66.7 F
Los Angeles

NoHo Tours | Advertising | Contact Us | Business Concierge

Home Blog Page 235

Trust: can you find it in a fashion article?

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

Here’s a piece of advice that should always keep you in good stead – never, ever trust a fashion article.

Yes, it’s an opening line that asks you to be suspicious of everything about to be written, but just hear this writer out for a second.

Have a look through fashion magazines and articles from a decade ago. By nowadays standards, they probably seem quaint. A few mighty even look outright batty. They’re like reading someone try to describe the internet in 1990, or discuss the appeal of Mark Wahlberg circa 1992.

Do you really want to put your faith in the hands of people who only live in the moment? Whose sense of fashion can change within a matter of weeks, until the latest Vivienne Westwood collection blows their conceptions right out of the water?

The latest collection from Kanye West, as fascinating as it was, showed us one thing – that we’ve got no real idea if we like a fashion collection when a celebrity is involved. Their endorsement muddies the waters.

And if our opinions are so unstable when someone like Yeezus promotes his latest brand, how can we know what we really think about any fashion clothing?

Timeless styles

So what can you trust in the fashion world? Where can you look for some stability in your style?

The answer is simple – pick the fashion trends that worked.

There are certain styles that exist seemingly outside of time. They’re somehow both fossilised and still relevant. You could strut up the catwalks of Paris and Milan in these garments and they’d still look tremendous.

Which era of clothing you prefer will, naturally, depend on your personal tastes. But there are a hefty number of styles that have consistently made the grade throughout the decades.

Consistent fashion-makers

Take a look at Audrey Hepburn. She’s an icon of glamour who still seems as fresh and invigorating as a lungful of oxygen. Her sleek black cocktail dresses combined with splashes of primary colours have transcended their period. You could wear them in a scuzzy nightclub or an upper class dinner party and receive the same dazzled looks.

Then there’s normcore, as it’s now called. Normcore is all about dressing down but still looking stylish. Your coats should brim with class while seeming practical, and your dress sense should fit the norm of urban living.

On the outre side of the spectrum is the goth look. Black lace, 19th century ruffles, splashes of white amidst the murk – they’re all hip in their own way, despite never having entered the fashion mainstream.

With these styles you can look great without going out of date. See? Maybe there is a fashion article you can trust.

**** 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.

Welcome Rattlestick West to NoHo

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

Rattlestick West offically launches with the 2015 Fall Festival

Yes. We are the NoHo Theatre District. Why? Well, with more than 20 theatres in a square mile and many more theatre companies calling North Hollywood home, we have the highest concentration of theatres outside of New York City. Let’s welcome Rattlestick West to the neighborhood at their home at the Sherry Theater. They launch with a new play by Scott Caan, “The Performance of Heartbreak : An Epilogue,” about a distressed Hollywood writer who enlists the help of his street wise friend at the crossroads of a life altering decision. Also slated for their Fall Festival are One Acts from the James Franco’s acting and film school Studio 4, a film festival and much, much more!

The Rattlestick Theater www.nohoartsdistrict.com

While working on a play at Rattlestick Playwrights Theater in 2014, Scott Haze and James Franco decided to join forces with David Van Asselt, Artistic Director of Rattlestick, to create Rattlestick West. Rattlestick, known for its work with emerging American artists, has produced over 90 world premieres in its 20 year history. Haze, founder of The Sherry Theater in Los Angeles, brought in his producing partner Lukas Behnken and the Sherry team with over 10 years of doing theater in L.A. to form this new bi-coastal collective.

The mission: seek out unique new voices, work with new and emerging playwrights, establish a home where playwrights have the ability to work with actors to explore and hone their art. More than that, we are looking to create an environment where all kinds of discovery becomes possible, through stage, film and innovative media, where the borders of art collide, and inspiration can thrive.

In this coming season Rattlestick West will produce five plays at the Sherry Theater, including works by Scott Caan, Daniel Talbott, and a chamber musical with songs co-written by Suzanne Vega and Duncan Sheik to a script of Ms. Vega’s based on Carson McCullers’ life.

Rattlestick is also co-producing with the Boston Court Theatre, Seven Spots on The Sun by Martín Zimmerman, at the Boston Court in Pasadena.

Twitter |   Facebook

The Sherry Theater www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Rattlestick West calls the Sherry Theater home, a theater that is specifically designed with the intention of bringing an intimate, audience friendly theater to the NoHo Arts District community. Founded in 2006 by Scott Haze and Lukas Behnken, the Sherry is located at 11052 Magnolia Blvd. (between Lankershim and Vineland) in North Hollywood. Scott Haze named the venue after his mother and his vision is to provide a venue where actors enjoy creating and presenting original and innovative material, a place where talent in every aspect of theater will thrive.

**** 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.

CODY’S VIVA CANTINA

Tammy Johnston
-
0
CODY’S VIVA CANTINA

With the closing of many San Fernando Valley old school restaurant bars/nightclubs, one place still holds true to the old cliché of the neighborhood bar where everyone knows your name and they are always glad to see you! Cody’s Viva Cantina has been in the same location since 1965.

Whether you stop by after work to relax, sit at the bar and have a cold beer and watch the game, enjoy a delicious authentic Mexican dinner or come for the live music and dancing, Cody’s Viva Cantina is your place!

They host music 8 days a week on two stages, and seldom have a cover charge. This is the happening spot in the valley. The Venue is located at the entrance to the Los Angeles Equestrian Center and is open 366 Days a year. They are close to ABC, Disney, Warner Bros., DreamWorks and NBC.

With 3 Dining rooms, 2 stages, 2 bars and 2 patios, mucho free horse parking out back, mucho free automobile parking across the street, this is a win –win.

They have been seen on many TV shows including a really fun episode of American Pickers.

I had not been to Viva’s in a few years so early Sunday evening, I popped in for a visit and have a bite to eat. I parked in the large lot just across the street (for free) and headed over.

The patio area was busy with patrons chatting and enjoying authentic Mexican dishes. I made my way inside, to the first dining area. As I paused to take in the wonderful scenery, I was greeted with the warm friendly atmosphere I suddenly realized I had so missed!

Directly in front of me were rows of tables sporting checkered table cloths and candles. To the far left, in the corner of the room stood a small stage, empty with the exception of a drum kit, mic stand and standard musician’s equipment. Beautiful and colorful sombreros were proudly displayed on the wall above the stage. I was flooded with memories of dinners and dancing to wonderful live music many moons ago!
The walls are decorated with record album covers of a variety of music styles, Neon signs of musical instruments and photographs of entertainers past. Chandeliers hang throughout the rooms, adding to the ambience.

I smiled to myself and headed to my right, to find Ben tending bar, he has been part of Viva’s for over twenty years! He flashed a heartwarming smile as we chatted about the place and people. I joyously looked at photographs on the wall, of Ben as a young rodeo star, and one of Ben and Willie Nelson!

I heard live, blues music in the background and decided to check out the 2nd stage area complete with dance floor. I passed through the dining room, noticing small booths that seat two, perfect for a romantic dinner. Once in back, I was happy to see people grooving on the roomy dance floor and even spotted a few familiar faces!

I saw old friends, made new friends, had a fabulous dinner and listened to incredible, live music. The bottom line is I had a wonderful time. I will most definitely be back.

See ya at Cody’s Viva Cantina!

~Tammy

Be sure to check out the calendar for monthly music events.

https://www.facebook.com/Viva-Cantina-134856953246184/timeline/

Electronic Music Open Night Comes to NoHo!

Lisa Bianconi
-
1

Get ready for NoHo’s Elektronik Muzikk Experience (#EMX)

Underground electronic music is alive and expanding in Los Angeles. It’s called the Elektronik Muzikk Experience (#EMX), and this grass-roots music community meets  on the second Sunday of the month at the Other Door in North Hollywood for L.A.’s only Electronic Music Open Night!

WHEN: Sunday, October 11
WHERE: The Other Door
10437 Burbank Blvd. NoHo Arts District

The event is to showcase up-and-coming artists:
-DJs
-Producers
-Vocalists
-Dancers
-Visual Artists

EMX www.nohoartsdistrict.com

EMX founder “justin o.” created the Electronic Music Open Night after attempting to book shows as a DJ here in L.A. He had a hard time booking his first electronic gig, so “Open Night” was created to allow new and upcoming artists in the electronic music world a place to perform without the typical “Hollywood Hassle.”

Justin is originally from Olympia, WA where there is a very strong DIY scene that has given birth to bands such as Nirvana, the Melvins, Beck, Elliot Smith, Bikini Kill, and numerous other musical acts that were built from the ground up without major label support. He studied Audio Engineering & Electronic Music Production at the Evergreen State College in Olympia, and toured the nation three times with the Tight Bros From Way Back When supporting their record releases. They also sold their song “Hayseed Rock” to TGI Friday’s for use in a commercial. In 2000, Justin was in a very dramatic car accident in Las Vegas, NV, and found dead on the scene. His girlfriend had fell asleep driving and drove the car into a ditch. Luckily a passing trucker stopped to check on the couple to find Justin ejected 50 feet from the vehicle, and not breathing due to a punctured lung. The trucker had medical training so he used a PVC Pipe to re-inflate Justin’s lung and get him breathing again. Justin was then flown to the Trauma Center at the University of New Mexico in Albuquerque and they discovered that he had slight brain damage with internal bleeding. After six months of recovery Justin jumped back in the band van and continued to tour drumming with the Tight Bros.

After the Tight Bros legacy was over Justin ended up in Los Angeles playing drums with Ogg Xorbis & Snooz (aHNIGHITO_HISS), both members from the art department of L.A. progressive rock band Tool. Their sound shifted from Rock to Electronic Music and soon Justin decided to go solo and began trying to book himself shows DJing music that he composed and engineered.

EMX www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Unfortunately, there was no venue that welcomed upcoming electronic music artists in Los Angeles except for Open Mics, which were known for acoustic guitar and low energy performances. One Open Mic included a show at Rock n’ Roll Pizza in Moorpark where one of the chefs actually came out with a butcher knife and threatened Justin to turn his House & Trip-Hop music off because “this is Rock n’ Roll Pizza!”

Since there was no easy path to start performing his own electronic music, Justin realized there was demand for an event that allowed new & upcoming DJs, producers and vocalists to perform their music without the hassle of booking first gigs in Los Angeles.

Janine Jordan (founder of the Electronic Music Alliance & wife of Ken Jordan of the Crystal Method) liked Justin’s drive and helped him to find a venue at a bar/club called the Other Door in North Hollywood. Luckily, the Other Door was looking for a show to fill their Sunday nights! The Electronic Music Open Night takes place on the 2nd Sunday of every month at the Other Door, and welcomes DJs, poducers, vocalists, dancers, and visual artists from all over the world to come perform for a very welcoming crowd of Electronic Music fans and representatives of the music business!

“OPEN NIGHT is a great spot for upcoming Electronic Music talent to be discovered, and build their audience! We have already helped artists to have original music produced for them, and have scouts from Burning Man, Insomniac, Do-Labs, and record labels attending our events. Johnny Depp and Playboy Playmate Olga Loera were even spotted at our OPEN NIGHT in North Hollywood this past Sunday!” Justin says.

EMX also offers artists that perform assistance with merchandise, and also offers lessons for the public in Electronic Music Composition, Mixing, and Mastering & DJing.

Elektronik Muzikk Experience (#EMX)

“Electronic Music Open Night brings together musicians of all musical backgrounds and skill levels to create an ecosystem where participants: 1) are able to hone their skills, 2) develop a musical identity, and 3) inspire each other to be fearless in their artistic presentation. You can’t help but to walk away feeling a sense of accomplishment and motivation to be bold, be an expert in your craft, and most importantly – be yourself. Honest art is built in a judgment free zone and EMON fosters that safety along with healthy competition.” -RaneRaps (“Future Beats” artist & EMON performer)

“Being to new LA, it was really tough to meet people in the music scene since I didn’t know where to start. EMX really helped fill that void. When I attended my first performance I was so amazed at the amount of diverse musical talent that I was witnessing. It was great to see others with the same drive and passion for music as I have. EMX really provides a solid foundation for local musical artists to exemplify their talent. Not only do the artists have fun but the audience also has great interaction too! From glowing hula hoops to expressing yourself through exotic dance moves, this place is open to anyone affiliated with the electronic music scene. EMX has such a friendly vibe where all artists alike can come perform without the fear of negative criticism or judgement. It’s also amazing how quickly the Elektronik Muzikk Experience has built up quite a following in such a short amount of time!” -Phocus (Deep/Future House DJ & EMON performer)

EMX has now hosted nine open-night events at the Other Door and is expanding to its second electronic music showcase: ELEVATION.

ELEVATION is an artistic showcase that features top performances from the OPEN NIGHT as well as dance groups such as GoGo Hoop Dance Stars.

If you would like to perform at a future event e-mail:    emx.losangeles@gmail.com

Get over to the Other door in NoHo on the 2nd Sunday of next month for the next Electronic Music Open Night!

Please support EMX by clicking “LIKE” on Facebook: https://facebook.com/emx.la

Elektronik Muzikk Experience

www.soundcloud.com/emxla  |  www.soundcloud.com/wormwoodmuzikk

**** 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.  

How to: create a living room you’ll love

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

How to: create a living room you’ll love

The sun is shining through your beachfront windows, the wind swirling outside in a lull as the far-off ocean ebbs and flows. But while you might have a fantastic view, the living room you’re sitting in is far less glamorous.

Your sofa is about as comfortable as an instrument of torture. The television looks like it’s from the set of Mad Men. And your walls, which you’re sure used to be white, have become an unidentifiable mass of brown. It really puts a dampener on that view, doesn’t it?

To give your living room a new lease of life, we’ve come up with a few ace tips. Give them a look – then give them a try.

The right sofa

Is there anything better than sitting on a sofa that feels as though it was made just for you? The type of seat that cushions your backside tighter that swaddling around a new born child?

Well, the sad fact is that most people don’t sit on a cushion of luxury. Instead they make do with seats that strain their backs and, in the long term, give them major spinal issues.

That’s why we’d recommend an entire overhaul to your seating. For our money, Chesterfield sofas are your best bet,  providing you with comfortable cushions and a boost in lumbar support.

Moreover, these sofas won’t cost you an arm and a leg – and they’ll fit in almost any living room.

The Friends look

Friends might have ended more than a decade ago, but the era-defining TV show has never really fallen out of fashion. And now, especially as the 90s aesthetic gains traction, there’s never been a better time to make your room look like Monica and Rachel’s.

Gaining the interior design look of your fave sitcom has become even easier thanks to a recent Friends exhibition in London,  the photos of which can be viewed online. Take a look at those pictures and see how you can turn your dull room into a living space that would make Monica proud.

A touch of class

Forget wallpaper, paint and expensive new furniture – sometimes all you need is a touch of class to make your room look fantastic.

Invest in a bookshelf and a few of the modern classics – Hemingway, Bukowski, Ellis and maybe even Shakespeare – to give your living room a cultured feel. Couple this with some classical ornaments, candlesticks and framed paintings to really make the room feel like it should be from the set of a Woody Allen film.

After all these changes, you’ll be happy to laze about in the sun in your newly refurbished living room.

**** 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.  

NoHo News: Happy Hour and Theatre

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.  

The Beverly Hills artSHOW Features Special Exhibits this October

NoHo - North Hollywood
-
0

The Beverly Hills artSHOW Features Special Exhibits this October

Dramatic Weather Images and a “Space Weather” Lair are Special Features Among 240 Art Exhibits

The Beverly Hills artSHOW will hold its free fall event on Saturday and Sunday, October 17th and 18th, 2015, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., in Beverly Gardens Park on Santa Monica Boulevard, from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive.

Special exhibits include: Drenched, Dehydrated, Driven by Wind: Weather in Art, which will highlight nearly 20 artists portraying dramatic weather conditions in various media, as well as a special 3-D installation that provides an interactive experience in an outer space landscape.

A 3-D installation staged by Debi Cable, an exhibitor at Burning Man and Electric Daisy Carnival, will erect Altered Landscapes – Wild Weather on this Planet and Beyond. Be prepared for a meteor shower in this immersive experience.

Photographer Michael Lohr, who chronicled the immediate aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, will show these startling images, along with other “wild weather” photographs.

Other artists contributing to the Weather feature include painter Carole Steinberg, who will be painting a Southern California storm on site, and Elsie Sims, the accomplished woodcut artist, who will present gale-struck coastlines of California. Susan Handau will use layers of materials and techniques to make a desert-soaked landscape for show visitors, and newcomer Lamar Waters will exhibit his mixed-media paintings depicting drought, drowning and deliverance. Painter Kristin Brin and photographer Ira Meyers exhibit frozen vistas in the chillier category of Arctic Affairs, and jewelry maker Deidre Greene will show her Polar Ice line.

Long-term weather effects are portrayed in the Weathered artworks of three photographers: Roy Kerchkhoffs captures weather-beaten lands from the ocean to the desert; Jen Rosenstein, known for rock and roll photography seen in Rolling Stone, EMI and Vanity Fair; will exhibit landscapes shaped by intensive weather and even disaster. Photographer Zale Richard Rubins, of the City’s Fine Art Commission, depicts gorgeously weathered pieces and places.

The show features 240 regional and national artists in the fine art categories of Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, Printmaking, Mixed Media and Photography, along with the fine craft categories of Ceramics, Glass and Jewelry. View the complete Artist List for the October 2015 show.

In addition to art, a wine garden, food trucks, a beer garden, live entertainment, and family activities will be offered. All show artists will be on site to talk with visitors about their work. All art is for sale, and patrons come from Southern California and beyond to shop, collect and savor this art-filled weekend.

Category awards and major show awards, including the Best of Show and Most Original Work, will be announced in a Sunday afternoon ceremony, at the show’s center, in front of the Lily Pond.

The 2015 artSHOW sponsors and media partners include: David Frank Design, Engel & Volkers, the LA Weekly, the Los Angeles Art Association, Fabrik Magazine, LA Art Party, Yelp, Whole Foods Market, Paley Center for Media, and the Beverly Hills Conference and Visitor’s Bureau. Food and Beverage support come from Whole Foods Market, Premiere Events, Beck’s Beer and Hint Water. The show’s charitable partner is Children’s Hospital Los Angeles, and its sister organization, Healing Art with Kids.

For general information about the October 2015 Beverly Hills artSHOW, visit www.beverlyhills.org/artshow or call (310) 285-6830. For media inquiries, contact Dana Beesen at dbeesen@beverlyhills.org or call (310) 285-2530.

 

Top 5 Ways to Recharge and Rejuvenate Mid-Day

Jack Witt
-
0

Uh oh. It’s a Tuesday, say 2:30p…lunch is digesting…your mind starts to lose focus…you feel sleepy….you’ve suddenly slipped into the mid-day slump-a-dump.

Does this scenario happen all too often? Maybe it’s at another time during the day, maybe it’s even all day!

There are a few quick natural remedies that’ll kick your mind and body back into high alertness gear.

1. Drink a glass of water. Most people are chronically dehydrated. We just don’t drink enough water. If you think you’re drinking just enough, your probably drinking way too little. If you think you’re drinking a lot, it’s probably more like almost enough. Once you drink a full glass of water, you’ll instantly feel more alert and energized.

2. Stretch. Most people don’t take enough time for stretching throughout the day. Tight and overactive muscles can drain the energy right out of your system. Take 5 minutes to stretch and you’ll feel 5 times better right afterwards.

3. Clear your mind while deep breathing. We’ve had so many thoughts racing through our minds by mid-day that it’s a good idea to take just 5 minutes and BE in those moments. Try not to think about the past or worry about the future. At the same time, you can focus on your breath and oxygenate your body by breathing with an inhale for 4 seconds and then exhaling out for 4 seconds. Repeat that 10 times and suddenly your body and mind are back awake and refreshed for the rest of the day.

4. Take a quick walk somewhere away from your desk/workstation. Just a simple change of scenery for a few minutes can help to recharge your mind and body and stir the creative juices and positive brain chemicals. Maybe it’s just down the hall, maybe it’s outside around the building, or better yet maybe it’s in a nearby local park or nature path. It’ll instantly re-boot your body-mind system and keep you in high gear for the rest of the day.

5. Adjust your lunch. If you eat too much or if you eat processed foods you’ll be tired and unfocused for sure in the mid-afternoon. Evaluate your choices and re-adjust your lunch eating choices if necessary. Your body is craving nutrients and antioxidants, it’ll let you know it’s not getting enough by making you lethargic and mentally run-down.

 

Cheers,

Jack Witt, MS, CPT
Fitness and Health Coach
“Get Fit with Witt”
Individuals / Groups / Corporate
310.562.5629 Cell / 818.760.3891 Main
www.getfitwithWitt.com 
https://twitter.com/GetfitwithWitt  

* New Book “From Passion to Purpose”

* Hike the Holy Land: Join me March 28 – April 5, 2016

 

Honoring NoHo’s Own Michael Higby with Scholarship Fund

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

 

Michael Higby Community & Civic Pride Scholarship

It seems like only yesterday that I had just moved to North Hollywood from out of state and just happened to be checking out the neighborhood and walked by a Jaycee mixer at Pit Fire Pizzain NoHo The year was 2002. That was the year I met Michael Higby. He welcomed me to that mixer and encouraged me to join the Jaycees and get involved in the local community. Throughout the years, he was always a bit of my “community coach” as I eventually chaired several projects and ultimately served as Jaycee President and then Chamber of Commerce President.

Several of us past Presidents and Board Members of the Universal City North Hollywood Jaycees, who had the pleasure of working with Michael in the local community, have started a scholarship in Michael’s honor for a student at Los Angeles Valley College. The scholarship is for an individual who demonstrates leadership, commitment and passion on a community project that helps disadvantaged kids, families or seniors. These were all things near and dear to Michael’s heart, and he inspired so many us to get involved in our communities and do the same. Michael attended LAVC in his young adult years.

So here’s how you can help us and ensure the legacy of Michael Higby lives on.

Write a check, made out to “LAVC Foundation” and reference “Michael Higby Community & Civic Pride Scholarship” in the memo section. Checks can be mailed directly to:

LAVC Foundation
5800 Fulton Avenue
Valley Glen, CA 91401

Pay with a Credit Card:
1. Go to www.lavcfoundation.org and click “Give Online Now.”
2. Scroll down to “Other Designation” and enter $$ amount.
3. Under “Additional Instructions” enter the name of the scholarship (The Michael Higby Community and Civic Pride Scholarship) .
4. Click “Calculate Total” and “Donate.”
5. Enter additional info such as credit card number.
6. A receipt may be printed or emailed to you.

ANY amount that you can donate is appreciated. We want the spirit and goodwill of Michael Higby to thrive perpetually through this scholarship, and directly impact and inspire a young leader and student to serve his/her community and make a positive impact in people’s lives, just like Michael did. We’re so grateful that Michael’s former employer; SADA Systems, has offered to match the amount of money we raise for this scholarship. So let’s all chip in and make this first year’s scholarship memorable while setting the stage for it to be awarded each and every year to a deserving student.

**** 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.

LitCrawl LA: NoHo Celebrates Banned Book Week

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

We celebrate everything in NoHo, including Banned Book Week!

On Wednesday, September 30, Lit Cine commemorates national Banned Books Week with a screening of Fahrenheit 451, based on Ray Bradbury’s seminal novel. FAHRENHEIT 451 is part of Lit Crawl L.A.’s first film screening series, celebrating the intersection of film and L.A. literature.

In an oppressive future, a fireman whose duty is to destroy all books begins to question his task. Directed and co-written by François Truffaut and starring Julie Christie and Oskar Werner.

Lit Cine www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Enjoy this American classic followed by an exploration of At What Temperature Does A Kindle Burn?, censorship and access in the digital age. Readings by Cecil Castellucci, Harry Northup and Beyond Baroque Director, Richard Modiano, moderated by First Amendment scholar and writer, Elizabeth Blakey (CSUN).

Banned Books Week Event

WHEN:

Wednesday, September 30, 2015

WHAT:

Your VIP ticket includes the movie and a 6:30PM pre-screening Happy Hour, including appetizer and wine or non-alcoholic beverage with the panelists and a Pop-Up bookstore hosted by The Eclectic and Blastoff Comics and Books.

WHERE:

6:30-7:15PM Reception & Signing with Panelists:
The Eclectic Patio
5161 Lankershim Blvd. NoHo

7:30PM Screening: Laemmle NoHo 7
5240 Lankershim Blvd. NoHo

TICKETS>>

Lit crawl LA:NoHo www.nohoartsdistrict.com

A portion of your ticket purchase will support Lit Crawl L.A., a free to the public, grassroots literary festival, returning to the NoHo Arts District on October 21, 2015, presenting an evening of 40 presenters including readings series, lit journals, performance groups, local presses and more at 35+ locations in NoHo. The 2015 Lit Crawl L.A is Greater Los Angeles’ only grassroots literary event and promises to be another magical, vibrant night for all!

**** 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.

Movie Review: Black Mass; Sicario

Mike Peros
-
0
Movie Review: Black Mass; Sicario

Black Mass, from director Scott Cooper, is a hard-hitting crime drama and a welcome return to form for Johnny Depp, as he emerges from a self-induced acting coma (nothing else can explain Mordecai) to create a memorable portrait of career criminal and South Boston hero figure James “Whitey” Bulger.

At times manipulative, solicitous, murderous, Depp’s Bulger makes it understandable why he inspires grudging admiration for some, unalloyed opprobrium by others, and hero worship in a select, but well-chosen few.

The movies spans the time period during which Bulger was able to run roughshod over the Boston police and the FBI by entering an unholy alliance with childhood friend and Federal agent John Connolly (Joel Edgerton). Connolly convinces Whitey to supply information (at Whitey’s convenience) that will help bring down the Italian mob operating in Boston—in exchange Connolly will turn a blind eye to Whitey’s various criminal dealings (as long as these don’t include murder—and you know how long that will last).

Depp’s Bulger is a vivid creation; while Depp handles the violent eruptions quite well, the more memorable moments involve a quietly lethal Whitey with his own sense of ethics. One of the best scenes involves Whitey lecturing his young son (much to his wife’s dismay) on why fighting is good—so long as you don’t get caught. Later, at Agent Connolly’s house, he checks in on Connolly’s disapproving wife (Julianne Nicholson), stroking her hair, professing concern—and making it abundantly clear of the horrors that may lie in store for her. Depp receives stellar support throughout; indeed much of Black Mass’ power derives from the persuasively acted dilemmas of the supporting characters, namely Rory Cochrane and W. Earl Brown as two of Whitey’s top, yet conflicted, lieutenants; David Harbour, as an increasingly anguished FBI man; and Joel Edgerton as Connolly, willfully deluding himself that Whitey is helping the cause of law and order while essentially becoming Whitey’s lackey.

Black Mass does have some shortcomings, namely in that it downplays what might have been the most interesting relationship, that of Whitey and his brother, Boston Mayor William “Billy” Bulger (Benedict Cumberbatch going all Bah-ston). Cumberbatch and Depp are good in their scenes together, but one wishes scriptwriters Jez Butterworth and Mark Mallouk would have granted more time in exploring the tensions between a pair of strange bedfellows. That caveat aside, what remains on the screen is an effective melodrama with a revitalized Depp at its core.

Sicario

At one point when I was watching Sicario, a gripping thriller from Denis Villenueve about a young FBI agent (Emily Blunt) who joins a task force to smash a drug syndicate (and one drug czar in particular), I was reminded of Sidney Lumet’s Night Falls on Manhattan. In that movie, idealistic D.A. Andy Garcia is devastated when he discovers —gasp!—the existence of corruption in the NYPD, and furthermore, that his father might be involved. Emily Blunt’s character is similarly naïve, as she volunteers for this squad led by garrulous Josh Brolin and soft-spoken but deadly Benicio del Toro, and becomes horrified at the violent lengths they’ll go to get the drugs and find the kingpin. Blunt is grim and determined, but the character doesn’t give her anywhere to go. Luckily, even though Blunt’s character is the nominal lead, the audience soon discovers that del Toro is really the main player here (with a healthy assist from Brolin), as a brooding “consultant” who has his own agenda, and manages to unnerve both Blunt and the audience in his pursuit of a certain drug lord. Sicario maintains a high level of intensity throughout, with well-staged, pulse-pounding action sequences and a pervasive air of hopelessness: the battle may be won, but the war is far from over.

URBAN DEATH TOUR OF TERROR: Haunted Theatre Attraction

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

URBAN DEATH TOUR OF TERROR: Haunted Theatre Attraction! is back. And that can only mean one thing. It’s Halloween time!

The NoHo Arts District is celebrating a horrific anniversary. Yes. Horrific. Horrific and fabulous. Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group is celebrating 10 years of their show URBAN DEATH. It is the third year for their special Halloween edition of URBAN DEATH TOUR OF TERROR. The toour of terror is directed by Zombie Joe and Jana Wimer and they’ve had years to find new ways to scare you. For those who may not have seen a Zombie Joe’s show yet, we asked the infamous theatre owner about URBAN DEATH TOUR OF TERROR: Haunted Theatre Attraction! and why it will scare the living daylights out of you.

What exactly is URBAN DEATH TOUR OF TERROR: Haunted Theatre Attraction!?

We’ve got an all-new, fun and frightening, semi-immersive Haunted-Halloween theatrical attraction for 2015 – steering theater-goers and thrill-seekers through a terrifying “Urban Death” Maze of inexplicable horrors, unfathomable monstrosities, and the disturbed spirits that walk among us! Directed by Zombie Joe and Jana Wimer. For Ages 15 and up.

{youtube}vY9Sh-rzdx4{/youtube}

How did you come up with the idea of Urban Death?

The Jana and I were looking to expand on our passion for grand guignol and tableaux-style stage horror. We had experimented with these theatre of cruelty and various horror elements in the past within our style and framework for our previous productions, but it wasn’t until 2005 that we actually put our darkest fantasies and scenarios to the test and ramped up our first, full-blown show dedicated to the horror genre, the first incarnation of URBAN DEATH.

Urban Death Halloween www.nohoartsdistrict.com

When did you begin Urban Death?

Our first production was in the summer of 2005, 10 years ago. We’ve since produced over a dozen incarnations of the show in North Hollywood and New York City, to jaw-dropping terror and critical acclaim.

When does this dastardly theatre experience begin?

OCTOBER 2 – 31, 2015

(5) Performances nightly on each FRIDAY & SATURDAY Evening in OCTOBER:

FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS @ 8:00pm, 9:00pm, 10:00pm, 11:00pm, 12-midnight

Where is this night of horror?

Zombie Joe’s Underground Theatre Group
4850 Lankershim Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91601

Where do we get tickets to this terrifying “Urban Death” Maze of inexplicable horrors?

Tickets Only $13 ~ For Reservations Call: 818-202-4120
Official Websites: ZombieJoes.com and UrbanDeath.com
Advance Tickets Now Available at ZombieJoes.Tix.com

Urban Death Halloween www.nohoartsdistrict.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.

NoHo News: Theatre, Food & Cocktails

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

Dancer Wellness: Save Lots of $ with These Simple Steps

Luckie
-
0
Dancer Wellness: Save Lots of $ with These Simple Steps

The beauty of living in Los Angeles is that we are really surrounded with just about anything we could ever want.

We have so much to see and do, it’s hard to get it all in!

It’s also hard to do it all on a budget. As artists we not only have to take care of ourselves, our careers, and our communities, but we have to keep our fingers on the pulse of what’s happening in the LA scene. In this article, I’ve included some avenues that will offer you savings galore! With a few easy steps, you could be taking care of everything you need and saving yourself a lot of money in the meantime! You’ve worked hard to get where you are, now let it work for you!

Athleta

You can get a FitPro membership, which gives you 30% off regular price merchandise when purchased in store (up to $1000 worth of gear a year). Bring in any movement, dance or fitness related certificate you’ve earned, the address of where you teach/coach, and a business card if you have one. Some stores even have secret sales announced through email, that offer their FitPro members additional savings and perks. You can also volunteer to teach a free classes at a location, which is a great tool for networking and meeting new people to come to your classes and shows!

Dance Resource Center Membership

A yearly membership to the Dance Resource Center comes with a lot of benefits. Not only does it connect your directly to a pipeline of information on shows, classes, and opportunities around greater Los Angeles, and marketing resources for your own creative endeavors, but individual and membership organizations also give you significant discounts on class admissions and tickets to performances. These average $15 in savings per event for DRC members! An individual membership costs $50 a year, and a student membership is $30 per year. If you only went to 3 events in a year, that would pay for itself in savings! Plus your yearly membership is a write-off. Visit their website for more information, by clicking here! 

Discount Dance Supply and Dance Teacher Program Membership

Discount Dance Supply certainly has the corner on the market for affordable studio dancewear. Not everyone knows about their Dance Teacher Program. Your membership offers you a lot savings, including deeper discounts on apparel, free shipping on larger orders, and an entire incentive program for adding a retail addition to your studio. Whether outfitting just your class or an entire program of students, this company will save you lots of time and money! Check out the membership information page by clicking here.

NOHO Card

That’s right! NoHoArtsDistrict.com has a HUGE network of participating businesses offering discounts by just flashing your NOHO card. in the Arts District. Discounts can be found on theatre admission tickets, dance classes, fitness memberships, printing, clothes, coffee, bars and restaurants, massage therapy at SoCHI, and more! All you need to do is print it from our website, by clicking here. The list of deals and futher details can be found by clicking here. From networking meals to printing business cards, toning up and catching a comedy show – this one is a no brainer! Start saving today!

Hope this helps make your day a little brighter, and your pocket a little bigger!

Happy dancing!!

Overdeveloping NoHo?

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

Opinion Piece on the Overdevelopment of North Hollywood

The local group North Hollywood Community 4 Preservation answered questions on one of the major issues facing the North Hollywood neighborhood.

What is your organization all about?

North Hollywood Community 4 Preservation (NHC4P.com) is about engaging community with hopes of inspiring them to get more involved in what currently is happening in the neighborhoods of North Hollywood. The culture and history are being erased and CAN be prevented with the participation of the community.

Overdevelopment is swallowing whole what should be respectfully approached and considered when this type of change is imposed on a neighborhood. We also want to remind citizens that what’s going on isn’t just affecting things culturally and economically, but environmentally – the repercussions are irreversible….Not to mention the complete opposite direction of where we have been urged to go. More than a dozen of California Government Codes, Health & Safety Codes, Public Resources Codes are just to name a few where our local agencies are skimming right over. NHC4P is here to inform residents exactly what is going on and how. We’re hoping more and more will get on board to make it right.

What are some issues negatively affecting the arts district?

We see the character and uniqueness of the NoHo Arts District depleting. Rampant overdevelopment is moving in while the essential components that make the NoHo Arts District are being forced out.

It’s going on all over the city. Reckless behavior that seems to be based on impulse. A lack of enforcement when it comes to CEQA is taking its toll. Not only are land use decisions being made without community but they are being made illegally. Failure to provide substantial evidence for one project after the other, that lead agencies conclude as having no impact, is simply ridiculous. Combined with zero preservation efforts made; well – it’s a recipe for destruction. Planning choices are not being made with any regard or respect to the residents or local businesses that are established and have planted roots here. Not every community in the city has the same needs.

Our general plan: The North Hollywood – Valley Village Community Plan, which has not been updated since 1995 was intended to curtail adverse impacts. To preserve and enhance the positive characteristics of what currently exists. To make decisions that will have no negative impacts on our open space and to ensure that what is there not only stays there, but that whatever is proposed works with what is there. Its entire purpose is intended to be used as a guideline, having no authority over Municipal Codes. Although there is much discussion about making amendments to the current plan, community raises an excellent point when they have asked: “What would be the point of updating the plan if no one is following it the way it is now?”

From the Council file 95-0830, on page 2 towards the bottom, it states: 9-14-99- “Members of the Valley Village community have indicated that further protections are necessary.” Sixteen years ago – that is the last time those words were ever mentioned in a CD2 Council file. The community is of no importance anymore. Nor are we considered when land use decisions are being made. Decisions we are the ones who end up living with.

noho overdevelopment

The 2013 Council District Economical Report shows our District (CD2) having the highest amount of building permit value at more than $383 million dollars. To put that in perspective, District 1 had $68 million. District 6 had $72 million.

Our good friends at saveValleyVillage.com remind us how Garcetti implemented a “Constituent Bill of Rights” which is supposed to ensure constituents are included in all land-use decisions in their neighborhood.

We are good enough to vote, good enough to pay for their jobs, pay for their staff, pay for everything they need to make it possible for them to carry out the decisions they make. . . but we have been painfully reminded how we are nothing but background noise. When noise gets to the point of being completely irritating, you will do anything to make it go away.

What are some ways to stop these negative issues?

Solutions and laws already exist that should have been enforced in the first place. There is still time – which is why it is absolutely necessary for the members of the community to get involved. In a sane world, concerned residents for starters would go to their Neighborhood Council and/or go straight to the source and go to their Council member.

Unfortunately, not all Council members are interested in their community (i.e., in a not so sane world). When it has been revealed that your Council member has no interest in helping you, and to your surprise has been actively engaging in efforts to hurt and oppose your community, you are left with hundreds/thousands of people who are now incredibly pissed off and have reached a point where they will do anything to get their voice heard. People are fed up. They have felt they have absolutely nowhere to go. Now they do – have a place to go. We may be on our own, but local groups are popping up all over the place. They may not care right now, but all these members in all of these groups – they sure add up to a lot of votes.

How can one get involved?

One can get involved by attending meetings, public hearings, writing letters, signing petitions, handing out flyers…You may find yourself surprised at what a little involvement can do for you. You wind up meeting people you otherwise would not meet and making a difference you didn’t think your efforts would make. Stay engaged – Learn about whats going on. You don’t have to be into politics take part in your community. Some people have this idea that they have to know certain things or have some type of knowledge they feel they do not have to participate. That is not the case. Anyone with a shred of dignity who doesn’t like being run over by a truck should be involved. It comes down to something as simple as morals.

Anyone who has ordered food to then be given the wrong thing would most likely send it back. It’s the same thing. You are simply requesting the attention of the person in charge of your area, reminding them what was said, what was agreed and what should have been done. When this is done collectively, there will be a noticeable difference.

www.nhc4p.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.

Got your lederhosen? Oktoberfest Comes to North Hollywood

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

It’s time to dust off those lederhosen and dirndls, because it’s time for the 8th Annual Oktoberfest Beer Olympics at Bar One!

Oktoberfest is a magical time of year for fans of good craft beer. It’s also when Bar ONE: Craft Beer Bar in North Hollywood holds their 8th annual Beer Olympics out-door beer garden. The back lot is converted into an Oktoberfest tented beer garden and beer Olympics arena. It’s a blast to throw back German suds and enjoy the comradery or warm-hearted people.

“Bar One is celebrating eight years as NoHo’s neighborhood craft beer bar. To celebrate we are hosting the 8th Annual Oktoberfest Beer Olympics with authentic German beer, warm hearted people, fun and games,” says Bar One owner Arelene. “It’s the true sprit of Oktoberfest right here in North Hollywood.”

Join them for a full day of traditional German festivities with a Bar One twist! Form a team of two to participate in their annual Beer Olympic, win individual prizes for best dressed & stein hoisting, and enjoy seasonal craft and authentic German beers and tasty German food.

The Bar ONE Beer Olympics consists of Corn Hole, Beer Pong, Flip Cup and Jenga. Teams of 2 members are formed and compete in contests of skill. A cash grand prize plus various cool and unique brewery and bar one prizes will be awarded. They’ll also have a fun prize for best team uniform and for best team name.

Along with the games, Bar ONE will have a thoughtfully curated list of delicious craft draft German beers and gourmet cuisine to pair with your pint.

Win an Oktoberfest Package!

Our pals at Bar ONE: Craft Beer Bar https://www.facebook.com/barONEnoho are giving away their official Oktoberfest Package to include: 2 steins (filled with Oktoberfest beer), 2 food tickets and a beer flight for 2. (value $100).

Just sign up here.

{loadformmaker 6}

Oktoberfeest at Bar One www.nohoartsdistrict.com

WHEN: Saturday, October 10, 2015 at 3:00 PM The Oktoberfest: Beer Olympics will start at 3pm when your team will be assigned the first game of the competition.

HOW: So, ring in the fall beer season with a blast and form a 2-member team to compete. Team registration fee is $20.00 and it includes 2 collectible beer steins filled with an Oktoberfest beer! Wow!

REGISTER HERE>>

WHERE: Bar One
12518 Burbank Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91607
(818) 505-3870

**** 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.

NoHo Spotlight: Fashion Designer Angelica Chavez

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

What do we say? “NoHo is only as fabulous as its people.”

This is why the NoHo Arts District dot com team likes to highlight the creative and talented folks who call North Hollywood home. Meet fashion design senior Angelica Chavez. She will have a booth at the Art Institute of California’s Portfolio Show -a quarterly event for senior-year students to showcase their portfolios, artwork, talents, skills, and personality. Angelica will have a portfolio with illustrations, technical work, concepts and designs, as well as a tablet display with a slideshow of her photo shoots. Every major is represented at the Portfolio Show: photography, fashion design, graphic design, game art, film, culinary, etc. The way the school puts it “For just one day, they’re putting their best work and brightest ideas on display. You’re invited to come take a look. What will you discover?”

Let’s give a big NoHo shout out to Angelica Chavez and stop by her exhibit on Thursday, September 24!

WHAT: The Portfolio Show
WHEN: Thursday, September 24, 2015
Schedule Of Events:
• 5:00 PM—7:00 PM: Employers & Recruiters
• 7:00 PM—8:30 PM: Friends & Family

WHERE:
The Art Institute of California – Hollywood
A campus of Argosy University
5250 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601 

Angelica Chavez NoHo Fashion Designer www.nohoartsdistrict.com

Why are you participating?

I’m exhibiting because I’m ready! I used to be freaked out and kept putting off my participation, but now I’m ready. Since I’ve been working on my own projects outside of school the past three years, I’ve experienced and learned a lot from my mistakes and accomplishments. It all gained me the confidence I needed to finally showcase my work in a public event.

Each student at this event has their own display, so I will be there too. I’m always one to give myself entirely to projects to the point where I even surprise myself. So you can bet that for my display, I’m going to make sure every detail works in a creative and visually pleasing statement. My goal is to have a display that looks like it’s part of an ArtMuseum/FashionGala. I’m SUPER excited to see the outcome and captivate people!

Angelica Chavez NoHo Fashion Designer www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Photo Courtesy of http://obandophotography.wix.com/obandofoto

Tell us more about your design philosophy?

Design Philosophy: I’m a Gemini with contrasting personalities. Sometimes I’m fierce and loud, while other times I’m shy and to myself. In two words, my style aesthetic is bold and romantic. I piece together elements from various cultures, artwork, nature, anything that grabs my attention naturally, and then structure them in simple but dramatic forms.

Over the past 10 years of loving fashion, I’ve completely transformed. It’s still the same me, but I am not afraid to let out all my eccentric ideas anymore. I launched an Eco Fashion label, Veltimera, in 2012 and made mistakes that I have learned from. What drives me to not give up on it, but make it better, is my love of animals. The main goal of Veltimera is to form an animal sanctuary and partner with other sanctuaries, to rescue all types of animals and provide them a happy life, all funded by my fashion sales. Another project I’ve had the courage to create is an online Fashion Academy & Network for people of all backgrounds and ages to learn design and business, improve their own skills, and network with other fashion lovers. Those are my current two big projects that I’m excited for!

Angelica Chavez NoHo Fashion Designer www.nohoartsdistrict.com
Photo Courtesy of http://obandophotography.wix.com/obandofoto

Follow Angelica to see what she creates next!

http://theinspiredvegan.blogspot.com
https://instagram.com/anchavez28/
https://twitter.com/veltimera91
http://anchavez.wix.com/anchavez

**** 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.

Interior Design – Getting Ready for Fall

Christopher Porikos
-
0
Interior Design – Getting Ready for Fall

Like many of you, I, also like to do some fall decorating. I don’t go over the top with what I do, but rather add to enhance what I already have. Luckily, my design palette already has the rich, warm colors of the fall.

I’ll share with you my top 5 designs tips I use.

1. I change accessory pillows. Adding something with a deep golden or even pumpkin color adds to the fall feeling. I might change a throw to a muted green for the chair or even a deep orange.

2. Adding a door wreath of autumnal colors is a simple and easy way to welcome guests or to just welcome in the season for yourself. I might even go as far as changing out the welcome mat to something festive.

3. Candles are always a fun and inexpensive addition. By placing a few colorful and scented candles around you can create that just baked feeling in your space. Who doesn’t like the scent of freshly baked pumpkin pie?

4. Changing out a few towels in the guest bath or kitchen is another inexpensive way to get into the season along with a few accent rugs.

5. Lastly, I have a really cool wooden pumpkin. It comes out for the whole season and sits atop my armoire in the living room.

These are just a few decorating ideas for the fall season. Use your imagination to come up with some of your own creations and let me know how they work out.

Remember, fall is full of beautifully rich and vibrant colors, so no need to limit yourself to the few I mentioned.

Enjoy!

NoHo News: Happy Hour, Brunch and Theatre

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

 Here’s the NoHo eNews

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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

The Front Yard does Social Hour and of course brunch

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

The Garland Hotel opens the new Front Yard restaurant

We all like a delectable dish and a yummy cocktail. But they taste even better at Happy Hour and on Sunday for brunch. They taste much better when they are in North Hollywood! The newly renovated Garland Hotel has delish Happy Hour and weekend brunch at their Front Yard restaurant
that gives us a: “…new dining experience with an approachable and shareable menu influenced by L.A. culture and curated by Chef Chris Turano.” So stop in for some bites and signature cocktails during their “Social Hour” or before a matinee on Sunday for their brunch. Be sure to give them a big North Hollywood WELCOME!

BRUNCH

The Front Yard at The Garland Hotel www.nohoartsdistrict.com

You can have brunch on both Saturdays and Sundays! Try their open egg sandwich or other favorites such as The Front Yard’s house-made toaster strudel, shrimp and grits and el Cubano for brunch. Check out their brunch menu.

“The Front Yard is an ideal everyday dining destination that spotlights in-season ingredients and quality fresh produce woven with distinctive flavors to create an approachable, yet elevated, menu,” said Executive Chef Chris Turano. “Drawing from the techniques and flavors that I have come to appreciate throughout my career, I am excited to transform simple menu items into flavorful, unexpected and seasonally-infused dishes for both guests and locals.”

HAPPY HOUR = SOCIAL HOUR

The Front Yard at The Garland in North Hollywood has just launched a new Social Hour offering a menu of bites and standout cocktails, California craft beers and wine at special prices.

Social Hour at The Front Yard | 4-7PM and 10PM-close daily

$7 wines by the glass
$4 beers
$6 cocktails & well drinks
$4-8 bites

The Front Yard at The Garland Hotel www.nohoartsdistrict.com

They’ve got a selection of lighter to fuller-bodied craft beers from across California in addition to impeccably made classic cocktails such as a Bulleit Bourbon or Moscow Mule. Or, go with Lead Bartender Will Cutting’s recommendation and order the Bartender’s Choice. Among Social Hour bites by Executive Chef Chris Turano: Tuna Tartare Tacos, Smoked Beeler’s Pork Quesadilla and Fig and Prosciutto Flatbread.

About Executive Chef Chris Turano

With more than 15 years of experience in the food and beverage and hospitality industries, Executive Chef Chris Turano brings an unmatched passion and enthusiasm for food to the kitchen at North Hollywood’s newly revamped property, The Garland. The property’s highly anticipated on-property dining experience, The Front Yard, is slated to open early summer and will offer both Angelenos and hotel guests a fresh, approachable menu true to the spirit of Los Angeles.

Prior to his position as Executive Chef at The Garland, Turano was Chef de Cuisine at the renowned Bacara Resort & Spa in Santa Barbara, CA. Turano began his career studying under Food & Wine’s Best New Chef of 2001, Ted Cizma, at Elaine Restaurant in Chicago. He then went on to various leading roles in Chicago including Executive Chef at The Chicago Firehouse, Executive Chef at ESTATE Ultra Bar and Executive Chef at Crowne Plaza Chicago Metro Hotel where he ran the culinary program. Past successes include re-opening the Quadrangle Club at the University of Chicago and opening Glen Prairie, one of the top 20 restaurants in 2009 by Chicago Magazine. No stranger to the camera, Turano also competed on and won the Food Network’s “Chef Wanted” show in 2013. Turano attended the College of DuPage and also holds a Court of Master Sommeliers Level 1 Certification.

Under the guidance of Executive Chef Chris Turano, The Garland’s new, distinctive dining experience, The Front Yard, will offer guests an unparalleled dining environment, highlighting the best of Los Angeles.

Chef Chris Turano at The Front Yard at The Garland Hotel www.nohoartsdistrict.com

For reservations: (818) 255-7290

http://www.thefrontyardla.com/

4222 Vineland Ave. North Hollywood, CA 91602 at The Garland

**** 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.

Takin’ It To The Streets – John Wellington Ennis

Caroline McElroy
-
1
Takin’ It To The Streets – John Wellington Ennis

While I was recently working on a story, I stumbled upon “PAY 2 PLAY” Director John Wellington Ennis who has a strong background in music that is so imprssive that it needs to be lauded.

Fresh out of college Ennis landed a position with MTV working on their Reality TV shows under the mantles of writer, producer, editor and development.

Ennis also worked on AOL’s feature “SESSIONS”. During his stint with AOL, Ennis worked with such talent as The Red Hot Chili Peppers, MAROON 5, Rihanna and Audio Slave and mentioned Adam Levine (MAROON 5) as a go to guy for the band and a good guy who cared about the quality of the production.

Ennis descirbes his position of videographerfor “SESSIONS” as having a front row seat to the music to come out at that time and added that no two situations are alike. To me, it sounded like the perfect “fly on the wall” position.

Ennis also did a stint with Freemantle Media where he honed his production chops in project development. Ennis has teamed up with Street Artists to come up with a documentary about getting big money out of politics that uses the “Monopoly” game as a backdrop for it’s thoughtful presentation.

Among the Street Artists Ennis used for his documentary is a prolific Street Artist who is known on the streets by the moniker Teachr.

Teachr’s work can be viewed all over Los Angeles which includes our cozy nook of NoHo Arts District.

While chatting up Teachr about his creative process, he surprised me by allowing that he enjoys listening to actress Juliette Lewis and The Licks when he’s working. For those that don’t know who she is, PLEASE go to YouTube and check her out!

Lewis and her band bang out some heavy chops that can easily be compared to those of my Punk Rock Icon Patti Smith. In fact, on YouTube you will find a video of Smith talking about Lewis. Teachr’s choice of Lewis explains why there is Punk Rock music as the soundtrack of a Street Art documentary that Teachr appears in titled “ARTISANS TEMPLAR.”

All in all this adventure into Los Angeles’ and beyond Street Art has been a real treat with more promising to come from Paris when I leave on September 19th. Dare I mention that the French kid named Nelson Vard that I ran into at Jim Morrion’s grave in Paris was on “NOUVELLE STAR” which is a Freemantle Media production…hmmmm.

She Wants The LA Airwaves

Riding high on her #1 status as host of the Jill & the A-List on www.caveradiobroadcasting.com, broadcast journalist Jill Fleisher landed in Hollywood in late August to check out the local music scene and broaden her networking horizons. IE Fleisher wants our airwaves!

Seems like only yesterday that actress Angela McEwan and I were guests on Fleisher’s much touted radio show promoting my book “Gallerie de Street Art:Paris” and talking about my piece of rock n’ roll history on the music scene of Hollywood…we built this city!

During that time it was obvious that Fleisher and Aimee List (the A-List) had a great chemistry which feeds on each other’s wry sense of humor and sense of timing. This was apparent when McEwan’s role in Sheena Metal’s production of “The Vagina Monologues” came up and the subject of “bush” made us all erupt in laughter.

When Fleisher came back over to me, it was to ask about my early history with Frank Zappa at the age of 13, and guest musician Jason Caine of Bloodline Riot asked me how that occurred to which I replied I was the babysitter…isn’t it always the babysitter? More laughter and a few lacivious remarks ensued.

Make no mistake, this show is not timid nor is it family friendly.

It is for rockers and posse to have an adult platform in which they can feel free to discuss their unearthly proclivities and music projects.

Fleisher and I have known each other for a few years via Facebook and met through her sister, Dawn Marie Sargent AKA Penny Lane. In both cases there was bonding through rock n’ roll. For Sargent it was Jimmy Page and for Fleisher it was Dave Grohl.

Over Mango Sangria’s, Fleisher reveals to me that the radio show had originally started out as Hittin’ Hard, but when the co-host at the time bailed she ws still holding the time slot and decided to enist the aide of List. Although it is an obvious play on words, the show does manage to bring in the finest talent from around Detroit as well as other parts of the country.

As to why Fleisher got involved in this project, she admits that she is a fan first and is always looking for inspirational people to interview on her show.

Fleisher adds that “my friend from high school Bill Bardes asked me to come to Hollywood and let him show me the ropes. You need to come to Hollywood and meet people.”

As to why I agreed to do a radio interview when I have refused other’s requests over the years the answer is simple.

I used to run a nightclub that was called THE CAVE. The concept of the cave harkens to Lita Ford’s song “Let’s Get Back To The Cave” and of course Plato’s analogy “The Cave”.

For Fleisher, her decision to host as radio show was that “I’ve been told that when I talk about rock n’ roll I get into a zone and it shows in my face…I light up, but these days it could just be the change…LOL”

Fleisher admits that everything she has done in her past in the field of rock has evolved into what she is doing today. Fleisher adds that she’s looking to Hollywood and it’s scene to extend her range. “I would like to find a place, a niche for my show and bring it here”

If music be the food of love, then play on. W. Shakespeare

Paying attention…it’s all in the details.

Samantha Simmonds-Ronceros
-
0
Paying attention…it’s all in the details.

I really enjoy designing a characters world.  Every tiny detail.  What coffee they drink, how they wear their hair and how they live, everything…

What a person choses to surround themselves with is a clear mirror to their soul.  Colors, textures, variety, abundance.  All indicators of what goes on inside someone’s mind.

I am a writer and a filmmaker, as well as a mum and all these activities require that I pay close attention to detail.  With kids, especially teenagers, this means that I notice when they leave, when they come back and what they smell like…Who their friends are and what they smell like too.  I have found over the years that what someone smells like is a pretty good indicator of what they get up to, as well as who they get up to it with and how they clean up afterwards.  My sense of smell has never been keener.

As a filmmaker I live and die by my attention to detail.  It can make or break a shot, the choice of location, actor, crew…everything.  Not paying attention can cost me money, and it has.  If the sound guy isn’t paying attention I will have to either lose a shot or have to replace the sound with expensive ADR.  If the wardrobe person isn’t paying attention, the continuity is off and the shot is useless, worse still, if the rest of us doesn’t notice either, then we don’t even know what’s wrong until we are in the edit and it’s too late for another take.

Paying attention isn’t all about mistakes, it can add gorgeous and beautiful details to film.  It can make something with a small budget look much more expensively made.  You also have to pay attention to the smallest of details in the script, to the words each character would use, and how they communicate with each other.  It’s not just about the words that move the story along and get us from A to B, it’s about the way each character’s individual voice differs from the next.  It’s really easy to forget that we all talk in different voices, our words are used differently and these specific nuances in how we interact with each other are so important in the language of a film.  It also gives the actors a place to begin to build their characters, and you certainly don’t want everyone to sound exactly the same!

You must pay attention to what a character wears and how they wear it, attention to the uniqueness of every location, wallpaper, sheets, pictures on the wall, cars driven, the color of someone’s hair.  Every detail as important as the next.

These days, when there is so much really great TV and film the audience is much more sophisticated, much more discerning.  The details become a game, like hidden easter eggs in video games. 

For an audience paying attention to the details of a story, whether it’s a film or a book or a poem, can be how they are drawn into the story, how they are connected to the characters and what makes these characters authentic and real.  Recognizing authenticity in something is how we remember our own humanity, as well as seeing the humanity in others.

So when you think about it, details really do matter, it isn’t all about the “big picture.”  It is about every tiny detail of life, the smallest of things that, like a massive, complex mosaic, make up the big picture.

The smaller the budget the more these details are important I think.  There is less to see, fewer things to hide a mistake behind.  But therein lies the amazing opportunity.

When you have to strip everything back, as we often do in very, very independent filmmaking, it’s these few and specific details that we use to create our worlds and where we can have so much fun doing it.

What ice cream are they eating, is it something specific to the region they are in or the time?  Are the sheets on the bed what this character would really have in her own room, or is it just what your neighbor’s brother has on his bed when you show up at 6am on Sunday morning?

What car does the murderer drive, probably a Volvo because that’s exactly the right  car for a psycho.  The color of someone’s sweater denotes the mood they are in.  The picture of the cat on the bedside table, where there is no cat to be seen, a sense of loss perhaps. A bass guitar, CNN on in the background, a french press rather than a coffee machine, sprouted wheat bagels, the bicycle must be red…on and on and on, everything can be utilized to create the world that you pull your audience into.

This takes time of course, but is can be as worthwhile as being able to film in an actual restaurant, or being able to borrow your cousin’s boss’s DeLorean…

Don’t underestimate the power of the detail and please do not dismiss an opportunity to satisfy that demon within you that likes to control every minute detail of everything.  Finally you get the chance to stop everything and remove the picture of the moose on the wall and replace it with an obviously erotic picture of a flower’s stamen being ‘taken’ by a pollen ladened bumble bee….This is what it’s all about folks!!!

Skincare tips from the pros

NoHo - North Hollywood
-
0

How Do Celebrities Prepare Their Skin Before a Big Event?

Before celebrities flaunt gorgeous gowns and stand in the spotlight at red-carpet events, they have to focus on every aspect of the way they look to get ready for all eyes and camera lenses focused on them. While wardrobe, accessories, hair and makeup are all essentials, celebrities won’t have a complete look without flawless skin. That’s why a focus on skin preparation is one of the main parts of every celebrity’s pre-event activities.

How do celebrities prep their skin for major awards shows and premieres? These are some of their techniques, which you can follow too!

Start in Advance

You can’t start skin care the day of a big event if you want to achieve the best results. Instead, celebs begin their routine weeks in advance with treatments that vary depending on the celebrity and the beauty specialists who work on them. Some get facials that get rid of blockages, which helps prevent the skin from breaking out later. Well in advance, many celebrities get oxygen skin treatments with vitamin serums, which work to add plumpness to the skin and reduce signs of aging.

The person who founded the trademarked “Red Carpet Facial” boosts the skin with an electric current that comes from a tool called a “Resculptor.” She also fights signs of aging with LED lights, and uses beauty products to improve puffiness and drooping around the eyes, and to help the jawline stand out better. Whether they use this professional’s products or some from another brand, most celebrities use some form of specialty beauty products leading up to the event in order to keep their skin clear, moisturized and looking perfect.

Closer to the Event

Then, a few days before the event, celebrities tend to get more skin treatments, such as light therapy, performed on their skin. They continue to use specialty products to enhance their skin as well. And on the day of the event, they might use some gentle treatments and moisturizing before adding a layer of event-ready makeup.

More Than the Face

When dresses show off legs, arms, backs and plunging necklines, it’s important to focus on skin beyond the face. That’s why female celebrities will often get the same treatments they would get on their faces across their entire bodies. Nonetheless, many male celebrities perform skin treatments on their faces just like their female counterparts.

Work With Professionals

In general, celebrities don’t perform skin care treatments on themselves before their major events. Instead, they rely on the expertise of professional estheticians who have learned the tricks of the trade by going through esthetician school. One of the reasons to work with a professional is that they can tailor the skin treatments to each person, based on the type of skin you have and the condition of it at the moment.

Beyond Skin Care

Of course, celebrities do a lot more to prepare for their big events than work on their skin. They tend to get a variety of hair conditioning treatments to improve the hair’s look and feel, work on slimming and toning techniques for their body, and go through juice cleanses to look and feel their best. They might also do tanning, a lot of exercising and follow other secret or well-known techniques. Some of these activities might have an effect on the glow of their skin, but the skin treatments are definitely an important part of the preparation process.

Maybe you can’t have these specialty treatments all the time, but they’re perfect for the special occasions in your life too, such as your wedding day or a career recognition event. Rely on a professional to give you the perfect esthetics for your important 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. 

Actors – Working Hard vs. Working Right

Fran Montano
-
0
Actors – Working Hard vs. Working Right

Do you question whether you’re doing enough for your career?

Since so much in this business is self-motivated, I often find actors feeling bad about themselves for not doing enough to make their careers happen.

On the other hand, I see some actors always keeping busy, busy, busy doing what actors do… and going out on as many auditions as possible. They tell me that when they are doing that they are being productive, getting results, or at least feeling better about themselves.

Recently I overheard two actors in a restaurant discussing their careers. “I went on 12 auditions last week,” one actor told the other. The other one replied, “I only had two.” I noticed the first actor was feeling good about himself while the other looked sad. I turned to both of them and said, “That’s great, did you book?” Both replied no. “Any callbacks?” I asked. Nope.

Here’s my question to you: Are you simply working hard, or are you working right? And what does that look like?

An actor goes out on an audition in L.A. The other actors at the audition all look just like him (or her); they all hold the same two sheets of paper with the same few lines of dialogue to read; and they’re all trained, with varied levels of experience and different backgrounds.

Of the 100 actors that go into the audition, 80 are simply not that good, 10 are decent, and 10 are great. The 10 great ones will get a call back. Maybe 3 or 4 will get a second callback. The bottom line though, only one will get the job. That’s the business. Welcome to Hollywood.

Are you in that 10 percent? If so, then you have a one in ten chance of getting booked. Keep at it and you will book.

As you look at how hard you’re working at your career, ask yourself if you’re doing the right work at this time. You always want to be in that 10 percent. I know one actor who bragged that he had 15 auditions in one month, while another had only 5. The actor with 5 auditions got 2 callbacks and booked one job. The actor with 15 auditions didn’t book any.

Where are you in that statistic?

Do you keep track? Do you keep your eye on it? You can’t go on this journey blindly without some introspection and self-evaluation. Look closely and ask yourself, Am I doing the right work, correctly for me?

That work involves several variables, including pictures, resume, a reel, and representation, not to mention understanding your type, training, experience, and a solid marketing plan. Take a periodic look at all these things and see how you’re doing. Ask a friend, a coach, or a fellow actor to give you some perspective. It’s not easy to do this alone. Don’t just spin your wheels. Be your best. Put in the time and effort it takes to do so.

Have a great month.

NoHo Remembers 9/11

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

North Hollywood Remembers September 11

Did you know that we have a September 11 memorial monument in North Hollywood Park? This memorial lists the 78 Californians lost in the attacks on the U.S. on September 11, 2001.

{youtube}HSZv_u9LZMM{/youtube}

“September 11 is a day to remember, to remember the tragedy of lives lost and those who mourn them, and to remember the bravery and resilience of the nation.” Nancy Bianconi, www.nohoartsdistrict.com publisher

Please join Councilman Paul Krekorian, the Midtown NoHo Neighborhood Council and the L.A. Beautification Team on Friday, September 11, 2015 at 6:30PM to honor the lives lost and show support for the families of the victims.

9/11 North Hollywood Park www.nohoartsdistrict.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.

What are you doing in NoHo this weekend? Here’s the NoHo News.

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

 Here’s the NoHo eNews

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…ENJOY NOHO!

**** 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.

World Championships of Performing Arts Danced in NoHo

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

World Championships of Performing Arts Contestants Enjoy NoHo’s own Millennium Dance Complex

Contestants from the World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA)  got some special attention from Millennium Dance Complex. Six winners of some of the finest dancers from the 2015 South African Performing Arts Championships competed at the 19th annual WCOPA this summer. These dancers decided to take a class at Millennium to learn the latest Hip Hop choreography. They loved the class and were thrilled with the special attention they got after class on the Millennium back patio by their instructor Max Nguyen.

COMMENTS FROM MILLENIUM DANCE CLASS WINNERS from South Africa:

EMMITT CAWLEY

(WCOPA 2015 Dancer: 7 gold, 2 silver, 2 bronze, 2 Industry Awards, 2 Overall Winner Awards. 3-month Millennium scholarship)

World Championships of Performing Arts at Millennium Dance Complex www.nohoartsdistrict.com

“When I first walked into the Millennium dance Complex in Los Angeles, I was surging with excitement!

My dance partner (Jemma) and I were very anxious but keen that we were going to do this experience together. We arrived and watched the previous class in their final few minutes of their class and the excitement level went sky high. We quickly changed into our dance clothes and before we knew it we were all spread out on the studio floor warming up and getting ready for our class!

I remember when our teacher walked in, everyone there had such a positive and awesome attitude – we wanted to be there and wanted to get started. The complex is honestly a place where we dancers can truly open up and express ourselves whilst under the guidance of amazing teachers and in a world-class facility.

This was truly an experience I will always treasure and never forget. – Thank you Millennium Dance Complex, WCOPA and all those who made this possible.”

JEMMA VAN BREDA

(WCOPA 2015 Dancer : 8 gold medals, 4 silver, 2 bronze, 2 industry awards, 2 Overall winner trophies and a 3-month Millennium Dance Scholarship)

World Championships of Performing Arts at Millennium Dance Complex www.nohoartsdistrict.com

‘My experience at Millennium was indescribable. The people, the music, the vibe, were awesome. I loved the style Max taught us and the way he taught it. Each movement had such feeling so instead of us being a room full of individuals, we moved as one. We were from different parts of the world, with one common passion.

The moment I left the class, I knew that I would be coming back. Millennium feels like a place where my dance partner, Emmit Cawley and I are meant to be, so winning a scholarship fulfilled my WCOPA goals. Thank you Nancy, the WCOPA team and Millennium for this unforgettable opportunity!”

CORLANIE BOTHA, Pulse Dance Studio

‘My one and biggest hope was to get a scholarship at THE Dance Millennium. I live,breath and sleep dancing and that was the exact vibe I got from the Millennium instructors and the studio when I walked in there. They are everything a dancer wants to be and achieve one day. The instructors are so inspirational. I could see that they just love to dance. The way their bodies connect with every beat of the music is mind blowing. I have learned so much from them and they have opened my eyes to a new world of dancing.

One thing that stuck out the most was how emotionally involved they are with the routines. They explain every move so clearly that you can almost feel the emotion and vibe that they are feeling. The routines are strong and challenging. It makes you want to push yourself further and harder. Dance Millennium is powerful and energetic. It was such a honour to get a class from them. The ultimate best is that I won a scholarship from them. They have put me one step closer to my dream.”

{youtube}ATF2Pv0PT5Y{/youtube}

LEANKER LAUBSCHER

“Millennium Dance Complex has stolen my heart from the first time I was there in 2013 I saw “Shane Sparks” who is a choreographer for ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ and many others. He said hi to me and I remember thinking ……’I see you on TV!! Unbelievable!’

Dancers,choreographers,performers,artists…. Every day at Millennium is like dance heaven!! I come back every year and feel so inspired and motivated to teach and dance and my studio has grown so much! “Step Up” Dancers Alyson Stoner, Misha Gabriel Hamilton, Stephen Stevo Jones, Parris.

Goebel take class at Millennium and I danced with most of them! I did a few master classes with Wildabeast Adams and Chehon Wespi-Tschopp winner of season 9 ‘So You Think You Can Dance’ also dances at Millennium…only the best …and who doesn’t want to dance with the best!! ?”

**** 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.

THE HIDDEN ARTIST: Alyse Hart

nohoarts
-
0

THE HIDDEN ARTIST: Alyse Hart
CONNECTION TO NOHO: Had long distance relationship with a guy who lived on Cahuenga Blvd. and married him.
MEDIUMS: Up-cycled canvas, mixed media, and acrylics
WEBSITE:http://www.alysehart.com/

Hallelujah! I met another phenomena of a left and right brainer—Alyse Hart.

Quirky, personable, and a great story teller, Alyse revealed her creative journey (still in it’s toddler stages) to me as we sat in her living room slash gallery tucked in her home atop an actual hill in Woodland Hills. Although still a mystery to both of us, we’d become friends through some mutual acquaintance on Facebook and had been watching each other’s work voyeuristically. I was initially drawn to her use of bold colors, but after our interview, I discovered I was dazzled by much more—her uninhibited ability to allow a canvas to come alive on its own.

To understand her art, we must first touch upon Alyse’s life and career. Originally from New York, half of her family (mother and sister) took a creative route while her father and she settled into business. Alyse made a successful career in sales, but after speaking to her, I got the distinct feeling that her right brain (the alleged creative side) had been grappling with her left (the logical side) for quite some time. As a matter of fact, she even wrote a workbook about it called A Woman’s Guide to Corporate Recovery, a pre-flight plan to help women map out an alternative lifestyle. But Alyse’s own right brain take-over didn’t begin until she participated in a hippy-styled Topanga art experience where the painting instructor guided Alyse onto her own creative path.

I have to admit, Alyse’s story made me giggle as I imagined her in the middle of Topanga Canyon beneath a tent with sage smudge wafting around her head. I mean Alyse’s general appearance is as far away from any granola-munching hippy if ever there was one. But as she spoke, I realized there was a much deeper level to this picture. She told me she’d actually gotten physically sick in her class, excusing herself many times with an upset stomach. But it wasn’t the sage that made her ill. Alyse was having a breakthrough—her artistic self was fighting to get out. And it did in a flurry of pink paint. Pink, I discovered, puts people in touch with their nurturing side and gives them a sense of hope—that everything will be okay. If pink is what Alyse began her journey with, it is certainly the color that enabled her to trust in herself.

I’m taking liberties here to say I’d like to be the one who coined the phrase “we are all expressions of something larger than ourselves.” I’d also like to add that if anyone is evidence of this it is Alyse. Her objective, void of any of her physical discomforts (she admits to actually having sweats) before a canvas, is to lead herself to freedom—to be metamorphosed into her authentic self, inside and out. She stays true to her out-of-boxness and does not hesitate to do as she is being directed by the ethereal energy that surrounds her so as not to lose her spontaneity. She remains alert to what her canvas is trying to convey to her. In other words, she’ll use the remnants of an image on an up-cycled canvas she salvaged from the curbside and let it be the inspiration for a new piece or if a hint of something—say a fish—is poking about in the paint she’s just covered the canvas with, well, a fish it’ll be. The results are colorful, fresh, and inspirational—a no-bars-held look into Alyse’s world…a world that definitely needs to be shared.

GETTING ROUGHED UP WITH STUNTMAN ROCKY ABOU- SAKHER

Waide Aaron Riddle
-
0
GETTING ROUGHED UP WITH STUNTMAN ROCKY ABOU- SAKHER

I was Rocky’s Hair Stylist back in the late 1990s. He had just moved to Hollywood from Tennessee and was trying to break into the industry; working various jobs to make ends meet. From being a promoter for Jack Daniels, to being a bartender at clubs.

You know, the life of a struggling artist! Paying real life dues!

Our client/hair stylist relationship was a positive one. I enjoyed making this unique looking actor look ‘even better.’ It wasn’t difficult, he was already striking. I just put the finishing touches on him.

After time, as he began booking more and more gigs, the studio and production companies would have his hair cut on set. My role as his Hair Stylist was no more. Ironically, in Hollywood, this is the nature of the beast and very common.

Today, I see Rocky frequently at Gold’s Gym-Hollywood; always focused in an intense work-out regimen.

!!Don’t bother The Rocky when he’s working out!!

He is a full time Stuntman and is working towards his ‘dream job’: being a Stunt Coordinator.

North Hollywood has become his second home. If not shooting at CBS Radford, you’ll find him at his favorite dining spots, Hugo’s Coldwater Canyon or Pitta Kitchen, studying scripts.

Half Saudi Arabian and half Tennesseean (wrap your mind around that for a moment), he laughs at most of his stunt jobs because he’s cast as the ‘perfect terrorist.’ “I love it! It pays the bills. I’m happy to be the terrorist if that’s what’s going to put the bacon on the table.”

Rocky sat down with me at Starbuck’s The Grove, greeting me with a warm hug. He couldn’t wait to update me about his life. He’s excited. And he should be. He’s planning well and wisely:

Waide Riddle- Hey, Rocky, you look great as ever. Even better than I remember.

Rocky Abou-Sakher- Thank you. I’m feeling good.

WR– You should be. You’re shooting two projects and got three in the can. Not bad.

RAS-(He chuckles pondering these facts.) Yeah…

WR-You’re from Tennessee.

RAS– Yes. Half Tennesseean and half Saudi Arabian. My mom’s from West Virginia… I went to school at Middle Tennessee State. Then got involved into the rodeo circuit.

WR– Rodeo circuit?! No way! (I laugh)

RAS– Yes, way! I rode and did it all.

WR– You actually rode.

RAS– Yes.

WR– Damn, I love it. I remember as a kid in Texas going to the rodeos in the 60s and 70s and watching in awe. It’s a completely different world, isn’t it?

RAS– It is, but I loved it.

WR– You miss it?

RAS– Yeah, parts… It’s in my blood.

WR– Where in Tennessee are you from?

RAS– McEwen! And raised Catholic!

WR– You know, Rocky, got a lot going on in those veins of yours.

(We both laugh)

RAS– Yep.

WR– You are one hot blooded man.

RAS– You might say that.

WR– You’re definitely on a roll right now with your career. What is your goal… what do you want to achieve?

RAS– I want to be a full time Stunt Coordinator. That’s my Love.

WR– Do you have a ‘dream job’?

RAS– YES! Being cast to do Stunts in the “The Magnificent Seven.” An amazing experience.

WR– Do you think it will take anything away from the original classic? The original is a true favorite on many ‘Best Lists.’

RAS– I hear what you’re saying, and no. It’s a fantastic homage to the original. If anything, it will only celebrate it and honor it. I was in love with the first one and to be apart of this remake, it’s a job I will forever be proud of.

WR– Point taken… now, you were very insistent on bringing up your project, “Boulevard.” It was Robin Williams last film project and you were Stunt Coordinator… I’m giving you the floor…

RAS- Waide, it was a privilege to work with such a great artist as Robin. He was a genius. He was so discipled and could break down a script so easily. He was nice and genuine to everyone on set. Now, I was extremely disappointed that the LGBT community did not do more for the film. Support it. Market it. Whatever. It was a great film with an important message and the film disappeared. What happened?

WR– I remember a couple of trailers and a couple of short reviews in local magazines… and that’s it.

RAS– Yeah. That’s what I mean. I was really disappointed that the gay community didn’t jump on this one. Robin plays a man who comes out in his later years and the journey he takes to explore who he is…

( His hands go up in frustration and he shakes his head in personal disbelief)

WR– (I pause myself; I feel his annoyance) I’m sorry… hmm… I don’t have an answer to that, Rocky. Maybe, perhaps, it will get a second life during awards season.

RAS– I hope. It deserves it…

WR– Let’s switch gears…“Mad Max: Fury Road,” one of my favorites this year, what did you think of the Stunt Department’s work?

RAS– Fun. Practical. Entertaining.

WR– Another favorite,“The Town.”

RAS– Great.

WR– I agree. From start to finish. I personally think Jeremy Renner was robbed on that one. Have any favorites this year of your own because of Stunts?

RAS– “Mission Impossible” … “Southpaw.”

WR– Favorite color?

RAS– None.
WR– Boxers or briefs?

RAS– Boxers, briefs and none.

(We both laugh.)

WR– You’re versatile. Do you have any advise for someone interested in pursuing Stunts?

RAS– Get a second job to support your stunt habit. (He laughs with a devilish grin)

WR– Excellent advice. A third and fourth part time job, too. True life in Hollywood… Marriage Equality, how do you stand?

RAS– Oh, yeah. Why in the hell would anyone care who you get married to. They’re called ‘stupid people.’ Stupid.

WR– Do you want me to use that word?

RAS– Yes. Stupid. Cause that’s what they are. I can’t believe people are obsessed with a subject that shouldn’t have been a subject in the first place…

WR– I love seeing you riled like this… OK, now, what is your mission?

RAS– Climate Change. It is THE TOPIC that should be on everyone’s lips. Period. That’s what people should be talking about. Not who’s getting married to who. Greenland is melting. Iceland is melting. Antarctica is melting…

(He pauses.)

How do you feel about it?

WR– Well, I believe we have great influence on the Earth. Mother Nature and Father Nature are going to pretty much do what they want to us. We, Humankind, are in the way. We are very irresponsible on how we are treating our ‘Home.’ Our planet. And, nature will have a consequence for that. We are now seeing it everyday around the world, just as you stated.

RAS– And that’s just the beginning. How can someone not see it?

WR & RAS– Stupid.

WR– “WestWorld” the series… you’re?..

RAS– Stunt work as a ‘cowboy.’

WR– That’s it? That’s all you can tell me?

RAS- Confidentiality Clause… it’s all I can say.

WR– Oh, C’mon… “WestWorld,” it’s based on the 1973 Sci- Fi film starring Yul Brynner and James Brolin… now, what would you like to add regarding the series?

RAS– Sorry, I can’t.

WR– Well, did you at least have fun?

RAS– Kick- ass!

WR– (I’m laughing) OK, I tried. Is there any stunt you haven’t done that you really really want to do?

RAS– Yeahhhh… be lit on fire and do a high free fall.

WR– … and that’s Rocky’s typical day at work.

RAS– I love it!

WR– Congratulations. I’m very proud of you. I love seeing my friends succeed and thanks for giving me your time.

RAS– That’s it? We’re finished? That was fun.

WR– You can save me another interview in the future.

RAS– Anytime.

We both stand and he gives me a power hug. When you get a Rocky hug, you know you’ve been hugged!

WR– Thank you.

RAS– Thanks, buddy.

And just like the first time many years ago, we go our separate ways.

An Iguana Comes to NoHo

Lisa Bianconi
-
0

Iguana Vintage Clothing opens its doors in the NoHo Arts District

Vintage Clothing, used clothes, second hand clothing, thrift shops are all popular places now to find the ‘finds’ you can’t get in a department store. NoHo is known for its creativity and now its creativity in fashion. Let’s give a big North Hollywood welcome to the neighobrhood’s newest addition, Iguana Vintage Clothing. Head over there now or stop by their official grand opening on Saturday, September 12.

WHAT: Iguana Vintage Clothing
WHERE: 5018 Lankershim Blvd.
WHEN: Grand Opening Saturday, September 12
HOURS: Monday through Saturday 11AM-8PM and Sunday 11AM-6PM

{youtube}IBlFA1TCksc{/youtube}

So what is Iguana Vintage Clothing?

Iguana Vintage Clothing was established in 1993 on Ventura Blvd in Sherman Oaks. It is a family run business that has been passed down generations and is still going strong. They cater to everyone, all occasions such as productions, auditions, parties, festivals and, most commonly, daily wear. Each location they’ve opened, first Sherman Oaks, then Hollywood, has an ‘up and coming’ vibe. That’s why they feel strongly about the North Hollywood area, especially as the location is in the heart of the arts district.

Iguana Vintage Clothing www.nohoartsdistrict.com

They pride themelves on providing the best customer service possible. That is why the most novice vintage enthusiast should feel confident visiting the store. They are very organized and provide a great variety of clothing and accessories.

Some of their most popular items are their genuine military garments, denim Levi jackets, denim Levi shorts, flannel shirts and letterman jackets. The large selection of cashmere sweaters are consistent sellers. People get a great enjoyment seeing the large selection of dresses, whether it be for a Mad Men party, an 80s prom-themed party, or a great cocktail dress for an evening out.

To celebrate their new location in the NoHo Arts District and to introduce themselves to the neighborhood, they are having a grand opening on the Saturday, September 12. They will provide discounts, raffle giveaways and other neat treats throughout the day.

{youtube}xV1DgU0bR8M{/youtube}

Iguana Vintage Clothing
5018 Lankershim Blvd.
Store hours: Monday through Saturday 11AM-8PM and Sunday 11AM-6PM

Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/IguanaVintageClothing
Twitter : http://twitter.com/iguanaclothing
Youtube : https://www.youtube.com/user/iguanaclothing

Iguana Vintage Clothing www.nohoartsdistrict.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.

1...234235236...272Page 235 of 272

ABOUT US

The NoHo Arts District is a one-square-mile community in North Hollywood that is home to live, professional theatres, dance studios, art galleries, public art, music recording venues, acting and art workshops, international dining options, clothing and specialty shops, and businesses that create a myriad of art forms. NoHo is "Where the Arts Are Made." - "NoHoArtsDistrict.com"

FOLLOW US

© NoHo Communications Group 2024