below.
Don’t talk to your dog. Do not say one word to your dog unless it’s a release word (like “break” to eat food) or a basic command. Even with basic commands, try not to say anything if you don’t have to (hand motions instead if needed). You don’t even praise your dog when they do something good. Sounds crazy right!? You don’t speak to your dog or give them any emotional attention. No snuggling on the couch, though they can jump up and lay on the edge if they want, etc. You are playing hard to get!
Every time you walk your dog or take them out to go potty, even in the yard, your dog is on leash. This could be anything but a harness really. (Some small dog exceptions) The dog will calm down quickest with collar, slip leash, something with control of the dog’s head. For the sake of this exercise I’m going to suggest slip leash for most dogs. When you walk up to the front door for a walk you say nothing. You just apply leash pressure up, you can get your dog’s attention with a hand signal and have the dog sit. This can be done with most dogs without a verbal command. The dog waits in a sit before walking outside. You do the same thing when the dog comes back in the house. A. You must also do this with the back door. Call your dog over to the back door. Put slip leash on. Open the door and have the dog sit. Say “let’s go” or whatever command you like to move outside and have your dog potty on leash. Once that is done, if you want your dog to have free yard time, have the dog sit in the same way, hand signal/leash pressure, wait a few seconds, neutral face/energy, take leash off and release dog. You come back inside.
If your dog is crated, when you get home from work you open the crate just a little, just enough to get in there and put the slip leash on. Stand up holding the leash with the door shut. Have the dog wait a few beats and when you go to open the door, if your dog tries to get out, shut the door again. Wait until your dog can settle a bit before inviting your dog to come out. This sets a tone for what you want, helps the dog relax faster and you can control any jumping, etc., easier. It’s about setting the dog up to succeed and help them regulate their emotions associated with your help.A. When going back IN the crate, you walk your pup up on leash, have dog sit, look at an open crate door, then tell them to go in. Don’t let them just rush in. Take the leash off and close door.
If your dog is not crated, when you walk in, ignore your dog until they settle some. Then grab the leash and wait again for them to settle. Just sit down and face away from them in some way. Then give the hand motion for sit, if you can without saying it and put leash on. Then calmly walk over to the door to let them out to potty in the same way mentioned above.
If you do this for a few days you will see a big turn around in their attention on you, valuing what you start to say and do. Then their listening skills will sharpen just with doing the above tweaks.
When dogs live in the home with us and our family, they get used to so much attention and much of it is asked for by the dog. We talk to our dogs a lot and it’s fun for us and the dog, but doesn’t help with the dog’s ability to be without that attention or to just simply respect our requests in certain situations, like coming to us from the yard, etc. When you play hard to get for a few days, your importance of where you put your attention becomes meaningful and your dog will take notice.
If you do this challenge successfully and are surprised at the calmer and more attentive side you see in your dog. I hope it encourages you to find more ways to tap into that calmer side, and inspire you to find a balance in the home of earning some attention, and regulating excitement around key areas like thresholds in order to find more balance.
Why four days and not one, three or seven?!
Many people will notice a difference in 24 hours, but it won’t have any affect on how the dog behaves outside and four days of this might.
Not three days because with this challenge I often see dogs get pushy and MORE demanding on day two and three wondering what is going on. They will even briefly challenge their owners more. Four days and the dog tends to move through that.
With seven days, I’m afraid people would find it too much work and you should see results quicker than that anyway.
A long-term exercise to master in the home is place command. There are countless videos on how to teach place command with different training tools on YouTube, including my channel at Ruff Beginnings Rehab, but it’s simple and I encourage you to watch four-five different trainers teach it and start yourself. Work up to your dog being able to stay on a dog bed (that is place command) while you leave the room. This is a great tool to teach calm on command.
The legendary kings of swing, and opening act Rumble King kick off the with a dazzling fireworks show on July 4! We’ve got tickets.
Enter to win four four premium tickets (plus parking validation for one car) to see Big Bad Voodoo Daddy plus Rumble King on Thursday, July 4 at 6:30PM.
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Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
Since it’s formation in the early 90s in Ventura, California, the band has toured virtually nonstop, performing on average over 150 shows a year, and has produced a sizable catalog of recorded music, with sales of over 2 million albums to date. Early on, during their legendary residency at the Derby nightclub in Los Angeles, they reminded the world, in the midst of the grunge era no less, that it was still cool to swing. The band, cofounded by singer Scotty Morris and drummer Kurt Sodergren, was at the forefront of the swing revival of that time, blending a vibrant fusion of the classic American sounds of jazz, swing, and dixieland, with the energy and spirit of contemporary culture.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s all original core line-up includes Scotty Morris (lead vocals and guitar), Kurt Sodergren (drums), Dirk Shumaker (double bass and vocals), Andy Rowley (baritone saxophone and vocals), Glen “The Kid” Marhevka (trumpet), Karl Hunter (saxophones and clarinet) and Joshua Levy (piano and arranger).
The bands efforts to promote and revitalize swing music have taken shape as much more than a simple tribute. Taking inspiration from the creators of this uniquely American art form, the band’s original horn-infused music and legendary high energy show introduces the genre to a new and younger generation while remaining cognizant and respectful of the music’s rich legacy.
Big Bad Voodoo Daddy’s first phase of stardom featured an appearance in the 1996 indie film Swingers, a movie that not only launched the careers of Vince Vaughn and Jon Favreau, but introduced Big Bad Voodoo Daddy to an audience beyond their Los Angeles base. The band’s music has appeared in countless films and television shows, including The Wild, Despicable Me, Phineas & Ferb, Friends, Third Rock From The Sun, Ally McBeal, and So You Think You Can Dance. They have appeared live on Dancing With The Stars, Late Night With Conan O’Brien, NBC’s Christmas in Rockefeller Center, The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a remarkable seven appearances on The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and the Super Bowl XXXIII Halftime Show. The band has also appeared as special guests with many of the country’s most distinguished symphony orchestras, and has performed for three U.S. Presidents.
After 25 years, 11 records, over 2800 live shows, and countless appearances in film and television, Big Bad Voodoo Daddy is showing no signs of stopping.
Rumble King
Describe a band that travels and performs with an acoustic upright piano, saxophones, upright bass, and drums. Drums played by one of the founding members of “The Blasters”. Rumble King’s arrangements are tight and melodic, honest, faithful and always rockin’, giving them a genuinely raw, American roots inspired sound. They are of the few, if not the only band to perform in a guitar dominant genre, without one. Aaron remarks, “Love guitar and we have had some great players sit in with us from time to time, but somehow along the way we discovered our own thing and it just didn’t require it”
Rumble King partnered with Ostrich Colony Films in 2012 to produce the 2013 multi-award winning short film, “I Still Adore You”, based on the band’s recent single of the same title. The movie featured a live performance by the band and several scenes included them in supporting roles.
Rumble King’s current self-titled EP release was recorded, mixed, and mastered by Grammy Award winner Tom Weir at Studio City Sound. In addition to the EP, a new (45) single will be released on vinyl in summer 2014. The band welcomes the opportunity to develop new business relationships to expand a comprehensive marketing strategy including; film, television, internet, radio, and print to secure the potential success for this release.
The Starlight Bowl concert season officially kicks off on July 13th and runs through August 10th, 2019. Details on the upcoming concert season are available online at the Starlight Bowl website, .
PARKING OPENS AT 4:30PM – GATES OPEN AT 5:30PM – CONCERT BEGINS AT 6:30PM
WHERE:
Starlight Bowl 1249 Lockheed View Dr. Burbank, CA 91501
The fantastic summer lineup features:
July 13, 2019 – July 20, 2019 – July 27, 2019 – August 3, 2019 – August 10, 2019 –
Tickets for the 2019 season are on sale now at and in person ticket sales at the Park, Recreation and Community Services Department on the third floor of the City of Burbank, Community Services Building located at 150 North Third Street. Payment is by cash, check or credit card, though all credit card sales will incur a nominal service charge per ticket.
The Starlight Bowl is pleased to once again offer the Park Lover’s Season Ticket Pass. This pass is a terrific deal at $60 for the entire summer season of shows. These passes are for grass seating only and do not include the July 4th show. Season ticket prices for box seating are $400, seat 4 people only, and include 1 prepaid parking pass per box. Premium seating is available for $100, which is seating within the first 8 rows and includes 1 prepaid parking pass per 2 tickets. All season tickets and box seating are based on availability.
Individual concert tickets are priced at $15 for adults, $10 for children ages 3 to 12, $10 for seniors and the disabled, and children ages 2 and under are free (excluding box seats). There may be a limited number of tickets available for purchase at the gate on the evening of a performance for an additional $2 per ticket. Individual ticket pricing does not include the July 4th event. Parking at the Starlight Bowl is $8 cash per vehicle. Carpooling is highly recommended. Parking opens at 4:30 p.m., the gates open at 5:30 p.m., and all concerts begin at 6:30 p.m. Tickets for the Special Engagement concerts arranged by LA Concert Group and The Canyon are sold separately from the Starlight Bowl series. Details for these individual shows can be found on the .
“It’s going to be a toe-tapping, hand clapping, summer of fun under the stars for the whole family. We can’t wait to have you join us!” – Starlight Bowl Team
About the Starlight Bowl
Since 1992, the Starlight Bowl has been thrilling huge audiences with a blend of high-energy performances and community based programming. Nestled in the Verdugo Mountains, the Starlight Bowl is the City of Burbank’s premier outdoor entertainment venue.
**** 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.
Local NoHo News from the office of North Hollywood Councilman Paul Krekorian.
Councilman Paul Krekorian Launches Clean Streets Clean Start Program in CD2
Dear Friend:
This month, I launched a new program in the East Valley to beautify our neighborhoods and help our neighbors experiencing homelessness get a fresh start, called Clean Streets Clean Starts.
The Clean Streets Clean Starts program, led by Don Larson, is a community partnership that recruits homeless volunteers to work on beautification projects in the local community.
Through its partnership with my office, the Hope of the Valley Rescue Mission, nonprofits, businesses, churches, and law enforcement, the program allows homeless individuals to participate in a work program that builds their job skills, provides mentorship, connects them with services and ultimately sets them up on a path to transitional and full-time employment and housing, once they complete the program.
Since its launch in Council District 2, the cleanup crew has already completed several beautification projects in North Hollywood from weed abatement and trash pick up, to cleaning medians and landscaping. I look forward to keeping you updated on the program’s ongoing work in the community.
I am committed to tackling homelessness in our community, and working collectively with our community members and local partners to move towards solutions. If have any questions or comments, please contact me: paul.krekorian@lacity.org or (818) 755-7676.
Very truly yours, Paul Krekorian LA City Councilmember, Second District
**** 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. Councilman Paul Krekorian Launches Clean Streets Clean Start Program in CD2via the official NoHo Arts District Guide; www.nohoartsdistrict.com Clean Streets Clean Start Program, homeless clean streets,put the homeless to work, Councilman Paul Krekorian Launches Clean Streets Clean Start Program in CD2, NoHo Arts District, official NoHo Arts District Guide, wwwnohoartsdistrict.com
My spiral into the world of drug use started with the idea that they were, in fact, the best thing that had ever happened to me.
The introverted person I was so fond of took a 180-degree turn. I became a social phenomenon when I went out, meeting people left right and center. As such, I embraced my new found confidence.
I almost immediately realized how much people appreciated me in my state of constant partying. In the beginning, I was the silent one sitting in the corner of the classroom. Every now and then I would run into friends from my past and they would always express their delight at the new me. The different social circles I frequented (yes, there were multiple) quickly became the ones to call me to ask what I was doing for the evening.
In the end, I flew too close to the sun, and my wax wings melted. I started to get greedy, always use more to hit the same high point as the last time without realizing that I would never get there. To make matters worse, drugs became a warm blanket that shielded me from my sober self, like a scared child from the dark. At that point I knew it had become more than a habit; it had become an addiction. Understanding that I had a problem was the first crucial step, and to this day, kicking the addiction was the best decision I’ve ever made.
The time I spent in drug addiction rehabilitation was valuable on many different levels. My acceptance of my addiction allowed me to leave it behind. Through doing that, I also learned to forgive and love myself without pretending to be someone else. Instead of faking it, I actively decided to be that someone else. Working on my self-esteem was an incredibly difficult task, and it was a long time before I felt confident and secure without using.
Today, I am proud and happy to share with you 5 of the best things I learned during rehab that changed the way I feel and think about myself.
1. I Practiced Kindness Towards Others, And Towards Myself
Opening up in group therapy was tough at first. Once I got into it and started sharing with others, I understood the value of kindness. Aside from creating a good impression of myself, I constantly got this feeling as though I was seriously contributing valuable information to the lives of other people. That felt really nice. Before long, people started acting kindly to me as well and when I finally stopped being like a scared dog in the corner hiding from everyone, I got to know the people who had experienced similar events to mine. Some were even more traumatic, but one thing was consistent: they were all amazing people. In the end, I learned that by being kind to others, you’re being kind to yourself.
2. I Surrounded Myself With Positive People, In Positive Places
Real life has a tendency to work opposite magnets, while still attracting something. Negative thinking and people attract other negative thoughts and company. Some prefer to accept our experiences as part of destiny or fate, as in a sequence of events that we cannot control. I learned that you can control your life to an extent. You can choose to place yourself in environments that allow you to strive instead of being drowned in negativity.
3. I Realized That I Needed To Take Better Care Of Myself
I barely cared about my physical appearance before rehab. On top of that, my mental health wasn’t of much importance to me either. The icing on the cake was that my weight issues made me want to ignore my entire existence, in a way. I suffered from depression on the inside even though flashing a smile came easy. Pretending to be happy was simple, especially when my drug and alcohol highs temporarily allowed me to forget my issues.
Here’s the irony behind all those memories: at the beginning of the program, I learned that taking care of my hygiene, eating properly, and creating a daily routine helped me feel better. I was healthier, and due to that; I was happier.
4. I Started Thinking Positively About Myself
The general idea is that rehab is all about change and forgiveness. In terms of forgiveness, I needed to accept that others had hurt me. Most of all, I needed to accept myself. In order to achieve happiness, I needed to embrace my past, my mistakes, my imperfections, and find satisfaction in the spaces in between. In time, I could look in the mirror and see that there was a good person looking back at me, not some failure who would never amount to anything.
Self-acceptance wasn’t so bad after I took in a better opinion of myself. I pretty much practiced that old saying about repeating a lie until it becomes true. I had been lying to myself my whole life and in rehab is where I finally started telling myself the truth.
5. I Learned That My Home Reflects Who I Am
One of the most valuable lessons that were taught to me in rehab was that my home would be a mirror image of who I am as a person. I never really cared about keeping my living area tidy because it was a type of chaos I was already used to. Even though it was a mess, I always knew where things were.
I forced myself to become more organized and to clean up more often. Not to make a good impression on guests, but because my belongings are an extension of who I am. I worked for those things and I put effort into getting what I had. By not taking care of my possessions, I was wasting away their value, and therefore wasting myself away.
Rehab taught me many things that I’m eager to share with the world because they make me proud of who I have become. Instead of writing everything out in this one article, I wanted to start off by saying how much my program impacted my self-esteem. When you think about it, it’s a pretty essential step to recovery. You need confidence in yourself in order to say no to the substances that had you in a rut. Once my goals were set and I was on the right path, I quickly realized how much I had progressed.
How have your rehab experiences shaped you as a person? Please share your stories below.
Human’s health isn’t a simple mechanism. It can’t be maintained by itself.
Instead, feeling healthy, both mentally and physically requires having a multifaceted approach and adjustment of a person’s everyday behavior tendencies.
Taking due care of your wellbeing is vital at any age and in any situation.However, this seems to be the most acute problem for modern students who lack stability in their lives. Still, even a busy undergraduate can start taking simple steps to increase his health-promoting lifestyle behavior and reach overall wellbeing. In this article, we are going to share the basic tips to help students live a healthier life!
Tips And Tricks For Wellbeing
Speaking of health-promoting lifestyle, it is important to understand what spheres of our lives it focuses on the most. Ideally, such behavior covers the right approach to stress management, physical activity, nutrition, interpersonal relationships, and spiritual growth. How to contribute to each of these factors while studying? Below, we are going to give you a few essential tips!
Stress Management
All students are put under huge pressure while studying in college. For some, it is a perfect trigger to develop strong stress resistant skills. However, most young people go through some real issues with managing stress. For developing a healthy lifestyle, it is recommended to reduce stress as much as possible, and there are a few ways to do this. Of course, first of all, you should take care of proper sleep and nutrition, as these two factors are the basis of humans’ wellbeing. Secondly, physical activity and meditations are also effective ways to relieve stress. Also, it is vital to keep your load adequate – meaning not to give up on your health for the sake of studying. After all, sometimes it is better to entrust your worries to professionals like the ones at Essay Pro than to spend another sleepless night studying. In addition, getting emotional support is also important for wise stress management, so be sure to make some friends in college. Finally, self-care practices also help a lot. Whenever you feel drained out, give yourself some care – for example, get a massage, or devote time to a hobby.
Nutrition
Many students give up on healthy eating patterns due to several reasons including lack of time for cooking and lack of funds.
However, it is important to bear in mind that proper nutrition is the fundament of our health. Thus, we encourage students to start taking care of their diet and make healthy choices!
Physical Activity
It is important to emphasize the critical role of a person’s physical condition on his or her health. Thus, if you still haven’t joined a sports club or still neglect working out at home, it is the right time to change the approach! Being active is probably the most vital tip for developing a health-promoting lifestyle!
It can be pretty much anything from workouts at the gym or joining a college basketball team to going for a long walk every evening. Just pick whatever suits you the most and try to stay as active as possible!
Interpersonal Relationships
It is hard to deny the crucial role of developing and maintaining healthy interpersonal relationships on all stages of a human’s life. First of all, this element serves as a solid base for social support, which is something every person needs to feel in different emotionally charged situations. Secondly, socialization helps achieve greater success, reduce stress, and enhance overall wellbeing. Since we are talking about college students, they depend on this factor much more than older individuals. This happens due to the fact that they are still not fully developed personalities. During college years, a person is experiencing a final stage of transition to adulthood and undergoes lots of personal changes and stress. Thus, being a part of society and feeling support is extremely important during this time.
How to improve your interpersonal skills? It is not as difficult as many believe. It requires being tolerant, showing basic manners, respect others, being open and communicative, and being willing to work in a team. If you follow these basic rules, you will be able to develop strong social skills and make some good friends while studying.
Spiritual Growth
Our health isn’t just about the physical condition. In a matter of fact, a truly healthy lifestyle should balance external and internal Thus, spiritual growth plays an important role in your overall wellbeing.
Spirituality helps reach internal harmony and live a more conscious life. Besides, a person who finds internal harmony, can also live in peace with the surrounding world. Thus, we encourage all students to contribute to their spiritual self-development! How to do this? Despite a common belief, it doesn’t necessarily mean attending church every Sunday or having Bible as your desk book. In a matter of fact, spirituality goes far beyond this clichés. Thus, our two most important tips are to find and keep the faith, and to live in gratitude!
Wrapping Up
Health-promoting lifestyle has a direct impact on the quality of life. Thus, if you want to maintain both mental and physical wellbeing, and live a balanced life, it is vital to initiate positive changes in the five main aspects of your life including stress management, physical activity, nutrition, interpersonal relationships, and spiritual growth. The tips given in this article on each of these factors should help students and other individuals to develop the right habits and promote healthier behavior. Thus, don’t neglect the importance of your health and be sure to follow our hacks to feel the difference!
Back in the fabulous, great time to be alive 60s, I was a Go Go dancing teenager who had two favorite local bands: LOVE and The Doors.
Sure I was dancing for dozens of bands and did their clips, shows, TV and film appearances, but LOVE was my number one, top, local band.
Problem was that they were so popular back in the day that it was hard to get into a show. I stuck mostly to the area around my homebase, which was The Hullabaloo and tried to get into Bido Lito’s in Hollywood as it was the closest to The Hullabaloo. Never made it into the actual club and would be standing around outside listening, grooving and socializing.
That all changed on June 2 at Upstairs @ The Federal where I was third in line to get into The LOVE Band’s appearance. Although this incarnation of this legendary act does not include Arthur Lee who passed away, the singing and artful guitar work brought me back to Bido Lito’s club and I was dancing in the streets. Crisp, clear and faithful to the original music and lyrics shot me through a time warp that could barely tell the difference.
According to Pollstar friend and features editor Debbie Speer, this show was the place to be as several people in the audience were journalists and publicists that were also fans. The standing room-only, packed show stands as a testament to the enduring musical genius of LOVE.
LOVE man Johnny Echols’ “old lady” Georgianna Steele Waller sat with my new friend Jolene Firgens and I during the show, which was a treat. I’ve known Echols and Waller for several years now and it is one of my life’s treasures that I am an actual acquaintance of LOVE co-founder Johnny Echols. But, up until June 2, I had never heard any version of LOVE in person.
While sitting there listening to the band, a fan of Waller’s came over and asked for her autograph on a copy of Waller’s book “In My Life So Far…” This really impressed me as when we do our annual Love-In reunions each summer this has never happened. Guess that there is a big difference between old hippies hanging out together at Griffith Park and a gig at a major happening spot in the NoHo Arts District.
The set list consisted of LOVE’s first three albums: “LOVE,” “Da Capo” and “Forever Changes.” I almost cried hearing “Alone Again Or,” which has always been music’s best love song ever. The band did an excellent job of replicating the song to a point that it really got to me.
In a recent podcast with Paint The Town hosted by friends James Shen and Teachr, I was introduced as “The Face” of the NoHo Arts District so as “The Face” of the NoHo Arts District it was my distinct pleasure to host my favorite local band…LOVE. When I said this to Waller at the show, she told me that “We have always thought of you as that.” This put me on a whole other cloud.
I’ve always been saddened by the fact that LOVE never went as huge as their friends The Doors. Some say that LOVE’s failure to tour is what took them out of the major touring contingency which in turn shut them out of their record label’s publicity deptartment. Depending on who you speak to, the reasons for this “no touring” mentality range from Lee’s “stage fright” to a “fear of raising racial tensions at the time because they were a racially mixed band.” Unfortunately, this has paved the way to an impression of obscurity which couldn’t be farther from the truth.
Sadly, the recent film release “Echo From The Canyon” missed a great opportunity by opting to not include Echols in the rockumentary. Echols played a large role in the “happenings” on Laurel Canyon back in the day and was selected by the people that put together the yearly “Love Fest” in 2018 to play at the ceremony to rename the street by The Doors’ front man’s Laurel Canyon home “Love Street” after the song “She Lives on Love Street.”
Thank goodness Channel 7’s Tina Malave included Echols in her Laurel Canyon segment that she researched, wrote and produced for her show “Eye On LA.” This segment is a very well put together story and according to Malave was a “Work of love.”
More on “Echo In The Canyon” in July which will include the explanation as to why LOVE was omitted by Jayson Dylan and Andrew Slater.
As luck would have it, I ended up with a guitar pick tossed out into the audience and gifted to me by Waller as it had fallen into her lap.
Many thanks to the Mimosa Music Series that had the good sense to put this event together. And $15 for a bottomless mimosas is not a bad deal at all. If you want to see me actually dance instead of gyrating in a chair, then give me more room LOL.
The LOVE Band featuring Johnny Echols will be embarking on “The Farewell UK Tour” for June and July. They have also put Spain on their tour. Their shows will feature music from the albums “LOVE,” “Da Capo” and “Forever Changes.” Hopefully, the set list will be the same as the Upstairs @ The Federal show which included “Alone Again Or,” as I’ve already stated is the best love song ever…in my opinion. After decades of love songs being written it still showcases the genius of LOVE and has not been replaced by any love song du jour. For my UK readers and those in Spain, don’t pass up an opportunity to enjoy the masterpieces that this seminal band has crafted and still stand up to and above anything that is released today.
Johnny Echols and Georgianna Steele Waller…who loves you baby!?
There have been so many zombie movies and television series that a new zombie film would have to be really special to stand out.
So when writer/director Jim Jarmusch announced that his next film would be The Dead Don’t Die, yet another zombies are taking over the world movie but filtered through Jarmusch’s perceptive but eccentric and lowkey point-of-view, there were plenty of raised hopes—mine included. I would like to say these hopes have been justified but alas, they were not. You might ask yourself, how could things go wrong, with a powerhouse cast that includes Bill Murray, Adam Driver, Chloe Sevigny, Steve Buscemi, and Iggy Pop (as the first among many, many zombies). Well, it’s not exactly that things go wrong…it’s just that (to paraphrase Henry Fonda’s Admiral from the war movie In Harm’s Way, it’s a little weak on being right.
The elements are there: the initially intriguing set-up (Earth being knocked off its axis and polar fracking leading to the rise of the now undead); quirky, bewildered small-town police (Murray, Driver, Sevigny) trying to figure things out as the body count keeps rising; out-of-towners (disparagingly referred to as “hipsters—can you believe it) unwittingly caught up in the carnage; and the lovable (and not-so-lovable) townspeople (Buscemi, Danny Glover) trying to stay alive. And leave us not forget the wise hermit (Tom Waits) who observes and comments on what led man to this sorry state—and, most gloriously, Tilda Swinton as a mysterious new funeral director who has a way with the dead.
Yet somehow The Dead Don’t Die doesn’t quite jell. The police are a little too laid-back—one keeps wanting them to do something other than register perplexity or offer semi-barbed quips; the humor is either forced or lazy, relying on the actors’ presence to see it through; certain plot twists either lead nowhere or come off as a tad self-conscious. However the zombies are a treat and a hoot, including the formidable Mr. Pop (he just wants coffee) and Carol Kane’s revived dead drunk who clamors for her “Chardonnay.” All these zombies want is what they had in life, including cable, coffee, wi-fi, and in a priceless moment, “Xanax.” Oh yeah, they also kill the living, but isn’t that what they always do?
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>>
**** 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.
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Coyote Leaves the Res: The Art of Harry Fonseca. Paintings, sketches, and lithographs are used by Fonseca to tell a story of a creature perceived as a trickster, shape shifter, and storyteller who can move fluidly between worlds. Fonseca’s work is rife with double entendre and deeper underpinnings, particularly when you understand that Fonseca was a Nisenan Maidu, Hawiian, Portuguese man who identified as LGBTQ, and embraced a multitude of identities in contemporary times.
