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What Can Poker Players Teach Us About Dating?

NoHo - North Hollywood
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What Can Poker Players Teach Us About Dating?

The world of dating can be confusing at the best of times, but with a decent approach you can find someone who you like, and stick with them for long enough to get to know them in a meaningful way.

When it comes to dating, I’ll take advice off just about anyone who is willing to offer it. Doesn’t mean I’ll take it onboard, but what the heck? It’s always worth listening. Dating lessons can come from anywhere, and one of the most inspirational sources I’ve found of late is from poker players who claim their profession relates to the game of dating. Poker players are, after all, risk takers, and dating requires risk to reap the rewards.

Poker players must manage their emotional and mental state if they are to succeed at the tables. Otherwise, bad decisions would be made and the player would self-destruct. The same is true if you want to get an edge in dating. We all have hang-ups and problems, preferences and pet-hates. We have to be able to cast all of that aside in favor of enjoying the process of getting to know someone.

It also helps to have a bit of a poker face, at least for the first stages of dating. You don’t want to be pronouncing your undying love to someone over your first coffee, and equally you don’t want a slight feeling of doubt to escalate before you have even given yourself a chance to feel attraction. If you can control your nerves and excitement a little you will be able to take a measured approach to dating.

At the same time, it helps to be able to read other people. At the poker table, this means being able to read someone’s body language and facial expressions to help determine what hand they might be holding. In dating, you will need to apply this same reading of body language to see if your date is having a good time. Is the conversation going well? What does that smile imply? And the all-in moment – should you prepare for the kiss? If your date tends to make prolonged eye-contact (or glance away nervously), lean in closer and face you often, and make excuses to touch you whenever they can, you might be in there!

It’s not often that you’ll know straight away if you like someone, and whether they like you. That is why you need to develop patience. Poker players need patience to be able to play tournaments for many hours without losing their zen or to deal with the online poker world over long periods of time. Patience is needed in dating because, let’s face it, the process is not always smooth. You might have to deal with struggling to meet someone, getting rejected, with severe mismatches, and even when you meet someone who has potential you need to let it play out at its own pace.

Another life lesson that poker players tend to understand, is that you can’t control all of the factors. A good proportion of life happens beyond your control. There is the other person to think about and their situation in life, as well as your own. When the stars align, you win big, but don’t beat yourself up too hard in the meantime. Be patient and focus on being true to yourself and making yourself open and available.

One of the most important aspects of poker is knowing when you have a winning hand and, equally, knowing when to fold. This also happens to be the absolute key to dating. Yes, you need to go out there and meet people, but you also must start getting a sense for who is right and who is wrong for you… and letting go of the wrong ones can be the hardest.

Of course, dating is not statistical or analytical, nor is it cold and unemotional. The parallels between poker and dating are not absolute, and dating should by no means be approached as a game. But like I said, I’ll take advice from anyone, and this advice happens to ring true. When you meet someone you really like, you have to be willing to put all of your chips in the middle! 

5 ways for leading a healthy life

NoHo - North Hollywood
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5 Ways To Lead A Healthy Life

The summer beach season is here, and this often means lazy days in the sun. Even though you might be busy making plans with family and friends, it’s not an excuse to slack off on your exercise program. Getting and staying fit and healthy is important throughout the year if you want to enjoy a high quality of life.

The key to staying healthy is to find activities that you enjoy, and there are plenty to choose from in the Los Angeles area. Whether you are a full-time resident or visiting the city on vacation, you won’t have a problem keeping your mind and body active and healthy. Here are 5 ways you can lead a healthier life.

  1. Hiking in Los Angeles

There are plenty of nature trails in and around the city that residents and visitors can explore. Some of the popular hiking destinations include Runyon Canyon and the iconic Hollywood Sign. If you want to enjoy panoramic views on your hike, a trek through the Santa Monica mountains might be ideal for you or a short walk along Point Dume to watch the sun set over the ocean.

  1. Walking along Zuma Beach

The soft sand can provide you with a little extra resistance on your walks, and the views along Zuma Beach can help ease daily stress. Part of leading a healthy life entails taking equal care of your mind and body. If you want to be inspired on your walks, try planning them for the early morning or evening. Not only will it seem like your own private beach, you can also catch amazing sunrises and sunsets. Along the way you can stop at Santa Monica or Manhattan Beach and treat yourself to a healthy breakfast.

  1. Swimming and Surfing

Swimming is an excellent way to get and stay in shape, and it can also improve your overall health. Zuma and Venice Beach are great places for swimming, though the rip currents can be strong and should be considered. The state is known for surfing, and it is another fun way to stay healthy. You can easily find wet suits in North Hollywood, and then head over to Malibu Lagoon to catch some waves.

  1. Taking care of your sexual health

Leading a healthy life is more than just exercise and a healthy diet. It also means taking care of your sexual health. Sexually transmitted diseases can infect anyone, and routine testing is the best way to stop the spread of STDs. You can find STD testing centers located throughout the city, including North and West Hollywood and downtown Los Angeles.

  1. Exercising your mind

Your mind needs to be active and engaged, just like your body if you want to lead a healthy life. Los Angeles is home to several art galleries where you can spend hours wandering among the exhibits. The theatre is another way to entertain your mind, and there is always a show to meet every taste and style.

Staying healthy is important if you want to have a great lifestyle, and it’s not as hard as you think. Simply find activities that keep you active and happy, and you’re on your way to leading a healthier life. 

Meet the Youth Acting Biz Summer Camp

Lisa Bianconi
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Meet Mary Kennedy of Youth Acting Biz Summer Camp in the NoHo Arts District

 

Well the NoHo Arts District is a theatre district. Afterall, we do have 20 theatres in a mile, the highest concentration outside of New York City. But we are also a film and TV town so we cater to actors of all types and ages.

As our motto goes: “NoHo is only as good as its people.”

We like to highlight those who work on the stage, tv and in film, and especially those who help others hone their craft. Meet Mary Kennedy, the creator of Youth Acting Biz, a professional training program for young actors.

Mary Kennedy 0018Meet Mary Kennedy of Youth Acting Biz in the NoHo Arts District via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

The Youth Acting Biz’s on-going, six-week classes and summer improv camp are taught by educators who are also working actors, writers and directors. They offer young actors a variety of important, skill-building courses and workshops such as: Sitcom Acting Class, For Legal 18s, Ins & Outs of Commercial Acting, and their new Jump Start Acting for Pre-Schoolers. They don’t just “teach.” They sponsor industry showcases to give their young actors more exposure and to help get them hired. The Youth Acting Biz team has extensive industry experience and offers industry consultation services to give a well-rounded program such as help with contracts, headshots, resumes, work and labor rules, work permits, and agent / manager coachings, among others.

The NoHo Arts District dot com team gets perks and we pass those on to our readers.

“A special discount offer” for people mentioning nohoartsdistrict. $50 off classes and 20% off on enrollments in the same family!

When and why did you start your acting classes?

I started Youth Acting Biz over 10 years ago as a way to bring a program to those kids who had a passion for theatre, film and television. I went to Emerson College and majored in Theatre Education. It was a wonderful program and I wanted to share that. I also started acting when I was five and had incredible training in Marblehead, Massachusetts. It was a vibrant, artistic community!

Meet Mary Kennedy of Youth Acting Biz in the NoHo Arts District via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Why do you feel it is important for three year olds and preteens to take acting classes?

The best actors are between the ages of 3-5. Yes that is true! They have no inhibitions. They easily do Improv, they are constantly in motion and in play. Pre-teens experience a wonderful bridge through acting classes from elementary school to middle school. In the theatre classroom they can be truly expressive in a safe environment. Sometimes they do not get this encouragement when they are navigating the trials of middle school.

What is your background/training?

I have a BFA Theatre Education, Emerson College, and The Juilliard School, Professional Intern Program. I also have more than 20 years of acting experience, and I’ve just finished a six-episode arch on Showtime’s “Shameless,” episode 7. Other credits include, “ER,” “CONAN,” HULU, Funny or Die, and feature films “Shattered” and “Creative Differences.”

Mary Kennedy 0018Meet Mary Kennedy of Youth Acting Biz in the NoHo Arts District via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

What’s going on for summer? Are you offering a summer camp special?

We have our Improv Comedy Camp for ages 4-13 for two weeks this summer.

July 24-August 4 in the NoHo Arts District.

Contact Program Director : for more information at mary@youthactingbiz.com

DISCOUNT ENROLLMENTS CLOSE Wednesday, June 28.

$100 off if you mention NoHo Arts District!

Why did you pick NoHo as your location?

I love the NoHo Arts District. It reminds me of my time in NYC. It’s a creative, supportive community. I teach here, but also have worked in this community as a professional actress and dancer.

What are the five most important things an actor should know?

Be Prepared, Be Open, Be Willing, Be Fearless, Be Yourself.

What about adult actors?

We also have a new program: Acting Classes for Adults. This class is for actors, comics, dancers, all performers. We focus on scene work and comedic acting. Believe it or not, comedic acting is amazing training for dramatic acting. We teach the art of sitcom acting but also give actors the keys to acting in procedurals, super hero genre, serio/comedy and more. The cost is $300 for a 4-week adult acting classes.

Mention NoHo Arts District for $50 off!

Youth Acting Biz via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

CONTACT

ACME Comedy NoHo
5124 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
mary@youthactingbiz.com
310-941-3788
www.youthactingbiz.com

**** 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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Women: Make a Financial Plan — the Secret of Your Success

Lillian Appleby
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Women: Make a Financial Plan — the Secret of Your Success

Women: Make a Financial Plan — the Secret of Your Success

Financial planning is more than just a good idea.

Research has consistently shown that people who have financial plans — and who work with financial advisors — save and invest far more and are nearly twice as likely to feel on track or ahead of schedule in preparing for major financial goals, such as retirement.1

While having a financial plan is important for everyone, it is especially so for women. The gender wage gap, longer life expectancies, and potential retirement funding shortfalls are just a few of the factors that underscore women’s need to plan ahead.

Defining Priorities

The first and most important step in the planning process is defining your life priorities — and then setting financial goals to support them. Once goals are set, you’ll need to evaluate your current financial situation in terms of cash flow and budgeting, assets and debts, and then develop a realistic investment strategy for meeting your goals. This strategy should be based on your personal circumstances, including your risk tolerance and investment time horizon.

Asset Allocation Is Key2

Your asset allocation — or the way you divide your investments among stocks, fixed-income securities, and cash — plays a pivotal role in your financial plan, because the investment decisions you make over time will have a direct effect on your ability to meet your goals.

If, for instance, your primary goal is retirement, a significant portion of your portfolio should be in investments with the potential to grow over time, such as stocks or diversified stock mutual funds, ideally through tax-sheltered retirement accounts.3,4 If buying a vacation home is a shorter-term goal, consider including taxable — but more liquid — growth-oriented elements in your investment mix.

Financial planning is an ongoing process. That’s why you’ll need to monitor your investments regularly and make adjustments as needed to reflect changes in your life, the economy, or the stock market.

Other Planning Considerations

In addition to managing your investments, consider other financial needs, such as insurance. Life insurance, which helps provide financial security in the event of a spouse’s death,5 and long-term care insurance, which protects individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions from the high cost of long-term care, are both important considerations for women.

Finally, no financial plan is complete without an estate plan. Estate planning helps ensure your assets are distributed according to your wishes after your death. At a minimum, your estate plan should include an up-to-date will, a durable power of attorney, a living will and possibly trusts, which may help minimize your estate’s tax liability.

If you are ready to start planning for your financial future, contact a financial advisor. Together you can evaluate your current situation, create a plan, and keep it on track as circumstances in your life change.

1Insured Retirement Institute, news release, “Investors Better Prepared for Retirement, Still Lacking Financial Knowledge,” August 19, 2014.

2Asset allocation does not assure a profit or protect against a loss.

3Investing in stocks involves risks, including loss of principal.

4Investing in mutual funds involves risk, including loss of principal. Mutual funds are offered and sold by prospectus only. You should carefully consider the investment objectives, risks, expenses and charges of the investment company before you invest. For more complete information about any mutual fund, including risks, charges and expenses, please contact your financial professional to obtain a prospectus. The prospectus contains this and other information. Read it carefully before you invest.

5Life insurance policies are subject to substantial fees and charges. Death benefit guarantees are subject to the claims-paying ability of the issuing life insurance company. Loans will reduce the policy’s death benefit and cash surrender value, and have tax consequences if the policy lapses.

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NoHo Plaza: Art in the Alley?

Lisa Bianconi
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Mark your calendars for Thursday nights in NoHo. Experience NoHo Plaza is back June 29 – August 3, 2017!

Yeah, so what if we sing, dance and make music and art in an alley in NoHo?

So Thursdays this summer we will dance, sing and make music in the NoHo Plaza, aka NoHo Alley. Art in an alley? Why yes. We squeeze every ounce of possible space in NoHo to have fun. So get ready for Experience NoHo Plaza 2017 – NoHo’s Free Summer Entertainment Series featuring old school 90s grooves, Caribbean dance and music, live Salsa band and class, Jazz, Hip Hop, Funk and R&B jams, eclectic drum circles, NoHo ArtWalk, and fiddle-driven rockin’ bluegrass mashed-up. All free, all fun.

The first question we always get is where is this NoHo Plaza? Well, the easiest way to describe it is: the green alley on Lankershim near Magnolia.

WHERE:

NoHo Plaza Located between 5223 & 5225 Lankershim Blvd. (the green alleyway on Lankershim 1/2 block north of Magnolia)

Experience NoHo Plaza 2017 www.nohoartsdistrict.com/nohoplaza

WHEN:

Thursdays
June 29 – August 3
Shows from 7:30 – 9PM

COST: FREE!

See the full lineup>>

The Series is produced by the NoHo Business Improvement District (NoHo BID)  and Councilman Paul Krekorian’s office with talent coordination by nohoartsdistrict.com.

“Experience NoHo Plaza 2017 – NoHo’s Free Summer Entertainment Series is made possible in part by a grant from the City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs and with the support of Community Partners.”

communitypartners logo notag         dca.logo bw

**** 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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Designing on a ‘baby’ budget

Christopher Porikos
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Designing on a ‘baby’ budget

Designing on a ‘baby’ budget

I recently finished working with a new client that stated they had a ‘baby’ budget.

They wanted a new dining room as they just moved into a new place.  So when I asked what that meant regarding the budget, they responded with almost nothing in terms of budget.  All the funds went to the upfront fees.  I really had my work cut out for me.  I knew I wasn’t able to shop with my usual sources for this client.  I also knew I had to knock this out of the park and that we were just going to get the basics.

I needed to get creative.  I worked with smaller budgets in the past, but nothing like this.

I went first to the internet for consignment shops.  They tend to have items with some life left; not banged up and in need of some repair.  I also looked at private sellers with higher end items for sale.

It took me a while, but I managed to get the room pulled together.  I found the table at a consignment shop.  It was from a well-known, higher end retailer.  If purchased new, it would have been 2700.00.  I scored with a price of 349.00. I then found six chairs from a private-party that just didn’t need them because they didn’t match this home.  All six chairs came in at 220.00. And for anyone who knows me, I love rugs.  They can pull any room together.  I found one in good condition for under a 100.00. I also found silk drapery panels for under 100.00.  The art piece came in at a good price as well.

The room came in just under 1200.00!

With a little work, a thought out plan and some creativity, we can all create a space that is warm, welcoming and stylish.

Enjoy!

“Art’s a Trip”: A Tour of Metro’s Artwork

Raleigh Barrett Gallina
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“Art’s a Trip”: A Tour of Metro’s Artwork

“Art’s a Trip”: A Tour of Metro’s Artwork

The L.A. Metro stations are turned into art galleries every first Saturday, Sunday, and Thursday of the month.

While many Angelenos aren’t aware of the Metro Rail system itself, many Angelenos who use the Metro Rail don’t recognize the intricate, commissioned art which graces virtually all Metro stops. Beyond those who do recognize the commissioned artwork, people don’t realize that free, roundtrip tours are given of this commissioned artwork!

In 1989, the Metro Art program commissioned over 250 artists to produce a “multi-layered cultural tapestry” which embellishes Metro stops. The 250 artists are all established artists, chosen through a peer-reviewed process contributed to through community consultation. The artists were tasked with creating both temporary and permanent installations which mirror both LA County’s contemporary and popular cultures. The artworks needed to be robust (capable of surviving 40-50 years), topical, as well as relevant to the surrounding location where each Metro stop is situated.

Each tour is led by a member of the Metro Art Docent Council, and no two tours are alike.

Each docent is a passionate volunteer who leads a unique, approximately two hour roundtrip tour. Since each docent is different and gives a different tour, you could ostensibly take the tour every first Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday, and experience 36 different tours per year. Even if you have a TAP Card, the docent will give you a pre-loaded day card.

I attended the Sunday tour based out of Union Station. While I admit, it was difficult to get up and get myself downtown by 10:00am, the experience was well worth it. Not only are you surrounded by like-minded people, but you’re exposed to the intricacy and level of investment L.A. has imbued our city with. My tour began out of Union Station and included exclusive access to typically off-limits sections of Union Station. I learned not only about the history of Union Station but the architecture as well.

Since I can’t help but share a snippet of what I’ve learned about Union, here it is in brief: Union Station was built in 1939 and is now known as the last of the great railways. Union Station is situated on L.A.s former Chinatown. Sad, but not uncommon even today, is how eminent domain was used to evict Chinese residents and businesses of the time, thanks to the Parkinson Brothers who built Union. A sculpture located in Union’s East Wing was created by May Sun, and the sculpture is built partially from artifacts recovered from this old Chinatown eviction.

Remember a rule of three when you’re at Union: Los Angeles Union Passenger Terminal hosted a controversial number of railways: three (Union Pacific, Santa Fe, and Southern Pacific). Prior to Union, railways were serviced by private companies. The contemporary equivalent would be if we flew out of private airports: Delta Airport, Southwest Airport, United Airport, etc. This unique alliance of companies led to Union Station’s name since it unified three companies. Up to this day, union still hosts three companies: Metrolink, Amtrak, and the Los Angeles Metropolitan Transportation Authority (Metro). Architecturally, the rule of three continues! The three architectural styles which comprise the interior and exterior of Union are Art Deco in the archways, motif/Spanish Colonial as seen in the tiling, and Mission Modern as seen in the ticket counters. Once you recognize these three architectural styles by name, you cannot stop seeing the three across Los Angeles.

In the Metro stops, each artwork is intended to enhance the transit experience, and the artwork is site-specific. For example, the Hollywood/Vine Metro stop is located near the Pantages Theater. Because of its location, the Hollywood/Vine Metro stop mirrors the glitz and glam of Hollywood through its Wizard of Oz theme. The green, translucent overhang through which passengers descend, portrays the Emerald City, while the yellow tiling emulates the yellow brick road. All ceilings are required to have perforated metal, hence the film reels which decorate the ceiling. The tiles lining the hallways represent Hollywood through Chicano car culture, but with dogs as the starring characters. The edging around the elevators is explicitly film strips, and the giant metal palm trees were rumored to have been on a production set of Lucille Ball’s.

While our NoHo Metro stop wasn’t featured on the tour I took, I can tell you that Anne Marie Karlsen devised and applied the artwork adorning the North Hollywood Red Line stop in 2000.

Yet another reason to support Metro is that for every Metro dollar, one cent is allocated towards art. The beauty of Los Angeles is highlighted in how L.A. continues to invest in itself through the arts.

Exhibition:                 Metro Art Tours

Where & When:        à Saturdays – Meet at the street level entrance to the Hollywood/Highland Metro Rail Station. `         

[10am – 12pm]

à Sundays – Meet at the information booth inside the entrance to historic Union Station

[10am – 12pm]

àThursdays – Meet at the street level entrance to the Hollywood/Highland Metro Rail Station

[7pm – 9pm]

*All docents will be wearing orange, reflective vests

Lines Featured:         Metro Red Line

                                    Metro Purple Line

Metro Gold Line

NoHo Library’s Summer Reading Challenge

Lisa Bianconi
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Summer Reading Just Got Even More Fun Thanks to the NoHo Library!

Well if you’re in the NoHo Arts Distict you’re a creative soul. Our North Hollywood Amelia Earhart Regional Branch Library (a.k.a. NoHo Library) is no exception. They create programs for our neighborhood that are fun and encourage reading and library usage.  Are you up for the summer reading challenge? We asked NoHo Librarian Basya Samuels about the summer challenge Reading by Design programming for children and teens.

Make sure to follow our NoHo Library for all the fun (education is fun!) they have planned for the neighborhood!

FACEBOOK | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM @NoHoLibrary

5211 Tujunga Ave North Hollywood, CA 91601 | 818 766 7185

What is Reading by Design?

Reading by Design is the theme of our annual summer reading club. The theme is just a way to make the reading, prizes, and programming a little extra fun for all ages.

When children are away from learning in school for the summer months, they experience something dubbed ‘Summer Slide’ or ‘Summer Learning Loss’. Part of the reason for this summer slide is because children aren’t on a continuous learning schedule, and aren’t reviewing material they’ve learned over the year. Therefore, at the beginning of each school year, teachers spend a significant amount of time reviewing already learned material from the year before. Based on many studies, experts agree that in order to combat this issue reading a certain amount of books will prevent this slide! So, as a public service to children & teens, the library offers a summer reading program with incentives to get them to read and avoid the summer slide.

As incentives, we have the free weekly summer programming, as explained below. Separately, we have the sign-ups – where everyone is invited to see the librarians at the information desk and sign up to track their reading time and get free prizes! Prizes given out at sign up, and also completion of reading hours and activities. We’ve got some free coupons and other great giveaways too.

The dates? How do we get started?

The program for Reading by Design begins June 12th, and will end August 5th. Patrons can read and listen to books of their choosing during these weeks, and then log in their time in their booklets. Once a patron has read for 10 hours and completed 4 activities, they have completed the program and will be entered into the grand prize raffle.

COOL NEW FEATURE – everything can be done online! Log into lapl.org/summer and sign up yourself today and log & track all your activities for some fun electronic badges. Just come into the library for your prizes, and we’ll look you up on our database!

In addition to keeping a reading log, the library offers special weekly events to entice families to come into the library during the summer. We also hope this encourages families to want to choose fantastic books during the summer, and then come back during the rest of year to take advantage of our collection and programming. The free events for are about to start!

Ages?

There are three options – one is for children ages 0-11, a second is for teens 11 -18, and one is for adults 19+.

Can you give us a little description of some of the events?

Children’s events take place weekly – Mondays at 5:00 pm; Teen events are also weekly – Tuesdays at 3:30 pm; Adults will have three specialized programs throughout the summer. Look everything up at lapl.org/northhollywood for event times and details.

Kids’ programming – look forward to authors of “Shivers the Pirate” Bonder-Stone & White for some comedic improve fun, Geebo the clown, Incan & Peruvian music, dance party, and much more! Kids have a bonus STEAM-Y Science Summer fun on Wednesdays – drop-in for a DIY science project.

Teen programming – we’ll be busting out the button making machine, learning how to crochet, and being tattooed with some super cool henna!

Adult programming – we’ve got a graphologist/handwriting artist coming at the beginning of the summer, and a solo Play program at the end of the summer.

Happy summer reading!

**** 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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“Below the Belt”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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“Below The Belt” presented by Young Actors Space through June 25.

A Play by Richard Dresser

Directed by Patrick Day 

This is my first play at the rather wonderful Young Actors Space in Sherman Oaks. They have a very impressive list of alumni and the plays they routinely produce in their theatre space cast from their current students.  

This production of “Below The Belt” by Richard Dresser has actors drawn from their adult students and I can’t tell you how incredibly impressed I was by the calibre of their work.

“Below The Belt,” a highly regarded play from a multi-award winning playwright, is a brilliantly sinister take on the delights of the corporate system.  Pitching employees against one another, and setting them wildly unreachable goals while dangling life changing rewards.  Separating the management from the workers and the accountants from everyone else, maintaining an atmosphere of “them vs us,” “dog eat dog” and “survival of the fittest” all the while glamorizing the upper management and sending strategically released mixed messages.

It’s pure politics…and it plays out on stage in dank, unpleasant beauty, all unfinished sentences and awkward, unsettling remarks. In short, it’s bloody dark perfection.

IMG 3200 (1)

The Young Actors Space, with guidance from their director Patrick Day, who also stars as “Merkin” in the all-male performances, has created a pure and mythologically wrought, grey, modern drama.  The cast also rotated through three sets, one all male, one all female and one mixed.  I saw the all-female production and it was exquisitely cast with Maura Corsini, Jule Nelson Duac and Melanie Starks, all equally outstanding and playing totally opposing characters who find themselves at odds with themselves and one another as they strive for acknowledgement in the abysmal workplace. 

Set somewhere in the middle of nowhere, the team of three “checkers” are tasked with “checking” the product before it is shipped in several months’ time.  Since they are kept apart from the rest of the workforce lest they form attachments and this muddies their work, they are forced to created unlikely alliances with each other, but always with one eye on the door and their hand on the hilt of their sword, in a totally allegorical sense of course….

This is such sweetly dire drama that Shakespeare or Homer might tip their hats.  It certainly put me in a Mamet mood at the very least.  But the most interesting thing about the play was the way in which the language could be taken in so many ways, it is manipulation at the highest of levels, masterful in fact.  Who are these people, what are they doing in this place, why would they agree to live in such discomfort and for what gain?  So many questions, but in the end, it’s all a game, to them, to their employers and to us, but a game that holds a pretty bleak mirror up to our morbid and depressing corporate world.

And there’s the humor…and there is an awful lot of it.  Dresser has twisted this darkness into a hilarious, icily intelligent glimpse into a future of desperation and separation.  Will this team ever complete their task, will they ever get invited to the ball, and what are the creatures with glowing eyes that seem to be inside the fence now?

Be prepared to love this play. I adored the rivalry between them all, the newbie all shiny faced and hopeful, the old timer lonely and manipulative, the survivor just counting out the days until her release.

I highly recommend “Below The Belt” at The Young Actor Space.  Now I’ve sampled their brilliance I really can hardly wait to see what next they have up their sleeves.

5918 Van Nuys Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91401

June 2 – 25   8PM Friday / Saturday 7PM Sunday

info@YAStheatre.net

818-785-7979

 http://www.youngactorsspace.com

https://www.facebook.com/youngactorsspace/ 

Review of Vote! The Musical

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Above the Curve Theatre Company presents “Vote! The Musical” at Actors Workout Studio in the NoHo Arts District through June 25.

Ryann Ferguson: Writer

Steven Jamail: Composer

Jan-Michael Del Mundo: Director

I love a good musical… the funnier the better and “Vote! The Musical” is absolutely hilarious.

Set in a high school and populated by actors who are just a little beyond playing ‘high school’ age parts, which is brilliant by the way, we watch transfixed as three students battle each other in the election for high school president.  There’s the quiet earnest do-gooder, the competitive, driven, obsessive, egotistical nerd and the homecoming queen who has everyone twisted around her little finger…fierce competition indeed!

Directed by Jan-Michael Del Mundo with musical direction by Carson Schutze and choreography by Vanessa Lorenzo and Jillian Forster, this is a 16-strong extravaganza and the cast really had the roof raising off the theatre!

I had a blast watching how much fun everyone was having on stage and, from the whoops of delight from the audience, I wasn’t the only one.

There were a few interesting subplots, errant boyfriends, accidental cheating, backstabbing, undermining and sabotage…just your usual teenage antics.  But in the end, the substance of this play lies in the music and the performances.  Everyone was brilliant. They really let go and ‘became’ those spotty, awkward, idiotic kids they all used to be.  Some of these songs are real show stoppers too. I particularly enjoyed the ‘nerd’ Mike’s Justin Timberlake-esquely fabulous “Ambition.” Boy can he entertain!

Think Clueless/Election/House of Cards but with everyone bursting into song and leaping about. I loved it!!

I highly recommend that you shimmy on down to the Actors Workout Theatre in NoHo and have some fun…bring your pom poms!!

Starring Angela Cole, Adam Fauth, Nicole DaCosta, Keegan Winfield, Erica Brauer, Bonnie Doyle, Brittney S. Wheeler, Anthony Marquez, Carrie Daniel, Mark Labella and John Corrigan.

Actors Workout Theatre
4735 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood, 91602

“VOTE! The Musical

June 2 — 25

Fridays and Saturdays at 8PM & Sundays at 7PM

Above the Curve Theatre at Actors Workout Studio

http://www.abovethecurvetheatre.com

Wonder Woman; Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales

Mike Peros
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Wonder Woman; Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales

Wonder Woman; Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales 

Wonder Woman, featuring a star-making turn from Gal Gadot, is the most entertaining film, action or otherwise, that is playing at your local multiplex.

It has everything you might want in a superhero film (and this is coming from one who is getting more than a little tired of the genre): terrific performances, effective action sequences, humor, romance, a little intrigue, and surprising emotional depth. After a tentative beginning which conveys some backstory of Diana and her fellow Amazons on their island paradise, the films gathers steam when World War I spy Steve Trevor (Chris Pine) crashes near the island, bringing the pursuing German Army with him.  An exciting battle ensues, which not only reveals Diana’s impressive skills as a warrior—but also, under Patty Jenkins’ skillful direction, the capacity for the film to effectively remind the viewers of the horror of war, more through suggestion than explicit violence.

When Diana decides to leave her island home, with the reluctant approval of her mother (Connie Nielsen), it is with the desire to use her powers to stop war.  She believes this can be done by stopping Ares, the God of War, but grows to learn that ending war is not as clear-cut as that, and there is enough man-made blame to go around.  But I digress…what also helps Wonder Woman take its place among the best superhero films is an intelligent script (Allan Heinsburg, from a story by Heinsberg, Zack Snyder and Jason Fuchs) that leaves room for small character-driven moments, opportunities for action and humor, as well as time to digest the ravages of war.

It also benefits from two terrific lead performances.  As Steve Trevor, Chris Pine is convincing in all aspects of the role: his Steve Trevor is brave but also fallible, and endearing when depicting his growing attraction to a woman that he struggles throughout to understand. However, Wonder Woman really rises or falls on Diana, and Gal Gadot’s Diana is one very exceptional superhero indeed.  Witness her righteous rage when she decides to charge through no man’s land toward the German machine guns that are pinning the Allied forces in the trenches; Diana’s charge isn’t motivated by anything other than to prevent further carnage and help a village in dire need.  Gadot admirably conveys Diana’s urgency, and this rousing sequence, complemented by Geoff Zanelli’s stirring score, is the high point of the film (and one of the action highlights of recent years). But there’s more to Gadot’s performance than her action prowess; her Diana is naturally inquisitive, especially with regard to social conventions and gender roles—as in where do an unmarried man and a woman sleep within the confines of a boat.  These exchanges with Steve Trevor, whether they are humorous or serious, as in when pertaining to man’s capacity for war, lend a degree of depth not usually seen in these types of films. Some superhero films (both DC and Marvel) have had problems with tone, but with Wonder Woman, the tone is just right, and the film, apart from some protracted pyrotechnics at the end, marks the true beginning of the summer movie season.  The rest have a lot to live up to.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales,

As I was watching Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales, I found myself asking “why?” As in, why did Disney feel compelled to make another one? Why did Jeff Nathanson concoct such a convoluted plot when the only real plotline is “Get Jack Sparrow!”  Why has Geoffrey Rush’s Captain Barbossa morphed from one of the screen’s most memorable villains into the avuncular (if occasionally deceptive) uncle nest door (or should I say next ship)? Why is Javier Bardem recycling his villain from Skyfall?  Why was there little thought to making the action scenes look anything more than just busy (well, with one exception involving Johnny Depp’s Jack Sparrow and a guillotine)? I won’t ask why Johnny Depp is in the film—there can be one real reason (and it’s got nothing to do with artistic merit).  It’s not that Pirates is bad—it is watchable, the young leads are OK, and some of the supporting players seem to be having fun.  It just seems…oh so unnecessary—and yet there’s the possibility of another, featuring some actors who should know better.  Save your time and money for more original, entertaining fare.

NoHo News: Citizine, Movement Lifestyle, Dance, Summer in NoHo Plaza, NoHo Mixer, NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre

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 June 8 2017: Citizine, Movement Lifestyle, Dance, Summer in NoHo Plaza, NoHo Mixer, NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre

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**** 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.

Citizine: A Curated Look at the NoHo Arts District and L.A.

Lisa Bianconi
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Citizine: A curated look at the NoHo Arts District and L.A. through the eyes of neighborhood experts.

We like personalized. We like lists. And we like our info fast and organized.

THIS is Citizine – (pronounced sit-ih-ZEEN). It’s a one-stop shop to help keep your favorite places organized, and a forum for sharing and learning about experiences from one another. But we also like unique, fresh content. Citizine does this brilliantly by highlighting neighborhoods and events from neighborhood movers, shakers, experts and tastemakers. So, they give us inspiring content from a range of perspectives.

CITIZINE Shaun Evaristo The Movement Lifestyle NoHo Arts District Guide

It’s probably easier if we show you. Check out NoHo’s own Shaun Evarito from Movement Lifestyle who is featured on CITIZINE. He talks about what he digs about his neighborhood – the NoHo Arts District.

We chatted with Founder and CEO of Citizine Philip DeBevoise to get some background on the site and, well, what’s neat about it.

What is Citizine?

Citizine is a global, lifestyle & travel platform targeting urban global citizens. In 2016, we launched our BETA mobile responsive website which provides our audience the ability to explore unique, story-driven and engaging content from around the world (with an initial deep focus on LA) along with the ability to transact off that content (research destinations, reserve restaurants, build & share personal travel profiles, etc.) In essence, we’re enabling our users to easily and powerfully “curate and share their cultural self” (think of a SPOTIFY for places/travel).

As part of our BETA product, we developed one-of-a-kind technology to “tag” videos, text and photos for “places / locations” which is getting a lot of attention as it allows our viewers/readers to save, share and transact with places mentioned in our videos and articles. I’m excited to announce that we’re currently working with the show THE AMAZING RACE on CBS to tag some of their online videos from their new season launching in April. The videos will be live at Citizine.tv and CBS will promote them on their social platforms!

Why is it the go-to site in LA?

Beyond the tagging technology we developed, one of the key elements that makes us different is that we explore LA and the world thru the lens of the tastemakers shaping its culture. For LA, we’ve interviewed over 400 chefs, artists, designers, entertainers, athletes, etc. that have curated and recommended over 5,000 places in LA. Every week we interview multiple tastemakers who share their passion for the city and the places the love to go and recommend to their friends. We also have weekly newsletters that are quickly growing in popularity as they provide ideas for what to do each week in LA. You can sign up via our Facebook page .

Why did you create Citizine?

I created Citizine because I was frustrated with my general online experience to-date as it did not reflect my real-life behavior. What I mean is that in real life, I have built a curated way to explore the world by having a network of trusted friends and resources that I go to for advice and recommendations. I also watch a lot of video programming and read articles that fuel my passion to try new things and places. However, I’m frustrated because I don’t have a way to easily save, share and transact with the places that I see on an online video or on TV or read in an article. This is why we built technology that allows us to “tag” all the places in those videos and articles. This way, our viewers can actually save all the places in that video. They can share them with friends, use them to plan and organize a trip and also transact with those places.

I’ve recently noticed that more and more people are frustrated with resources that provide you “everyone’s opinion” (ex: Yelp or TripAdvisor). They no longer know what and who to believe, especially when they’re looking for a place that has conflicting reviews or they go somewhere that’s been recommended by these services and they have a bad experience. Most of these people have told me that they function differently in the real world as they ask their friends or want to know from trusted resources before they try something new. Citizine is built around providing that functionality and information.

CITIZINE feature on nohoartsdistrict.com

What is this about tagging videos?

I wanted to build a technology that allowed video creators, tastemakers and now, everyone, to be able to use or find a video they like, tag it for the places they recommend in that video and then be able to share it with the world. When people watch our tagged videos it’s as if a light has gone off and they realize how frustrating and silly our current video experience is today online and on TV. Think about when you watch a video about a destination or follow someone you like such as Anthony Bourdain showing you a city or country and all you want to do is know more about those places they’ve shown you. Today, you can’t do anything with those videos and more importantly, it takes you a lot of time and energy to remember the names of the places and find them online and then save them somewhere for later. With our tech, all you do is click “save” from the list of places next to the video. You get all the information about that place, related videos and articles that might have also covered that place and the ability to share and transact with that place as well as see any comments from the person who has curated that video and recommended those places. The most amazing reaction we get is once they see a “tagged” video, most people tell us they never want to see an untagged video again because it’s frustrating not to have that power and knowledge at their fingertips.

What made you want to partner with NoHo Arts District?

For many reasons. First NoHo is a fast growing area of LA that’s important for the arts (music, dance, theatre, etc.) and anyone living or visiting LA should know about NoHo and should visit and support all of the wonderful local businesses. Second, what you’re doing is important in terms of keeping the light focused on what’s happening in NoHo and your approach, exploring NoHo thru the lens of someone who is shaping the culture of NoHo, is in step with what Citizine is doing for LA and the rest of the world.

Is there something you’d like to see in L.A. that we don’t have?

I have been fortunate to live in many places around the world including Rome, London and NYC. For a long time, i wished that LA had more outdoor experiences (cafes, restaurants, shopping and music venues, etc.) given how blessed we are with our weather. I also wished for more “walkable” neighborhoods with things to do that encouraged walking and biking. I must say that I’m very happy to see the progress that’s been made in all those areas over the last 15 years or so. I’m excited to see what the next 10 years bring us as the metro expands and more little neighborhoods such as NoHo, Highland Park, Echo Park, etc. become more accessible and pedestrian friendly.

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**** 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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Be a Part of Lit Crawl L.A. 5!

Lisa Bianconi
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Lit Crawl L.A. is Greater Los Angeles’s second largest literary festival and a free-to-the-public citywide event.

The official Los Angeles affiliate of the Litquake Foundation’s international Lit Crawl series, the 5th annual Lit Crawl L.A. returns to the NoHo Arts District on Wednesday, October 25, 2017 from 6-10PM. By partnering with a variety of area organizations, Lit Crawl L.A. bolsters Greater Los Angeles’ literary scene and captures the Southland’s unique flavor — all while getting book lovers and revelers alike drunk on words. For Free! Restaurants, tattoo parlors, bars, galleries and other hip NoHo venues will host innovative presentations showcasing the best of L.A.’s literary scene from throughout Los Angeles County. 2017’s Lit Crawl L.A is Greater Los Angeles’ premiere grassroots literary event and 2017 promises to be another magical, vibrant night for all!

Lit Crawl L.A. Call for Presenter

Submissions close June 9, 2017

The deadline for presenters to submit for Lit Crawl L.A. 5 is June 9, 2017. We’d love to hear from returning and new Southland literary organizations, writing collectives, reading series, publications and literary groups formal and informal to jump into this fun, loud, guerrilla-style annual street event. Visit our Become A Presenter page for this year’s guidelines and application. Don’t delay!

From the personal essay to impactful journalism, now more than ever our voices need to be heard. In addition to the diverse and exciting writing that fuels Lit Crawl, we’re extending a special welcome to journalists, memorialists, personal storytellers, Hollywood industry stories, and political/multicultural writings including ASL readings. Please apply today!

Lit Crawl L.A. 2017 call for presenters and volunteers via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

VOLUNTEERS NEEDED FOR LIT CRAWL L.A. 2017!

Calling literature lovers, people helpers and fans of a good street scene to volunteer for Lit Crawl L.A. 2017. Lit Crawl L.A. returns October 25, 2017 to the NoHo Arts District and we have volunteer positions available for:

1. Event Technical Director (stipended) Scheduling, venue liaison, equipment procurement, driving small rental truck of venue equipment, overseeing production assistants.

2. Marketing Intern (stipended) Laisoning with presenters, assisting with social media and promotion, coordinating photographers, videographers and social media volunteers.

3. Event Day Staff for our 35+ venues, runners and tech team.

Course Credit available for area college students. You need to be 18+ to volunteer and must be comfortable being on your feet and walking for a few hours at a time. Please email our Volunteer Coordinator, Carlye Archibeque for complete job description, at volunteers@litcrawlla.org. We look forward to meeting you!

Stay up to date with Lit Crawl L.A. on Facebook  | Twitter  |  Instagram

**** 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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And The Valley Theatre Award Winners Are…

Lisa Bianconi
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The 2017 Valley Theatre Awards were hosted by Theatre 68 artistic director Ronnie Marmo on Monday, June 5, 2017 at Cupcake Theatre in the NoHo Arts District.

The third annual gala was an evening to enjoy food and wine, fun performances, meet Valley theatre folks and a time to acknowledge and award the “best artists” on this side of the hill.

The Valley Theatre Awards was created to bring recognition to the great work being done in the NoHo Arts District and San Fernando Valley, to honor its artistic heritage, and to provide a meeting ground for this extensive community.

The Awards focus on intimate theatre and recognizes the unique and essential role it plays in contributing to our culture. We believe that publicly recognizing excellence in intimate theater will expand audience awareness and appreciation of a wonderful theatre experience in our community.

Congratulations to those who took home an award. The biggest award is being part of this community.

The 2017 Valley Theatre Award Winners www.nohoartsdistrict.com

And The Valley Theatre Award Winners Are…

Outstanding Lighting Design

Yancey Dunham – A Thorn in the Family Paw – Theatre West

Outstanding Sound Design

Aaron Lyons & Shane Howard – Of Mice and Men – Theatre Unleashed

Outstanding Costumes Design

David Callendar – Hairspray – Cupcake Theatre

Outstanding Scenic Design

John Eddings – The Importance of Being Earnest – Archway Theatre

Outstanding Comedy/Variety Show

Slow…Children at Play – Whitmore Lindley Theatre

Outstanding Featured Actress in a Musical

Jetta Juriansz – Eat Your Turkey – Zombie Joe’s Underground

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Musical

Thomas Odoue Polk – American Idiot – Cupcake Theatre

Outstanding One Person Performance

Deedee O’Malley – Waiting for Johnny Depp – Whitefire Theatre

Outstanding Featured Actress in a Play

Kimberly Green – It’s Just Sex – Secret Rose Theatre

Outstanding Featured Actor in a Play

Steven Sabel – Oedipus-Antigone – Archway Theatre

Outstanding Actor in a Musical

Philip Rodriguez – Orange is the New Musical – Whitefire Theatre

Outstanding Actress in a Musical

Amy Londyn – Lili Marlene – WriteAct Rep

Outstanding Actress in a Play

Marissa Galloway – King Lear – Loft Ensemble

Outstanding Actor in a Play

Gregory Crafts – Of Mice and Men – Theatre Unleashed

Outstanding Ensemble in a Play or Musical

Park Plays – Above the Curve

Outstanding Writing of an Original Play or Musical

A Thorn in the Family Paw – Garry Michael Kluger

Outstanding Direction of a Play

Thomas Bigley -Henry VI Trilogy – Porters of Hellsgate

Outstanding Direction of a Musical

Gloria Gifford – Down on your Knees and Up to the Moon – Jamaica Moon Productions

Outstanding Play

A Time to Kill – Theatre 68

Outstanding Musical

Hairspray- Cupcake Theatre

Outstanding Artistic Director

Ronnie Marmo – Theatre 68

Lifetime Achievement Award – Edmund Gaynes

**** 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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“Definition of Man” – A Duet in One Act

Lisa Bianconi
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In our opinion, a “definition of a Fringe Festival” is to play. It’s to create. It’s to experiment. This is how great theatre is made.

Did you know?

Fringe Festivals exist throughout the world as havens for underground and emerging arts scenes. The Fringe concept was incubated in Edinburgh, Scotland. In 1947, eight performance groups appeared uninvited on the “fringes” of the exclusive Edinburgh International Festival. The Edinburgh Festival Fringe has since grown into the largest arts festival in the world, annually grosses over $100 million for the local economy and remains the biggest tourist draw in the UK.

The NoHo Arts District dot com team is proud to support the Hollywood Fringe Festival as we are all Hollywood (North) and a part of L.A.’s arts corridor.

So what is the Hollywood Fringe Festival?

Each June during the Hollywood Fringe, the arts infiltrate the Hollywood neighborhood: fully equipped theaters, parks, clubs, churches, restaurants and other unexpected places host hundreds of productions by local, national, and international arts companies and independent performers. Participation in the Hollywood Fringe is completely open and uncensored. This free-for-all approach underlines the festival’s mission to be a platform for artists without the barrier of a curative body. By opening the gates to anyone with a vision, the festival is able to exhibit the most diverse and cutting-edge points-of-view the world has to offer. Additionally, by creating an environment where artists must self-produce their work, the Fringe motivates its participants to cultivate a spirit of entrepreneurialism in the arts.

We got a chance to ask the “Definition of Man” creators about their show and how it came to be. It is the example of what a Fringe Festival incubates, develops and nurishes. Meet Jason Rosario and Nikki Muller, the creators of “Definition of Man” playing at Sacred Fools Blackbox Theatre through June 25.

What made you choose to create a piece drawing from Kenneth Burke’s essay “Definition of Man?”

N: Originally, I had no idea that the piece would wind up being inspired by Burke, I was simply going off of discussions Jason and I had about what we wanted to work to look like– a highly physical piece that drew from our specific selves, something no more than an hour that would grip the audience, challenge them, confront them with challenging questions and make them think. The idea to draw from Burke arose organically– since Jason and I were discussing issues of identity, shame, and general failure of language to perfectly communicate our inner lives, the thought arose that Burke’s Definition of Man would offer the perfect framing device through which to uncover how man is moved and shaped by the words he or she uses. Since most only study Burke at a college or graduate level, I also thought it would be interesting to make these ideas more accessible, and to see them embodied and deconstructed at a performative level, where the body takes over.

Definition of Man at Hollywood Fringe Festival 2017 via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

How did you choose your stories?

J: We individually reflected on the themes we had chosen to explore in the piece and both started writing during our workshop phase. We knew beforehand that we wanted to allow the audience in at a very personal level, and that we’d have to get pretty vulnerable in sharing our own narratives in order to do so. Creating this piece was my opportunity to tell my story in my own way, on my own terms, stories I’ve never felt safe or comfortable enough to share. We both believed by sharing something deeply personal that we would allow the audience to identify and feel with us in their own private experience.

N: We wanted to present two unique perspectives to the audience, and the best way for us to do this was to identify where we were speaking from. There’s an idea from Donna Harraway called situated knowledges, that true objectivity is a myth, and we can only reach some kind of truth by speaking from somewhere. Identifying our specific experiences, what has shaped us as people, and what influences our understanding of the world was crucial to allowing the audience a space to insert themselves into our stories. By choosing our most vulnerable, foundational stories, I believe we allow our audience the permission to turn their gaze inward and reflect on their own life experiences as well.

What are your backgrounds?

J: I was born in Miami, FL and lived in Puerto Rico for the first couple years of my life. Most of my childhood I lived with my mother in Florida and summers in Puerto Rico with my father. I began acting in middle school, was extremely active in our high school’s drama program and moved out to Los Angeles after graduating. I’ve been studying martial arts since childhood, and have been studying Muay Thai in LA for many years– it was at a teammate’s fight that I first met Nikki and we learned of our similar love for theater and decided to collaborate on creating a new original work. I was feeling frustrated with a lack of depth in the roles I was auditioning for, especially as a native Spanish speaker– there are very generic ideas on what it means to be Latino. Los Angeles is fairly naive regarding the diversity of hispanic culture– many of them don’t even know the geography or background of Puerto Rican culture, which can be alienating and frustrating. This play allowed me to create something distinctly from myself and my culture, which I don’t see very often when auditioning.

N: I grew up in New York, also to divorced parents. My father was an East German refugee who instilled in me a great pride for the freedoms and privileges we are afforded as American citizens, which has always stayed with me. Both of my parents were deeply supportive of my academic and creative pursuits. I’ve always loved writing, and used to write and self-produce little plays with my best friends since the around the age of seven. I continued to study theater and writing in high school and got my BA in Comparative Literature with certificates from the department of Theater and Dance and Creative Writing. I got my MFA in Acting from the Moscow Art Theater School/American Repertory Theater’s Institute for Advanced Theater Training at Harvard University. During this time, I learned the rudiments of Russian partner movement, which we use in the show. After graduating, I moved to LA, where I have largely been involved in comedy and endurance training– I have completed six Ironman triathlons. Upon meeting Jason, I was inspired to funnel my athletic energies into creating something original that returned me to my dramatic roots.

Definition of Man at Hollywood Fringe Festival 2017 via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Why is it a “sexier, more violent Waiting for Godot?”

We chose Waiting for Godot as our inspiration insofar as it is a very spare, philosophical, language-based show. We wanted ours to have a similar feel of desolation, but stick with only two characters, and, unlike Godot, eventually move somewhere– the “sexy” part naturally arises given that the show is about two people in a relationship, and the violence emerges from the visceral nature of their engagement. Unlike most stagings of Godot, ours is an extremely physical piece.

What can audiences expect? What would you like the audience to take away?

J: I don’t want the audience to expect anything: ideally, they will just come with an open mind. What I hope them to take away is to feel something viscerally– to be moved. Whether their reaction be anger, discomfort, sadness, or reflection, I’m hoping the piece will reach them at a personal level, cause them to reflect, and inspire them to be more empathic and open with others as a result.

N: This show is a tightly-paced hour that, while including some lofty ideas, grips the audience at a very primal level. The actors use their entire bodies and selves to tell the story, using figurative language and physicality to ask some probing questions about humanity and the self. You’ll also see us go back and forth in counter balances– often the male partner will base for a smaller, lighter female, but since we are reinforcing ideas of equality in perspective, we also reinforce it physically, both basing and both “flying.” Ideally, I would like the audience to leave with a sense of hope– hope that they truly do have the power to change themselves and, as a result, the world by changing the way they communicate. Part of the play mentions Richard Weaver’s idea of rhetoric, how every moment we speak is an opportunity to change people for the better. I hope this play reaches people at that level, and leaves them changed in a positive way.

Thanks, Jason, Nikki and the Hollywood Fringe team!

Definition of Man at Hollywood Fringe Festival 2017 via www.nohoartsdistrict.com

“Definition of Man”

June 2 – June 25

TICKETS>>

Sacred Fools Black Box Theater
6322 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038

A sexier, more violent Waiting for Godot, “Definition of Man” is a post-modern de-creation myth that drawing from Kenneth Burke’s essay of the same name investigates the human drive to communicate and the inevitable breakdown that results from the inherent incompleteness of language. In the abstracted setting of a burnt-out, post-apocalyptic ruin, the cast of two serves as a stand-in for all of humanity while grappling with their own personal struggles to maintain a sense of self in a world that has ceased to exist.

Co-created and starring – Jason Rosario and Nikki Muller
Written by Nikki Muller
Directed by JJ Mayes

**** 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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Mid-Town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council Community Mixer

NoHo - North Hollywood
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Mid-Town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council Community Mixer

The Mid-Town North Hollywood Neighborhood Council will host its first Community Mixer on June 17th 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM at Groundwork Coffee in NoHo. 

This community mixer is for the benefit of all who reside, work, play and have businesses in Mid-Town North Hollywood. Come out and meet your district representatives that make up the neighborhood council.

Hear more about what is happening in our community over drinks, sweets, and other treats. There will be an information table set up at the event to let you know all about the council. Plus, we will have an Idea station on deck for you to share your thoughts on what projects we can do to improve the community. It’s going to be a lot of fun. First 50 stakeholders get a free cold or hot drink courtesy of the council!

5 Simple Ways to Cut Business Costs

NoHo - North Hollywood
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5 Simple Ways to Cut Business Costs

Managers and business owners have a lot on their minds during any given workday. Whether it’s keeping team members on task, negotiating contracts or otherwise, it can seem as if daily responsibilities are never-ending. One of the most pressing needs faced by management is to keep costs down as much as possible and across all avenues, which can be a full-time job in and of itself.

If you’re looking to cut costs but have hit a wall, you’re not alone. There are likely some cost-cutting techniques you haven’t yet integrated into your business practices, however, and doing so can make a world of difference. Here are five simple ways to cut business costs this year.

  1. Outsource IT

One of the first places to look when attempting to cut costs is your in-house resources. Whether it be marketing, HR or another process, it may be more beneficial to outsource than to handle these things internally. Nothing is quite as well-suited for outsourcing as IT, which tends to make heavy use of internal resources and can lead to unnecessarily high costs. Look for a cloud ERP for business, which will allow you to focus on enterprise resource planning while also freeing-up resources within your organization.

  1. Reduce Your Office Space Costs

Everyone wants to work in a space that is inspiring and luxurious, but some companies take things too far. If you’re right spending a veritable fortune to stay on Main Street, you’re not doing your business any real favors aside from putting on a nice facade. Reducing the monthly costs associated with your office space is one of the best ways to keep costs low, especially considering the fact that these expenditures recur on a monthly basis.

  1. Hire a Few Interns

There are plenty of tasks throughout the day that are taken on by senior level employees, yet could easily be delegated to someone without this kind of experience. The problem is, hiring more employees to handle these responsibilities also means spending more money. The solution? Interns. Hiring interns not only helps people get their feet wet in the business world, but it also takes pressure off of your staff—free of charge.

  1. Watch for “Miscellaneous” Spending

No accounting process is complete without a “miscellaneous” category to track expenditures that don’t fit neatly underneath other umbrellas. The problem with this, however, is that too much spending tends to fall into the miscellaneous category, and these costs can add up exponentially over a long enough period of time. Take a closer look at what’s falling under miscellaneous spending, and you may stumble upon some savings opportunities.

  1. Negotiate with Vendors

Your vendors are your lifeblood, assisting you in building a successful business, year after year. This doesn’t mean you’re getting the best deal possible, however—you may actually be spending far more than necessary on basic products and services. This is where negotiation comes in. Negotiating with your vendors regularly is an excellent way to keep costs down, especially given how much competition there is among providers.

Don’t let overspending be the final axe that cripples your business. Work on cutting costs, and you’ll benefit from a less stressful work week. 

And the Lifetime Achievement Award Goes to…

Lisa Bianconi
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Congratulations! Producer Edmund Gaynes to receive Lifetime Achievement Award at the Valley Theatre Awards, June 5, 2017.

The NoHo motto: “NoHo is only as great as its people.”

Producer/theater owner/multi-hypenate EDMUND GAYNES will be awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Valley Theatre Awards in North Hollywood, California in Monday, June 5th. Mr. Gaynes is being honored for his contributions to theatre in the Los Angeles area for over 45 years, and more specifically for his leadership in the creation and development of the NoHo Theatre and Arts District, which now includes over twenty theatres in a one square mile section of North Hollywood.

The concept behind the creation of the NoHo Theatre District was begun in 1992, when Gaynes and other LA theatre owners formed the Valley Theatre League to push to revive and restore a neighborhood that had fallen on hard times. Now a major destination for locals and tourists alike, bustling with restaurants and art galleries, as well as theatres, NoHo has now fully achieved that early vision.

Mr. Gaynes is now primarily based in New York, where he is a prominent theatre owner and producer. He owns and operates two Off-Broadway theatres in the heart of the Broadway Theatre District – St. Luke’s Theatre and Actors Temple Theatre. He has produced over 30 plays and musicals in New York, on tour, and throughout the country, as well as over 40 productions in Southern California.

Bi-coastal, he continues to own and operate four theatres in NoHo and remains actively involved in the Los Angeles theatre scene.

His career began as a child actor at the age of seven going on to appear in 13 Broadway and Off-Broadway shows, as well as over 100 TV shows including the landmark productions of “Peter Pan” starring Mary Martin and “Meet Me in St Louis” with Tab Hunter and Jane Powell. Mr. Gaynes has spent his life in the theatre since the age of seven, making him the perfect candidate for the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Valley Theatre Awards have decided to honor Mr. Gaynes for his lifetime of contributions to all aspects of theatre in Southern California.

He was also honored with the 2014 “Legend of Off-Broadway Award” from the Off-Broadway Alliance on the East Coast.

The 3rd Annual Valley Theatre Awards takes place at the Cupcake Theatre on June 5th at 7pm in North Hollywood, Ca. (Specifically, the NoHo Arts District). The awards gala was created by Paul Storiale, a Los Angeles theatre producer, in 2015. “The Valley Theatre Awards Gala is to celebrate intimate theatre in the San Fernando Valley.” says Storiale. “We become so engulfed in our own business each season, that theatre creators never get a chance to mingle. This is that chance. Besides the 20 categories of nominations, each year an Artistic Director is given a surprise of being given the honor of Artistic Director of the year. The newest award for the 2017 ceremony is the Lifetime Achievement Award. This year that high honor goes to Edmund Gaynes for his incredible work through the years helping to create the NoHo Arts District.” ” Storiale is also the President of the NoHo Neighbohood Council.

For more information, visit valleytheatreawards.com

**** 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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NoHo News: Fringe Fun, NoHo Plaza Summer Nights, Furry Friends, Film Invasion L.A., NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre

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: Fringe Fun, NoHo Plaza Summer Nights, Furry Friends, Film Invasion L.A., NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre

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**** 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.

Mmmmm. National Doughnut (Donut) Day

Lisa Bianconi
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Do we need to say more? It’s National Donut Day or Doughnut Day Friday, June 2, 2017.

Let’s first chat about why there’s a difference in spelling.

So doughnut is the original spelling of the word. But, like with many things, Americans shortened it. This is why you’ll see Dunkin’ Donuts instead of Dunking Doughnuts.

According to the masterminds at Merriam-Webster (follow them on twitter to see why @MerriamWebster): 

“We’ve been encountering the variant donut in published, edited text since the mid-20th century. It was certainly helped along by famous doughnut purveyors – both Dunkin’ and Mister – but in truth they and all who’ve accepted the variant were following in a tradition of phonetic-based spelling reform also embraced by the likes of Benjamin Franklin and Noah Webster. And when we consider the variety of things the letter combination ough does in English – tough, though, through, drought, bought, cough – surely it’s not wholly irrational to welcome the simplification that donut offers. 

How did the sweetened dough, deep fried, filled with gooey sweetness or sprinkled with a sugary delight become a thing?

Doughnut Day was created by the Chicago branch of Salvation Army in 1938 to raise funds during the Great Depression, and to honor the work of World War I Salvation Army volunteers who prepared doughnuts and other foods for thousands of soldiers.

Doughnut Dollies 1918 France
By Salvation Army “War Cry” magazine, November 9, 1918 via Public Domain

According to Wikipedia:

“About 250 Salvation Army volunteers went to France. Because of the difficulties of providing freshly baked goods from huts established in abandoned buildings near to the front lines, two Salvation Army volunteers (Ensign Margaret Sheldon and Adjutant Helen Purviance) came up with the idea of providing doughnuts. These are reported to have been an “instant hit” and “soon many soldiers were visiting Salvation Army huts”. Margaret Sheldon wrote of one busy day “Today I made 22 pies, 300 doughnuts, 700 cups of coffee.” Read the full history here>>

Happy National Doughnut Day or Donut Day!

**** 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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An interview with singer and songwriter MATT SUCICH

Waide Aaron Riddle
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An interview with singer and songwriter MATT SUCICH

MATT SUCICH is just too hot to handle. His vocals flow like a summer breeze, and his songwriting is as pure and poetic as James Taylor, Gordon Lightfoot & Paul Simon!

I met Matt back in 2012 at Austin’s SXSW music and film festival extravaganza. I was a DJ at the gay country western dance club Rusty’s Austin (Sadly, the club closed its doors permanently right after the SXSW festival. Laura Votaw, one of the club’s owners, passed away in 2016. The building remains shuttered). That specific week, the club turned into a ‘who’s-who’ of music genres and local and international Artists: Rock, Pop, Country, Acoustic, Latin, Folk, Rock-a-Billy and many other sub-formats.

Matt Sucich introduced himself to me and I remember how personable he came across. Genuine. When he sang, he sang with authenticity. From his heart and soul. His facial expressions said it all. He lost himself in his words, forgetting the standing room only audience that surrounded him. You could’ve heard a pin drop when he closed his set… then the roar of applause…

Today…

Waide- Where are you originally from, Matt? 

Matt– I’m from Astoria, Queens in New York. A New York lifer! 

Waide- New York City is always sexy! What is your goal with your career?  

Matt– I think the goal is always changing. Whether it’s reaching a new audience, booking a big show, or getting a certain level of exposure via licensing… the benchmarks always get reached and then you look for whatever’s next. I suppose in the longer term… I’m always just looking for a certain level of listenership… so that when the next song comes, there will be someone to play it for.  

Waide- What do you want to accomplish as an artist? 

Matt– I’d like to leave a body of work that shows growth and encourages that. These days too many people erase their pasts to display this persona that seems to be an “out of the blue” success to make themselves more attractive. Whatever works for you, I guess… The last thing I’ll do is knock someone for how they work. I’m just a believer in showing your work.  

Waide- You’ve got a couple of dates set for Southern California, what are the dates & where? 

Matt– I’ll be at Standing Sun Winery (www.standingsunwines.com) in Buellton on Friday, June 23rd, and Hotel Cafe (www.hotelcafe.com) in Hollywood on Saturday, June 24th. 

Waide- What is your favorite color? 

Matt– Oh, that depends… I go from sea green to blue pretty often. I also like a light shade of brown. 

Waide- What is your favorite song (Happy Place Song)? Band? 

Matt– Also depends… When we start getting into favorite band territory, I’m just going to end up rattling off the same old classics we’re used to hearing about. But, I’m also always listening to current artists,’ and at the time of this interview, I’m on a beach in Hawaii, and I’ve been revisiting Rayland Baxter’s records a lot. Now that the seasons are changing, I start gravitating to stuff that reminds me of spring/summer. Side 2 of Ray LaMontagne’s “Ouroboros” is incredible, and I’m also excited for a lot of new stuff that’s been trickling out lately. The new Laura Marling, Blake Mills, Dawes, and the new Dan Auerbach have all been on heavy rotation as well. 

Waide- When you’re in your car, what artist do you like to jam-out to? 

Matt–  …Though… in the right circumstances… the nostalgia trips are always fun and I’ve been known to get lost down a Peter Cetera rabbit hole. 

Waide- I love Peter Cetera! What’s your favorite movie?

Matt– “Cast Away” does it for me on a lot of levels. So much metaphor. I’m also a sucker for “Sleepless in Seattle“…  Apparently, I LOVE Tom Hanks.  

Waide- What’s there not to love? Everyone loves Tom Hanks! What’s your favorite book?

Matt– “Here, There, and Everywhere” by Geoff Emerick. Reading his account of recording The Beatles from beginning to end is jaw dropping… and I recommend listening along to the records as he goes.

Waide– Thank you, Matt! It’s been a pleasure.

MATT SUCICH can be found online at www.mattsucich.com

Music can be streamed on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/25nFuEKRzvWY4HzbskK93X

*Special Note: “Montauk” is Matt’s most popular track. “Fire on Bowery / After the Fire” is his latest release; an acoustic version of “Fire on Bowery” is available on Spotify now.

Fashion

NoHo - North Hollywood
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Fashion For men

Usually women are the ones that are keenly interested about fashion. Very few men give a second thought to what is in their wardrobes. For most men, it is not the really style that matters. Rather it is functionality that is important.

Now it is high time to elevate your style to a new level. Celebrities and online casino lovers can attest to this. If you were to ask a woman how many pairs of shoes she has, you get a double digit number as an answer. It does not necessarily mean that she has to own so many pairs of shoes. It is a matter of style. At least every guy has to have 5 essential shoes.

These 5 shoes will make you look stylish.

1. Cool Sneakers

Every man should have a pair of sneakers Color and material does not really matter. Pick a pair of sneakers of your choice but makes sure they are fashionable. You can wear these casual shoes on weekends. Keep your casual look cool with a pair of sneakers

2. Casual office shoes.

Do you want to maintain a trendy style even at your workplace? Try out casual office shoes.These are not quite formal but they do add variety to your wardrobe. TOMS brogues in olive are the trendy informal office shoes.

3. Boots

Most people think boots are shoes for winter. You really do not need to wait until winter to wear boots. You can wear them with anything but not a suit. They keep your feet warm. Wear them with jeans if you are going out with friends. Boots are also perfect shoes for weekends.

3. Dress shoes

These are those kinds of shoes that help you dress to impress. Dress shoes are perfect for weddings and business meetings. They are simple and always complete your formal look. While men are out shopping for these essential shoes women can take over real money online gambling, visit casino-mate for casino games. There are many feminine online casino games that are great for women. Play the best of online casino games and stand a chance to win some of the exciting real money rewards on offer.

The Sloths, The Blessings and The Fab Four

Caroline McElroy
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The Sloths, The Blessings and The Fab Four

The Sloths, The Blessings and The Fab Four.

When it comes to seeing bands from the past such as The Sloths, one is given to thoughts of “what ifs” such as what if memories from their past performances being rockin’ good times or are you operating on the fumes of past memories from back in the day and the band was really not all that good?

Relax, The Sloths really did come through and “brought it” to their recent show at Amoeba Music in Hollywood.

In fact, they might have been better than they were back in the day. The Sloths were performing at Amoeba Music in support of their return to the “scene” CD release “Back From The Grave.” Their set also included Love’s standard “7 & 7 Is,”  Chuck Berry’s “Carol” and Them’s “Gloria.”

The line-up is way different than it was in the 60s when they were well-known fixtures on the “Strip” music scene. Two original members have passed away from what original member Mike Rummans calls the “musician’s lifestyle.” That includes frontman Hank Daniels/Saperstein.

The Sloths now sport a new frontman who can deliver the goods in a very entertaining way. Tommy McLoughlin came on board in 2011 after a decades long absence from the “Strip” scene. McLoughlin had known The Sloths back in the day when he was performing with The May Wines. If McLoughlin’s name sounds familiar you have probably seen some of his horror flicks as he is the creative mind behind the “Jason” films. In addition, guitarist Rick Collins has played with “Strip Scene” regular Sky Saxon and The Seeds and toured Europe. Also in the resurrected band is Ray Herron on the drums and Mark Weddington on guitar and bass.

As I listened to The Sloths perform, a flood of memories came to mind and the high from those memories made their performance all the more enjoyable.

Rummans reminisced with me about those “we built this city on rock n’ roll” days and confirmed that The Sloths did indeed play gigs at the Teen Fair of 1965 at The Hollywood Palladium, The Hullabaloo, The Sea Witch and Pandora’s Box to name a few of the “Strip” scene legendary clubs. The Sloths and/or Rummans also appeared on teen shows such as Where The Action Is, 9th Street West, Shindig and The Real Don Steele.

McLoughlin brought props with him to the gig and I gotta say that when he electrocuted himself it snapped me right back to the show that was unfolding right in front of me. For the song “End of My Rope” he had a huge rope which he utilized in various ways. When McLoughlin sang “Lust” he came down from the stage and got in my face. Luckily for me, well-known music photographer Harold Sherrick was there and snapped a photo of it. Sherrick kept remarking how awesome this band is and how they remind him of Alice Cooper.

Rummans’ tenure on the “Strip” doesn’t vary much from most of the regs as he too would listen to music for hours at Wallach’s Music City and actually found bands on the bulletin board there, drink lots of coffee at the Copper Skillet and Canter’s Deli, and hang at the clubs to make the scene. We were able to share our curfew bust stories with a laugh. His at Canter’s and mine at the Whiskey A Go Go after an interview with The Grassroots.

During his hiatus from The Sloths, Rummans was in bands The Yellow Payges, Salt & Pepper with Rick James, The Hollywood All Stars and The King Bees. During this time McLoughlin went to Paris and studied Mime with Marcel Marceau which explains his lively performance on stage. When he came home he joined the Los Angeles Mime Troupe with Dick Van Dyke. And of course the “Jason” horror films.

While their CD’s name “Back From The Grave” is applicable for The Sloth’s resurrection, it is also a reminder of how intellectual property is easy fodder for any enterprising techie in that The Sloths discovered their work on a 60s garage band compilation titled “Back From The Grave.” The band was never asked for the rights nor have they seen any residuals. Rummans boasted that “The Sloths are the kings of garage band music” and wasn’t surprised that The Sloths had been included on a garage band compilation with their single “Makin’ Love” which has a Bo Diddley beat similar to “Mona.” A new version of “Makin’ Love” with McLoughlin singing is featured on “Back From The Grave.”

The Sloths have also found themselves on a channel in a YouTube post with thousands of hits and the only one making money is the person that posted The Sloths’ intellectual property…”Makin’ Love.”

The Sloths have booked a gig at the Maui Sugar Mill Saloon in Tarzana, CA on June 9 and the bands begin at 9:00pm.

In addition, The Sloths will be playing up North in July at Amoeba Music in Berkley, CA and will also be appearing on college radio at KALX and at Brick & Mortar in San Francisco.

While traveling around the Los Angeles music scene, two acts stood out with The Sloths – The Blessings and The Fab Four.

I caught The Blessings at well-known music photographer Heather Harris’s recent downtown LA POP Obscure Records and Art Gallery opening.

This is a tight, fun, bluesy band that reminds me of the Black Crows and then some. I ran into photographer Sherrick here as well. Harris’s work spans decades of masterful shots of up close and personal proportions and is for sale. I bought a shot of Jim Morrison at The Shrine Exposition Hall for my French discovery Nelson Vard. Harris could not remember what song Morrison was performing when she took the shot, but she did remember that he did not smell too good.

Definitely, I would go see The Blessings again should they play another gig that is easily accessible to me.

The Fab Four are a Beatle’s tribute band that I have heard of a lot and have listened to on Chris Carter’s KLOS 95.5 radio show Breakfast With The Beatles.

On this particular occasion, they were at The Whiskey A Go Go doing the AXSTV show World’s Greatest Tribute Bands.

The Fab Four performed the entire Sgt. Peppers Lonely Hearts Club Band LP with sitars included for George Harrison’s “Within You Without You.” In full Sgt. Peppers’ gear, this band was impressive as a tribute act. I’ve seen The Beatles live at The Hollywood Bowl as well as many Beatle’s tribute bands so there is a point of reference.

The thing that really impressed me was the fact that the drummer who plays Ringo had on the “ring.” I’ve never seen a tribute band have a drummer that had on the “ring.”

I am dedicating this issue of my blog column to Mario Maglieri, King of The Sunset Strip who passed away on May 4, 2017, at the age of 93. Maglieri always made sure that the regs were always taken care of and oversaw our “safety” along with the Sunset Strip Godfather Bill Gazzarri.

Maglieri owned the Rainbow Bar and Grill, Whiskey A Go Go and The Roxy (for a time). He did much to keep the rock scene happening and growing. He will be truly missed. There will always be room at our table for you Mario.

This is my last column for awhile as I am going on hiatus in order to have the freedom to do some projects. You can find me @ wordpress: carolinemcelroy.wordpress.com and the title of my music blog is News From The Front;Twitter @musicmaven9; Instagram as @musicmaven9; Facebook at Caroline McElroy/Music Maven.

There’s a Film Invasion, NoHo.

Lisa Bianconi
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Film Lineup for Film Invasion L.A. to include seven feature films and 17 short films June 4-11 at Whitefire Theatre.

Film Invasion L.A. is a film festival that brings the work of great filmmakers together and injects them into the heart of Los Angeles. Founded by industry veterans who have spent more than two decades regularly visiting the great film festivals of the world, Film Invasion L.A. looks to discover new talent and give great filmmakers an opportunity to shine. The one-week long film festival opens on Sunday, June 4 and closes on Sunday, June 11.

Film Invasion L.A. presents a diverse collection of works ranging from a hilarious comedies to challenging documentaries. The festival is comprised of seven feature films and 17 short films.

WHEN:

Sunday, June 4 – Sunday, June 11

WHERE:

The Whitefire Theater
13500 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks, CA 91423

TICKETS:

http://www.filminvasionla.com/

Just for nohoartsdistrict.com readers: $7.50
50% off tickets. Use promo code: “NOHO”

{vimeo}213277384{/vimeo}

What’s unique about this festival?

Our Board contains several industry professionals with intimate knowledge of film festivals, independent filmmaking, and independent film distribution. This gives Film Invasion L.A. a unique approach to film selection. We have chosen films from challenging genres, films with original subjects, and films that are straight out crowd pleasers. Film Invasion L.A. is a film festival by film lovers for film lovers.

What advice do you give to filmmakers submitting their work to film festivals?

Check that the people involved in the festival have real world experience.

Why did you chose the films and shorts for this festival?

The top concern is always quality, but then comes originality. We wanted daring films that the filmgoing public rarely gets to see at the cineplex. With arthouse theaters disappearing every year, a film festival such as ours can fill the gap. In the 1990’s, arthouses showed exciting, new films that were discovered at Sundance. Today Sundance is filled with Hollywood produced star vehicles. We chose the great films that fall through the cracks.

Is there anything else you’d like to highlight?

The films we are screening feature performers including Marc Maron, Chris Hardwick, Aisha Tyler, Ed Asner, Ione Skye, Denise Richards, Doug Benson and more.

The Feature Films

Tangoborn Menclenty Film Invasion L.A. is a one-week long film festival opens on June 4 - June 11 www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Tangoborn Menclenty

The comedy Tangoborn Menclenty comes from the mind of writer-director E. Grimes Michaels and stars Andrew Friedman. This films tells the tale of a manufactured moron sent by aliens to save the Earth from itself. He falls in love with a hologram and a pimp named Parquet. (June 4, 4:45 PM)

Filmmaker Douglas Mueller brings us the drama Repatriation. In full military uniform, Chad is welcomed back to his Midwestern hometown by new and old friends alike as he works his way from the bus stop through his old stomping grounds. His service and glory days soon fade as he’s reunited with more and more ‘friends’ from his past. (June 11, 12:00 PM)

David Schendel directs the documentary feature The Comedy Club, featuring comedy legends Dana Carvey, Bob Saget, Paula Poundstone, Robin Williams, Kevin Pollak, Bobcat Goldthwait, and W. Kamau Bell. After a fire destroys Cobb’s Comedy Club in San Francisco, defiant owner Tom Sawyer and his crew of comedians rebuild it, hoping to revive the struggling indie comedy scene. (June 4, 12:00 PM)

Twin Cities comes from writer/director David Ash. Twin Cities is the story of John, a middle-aged man with a troubled past and a baby on the way, who is given a terminal diagnosis. He must get his affairs in order, exorcise his demons, and win back his wife’s love – before his time runs out. (June 11, 5:00 PM)

The horror movie Wichita is a shocking glimpse into the dark mind of the modern psycho killer. Directed by Matthew Ward and Justyn Ah Chong, Wichita features twists and turns around every corner. (June 4, 7:00 PM)

Something Fun Film Invasion L.A. is a one-week long film festival opens on June 4 - June 11 www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Something Fun

The comedic drama Something Fun is just that! Veronica returns to her hometown after a year of traveling the United States, reunites with her high school friends, and forces everybody to stop rehashing the past and start doing Something Fun. (June 11, 2:30 PM)

Blue World Order is a sci-fi, action movie set in a world where people are controlled by a virus, but one man remains immune. The key to freeing the survivors might be the last child on Earth… his daughter. (June 4, 9:30 PM)

The Short Films

AMYDEE – Since surviving a physical assault, Amy has been keeping a low profile. But when a young woman turned up dead in her neighborhood, Amy is forced to face her fears again, revealing the her real fight is far from over. (June 4, 2:45 PM)

BECOMING LUCY – Lucy, 15, blames her mother for her father leaving them for a 24 year-old blonde. When she finds out her crush at school likes blondes, she dyes her hair to get the attention of both men.

BERT – A young girl escapes the oppression of her alcoholic mother with the help of her best friend, Bert, the monster who lives under her bed.

DAVE – Two detectives arrive on the scene after a call regarding the death of one of the detective’s family members. While the two dispute over whether it’s a murder or suicide, what they end up discovering is not what they would have ever expected.

DRESS IN BLACK – Hoping to come to terms with why she is unable to get out of bed, Olivia explores her memories and imagination.

Fiebre en la Disco Film Invasion L.A. is a one-week long film festival opens on June 4 - June 11 www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Fiebre en la Disco

FIEBRE EN LA DISCO (Music Video) – During a Cosmic Disco contest, abducted Disco girls compete on an alien Disco ship.

FIND HAPPY (Documentary) – Struggling to find happiness in our modern world filled with stress and worry, filmmaker Grant Gadbois set out on a journey to find the key to happiness, and where else to best find this than the happiest nation on Earth, Denmark.

HIGH & TIGHT – High & Tight follows a shaggy-haired, mysterious outsider who returns to the sleepy town where he committed a double-homicide to confront the father of the man he killed, the town’s barber.

LARIAT – Cara James finally made the tough choice to run away from her abusive family to the home of a close friend to seek safe passage out of the county. However their safety comes into question when Cara’s family tries to track her down.

OBSETHED: MEMORIAL DAY – Seth Coltan can never say the right thing. Unfortunately, his big moment at a funeral is no different.

POLITE EXPRESSIONS – As people come to collect on a woman’s meaningless social niceties which they took literally, she begins to unravel and eventually her secrets come out.

SHARPÉ – Relaxing isn’t an easy task for a middle aged psychopath.

STICKS – Four college students tell scary stories around the campfire, the line between imagination and reality blurs, and they get the feeling they may not be alone on the property.

THAT PARTY THAT ONE NIGHT – Socially and sexually awkward teenager Melissa finds herself alone with her crush after being ditched by her friends at a party one night.

THE BLIND CENTER – In this offbeat mockumentary, outtakes from a fundraising video for a community center for the blind reveal a surprising story of what the camera captured before the final edit.

The Bus Trip Film Invasion L.A. is a one-week long film festival opens on June 4 - June 11 www.nohoartsdistrict.com
The Bus Trip

THE BUS TRIP (Documentary) – An animated travel diary from Israel and Palestine.

For the festival schedule, tickets and passes, please visit the Film Invasion L.A. filminvasionla.com/

 

**** 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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An Arrow and Light Are Coming to NoHo.

Lisa Bianconi
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The NoHo Arts District gets left turn arrows on Magnolia and Lankershim and a new signal on Lankershim near the NoHo Plaza.

 

To debut the latest North Hollywood community improvements, please join Councilman Paul Krekorian, business owners and neighborhood leaders at a ceremony to officially switch on a brand new traffic signal on Lankershim between Magnolia and Weddington (near the NoHo Plaza aka green alley). At the event, they’ll also celebrate the newly installed left turn arrows at Magnolia and Lankershim. These upgrades will make getting to and from local businesses safer and easier for pedestrians, cyclists and everyone in the area.

WHAT:

Traffic Signal Activation Ceremony

WHEN:

Thursday, June 1, 1:30PM

WHERE:

On Lankershim Blvd. (between Magnolia and Weddington)
North Hollywood, CA 91601

I hope to see you on Thursday. As always, please feel free to contact me with your thoughts or comments at paul.krekorian@lacity.org or (818) 755-7676.

Very truly yours,
Paul Krekorian
Council District 2

**** 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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NoHo News: It’s Fringe Fun, Film Invasion L.A., NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre

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: It's Fringe Fun, Film Invasion L.A., NoHo Card App! + Awesome Theatre 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.

NKLA Super Adoption Day & Animal Rights Day – YOU can participate in Both

nohoarts
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NKLA Super Adoption Day & Animal Rights Day June 3 and 4, 2017 – YOU can participate in both.

During Best Friends Super Adoptions, shelters and rescue groups come together in one place, with one mission: to find homes for as many pets as possible.

These fun-filled, celebratory weekends are a fantastic way to meet tons of adoptable animals without having to run all over town — and an easy way to get your fill of cuteness.

Each participating shelter and rescue group has its own adoption process and sets its own fees. These fees are used to help cover spay/neuter, vaccinations and other costs associated with getting homeless pets ready for their forever homes. Some groups will let you adopt on the spot while others require a home visit.

Best Friends Super Adoptions are free to attend. The only thing required of you is an open heart and a willingness to give a homeless pet a second chance. If you happen to meet your four-legged soulmate (and with so many pets to choose from, how could you not?), we ask that you have a valid ID and be ready to pay the adoption fee. If you rent your home, a letter from your landlord giving you permission to have a pet will help ensure the adoption goes smoothly.

Los Angeles: NKLA Super Adoption
June 3-4
11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Warner Ranch Park, 5800 Topanga Canyon Blvd. Woodland Hills, CA 91367
For more information, visit NKLA.org/events.

For those of you that can’t adopt a pet for whatever reason, you still can stand up to be counted!

The National Animal Rights Day (NARD) is Sunday, June 4. This annual day observed in multiple countries around the world is on the first Sunday in June, for the purpose of giving a voice to all animals and raising awareness for their rights, until all animals are free from enslavement and their rights are established and protected by law.  They start with a memorial ceremony for the billions of animals who die every year by human hands – often in the presence of real deceased animals, and continue with the reading and signing of The Declaration of Animal Rights.

The 7th National Animal Rights Day will be commemorated in the Los Angeles area on Sunday, June 4th, 2017, 12:00 – 4:00 PM, at Winward Plaza on the famous Venice Beach boardwalk (1600 Ocean Front Walk, Venice, CA 90291). Parking: Venice Beach Parking, 164 N Venice Blvd, Venice, CA 90291

Schedule:
12:00 – 1:00 PM: Memorial Ceremony for the billions of animals who die each year by human hands.
1:00 – 4:00 PM: Celebration of a better future for animals and the planet, with booths, free vegan food, celebrity speakers and entertainers. The event is FREE and open to the public!

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“Long Way Down”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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“The Long Way Down” now playing at The Sherry Theatre in the NoHo Arts District through June 18

Long Way Down 

Written by Nate Eppler

Directed by Steve Jarrard

This is a dark play. Set in a small town north of Nashville, in a run-down family home, one sister in jail, another mentally challenged, and the third, with forlorn husband in tow, controlling and abusive.  Add to this a religious maniac for a family friend hell bent on saving the town’s babies from their terrible families and you have all the ingredients for mayhem and disaster.

“The Long Way Down” is all about what can happen when we wallow in our own misery, and in this particular story it certainly is true that misery makes for very strange bedfellows.  Written by the award-winning playwright Nate Eppler, “Long Way Down,” which refers to how far it is from heaven to earth, speaks to our basic need for good to win over evil and for some semblance of balance to exist in our world, however much it might be falling apart.

A good deal of effort has been spent on the staging of this play and to great effect.  The set creates a very real sense of place and really sustains the performances. The inventive and sometimes shocking direction was equally impressive.

long way down play in noho
Lauri Hendler (l.) Meg Wallac

Each and every actor in this piece is perfect for their roles.  In such a dramatic and often distressing play, casting well is all the more imperative.  “Long Way Down” is superbly cast and they all spin this story brilliantly.

This play is not for everyone, and it takes a brave company of actors to take it on and to do it justice. I think perhaps the theme of the play is a metaphor for the lunacy at large in our world right now, and our hopes for that lunacy to have some meaning is maybe the point, But, in the end, every piece of art we see becomes what is most often in our own minds.

There is some violence and some disturbing subject matter, so be aware, but what does occur is not just for effect exactly and it works within the context of the story very well.  “Long Way Down” is a bit of a puzzle and a challenge at times. I’m still dwelling on it days on from the show, but the heart of it is profound and real. Isn’t that what makes good theatre?

“The Long Way Down” is playing at The Sherry Theatre, 11052 Magnolia Blvd., North Hollywood, 91601.

Friday and Saturday at 8pm and Sunday at 7pm 

http://www.collaborativeartistsensemble.com/index2.html

CAST

Christa Haxthausen, Lauri Hendler, Meg Wallace and Lane Wray

“Freeway Dreams”

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
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Producing Artistic Director John Lant presents Wayne Moore’s “FREEWAY DREAMS” at Write Act Repertory playing through June 11 in the NoHo Arts District.

An Original Musical

Directed & Choreographed by Jim Blanchette

Imagine if you will, a traffic jam on the 101/Hollywood Freeway.  Of course you can.  Freeways in L.A. are infamous, and I’m sure we all have our stories of gridlock.  Wayne Moore has brought us “FREEWAY DREAMS,” an original musical set on that very same 101 Freeway on how we deal with being stuck in our cars daydreaming the time away, and the fantasies we create.

A tour bus has overturned on the Freeway bringing the 101 to a screeching halt.  There is the cute guy in the car next to us, the pretty girl on her cell phone breaking up with her boyfriend, the guy delivering pizza, and the casting director taking care of business while our cars don’t move an inch.  We have the actor (Darren Mangler), the girl going to yoga class (Leslie Rubino), the Hollywood casting director (Stephanie B. Anderson), and the pizza guy (Jonathan Brett).  Each one has quite an imagination, and we are treated to their stories, wonderful musical numbers, and terrific voices that bring these stories to life.

Freeway archway noho

Wayne Moore has given us the creative book, music and lyrics with over a dozen songs, and wonderful direction and choreography by Jim Blanchette. 

Terrific performances by each of the actors make this a truly fun evening.

I think we can all identify with this scenario.  What do you think about when you are stuck in traffic?  With our busy lives, this may be the only time we can really think about what is going on in our day.  “FREEWAY DREAMS” is a glimpse into what that person in the other car is thinking.  Another fun evening in the NoHo Arts District that will have you humming a new tune.

Enjoy!!!!!!!

Cast:  Stephanie B. Anderson, Jonathan Brett, Darren Mangler, Leslie Rubino.

Alternates:  Aubrie Alexander, Ashley Douglas

Book, Music and Lyrics:  Wayne Moore

Direction & Choreography:  Jim Blanchette

Music Direction:  Wayne Moore

Produced by John Lant and Tamra Pica

Lighting Design:  Mark Baker

AV Design:  Ken Cosby

Scenics:  Josh Shelden

Casting Director:  Tamra Pica

Operations Mgr/Associate Producer:  Jonathan Harrison

Graphics & Program:  Ken Cosby & John Lant

Publicity:  Sandra Kugler

Additional Tech:  Darcy Silviera & Alonzo Tavares

Web & Social Media:  Dana DeSiena & Kelly Ng

Brickhouse Theatre

Write Act Repertory

10950 Peach Grove St

North Hollywood

800-838-3006

Tickets:  $15.00 – TICKETS>>   or   800-838-3006

Performances:  May 19 – June 11, 2017

                              Friday & Saturday at 8pm;  Sunday at 6pm

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