Virtually Out and About: L.A. Museums

Think of it as a virtual staycation. While museums like the Louvre and the Guggenheim welcome interactive, international visitors with tours of their exhibitions, self-isolating Angelinos have plenty of culture, history and science to explore right here – from behind the safety of their screen, of course. Take these five local institutions, for example. They may be shuttered, but thanks to online archives, activities and resources, they’re hardly off-limits to the public.

The Getty

If you were thinking of dropping by the Getty Center or Getty Villa before the lockdown, good news: some of its most popular exhibitions are open to virtual visitors. That includes Michelangelo: Mind of the Master, which examines rare drawings by the artist, ranging from sketches to detailed figure studies. Listen along to a free audio tour as you browse his work. For something fun, in addition to the online archive of art, videos and books, you can download a free coloring book filled with some of the museum’s most iconic artwork.

The Grammy Museum

The doors are closed, but the music plays on. On their website, you can enjoy archived performances by artists ranging from Common to the late Kenny Rogers. Join their album club, which is sort of an interactive book club for music fans, and follow along as founding executive director Bob Santelli discusses such classic albums as Bruce Springsteen’s Born in the U.S.A.

Natural History Museum

For families wanting to hit pause on streaming movies and TV, the Natural History Museum offers the chance to link up with scientists and other students for virtual adventures and crowd-sourced science. It also boasts an impressive video selection. For example, after learning about the animals and plants we share Los Angeles with, you can watch a clip chronicling how scientists uncovered the skull of the prehistoric world’s smallest dinosaur preserved in amber.

California Science Center

For burgeoning young scientists, the California Science Center live streams “Stuck at Home Science” every weekday at 10 a.m. Considering topics include “gross science,” it’s fair to say the goal is to keep children engaged and interested as they learn. Don’t worry about having to leave the house for materials, either. All the projects use common household items.

Museum of Contemporary Art

MOCA offers an entire schedule of interactive activities throughout the week, designed to help the community stay connected. Available on the website as well as across MOCA’s social media channels, these include workshops, classroom curriculum discussions, an Instagram takeover series with a new artist every week, a book club and “Feel Good Friday,” which focuses on meditation and other exercises to relax the mind and reduce stress.

March 19, 2020

Out and About: Virtual Tourism

There’s never been a better time to explore the world. From the Louvre to the Smithsonian to the Guggenheim, the largest museums around the globe are now as close as your screen, thanks to the arrival of virtual tours designed to carry you through their corridors and exhibits. For a population increasingly isolated as current events unfold, this online arena offers a welcome reprieve from confinement and the chance to glimpse cultures, civilizations and works of art that might have otherwise gone ignored. From Manhattan and Paris to London and Sao Paulo, here are 10 museums to seek out – without ever having to step foot in an airport.

British Museum: London

And now for something truly epic, this legendary museum’s interactive virtual tour of the world’s history spans roughly two million years. Along the way, you can explore the religions, conflicts, and triumphs of a multitude of civilizations that have dotted our planet through the ages. Additionally, the museum, which is closed due to the pandemic, allows virtual tourists to wander its halls and discover artifacts including the Rosetta Stone. If that still leaves you unsatisfied, supplement the virtual tours by listening to A History of the World in 100 Objects, a podcast narrated by the museum’s director Neil MacGregor.

Smithsonian Museum of Natural History: Washington, D.C.

Especially for kids, you can’t go wrong with dinosaurs, fossils and mysterious creatures from the depths. So take them along for this virtual tour and embrace the adventure.

The Louvre

The world’s largest art museum, this Paris landmark, located on the Right Bank of the Seine, measures more than 782,000 square feet and displays more than 38,000 artifacts and works from prehistory to the present – all of which can be appreciated from your home now.

African American History and Culture: Washington, D.C.

This museum and its 35,000 artifacts set out to do nothing less than telling the story of America. Although the virtual tour offers only a glimpse of all that the museum has to provide visitors, it’s impressive nonetheless.

Russia’s State Hermitage Museum: St. Petersburg, Russia

This stunning video – remarkably filmed in 4K in one continuous take on an iPhone 11 Pro – spans more than five hours as it carries you through this museum in St. Petersburg, Russia. All told, the tour covers 45 galleries and 588 artistic masterpieces.

Uffizi Gallery, Florence

One of the most prestigious art museums in Italy and the world, the Uffizi Gallery sits adjacent to the Piazza Della Signoria in the Historic Centre of Florence in Tuscany, Italy. Built-in 1560, its treasures include works from the Italian Renaissance, all of which can be explored here.

MASP, Sao Paulo

Considered Brazil’s first modern museum, the Museu de Arte de São Paulo is a non-profit boasting a collection of more than 8,000 works, including sculptures, paintings, and photographs from across continents.

Guggenheim Museum, New York

As renowned for the skylight and spiral staircase at its center as its vast collection of art, now you can explore both, thanks to Google’s Street View feature.

Musée d’Orsay, Paris

Located on the left bank of the Seine, this museum is housed in a former railway station and features mostly French works dating from 1848 to 1914. Take their virtual tour and browse masterpieces from the likes of Monet, Renoir, Seurat and Van Gogh.

National Museum of Anthropology, Mexico City

Focused on Mexico’s pre-Hispanic civilizations and culture, this museum features more than 20 exhibit rooms, complete with Mayan artifacts.

March 12, 2020March 12, 2020

Rodeo in the News: LABJ Ranks 5 Of Our Own Among Top Realtors in Los Angeles County

The Los Angeles Business Journal released its annual list that ranks top agents in the Los Angeles Residential Real Estate Market. Five of Rodeo Realty’s own are featured on the list!

“For the agents who drive L.A.’s residential real estate market, the past year was defined by escalating growth, the rising presence of international buyers and record-breaking prices for luxe estates. The features that follow provide an in-depth look at the market’s key players and top sales as well as detailed data on the city’s leading brokers.” – Los Angeles Business Journal

Check out who is featured, below!

Congratulations to all, well deserved! See the rest of the list, HERE!

March 12, 2020

LA Events: March 13- March 15

From a Broadway sensation to film noir tough guys to the return of The Strokes, there’s a concert, event or conference for you in Los Angeles and the Westside this weekend – whether you’re in the mood for dark, catchy pop or a jazz phenom’s fairy tale.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020

Hamilton

Hollywood Pantages Theatre, 6233 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Lin-Manuel Miranda’s Broadway hit almost immediately entered the pop culture lexicon. If you haven’t seen it, this is your chance to find out why. With hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B and classic Broadway, Miranda tells the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies who became George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and was the new nation’s first Treasury Secretary. For details, go HERE.

VERITE with Arthur Moon

The Roxy Theatre, 9009 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California 90069

VERITE is California native Kelsey Byrne, whose style of catchy but moody pop first turned heads in the blogosphere. In 2017, she released her first full-length album, Somewhere in Between, on her own record label. For details on the show, go HERE.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2020

22nd Annual Los Angeles Festival of Film Noir

The Egyptian Theatre Hollywood, 6712 Hollywood Blvd, Los Angeles, CA

Dedicated to hard-bitten hustlers, sleek gangsters and vexing dames, the longest-running film noir festival in Los Angeles is casting its long shadow at the Egyptian Theatre with another sensational lineup of rare films. On Saturday, March 14, the festival unspools a five-film noir marathon: Out of the Past with Robert Mitchum and Kirk Douglas; The Guilty with Don Castle and Wally Cassel; High Tide with Lee Tracy; The Prowler with Van Heflin and Evelyn Keyes; and Try and Get Me, with Lloyd Bridges. For details, go HERE.

The Strokes

The Forum, 3900 W Manchester Blvd, Inglewood, CA

Indie princes The Strokes return to the City of Angels ahead of their first full-length album in seven years, The New Abnormal. Most recently, the group has been stirring interest with a stream of singles including Ode to the Mets and At the Door. Performing ahead of the group is rising rocker King Princess. For ticket information, go HERE.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2020

Cecile McLorin Salvant

Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Jazz phenom Cecile McLorin Salvant blends bluegrass and jazz in the fairy tale Ogresse, about a human-eating monster who lives in the woods. And like all the best fairy tales, this one, told from the point of view of a young black woman, has a lot to say about the world today. For ticket information, go HERE.

Shordie Shordie

The Roxy Theatre, 9009 Sunset Boulevard, West Hollywood, California 90069

Once considered one of rap’s best-kept secrets, Shordie Shordie now appears on the cusp of big things. With his Baltimore trio Peso Da Mafia, he released projects such as What Matters Most (2017) and Never a Drought (2018). Their 2017 single Money Man became a sensation in their hometown. For details about this show, go HERE.

March 12, 2020March 12, 2020

Valley Eats: Iconic Side Dishes

You order the meal, but what you really came for is the side. It happens. Whether it’s the favorite hangout where the fries are the salty sensations you crave or the pub that serves mac n’ cheese that outpaces the rest of the menu, some side dishes transcend their class status as mere half-considered, disposable pleasures. They become the plates of calorie intake we truly, madly love. Around the Valley, here are a few sides so delicious and unforgettable they will have you coming back – but only for them.

Conejo Valley

Hummus

Hummus Bistro, 587 N Ventu Park Road Suite 587A, Newbury Park, CA 91320

Who says a side can’t be good for you? This Middle Eastern dish is a far healthier option than the other dips or sauces you might turn to. This eatery’s hummus consists of garbanzo beans blended with garlic, lemon juice and tahini sauce, topped with organic extra virgin olive oil. While it’s served with pita bread, remember hummus can be used as a dip for almost anything.

Chili Cheese Fries

Stacked Food Well Built, 446 W Hillcrest Drive, Thousand Oaks, CA

From the image above, can you tell which is the side and which is the main? These fries arrive buried under cheddar and jack cheeses, finished off with house-made beef and pork chili, sour cream and green onions.

Hot Homemade Soup

Chocolatine, 2955 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

This charming French-themed venue offers croissants, croque, quiche, pastries and salads, but the one side that cannot be missed is the home-made soup. Try the tomato and goat cheese or the zucchini-boursin. It’s the perfect way to enjoy a hint of France without leaving California.

San Fernando Valley

Vegan Nachos

SunCafe, 10820 Ventura Boulevard, Studio City, CA 91604

If you’re a vegan, these nachos were engineered for you. If you’re not, you’ll be pleasantly shocked that you can’t tell the difference. Made from Mexican turnip and blue corn chips, they arrive under a blanket of cashew cheese, vegan sour cream, meatless chorizo, jalapenos and a smattering of other veggies. Now that we’ve settled the question of whether vegan nachos can be good, it’s time to ask: are nachos really a side or are they a meal? Discuss.

The Potato

Fresh Potato Factory, 9420 Reseda Boulevard, Northridge, CA, 91324

Whatever your potato preference you will likely find one to your liking at this counter-serve vegetarian spot. Whether mashed or baked (but never fried) or presented as wedges, paninis, burgers or fries, everything on the menu is carved with the potato in mind.

Chili and Cornbread

The David Brothers Chili Parlor, 1145 East Chevy Chase, Glendale, CA 91205

We will sidestep the question of whether chili is really a meal since, whether you’re having the house chili (angus beef, red peppers, onions, kidney beans and cilantro) or the veggie chili (fresh peppers, onions, beans, corn and cilantro), your choice of sides includes a cornbread bowl or a cornbread muffin. In other words, it is both the meal and the side. Don’t forget the toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced onions and jalapenos.

Santa Clarita

Southern Fried Dill Pickles

Lucielle’s Smokehouse Bar-B-Que, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 West Valencia Boulevard, Valencia, CA 91355

Fried pickles first appeared on the culinary scene in the south in the 1960s, which begs the question: what did people do with pickles before that? For dipping, Lucielle’s serves ranch and Creole mustard alongside their Cajun fried pickle spears.

Chips and Guacamole

Rubio’s, 27055 McBean Parkway, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

If you’ve ever ordered a bowl of chips and guac to start and completely spoiled your meal, you know that sometimes the guac was all you really needed. This beach-themed eatery makes their guacamole fresh daily with Hass avocados, natural sea salt, garlic and lime juice.

Gyromania Fries

Gyromania, 20655 Soledad Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA 91351

For evidence of the versatility of the fry, look no further than this Greek-inspired side – although it certainly looks like meal enough – which offers your choice of meat, buried under crumbled feta cheese and oregano flakes and served with tzatziki sauce. Opa!

March 12, 2020March 13, 2020

Valley Events: March 13 – March 15

Conejo Valley

Travel back in time to the reign of the original rock stars, catch up with an original Jersey Boy or spend time dueling the Red Baron. Whether you’re in the mood for comedy or music, there is plenty of entertainment to check out this weekend in the Conejo Valley.

FRIDAY, MARCH 13, 2020

Frankie Valli and the Four Seasons

Fred Kavli Theater, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Frankie Valli was the original Jersey Boy. Decades before the smash Broadway musical, Valli was the lead singer of the Four Seasons in 1962. Their journey formed the basis of the show, which now ranks as the 12th longest-running production in Broadway history. The Four Seasons were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 1990. For tickets, go HERE.

SATURDAY, MARCH 14, 2020

Rockin the Legends

Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Academy Awards musical director Michael Anthony Perna takes audiences through the rock of ages, chronicling modern rock from the early classical composers through the blues – then into the modern era from Ray Charles to Led Zeppelin. With a live band, the show tours the lives and legends of performers including The Beatles, Chuck Berry, Stevie Wonder, Billy Joel, John Lennon and Elton John. For more information, go HERE.

Jim Jefferies

Fred Kavli Theater, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Jim Jefferies first got noticed by American audiences with his debut HBO special I Swear to God. Since then he’s established himself as one of the most popular comics working today – from his FX sitcom Legit to his late-night talk show The Jim Jefferies Show on Comedy Central. This latest tour was announced shortly after his fifth stand-up comedy special Freedumb debuted last summer on Netflix. For details about the show, go HERE.

SUNDAY, MARCH 15, 2020

Karla Bonoff

Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Singer-songwriter Karla Bonoff’s career spans four decades, during which time she’s written hits for Bonnie Raitt (Home), Wynonna Judd (Tell Me Why) and Linda Ronstadt, who recorded a number of Bonoff’s songs including Someone To Lay Down Beside Me and Lose Again for the 1976 album Hasten Down the Wind as well as the 1989 duet All My Life. For tickets, go HERE.

You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown

The Actors’ Repertory Theatre of Simi adapts Clark Gesner’s classic musical, You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown, adapted from Charles Schulz’s legendary comic strip. All your favorites are here – from Lucy and Linus to Snoopy and Charlie Brown, who, in fine form, spends the show veering from defeat to indomitable hope. For more details, go HERE.

San Fernando Valley

From a rising singer-songwriter to a pair of Hollywood comedy veterans – they’re all part of what’s going on this weekend in the San Fernando Valley.

Friday, March 13, 2020

Best in Show 20th Anniversary

Studio Movie Grill, 128 Artsakh Avenue, Glendale, CA 91206

The Shore to Shore Film Festival kicks off with a screening of Christopher Guest comedy Best in Show on its 20th anniversary. After the movie, stay for the Q and A with actors Jim Piddock and John Michael Higgins. If you arrive early, you can drop by the happy hour mixer at the bar. A portion of ticket sales will go to Dog Cafe LA, who will be on hand from 5 p.m. to 6:45 p.m. with some of the dogs up for adoption at the rescue organization. For details, go HERE.

Saturday, March 14, 2020

Kendra and the Bunnies

Room 41, 4105 W Burbank Blvd, Burbank, CA 91505

“Kendra & the Bunnies” is actually singer, songwriter, poet, and author Kendra Muecke, whose first album, Of Vinyl, debuted last July. Her sound fuses singing, spoken word, guitar, percussion, medicine drum, and electronic samples. For more information, go HERE.

Dana Gould

Flappers Comedy Club Burbank – Main Room, 102 East Magnolia Burbank, CA 91502

A prolific comic, actor and writer, Dana Gould’s credits include The Late Show with David Letterman, Conan, Maron, Seinfeld and Parks, and Recreation. He even played a live-action version of himself on Family Guy. Behind the scenes, he has written for The Simpsons and The Ben Stiller Show, as well as created the series Stan Against Evil. You may also have come across his monthly podcast, The Dana Gould Hour. For tickets, go HERE.

Sunday, March 15, 2020

Jeremy Piven

Flappers Comedy Club Burbank, 102 East Magnolia Burbank, CA 91502

Long before he nabbed what would become his signature, Emmy-winning role as uber-agent Ari Gold on HBO’s Entourage, Jeremy Piven had carved out a career for himself as a character actor known for such films as Grosse Pointe Blank and Family Man. Post-Ari, he followed Entourage with the critically acclaimed series Mr. Selfridge and then the CBS drama Wisdom of the Crowd. For information about his show, go HERE.

Atomic Roots Orchestra

1901 W Burbank Boulevard, Burbank, CA

Hosted at the Burbank Moose Lodge, go swing dancing with the Atomic Roots Orchestra. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and there is a free dance lesson at 7 p.m. For details, go HERE.

Santa Clarita

Nancy Drew is without a clue and a pair of very different acts promise to transport audiences back to the 1980s. All this and more can be found going on this weekend in Santa Clarita.

Friday, March 13, 2020

The Dickies and D.I.

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Boulevard No. 1351, Santa Clarita, CA

From 1979’s Banana Splits to (I’m Stuck in a Pagoda with) Tricia Toyota, California punk pioneers The Dickies always infused their Los Angeles lifestyle into their lyrics. Toyota, for example, was about a local TV news personality. D.I. formed in 1983 in Fullerton in the wake of The Adolescents and Social Distortion. For information on this double-bill, go HERE.

Saturday, March 14, 2020

FNR

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 1351, Santa Clarita, CA. 9135

If you want to know what love is or simply feel cold as ice or you’re into playing head games, FNR is the tribute band for you. Promising more than a simple rock show, they intend on transporting audiences to a time when Foreigner was at the peak of its popularity in the 1980s. For details and how to get tickets, go HERE.

NANCY WHO? The Girl Detective Without a Clue!

The MAIN, 24266 Main Street, Santa Clarita, CA

For all the attempts by film and TV adaptations to modernize her, Nancy Drew is still best enjoyed as a period piece, befitting her origins. And sure enough, that is exactly what Crowsnest Productions has done with Nancy Who? The Girl Detective Without A Clue! by Mary Main. Set in the 1930s, it follows Nancy as she tries to – what else? – solve a crime. For information, go HERE.

Sunday, March 15, 2020

40 Oz to Freedom

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, Westfield Valencia Town Center, 24201 Valencia Boulevard, Suite 1351, Santa Clarita, CA 91355

Taking its name from the debut album by rock supergroup Sublime (responsible for, among other singles, the Billboard hit What I Got), 40oz to Freedom has emerged as a tribute band with a worldwide fanbase. To see their mix of ska, reggae and punk, go HERE.

A Historic Evening with Anne Frank’s Stepsister: Mrs. Eva Schloss

College of the Canyons, 26455 Rockwell Canyon Road, Santa Clarita, CA

When she was eight years old, Eva Schloss became friends with Anne Frank. In July of 1942, both of their families went into hiding before being captured and sent to Auschwitz-Birkenau death camp. Eva survived. This is the story of Anne Frank as told by Eva, who will be making her only appearance in L.A. County here. For more information, go HERE.

March 11, 2020

Out & About: Carpinteria

When a town calls itself the “home of the world’s safest beach,” you expect it to be laidback. And yes, Carpinteria – even the name soothes – offers no shortage of calm waters and peaceful strides along sandy shores. But the town, roughly 12 miles southeast of Santa Barbara, is also home to much more – from the Santa Barbara Polo Club to the seals and sea lions found nearby Carpinteria Bluffs. And if you have always wanted to know what the world’s largest vat of guacamole looks like, the California Avocado Festival happens every October. If waiting until autumn for guacamole isn’t for you, here are some other suggestions for how to spend a day or weekend exploring the sights and surf of Carpinteria. Safety is almost certainly guaranteed.

MORNING

Carpinteria State Beach

Although an ideal spot for camping and swimming, the real draw of this mile-long state beach is the seafaring animals who call it home. In addition to the sea lions and seals – and possibly a passing whale – there are tidepools filled with starfish, crabs, snails, octopi and sea urchins, among others. One note if you’re thinking about tagging along with a four-legged friend: dogs are not allowed on the beach, but they are permitted in the picnic area.

Carpinteria Bluffs Nature Preserve and Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary

While spotting birds and other wildlife, follow the hiking trails to the open park space with its stunning views north to the Santa Ynez Mountains and south to the Channel Islands. From here, you can look down on the Carpinteria Seal Sanctuary, the habitat for almost 100 adult seals who birth their pups on the shoreline. The sanctuary is a protected space and off-limits to people. But from above, you can quietly observe. Remember to bring binoculars.

Tar Pits Beach

Less than a mile from the seal sanctuary, you can find this aptly-named slice of shoreline. Once mined for the asphalt that drains out from a natural lake, this area of Carpinteria State Beach has been transformed into a destination for both hikers and surfers.

Shop in downtown Carpinteria

After a morning wandering through nature, why not spend time exploring Linden Avenue, the shopping hub of downtown Carpinteria? Only a few blocks from the state beach, it’s lined with century-old palm trees and vintage shops. One tourist stop is Robitaille’s Candies, famed for its Presidential Mints (because they have been favorites of past American presidents). It also offers the opportunity to watch the candy makers at work thanks to a glassed-in kitchen.

AFTERNOON

Stop for a Bite

If you feel like having lunch after a morning spent hiking and shopping, Linden Avenue has plenty of options, including this 50-year-old hamburger stand. The Spot does serve a range of menu options – from a shrimp burrito to clam chowder – but really, it’s about the classic, no-frills burger, as simple as beef, cheese, lettuce, tomato, pickle, and Thousand Island dressing.

Carpinteria Valley Museum of History

For those interested in more than what Carpinteria looks like now, this historical museum offers a detailed gaze into its past. Exhibits deal the three significant cultures that have called the area home over the centuries: the Chumash Indians, the Mexican and Spanish settlers, and the immigrant and American pioneers. Exhibits are open every afternoon Tuesdays through Saturdays.

Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club

Located on Foothill Road in Carpinteria, the Santa Barbara Polo and Racquet Club has been described as the town’s best-kept secret. Starting in April and running through December, the public is invited to attend the polo game that happens every Sunday afternoon. You don’t have to be a club member. On Fridays, spectators can partake in Happy Hour in the grandstands.

Whale Watching

Nearly 30 different species of whales and dolphins travel through the Santa Barbara Channel every year, meaning there is never a bad time to go spotting one of these gentle marine giants. Long-running area tour companies include The Condor Express which carries as many as 120 passengers on its catamaran, and Sunset Kidd, which takes visitors sailing on a 41-foot yacht.

Summerland Winery

It wouldn’t be a California sojourn without wine tasting. And Carpinteria and the surrounding area do not disappoint. Located in the seaside town that bears its name, Summerland Winery provides a tasting room where you can sample its Central Coast collection. For dog lovers, the winery encourages you to bring your furry companion along to join the pack.

EVENING

Little Dom’s Seafood

Carpinteria isn’t as far from Los Feliz as you might think. Warner Ebbink and chef Brandon Boudet, who own and run Little Dom’s in Los Angeles, opened Little Dom’s Seafood in Carpinteria earlier this year. As you’d expect, the menu offers Italian seafood along with the coastal culinary vibe that comes with being this close to the Pacific.

The Alcazar Theatre

While it maintains its movie house façade, the Alcazar Theatre, which opened in 1928, has emerged as much more than a venue for films (although there are those – from current releases to such Hollywood classics as Singing in the Rain). A center of performing arts for Carpinteria, also stages concerts, live comedy, and live theatre, depending on the day or evening.

March 5, 2020March 5, 2020

Valley Weekend Events: March 6 – 8

Conejo Valley

Travel to the chomping, stomping land before time, take in some sleight of hand or settle in for Springtime for Hitler. Whether you’re in the mood for classical music or a trip back in time to the Civil War, there’s no shortage of entertainment and events this weekend in the Conejo Valley.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Dinosaur World Live

Fred Kavli Theater, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

While you wait for the next Jurassic Park sequel – or for scientists to actually breed dinosaurs – this interactive live show should more than satisfy your appetite for prehistoric lizards. Among the beasts audiences of this all-ages show will have the chance to get up and close with: the Triceratops, the Giraffatitan, the Microraptor, the Segnosaurus and, of course, the Tyrannosaurus Rex. For more details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

The Producers

Conejo Players Theatre, 351 S Moorpark Road, Thousand Oaks, CA

The Conejo Players Theatre raises the curtain on The Producers, the Oscar-winning, Mel Brooks comedy about a broke, shady Broadway producer and his meek accountant who conspire to stage the biggest flop of all time – in the hopes of conning the show’s investors out of millions. The crux of their plan? A musical called Springtime for Hitler. For details, go HERE.

Eric Buss: Shenanigans

Scherr Forum Theatre, Thousand Oaks Bank of America Performing Arts Center, 2100 E. Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Expect to be dazzled and delighted at this new show starring award-winning comedian and magician, Eric Buss, award-winning magician Stuart McDonald, Michael Rayner and vinyl spinster, DJ Nel. It promises surprises beyond simply making you marvel: how did they do that? For details, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Civil War Days

137 Strathearn Place, Simi Valley, CA

Saturday and Sunday with costumed civilians as well as soldiers relating tales from the conflict. Highlights will include President Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address and the re-enactment of the surrender at Appomattox. Learn about everything going on HERE.

Thousand Oaks Philharmonic Gala

The Gardens at Los Robles, 299 S Moorpark Rd, Thousand Oaks, CA

Internationally-acclaimed pianist Peter Klimo’s recital is the centerpiece of this evening devoted to benefiting the young musicians of Ventura County. In addition to the performance, there will be cocktails and a gourmet dinner. For more information, go HERE.

San Fernando Valley

Dancing queens, comedians and esports players – they’re all on tap this weekend in the San Fernando Valley.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Friday Night at The Bunker

2200 W Burbank Boulevard, Suite B, Burbank, CA

Start the weekend off with laughter at this speakeasy setting featuring Gaina Rivina, Brooks Wheelan, who has been called a name to watch by the London Times, and Chase Bernstein, who has performed on A Little Late With Lilly Singh as well as written for shows on Netflix. The venue is BYOB. For tickets and details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

Brad Williams

Flappers Comedy Club and Restaurant, 102 E Magnolia Boulevard, Burbank, CA

After two highly-rated comedy specials on Showcase and appearances on Jimmy Kimmel Live, the Tonight Show and Comedy Underground, Brad Williams has emerged as one of the most in-demand comics working today. In addition to his own podcast with Adam Ray, Williams has contributed to Adam Carolla’s podcast, The Adam Carolla Show. For details, go HERE.

From Keyboards to Dollars

Motion Picture and Television Fund, 23388 Mulholland Drive, Woodland Hills, CA

Getting published is one thing. Getting paid is something else altogether. Literary agent and attorney Paul S. Levine, writer of How Authors Go from Fingers to Keyboard to Dollars in Their Bank Accounts: Four Ways Book Authors Make Money from Publishers, promises to have plenty of advice for writers at this event, presented by the San Fernando Valley Chapter of the California Writers Club. For more information, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Blizzard Arena Esports Competitions

3000 W Alameda Avenue, Burbank, CA

The world’s top esports players are set to clash in such arenas as Overwatch, Starcraft II and Call of Duty. Along with the on-screen battles, attendees can expect free guest wi-fi and plenty of swag. For gamers and esports enthusiasts, this is ground zero. Get the details HERE.

ABBA Mania 2020

El Portal Theater, 5267 Lankershim Boulevard, North Hollywood, CA

Mamma Mia! It’s not much of a chance you’re taking on them. Abba Mania! returns you to the heyday of the Swedish supergroup beloved for such other hits as Dancing Queen and Winner Takes All. The U.S. cast of this show is comprised of performers from the U.S. and Australia who recreate the group’s last concert in 1979. For all the details, go HERE.

Santa Clarita Valley

Michael Bolton can’t live without his symphony and a pair of acts pay tribute to two of the most popular acts in modern music history. All this and more can be found going on this weekend in Santa Clarita.

Friday – March 6, 2020

Michael Bolton: The Symphony Sessions

Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Boulevard, Beverly Hills, CA

The Grammy winner brings his hits to the Saban Theatre, complete with a symphony orchestra. That shouldn’t be a surprise, considering his latest album collected and arranged such favorites as How Am I Supposed to Live Without You with a full orchestra. For details, go HERE.

Saturday – March 7, 2020

Eagles Tribute by The Long Run

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Boulevard No.1351, Santa Clarita, CA

For nearly two decades, The Long Run – Experience the Eagles has been one of the top tribute acts in North America. What better place to see them than the Hotel California itself? For tickets and information, go HERE.

Trace Adkins

The Forum, Santa Clarita, Santa Clarita, CA

Country star Trace Adkins, who has charted more than 20 singles on the Billboard country music charts, brings his distinctive voice and his decades of hits to the Forum in Santa Clarita. In addition to his music career, he was a finalist in 2008 on The All Star Celebrity Apprentice. He won the reality-TV competition in 2013. For tickets and details, go HERE.

Sunday – March 8, 2020

Santa Clarita Comic and Toy Expo 2020

College of the Canyons, E Road, Santa Clarita, CA

This one-day event will feature a variety of exhibitors from the comics and toys realm. Locally-owned comic shop Kimzar Kollectables is sponsoring the event, which will let enthusiasts interact with industry professionals as well as other liked-minded fans. For details, go HERE.

George Strait Tribute by The Troubadour Experience

The Canyon – Santa Clarita, 24201 Valencia Boulevard, No. 1351, Santa Clarita, CA

The Troubadour Experience bills itself as the greatest George Strait tribute band, promising all the hits of the “King of County,” who has sold more than 100 million records worldwide. For tickets and information, go HERE.

March 4, 2020March 4, 2020

LA Weekend Events: March 6 – March 8

From a punk legend and a rising county music star to a gospel queen and the Los Angeles Philharmonic, there’s a concert, event or conference for you in Los Angeles and the Westside this weekend – whether you’re in the mood to rock out or simply relax with some wine and a paintbrush.

Friday, March 6, 2020

Patti Smith

Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Iconic punk, poet and rock pioneer, Patti Smith, has been celebrated as one of music’s most distinctive and influential voices since her debut album, Horses, in 1975. An accomplished author, visual artist, and photographer, she remains a vital voice, echoing the title of her 1988 protest anthem “People Have the Power.” For details on how to see her live, go HERE.

Jordan Davis

El Rey Theater, 5515 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA

Jordan Davis was hailed as Billboard’s Top New Country Artist of 2018, confirming his status as one of country music’s rising stars. His debut album Home State was streamed more than 800 million times worldwide and featured such hits as Slow Dance in A Parking Lot, Singles You Up and Take It From Me. For tickets and information about his L.A. performance, go HERE.

Saturday, March 7, 2020

Paint Mingle Drink

Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S Figueroa Street, Los Angeles, CA

If you’ve always wanted to paint, but never picked up a brush, Paint Mingle Drink hands you all the materials to express yourself. No prior experience needed – only the desire to try. Each painter receives a canvas, paints and brushes. And all Paint Mingle Drink events offer a cash bar. You can find details and ticket information HERE.

Blake Shelton

The Forum, 3900 W Manchester Boulevard, Inglewood, CA

The country music superstar and long-running coach on The Voice brings his Friends and Heroes 2020 tour to The Forum with special guest Lauren Alaina. Expect appearances as well by Trace Adkins, John Anderson and the Bellamy Brothers. For tickets, go HERE.

Sunday, March 8, 2020

Yolanda Adams with Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil

Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA

Described as the “Queen of Contemporary Gospel Music,” Yolanda Adams joins Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil to celebrate how the church supports young aspiring artists – whether by supporting social justice causes or by simply providing hope. Find details HERE.

UC Women’s Leadership Conference 2020

UCLA Ackerman Union, 308 Westwood Plaza, Los Angeles, CA

This conference originated with a group of student leaders at UCLA who sought to create a network of UC students, alumni and community members. Last year, the first annual UC Womxn’s Leadership Conference attracted more than 300 students from across all UC campuses, hosting more than 75 speakers, including Kleo Wade and Amy Ziering. For more information about the event, go HERE.

February 27, 2020February 28, 2020

Valley Weekend Events: February 29 – March 1

Conejo

Travel to Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, listen to a symphony of dreams or explore our changing world with award-winning filmmaker Andy Mann. Whether you’re in the mood for the classics or a hike into nature, there’s plenty going on this weekend in the Conejo Valley.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2020

Nat Geo Live – Andy Mann: From Summit to Sea

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Fred Kavli Theater, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Award-winning photographer and filmmaker Andy Mann has documented our planet for more than a decade. A diver, arctic explorer and rock climber, Mann’s captivating images of our world and its wildlife as they experience rapid, disturbing upheavals have amassed him a following of more than 400,000 on Instagram. For ticket information, go HERE.

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29, 2020

New West Symphony presents: Dreams

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA 91362

Dreams is part of a two-concert series remembering the Holocaust, showcasing music that acted as a beacon of hope during one of humanity’s darkest periods. Originally written for a children’s opera competition in 1938, Brundibár (Czech for “bumblebee”) was composed by Hans Krása in a concentration camp. The program also features Felix Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream. For more details, go HERE.

STEAM Expo

Santa Susana High School, 3570 Cochran Street, Simi Valley, CA

STEAM stands for “Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics” – all of which are ready to be explored at this fifth annual event. Expect more than 40 booths, which this year also includes a health fair. The event runs 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For details, go HERE.

SUNDAY, MARCH 1, 2020

Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live!

Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, Fred Kavli Theater, 2100 Thousand Oaks Boulevard, Thousand Oaks, CA

Starring Daniel Tiger, O the Owl, Miss Elaina, Katerina Kittycat and Prince Wednesday, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood Live: Neighbor Day carries audience members of all ages along on an interactive journey to the Neighborhood of Make-Believe in this live production. Expect new songs as well as favorites from the animated series, which was inspired by Mister Rogers Neighborhood. For ticket information, go HERE.

Sunday Hike in Malibu

The Ranch at Solstice Canyon, 26025 Pacific Coast Highway, Malibu, CA

Pack a power bar and head for the hills. For professionals seeking a retreat from their urban lifestyle – if only for a few hours – this could prove a welcome escape to nature. This hike is led by fitness pros, so along with a little exercise, you might also pick up a tip or two for improved health and nutrition. For details, go HERE.

San Fernando Valley

Celebrate the life and legacy of Billie Holiday, take a little off the top for a good cause or check out a taping with Roseanne’s former sitcom family. Whether you’re in the mood for laughter or a new stage production, there’s plenty going on this weekend in the San Fernando Valley.