Best Of LA: Week of October 13
This week boasts a unique variety of throw-backs to other decades from cocktail samplings at Art Deco imagined lounges, a one-of-a-kind Beatles' "Abbey Road" tribute, a glimpse at the history and social constraints of the early 20th century, a stunning re-telling of a 90-year-old film, and even the chance to participate in a decade-of-your-choice family run. If blasts from the past aren't your thing, don't fear; the modern influences in these events are worthy of the second look.
Monday, October 13
CROSS/WALK
Rosemont Pavilion
700 Seco St.
Pasadena, CA 91103
www.muse-ique.com
MUSE/IQUE is kicking off its Uncorked Series with a counter-conventional concert of the Beatles' album "Abbey Road," performed live at the Rosemont Pavilion in Pasadena, the third presentation of the uber-popular Beatles series offered by the group. Designed by Rachael Worby, this mash up features sitar, cajon, piano, gospel choir, Charlie Greene Band, and famed singer-songwriter Colin Hay working together to re-imagine "Abbey Road."
Tuesday, October 14
"Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White"
Antaeus Theater
5112 Lankershim Blvd.
North Hollywood CA, 91601
(818) 506-1983
www.Antaeus.org
"Wedding Band: A Love/Hate Story in Black and White" tells the story of two lovers yearning to marry during early 20th century America, kept apart by society's laws prohibiting interracial marriage. Written by Alice Childress and directed by Gregg T. Daniel, the play depicts the struggle and persistence of a couple intent on being together in spite of society's rules. Tonight's preview is available for just $15 and pay-what-you-can Fridays through November 7th make this show accessible to all.
Wednesday, October 15
Cocktail Tasting
Grandpa Johnon's
1638 N. Cahuenga Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 467-7300
Come explore Hollywood's hip, new modern Art Deco cocktail lounge, Grandpa Johnson's, with a set of cocktails made by California rock-star bartender, Alex Straus, who will be on hand to discuss the new menu with Grandpa Johnson's owner, Johnny Zander, who would love to chat about the design and concept behind this unique lounge. All specialty cocktails are priced at $14 and include Decadente, made with Tequila Ocho, Pierde Almas Purita, guava puree, green tea syrup, and lime wheel ganish, and T-Bizz, which boasts Angel's Envy Bourbon, ginger syrup, apple cider, amaro, lemon juice, Angostura, and lemon wedge garnish, among many others.
Thursday, October 16
"In the Heat of the Night"
James Bridges Theater
UCLA School of Theater, Film and Television
235 Charles E. Young Drive
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 827-0889
www.latw.org
Kicking off a national tour, L.A. Theatre Works will feature five performances of John Ball's 1965 noir thriller, "In the Heat of the Night," adapted by playwright Matt Pelfrey. Based on the novel which inspired the Oscar-winning film and the Emmy-winning television series, this off-Broadway hit pits a visiting black detective from California against a small Southern town simmering with anger over desegregation. The audio performance (with costumes but no sets) will be recorded live in front of an audience.
Friday, October 17
Saint Motel at Front Porch Cinema
Santa Monica Pier
Santa Monica, CA 90401
frontporchcinema.com
www.frontporchcinema.com
In addition to Front Porch Cinema's screening of Wes Anderson's latest, "The Grand Budapest Hotel," fans of buzzing indie-pop band Saint Motel (and huge fans of Wes Anderson films) will be performing live and offering a post-show meet and greet for fans after the show before embarking on their European tour. Don't miss the food trucks or a visit to the Cinema Lounge, serving up free coffee from Dunkin Donuts. The event is free for all.
Saturday, October 18
RISE of the Jack O' Lanterns
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011
(818) 949-4200
Take the whole family to RISE of the Jack O' Lanterns, where you can see more than 5,000 hand-carved Jack O' Lanterns created by professional artists and sculptors displayed throughout a ¼-mile themed scenic trail. Enjoy a re-creation of the New York City Skyline, favorite sports, TV, and movie stars, a giant graveyard made of Jack O'Lanterns, and a pre-historic arrangement of life-sized dinosaurs made entirely out of lit Jack O'Lanterns! Advance tickets and reservations are highly recommended.
Sunday, October 19
RunFEST
Barnard Way and Ocean Park Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA
www.santamonicarunfest.com
Head to Santa Monica for their first ever 2XU Santa Monica RunFEST where runners of all skill levels are invited to participate in family fun and friendly competition with their 5K, 10K, and Retro Run options. Competitive runners can participate in timed courses for award medals while participants in the light-hearted (and untimed) Retro Run are encouraged to celebrate the spirit of their favorite decade with their attire. Proceeds from the event benefit the Monica-Malibu Education Foundation.
Sunday, October 19
"Voices of Light/The Passion of Joan of Arc"
Los Angeles Master Chorale
Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S. Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 972-7282
www.lamc.org
The Los Angeles Master Chorale (LAMC) launches its 51st season with a presentation of "Voices of Light/The Passion of Joan of Arc," led by Artistic Director Grant Gershon. The Walt Disney Concert Hall Premiere of this 1994 original performance, is both inspired by and performed live to the 1928 silent film "The Passion of Joan of Arc," considered by many critics to be one of the top films ever made. The powerful score, written for orchestra, chorus and soloists, provides the perfect backdrop for the film.
