LOS ANGELES
DOWNTOWN
NEWS
Life With Derby Dolls
22
Redistricting twists, restaurant action, and more happenings Around Town.
6
The Regional Connector hits some serious Financial District hurdles.
W W W. D O W N T O W N N E W S . C O M
March 5, 2012
Volume 41, Number 10
2
Gary Leonard, he takes pictures.
photo by Rachel Papo
D E K C A AP
INSIDE
A Rundown of the Season’s Arts & Entertainment Highlights, Pages 7-21
photo by Paul Kolnik
photo by Danny Clinch
E L U D E H C S
2
Urban Scrawl on L.A.’s mayor.
5
Side effects of a transit plan.
photo by Fred Debrock
Meet the L.A. Chamber’s new chair.
photo courtesy of AEG
4
Spring highlights include (clockwise from top) Ronald K. Brown’s Evidence, A Dance Company, Bruce Springsteen, who plays two shows at the Sports Arena, Dutch ensemble Wunderbaum, Mana, which lands at Staples Center, and the Green Day musical American Idiot.
6
Wal-Mart Announcement Draws Mixed Reaction
L.A. Opera’s virginal spin.
While Some Cheer Plan for Grocery Store Near Chinatown, Others Decry Company’s Business Practices
15
17 CALENDAR LISTINGS 25 MAP 26 CLASSIFIEDS
by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
T
o some Downtown stakeholders, the announcement that Wal-Mart will open a grocery store in a 33,000-square-foot space near Chinatown is just what they hoped to hear. Supporters instantly cheered the news that had been the source of months of rumors. “This is a wonderful development for Chinatown,” said one of those supporters,
George Yu, executive director of the Los Angeles Chinatown Business Council. “This space has been available for years and needs to be activated.” However, it seems that for every person excited about the project at 701 W. Cesar Chavez Ave., just east of the Orsini apartment complex, there is someone opposed. Wal-Mart has long been criticized by unions for its labor practices. Additionally, many have complained that the Bentonville, Arkansas-based company’s massive
stores allow it to offer low prices that competitors can’t match. The result, critics contend, is that nearby mom-and-pop shops are often forced out of business. The announcement of the first Wal-Mart grocery store in Los Angeles County drew instant opposition from the Downtown-based Los Angeles Alliance for a New Economy. Members of the group said they “are preparing for a major battle.” “We’re concerned about the quality of the jobs they’re bringing to this location and its impact on small business, since the majority nearby are local, family-owned businesses,” said Aiha Nguyen, senior research policy analyst for LAANE. Nguyen said LAANE is currently unclear what form the battle will take — the situation is proceeding rapidly, as Wal-Mart only publicly revealed its intentions on Feb. 24. However, she said members of the organization are spreading the word about Wal-Mart’s plans to come Downtown, and they are meeting with other community groups. see Wal-Mart, page 24
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2 Downtown News
AROUNDTOWN Redistricting Process on Fast Forward
T
he controversial city redistricting process will continue this week at a fevered pace. Although the City Council is not required to adopt final maps until June 30, Council President Herb Wesson last week released a schedule that would finalize the boundaries by March 16. The city Redistricting Commission has proposed shifting current borders so Councilman José Huziar’s 14th District takes over all of Downtown, except for L.A. Live and Staples Center, which would remain in Councilwoman Jan Perry’s Ninth District. Perry has joined a chorus of citywide critics who charge that the new borders reflect political interests more than the publicly stated community desires. Huizar, who supports the new borders, has countered that the maps would unify Downtown in a single council district, satisfying a common demand among Central City stakeholders. There are three public hearings this week to consider the maps, including a March 7 meeting at City Hall at 4 p.m. Council members have until March 8 to submit proposed variations. Wesson’s schedule calls for the council’s Rules Committee, which he chairs, to consider the final map on March 16, and for the full council to vote on the plan the same day.
J Lounge Closes
J
Restaurant & Lounge, the South Park venue known for its 10,000-square-foot patio, has closed. A Feb. 23 post on the venue’s Facebook page announced the news but gave no reason why the establishment at 1119 S.
March 5, 2012
Twitter/DowntownNews TAKE MY PICTURE GARY LEONARD
Olive St. was shutting its doors. A call to restaurant officials was not returned. “It is with deep gratitude that we inform you after over 5 inspiring years of business, we are closing our doors,” the post read. The 25,000-square-foot restaurant and bar opened in September 2006 in the former site of Little J’s restaurant, a celebrity hangout for three decades before closing in 2004.
When Vodka Met Sliders
L
ess than a year after opening at 221 W. Seventh St., Silo Vodka Bar is expanding its space and menu. A March 6 grand opening and ribbon cutting is scheduled for the new Silo Slider Bar. It is next to the vodka bar in a space that once housed Flames Mediterranean Grill. The 1,000-square-foot space will focus on serving the vodka bar’s most popular food item, said Silo co-owner Boris Mayzels. The spaces are connected through a common outdoor patio, though inside they will remain separate due to liquor license regulations. Silo Slider Bar will serve 16 types of sliders, including pulled pork, grass fed bison and vegetarian options.
ULI Convention Lands Downtown
R
eal estate professionals, urban planners and other experts will arrive in Downtown on Wednesday, March 7, for the Urban Land Institute Los Angeles’ annual Urban Marketplace, a conference which features numerous roundtable discussions. The event includes a series of talks on development strategies in low-income and dis-
Why does this little burger stand attract over a million people a year?
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13th Birthday
tressed neighborhoods. The confab is at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion from 7:30 a.m.12:30 p.m. On the agenda this year are topics such as transit-oriented development and how to create projects without the help of the shuttered community redevelopment agencies. Other subjects include how to use public/private financing, as well as a discussion titled “Downtown L.A.-The Tipping Point Is Reached.” The event is at 135 N. Grand Ave. Registration at uli-la.org.
El Pueblo Mural to Be Run by Siqueiros Group
T
he board of commissions of the El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument recently approved starting negotiations for the management of a facility tied to the soon-to-be-revealed David
February 29, 2012
Alfaro Siqueiros mural “América Tropical.” On Feb. 23, the panel voted 5-0 to begin talks with the nonprofit group Amigos de Siqueiros. The organization, founded in 2008, hopes to oversee the 18-by-80-foot mural and a nearby interpretive center. The city and the J. Paul Getty Trust put up the funds for a $10 million project to conserve the artwork and create a viewing platform and nearby museum facility. The Getty is handling the work and will turn it over to the city. City officials estimate it will cost at least $100,000 a year to maintain the project. Amigos officials so far have raised less than $50,000 for the effort, a figure that has raised some concern among El Pueblo commissioners. The mural, painted in 1932 on a second-story wall of the Italian Hall, depicts a Mexican Indian crucified on a cross under an American eagle. The project is expected to open this year.
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EDITORIALS Slow Down on Redistricting, Herb Wesson
Urban Scrawl by Doug Davis
T
he rampant ugliness and poorly considered moves in the City Council Redistricting process just don’t stop. The latest shenanigans flow directly from Council President Herb Wesson, who in the past few months has demonstrated a propensity for punishing enemies and rewarding friends simply because he can. His latest move is additional evidence that he cares much more about political power than he does the good of constituents. Last week Wesson revealed his plan to slam shut the conversation about redistricting by March 16. This speeds up a process that previously was not expected to culminate until June 30. For the good of the city, Wesson needs to slow down and back off this artificial deadline. Changing the boundaries of the 15 council districts is too important to ram through, and the stakes for some of the city’s most impoverished communities are too high. Los Angeles won’t suffer if the suits around the horseshoe take a few more weeks or even months to have additional in-depth conversations and listen to the people. Wesson may not want to hear any complaints, but he should think about more than himself and his friends. As this page said a few weeks ago, the City Council redistricting process stinks for numerous reasons. It starts with the system of picking those who draw the new boundaries — elected officials appoint members to a panel, meaning the office holders who stand to gain or lose valuable territory have too much influence on the happenings (making matters worse, a former Wesson deputy helmed the commission). The appointees know to fall in line or suffer dismissal or forced resignation, and possible later repercussions. Last week this page laid out reasons why the maps in Downtown Los Angeles are not in the best interest of the city. Although they do something the community wants by nearly uniting the Central City (in this case in the 14th District), the boundaries leave the Eighth and Ninth districts largely impoverished and without economic engines that their elected representatives could leverage to ensure greater community gains. Officially, the power only shifted to the council March 1. The next few months is the time that elected representatives should have to discuss the boundaries in a transparent manner. It seems a vital part of the democratic process, especially for an issue so many people in so many communities care about. Wesson’s schedule does not allow for this. He has arranged for three public meetings on March 5-7, where constituents can presumably speak up, and council members are required to submit their proposed revisions by March 8. With the council in recess March 12-13, there will be only one public chance for all 15 members to discuss the borders and their ramifications. That’s March 16. In a letter to the City Clerk, Wesson states that the strict timeline is necessary so that the City Attorney and the Bureau of Engineering can have time to prepare documents and ordinances. That reasoning is laughable. It’s a power play pure and simple, and is probably being orchestrated so that council members opposed to the proposed maps, in particular Jan Perry and Bernard Parks, don’t have time to marshal opposition or file well-considered lawsuits (though legal challenges could come later, including from members of an incensed Korean-American community). People can easily see through Wesson’s power game. He needs to slow down the process. Give the elected officials more time to discuss the matter. Give angry citizens the opportunity to reach their representatives and make their voices heard. We lose nothing, and gain much, by pushing back this silly, insulting deadline.
Back to a Fairly Healthy Market
T
his is an interesting time in the Downtown Los Angeles development and real estate market. For years the community, like the nation, suffered in the wake of the housing bubble and the ensuing recession. Although there were some positives, particularly in the form of the restaurant and nightlife sector, the local residential and office realms slowed to a crawl. Now we are witnessing a strong return, and the area is much improved over a few years ago. Although some weak points remain, in particular the office market, the overall community is fairly healthy. There have been signs of an impending turnaround for about a year-and-a-half, but only in the past few months has it become clear that the Central City is again a viable place for certain kinds of large investment and construction. Right now, people are starting projects and making big money bets on the future of Downtown. This does not mean that the investment atmosphere is similar to what existed in, say, 2006, before the downturn. With hindsight, while that time in Downtown was exciting, it was also often foolish. People without experience or clear financing plans were acquiring land and announcing projects. Although some worthy developments were stalled or killed by the economy, there were also many efforts that did not deserve to go forward. Now there is renewed confidence in Downtown, and it is more tempered and more reasonable than a few years ago. That’s a good thing. It’s better to have fewer projects that will actually make it to market than to have a surfeit of never-to-materialize developments. The clearest indicator of the turnaround came in our recent Downtown Development issue, which gave the latest information on 70 projects. While not all of them will reach the finish line, many developments that have started recently, or opened in the past few months, will serve as catalysts for additional housing, restaurants, bars, service businesses and other types of construction. For example, Eli Broad’s $100 million Bunker Hill art museum, the 300,000-square foot Chinatown Gateway, and One Santa Fe, which will create more than 400 apartments across from the Southern California Institute of Architecture in the
Arts District, will all propel additional activity. No matter what happens with the proposed Farmers Field, these economic engines mean more people and more money will come to those areas. Then there are the projects that function as parts of a larger whole. In recent months, several developments were announced for Broadway: The coming Ace Hotel in the United Artists Theatre, Downtown’s first Ross Dress for Less and the Sparkle Factory, a jewelry manufacturing headquarters in a long-vacant building, will all dovetail with previous restaurant, retail and housing projects on the street. Downtown is also seeing more retailers willing to take a stake in the community. National chain stores, which proceed very cautiously when considering emerging markets, are now following the independent shops that have been here for years. There is the aforementioned Ross, and Target continues to be on track to open its first Downtown location this fall. As Downtown News reports this week, Wal-Mart is also coming to the community for the first time. Then there are projects that follow the area’s long role as a hub for employment. The aged Hall of Justice is being transformed and is expected to open in 2014. In January, plans for a new Federal Courthouse at First Street and Broadway were revived — the project finally has money and support in Washington, D.C. Downtown still has some problem spots. The Brockman Building on Seventh Street continues to sit empty, even as Bottega Louie thrives on its ground floor. Apex, the South Park apartment complex built and then lost in the recession by Sonny Astani, also sits completed but without residents (though the new owner has said it will come online this spring). There is also the still soft office market. Vacancy rates in the Class A skyscrapers on Bunker Hill and in the Financial District are far too high to justify new construction. It’s impossible to tell when that will change. It would be foolish to expect everything to be perfect. What is clear, however, is that projects are opening and the once frozen lending markets are thawing. The Downtown real estate scene has exhibited a very strong recovery, and if the players are wiser, more experienced and more cautious than before, then that’s to the community’s advantage.
March 5, 2012
Downtown News 5
DowntownNews.com
A Chip Off the Old Block Karen Hathaway Becomes Chair of the L.A. Area Chamber, 124 Years After an Ancestor Helped Start the Business Group by Ryan Vaillancourt staff writer
I
n 1888, Frank Clarkson Garbutt cofounded the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. One hundred twentyfour years later, his great great granddaughter has become chair of the business group’s board of directors. Karen Hathaway, who is president and managing partner of the company that owns the Los Angeles Athletic Club, assumed the chamber post in January. She is no stranger to business advocacy: She chaired the Central City Association in the 1990s. Hathaway, who has been involved with the chamber for eight years, spoke with Los Angeles Downtown News about the personal ties and making Los Angeles more business friendly. Los Angeles Downtown News: What is your essential responsibility as chairman of the board? Karen Hathaway: We have a very proficient staff that does all of the day-to-day activities and makes sure that the chamber’s essential functions are running smoothly. The volunteer board and chair are responsible for setting policy, doing some problem solving and representing the views of the community, the business community in particular. The chair needs to think about strategy and in all honesty needs to really be prepared to be a spokesperson for the organization in conjunction with the president, Gary Toebben. Q: Why did you want this role?
A: I think I grew into it in effect. I’ve been very involved in the organization. I was familiar with a number of its initiatives and interested in helping the organization be present in the community. I never set out to become the chair. I think it’s just a natural evolution. Q: You’re continuing a family legacy at the chamber. Is that personal connection important to you? A: At the first meeting in 1888, my great great grandfather was elected chairman of the Streets and Boulevards Committee. It was a fact that was lost in family history until about five years ago when I wrote a book on his life, because I realized that he was the man who brought my family to Los Angeles. It is a coincidence that I should play an important role in the organization, but it’s kind of a beautiful irony and something that I’m proud of. Q: What are some of the chamber’s top priorities this year? A: When you’re in a region as large as ours, nothing gets done fast, but things can make an impact. One of the things that I am really excited about is that the chamber was named last year as a regional export coordinator. It’s a pilot project partnering with the Brookings Institution. This is significant because Los Angeles is a megacity and we need to think of ourselves as players in the global economy. The more things that we can do to enable us, our businesses, to do business globally, the
better off our region is going to be. Getting more active in exports and trade is important because it gives us new markets and new opportunities to bring money home. Q: As a Downtown-based business owner, how will your experience influence your work at the chamber? A: Some people have asked me what I expect to get out of my chairmanship at the chamber, and I don’t have anything specific to my investment, my own business. I think a rising tide raises all ships, so if we can identify the things that will help the region to grow and prosper then I’m on board with it. I think it’s tempting to pigeonhole me as a Downtown player. I think Downtown is a fantastic place to invest and to do business, but there are lots of parts to the city. Downtown can be a problem solver for the rest of the region. This goes back to development. One of the things that Los Angeles really needs to get a handle on is trying to bring back different types of manufacturing and opportunities to generate new revenue for our city. There’s land Downtown that can be used to develop where other parts of the city just don’t want more growth. Well hey, put it Downtown. Q: This week, the chamber is sending a lobbying group to Washington, D.C. What’s the focus? A: Well, it’s a lot of issues, but we have a strong group of business people talking to congressional leaders about reauthorizing
photo by Gary Leonard
Karen Hathaway at the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce’s City West headquarters. As the newly installed chair of the organization, she hopes to help make the region more business friendly.
transportation spending. We want to increase current funding levels for transportation infrastructure. We also have groups focused on water and energy issues and on homelessness. Q: Last year, the chamber committed to ending chronic homelessness in Los Angeles. What’s your take on the effort so far? A: First of all, I think it’s unique to our chamber and we’re making really fantastic headway. I’m 100% supportive of it. This initiative is targeting one specific segment of the homeless population and I think by focusing on it we can be really successful. This is what I love about the chamber: We’re problem solvers. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
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6 Downtown News
Fight Over Connector as Deadline Nears
photo by Gary Leonard
Twitter/DowntownNews
The intersection of Fifth and Flower streets. Property owners fear construction of the Regional Connector will hinder business unless Metro agrees to use underground tunnel boring machines.
Landowners Say Flower Street Construction Would Devastate Business by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR
F
inancial District property owners are mulling a legal challenge to the $1.37 billion Regional Connector if the Metropolitan Transportation Authority proceeds with plans to tear up a busy stretch of Flower Street. Metro officials delayed consideration of the project’s final environmental impact report from February to March in hopes of staving off a lawsuit and avoiding additional delays to the project, which could hinder the agency’s quest for crucial federal funds. “It’s always in everybody’s best interest to resolve stuff like this without litigation, which would frankly jeopardize the whole project,” said Metro board member Richard Katz. “There are funding windows for projects to move forward.” The agency met twice last week with representatives of Thomas Properties Group, the owner of City National Plaza, Hines Corporation, which owns Citigroup Center, and the Westin Bonaventure Hotel and the California Club. Lawyers for the property owners said in a Feb. 14 letter to Metro that current construction plans would disrupt business and violate the California Environmental Quality Act. The property owners have pleaded with Metro since it released a draft environmental study in late 2010 to abandon plans to use a
“cut and cover” construction technique. That would involve cutting trenches on Flower between Fourth and Sixth streets, requiring occasional block closures and the use of private sites for construction staging. Property owners are asking Metro instead to employ a tunnel-boring machine, which is already slated for use on much of the 1.9mile connector route. In the final environmental report, Metro claims that tunnel boring on Flower Street would not be “practicable,” because underground infrastructure would inhibit the use of the massive machine that chews the tubular pathways through the earth. “The soil conditions at Flower are different” than the parts of the route slated for tunnel boring, said Metro project director Dolores Roybal Saltarelli. “There are physical barriers.” Metro officials say that the shallow underground entrance to Seventh Street Metro Center, where the connector will link with other lines, also conflicts with a tunnel’s depth requirements. But Ayahlushim Getachew, senior vice president at Thomas Properties Group, said that the final environmental study provides little technical evidence or explanation of the physical obstacles. “We’ve asked for the studies they’ve used to determine that tunneling isn’t possible, but we haven’t gotten them,” Getachew said. see Connector, page 23
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March 5, 2012
Metro Project to Displace Spice Table, Weiland’s S
ince opening in early 2011, Little Tokyo restaurant the Spice Table has been a darling of the Los Angeles dining scene. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority, however, plans to take over the space in order to build a $1.37 billion rail line. Plans for the Regional Connector call for Metro to displace the Spice Table, Weiland’s Brewery and Señor Fish to make way for an underground light rail station. The agency will be required to pay relocation costs to the displaced businesses, but that’s little consolation for Spice Table chef and co-owner Bryant Ng. The restaurant occupies a more than 100-year-old building on Central Avenue. The brick edifice, unique design and Little Tokyo location, Ng said, make the site irreplaceable. “The Spice Table as it is can only exist in this particular location,” Ng said. “It’s soul lives here. It doesn’t mean I wouldn’t
open another restaurant somewhere else, but opening a restaurant is very tough and we’d have to start all over.” Weiland’s Brewery owner Rick Bennett, whose restaurant has been serving pints and burgers in Little Tokyo for 12 years, is also disappointed. “To tear it down, it’s just a shame,” Bennett said. “I’ve been a part of the community. I’m sorry to see us leave. The Little Tokyo area and the Arts District both have been very good to us.” If there’s a silver lining, it’s that foodies have ample time to visit the restaurants. The Connector still needs final approval from the Metro board. That is slated to be considered this month, and the project could break ground as soon as 2014. It is unclear when the businesses would have to move. —Ryan Vaillancourt
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photo by Rachel Papo
A Scene from Ronald K. Brown’s Evidence, A Dance Company, one of the hundreds of Downtown cultural happenings this Spring.
8 Downtown News
March 5, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
photo by Fred Debrock
Standouts on the Stage Famous Names and Powerful Songs and Dances Dominate the Spring
The Dutch troupe Wunderbaum dons snowsuits and returns to REDCAT on April 28-29. Their Songs at the End of the World is inspired by a Werner Herzog documentary.
photo by Joan Marcus
Downtown gets a double dose of Stephen Sondheim this spring, with A Little Night Music at East West Players and Follies (above), a restaging of last year’s Kennedy Center production, at the Ahmanson opening May 3. by Jeff Favre contributing writer
Here are some theater and dance highlights for the spring. For a full lineup, see p. 20.
aying that spring is a good time for the performing arts in Downtown Los Angeles is an understatement. Some of the most revered figures in theater and dance will be on local stages in the coming months. There will be not one, but two offerings from perhaps Broadway’s greatest auteur. One of punk rock’s most influential figures will showcase his first foray into the mainstream musical scene. The Central City will also take in one of the most important choreographers of the last several decades. That’s just the start of a packed season.
Punk Comes to the Ahmanson: With his grinding, blitzkrieg guitar riffs and angry lyrics, Billie Joe Armstrong and his band Green Day redefined modern punk rock. After the group shocked longtime fans with its operatic 2004 album American Idiot, they did something that really surprised people: They turned the Grammy-winning work into a musical. With music by the band and lyrics by Armstrong, American Idiot landed on Broadway two years ago and stomped out with two Tonys. Descending on the
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Ahmanson Theatre March 13-April 22 as part of its first national tour, the show looks at a trio of disenfranchised suburban youth, and the paths the young men take looking for a purpose to their lives. It’s populated with characters from Green Day’s records (Armstrong did a stint as St. Jimmy on Broadway) and the songs come from the titular album and its Butch Vig-produced followup 21st Century Breakdown. Director Michael Mayer also helmed Spring Awakening, which was the last major draw of younger audiences to the Ahmanson. Expect to see multigenerational crowds rocking out to this one. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. British Invasion: If a premiere of an Eric Idle comedy isn’t enough to garner attention, the fact that comic Russell Brand will star is sure to make the four performances of What About Dick? at the Orpheum Theatre just about the hottest ticket of the season. Brand, in his theatrical debut, will portray a
student named Dick at Oxford University in the April 26-29 show. He is only one of the major British comics in the cast, joining Eddie Izzard, Billy Connolly, Tim Curry and Tracey Ullman. Idle, part of the famed Monty Python gang and co-creator of Spamalot, has been working on What About Dick? for several years. The actors for this production will hold the scripts, mimicking a classic live radio style, so the action should be minimal. The tale, by the way, begins with the birth of the vibrator, invented by Deepak Obi Ben Kingsley (Izzard), and goes on to tell the story of the decline of the British Empire and a piano discovered on a beach. Seriously. At 842 S. Broadway, (877) 677-4386 or laorpheum.com. It’s the End of the World as They Know It: It’s a literal and figurative Dutch treat every time the troupe Wunderbaum lands in Downtown Los Angeles. Fortunately, the gaggle of talented and comely boys and girls returns April 28-29. Showing up at REDCAT
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Arts & Entertainment 1971’s Follies. Coincidentally, that very show is coming to the Ahmanson Theatre May 3-June 9 (it replaces the originally scheduled revival of Funny Girl). This Follies is a restaging of last year’s Kennedy Center production, with most of the original cast, including Tony winner Victoria Clark. Follies centers on a reunion of a musical revue, the Weismann’s Follies, and two showgirls whose lives — and marriages — have left them unhappy and unfulfilled. A pair of Sondheim shows from his most creative era, running concurrently, is an unexpected theatrical gift. At 120 Judge John Aiso St., (213) 625-7000 ext. 20 or eastwestplayers.org, and at 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org.
photo by Paul Kolnik
For the Cause: Dayna Hanson is considered a multidisciplinary artist, meaning she works with dance, live music, theater and film to tell her stories. Her Gloria’s Cause, appearing April 5-8 at REDCAT, incorporates all of those
elements. The show is a scattershot narrative dealing with the American Revolution, but not the major events. Rather, Hanson, through much research, found smaller occurrences that help explain some central figures of the time, including George Washington and Deborah Sampson, who disguised herself as a man to fight the British. At 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. Only the Phantoms Know: Inspired by her studies at Yale of William Faulkner, Ariel Shepherd-Oppenheim penned The Phantoms. The show, running March 29-April 22 at the Bootleg Theater, concerns siblings traveling to bury their mother’s ashes (think Faulkner’s As I Lay Dying). This includes, get ready, the youngest snorting the ashes and becoming possessed with the mom’s ghost. Director Cindy Marie Jenkins said the play deals with family members’ differing points-of-view on their shared stories. At 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org.
Green Day’s album-turned-Broadway musical American Idiot slams into the Ahmanson Theatre March 13-April 22.
for the third time, they’ll share the stage with a rock band for Songs at the End of the World. Inspired by Werner Herzog’s Antarctica documentary Encounters at the End of the World, the show has the players creating a song cycle based on their hopes and dreams. They’ll wear snowsuits, ponder what it’s like to live with jellyfish and somehow, it will all make sense. At 631 West Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. Waiting for Decades: Any reputable short list of “most important plays of the last century” includes Samuel Beckett’s Waiting for Godot. The even shorter list of current top Beckett actors features Alan Mandell and Barry McGovern. Fortunately for Downtown, these celebrated thespians will collaborate for the first time, appearing in the watershed absurdist work at the Mark Taper Forum March 14-April 22. The cast also features James Cromwell, whose appearance in The Artist has received rave reviews. Mandell and McGovern portray Vladimir and Estragon, who spend the play waiting for the (spoiler alter!)
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A production of Snow White, with costumes by Jean Paul Gaultier, comes to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion March 23-25.
never-to-arrive Godot. The meaning behind Beckett’s work has been debated since its 1953 premiere, and, in part, ambiguity fuels its continued relevance in modern theater. With McGovern and Mandell, this revival, directed by Michael Arabian, is a rare theatrical experience. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. A Fairytale Lives: French choreographer Angelin Preljocaj, and his company Ballet Preljocaj, has been at the forefront of contemporary dance since the mid-1980s. So it came as a bit of a shock to those following his career to see his somewhat classic take on Snow White, which lands at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion March 23-25. Preljocaj purposefully took a step away from his groundbreaking abstract works to set the well-known fairytale to pieces by composer Gustav Mahler. Still, don’t expect Preljocaj to stray too far from his comfort zone. There are plenty of modern elements that give this Snow White an edgy attitude — after all, the outfits were designed by Jean Paul Gaultier. Precise and energetic dance remains Preljocaj’s focal point. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or musiccenter.org. Double Down on Sondheim: No theater company in Los Angeles has a stronger connection to Stephen Sondheim than East West Players, so it’s no surprise that its 46th season closes May 10-June 10 at the David Henry Hwang Theatre with A Little Night Music, the ninth different Sondheim musical the company has mounted. Loosely adapted by Hugh Wheeler from Ingmar Bergman’s film Smiles on a Summer Night, it’s a musically complex, bittersweet comedy about matrimony and infidelity. A Little Night Music premiered in 1973 and was Sondheim’s follow-up to one of his most celebrated musicals,
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Arts & Entertainment
March 5, 2012
An Eventful Spring Big Brains, a Bike Bonanza, Fantastic Festivals and More by Jon Regardie executive editor
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owntown is replete with big-name concerts, topnotch theater and some of the best classical music on the West Coast. However, that is not the extent of the cultural connection. There is also a hefty lineup of readings, festivals and one-off happenings that by their nature defy being placed in simple categories. While the events may sometimes be difficult to define, what is important is that they are happening. Below are some of the don’t-miss events of the next three months. See a full list on p. 17. Take the Fifth: On Cinco de Mayo, almost everyone in Los Angeles loves Mexican culture (though some particularly love Mexican beer). The whacked-out brains behind Lucha VaVoom are using that to their advantage, and are staging two more nights of performances that fuse masked Mexican wrestling with saucy burlesque dancers and a batch of cutting-edge comedians. The hijinks, part of Lucha’s 10th anniversary year, will unfold May 4-5 at the Mayan Theatre on Hill Street. In addition to three wrestling matches and striptease from The Wau Wau Sisters, Lucy Fur and others, there will be a lowrider parade and bottles upon bottles upon bottles of tequila. There will also be something labeled, really, a Polite in Public Donkey Photo Booth. Hee haw. At 1038 S. Hill St., luchavavoom.com.
Marx My Words: The Aloud series at the Central Library never fails to disappoint, and this spring is no exception. Program curator Louise Steinman knows everyone in the publishing world, and they know that dropping by Downtown Los Angeles is a great way to get some buzz and move some books. There are numerous highlights in the coming months, with figures such as novelist Richard Ford (May 31) and former New York Times executive editor Joseph Lelyveld (April 5, discussing his new book
C A L I F O R N I A
A F R I C A N
photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
The Natural History Museum mixes gallery tours with lectures, DJs and dancing on the first Friday of every month. Due to Easter, April’s “First Friday” event takes place March 30.
photo by Gary Leonard
Tens of thousands of people will bike and walk through the Civic Center on April 15 for the fourth CicLAvia. For a few hours, it’s no cars allowed.
about Mahatma Gandhi). The most intriguing evening might be on April 10, when Wayne Kostenbaum discusses his The Anatomy of Harpo Marx, which looks at the usually silent actor’s 13 films and closely examines his body parts. All of them. At 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7025 or lfla.org. Big Questions, Early Answers: Here are a few of the questions that smarty pants Harvard professor Michael Sandel asks in his books Justice: What’s the Right Thing to Do? and What Money Can’t Buy: Should kids be paid for getting good grades? Is it kosher to give people money to test risky drugs on them? Is a world where everything is for sale okey-dokey, or have we crossed a line? On May 10, Sandel will come Downtown to answer these and other questions that don’t have simple answers. Unlike most Central City happenings, it’s a morning gathering
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— he’ll appear at 8:15 a.m. at the City Club on Bunker Hill in a gathering presented by the Live Talks Business series. There’s a breakfast too, so come hungry, leave mentally happy. At 333 S. Grand Ave., 54th floor, business.livetalksla.org. Folks Getting Crafty: The Craft and Folk Art Museum isn’t in Downtown Los Angeles. Too bad for them. However, on March 31, the CAFAM posse (yes, we just wrote CAFAM posse) heads to Olvera Street for an event titled Folk Art Everywhere. During the 11 a.m.-2 p.m. happening, artist Votan Henriquez will explore the culture and history of Native American people in our fair city. In particular, he’ll focus on the Gabrielino Indians. If that’s a head scratcher, realize that they were here before the Mexican settlers arrived in Los Angeles back in 1781. At Olvera Street, cafam.org. Bunny Love: Easter this year falls on April 8. The gang at Pershing Square gets a jump on the holiday on March 31, when they hold their annual Downtown egg hunt. Registration will start at noon and, over the next four hours, there will be egg-hiding extravaganzas for kids of different
March 5, 2012
Downtown News 11
Arts & Entertainment
ages, starting at 12:30 p.m. with the 4 and under set. It’s not just about finding things. There will also be performances, entertainment and more. We’re guessing there just might be an opportunity to take pictures with the Easter Bunny. At 532 S. Olive St., (213) 847-4970 or laparks.org/pershingsquare. Aloha Mr. Hand: The weekly film series at Broadway’s Million Dollar Theater is one of Downtown’s most awesome cultural opportunities. Almost everything in the program curated by the UCLA Film & Television Archives is worth seeing. The current slate runs every Wednesday through March 28 (show time is 7:30 p.m.) and notable events include a Marilyn Monroe double bill on March 14 (Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Bus Stop). On March 21, everyone in Downtown will be muttering, “Are you talking to me?” after seeing Martin Scorcese’s Taxi Driver. Still, the highlight is the final event, a pairing of the Ramones’ Rock ’n Roll High School and Sean Penn’s best movie, Fast Times at Ridgemont High (certainly funnier than Mystic River). All together now: People on ludes should not drive. At 307 S. Broadway, (213) 617-3600 or milliondollartheater.com. Amusing Museum: A few years back, Exposition Park’s Natural History Museum did the equivalent of mixing chocolate with peanut butter by melding old dioramas with hip bands and drinking. The First Fridays series was a hit, and it remains a can’t-miss monthly happening. There is one tweak this spring, though it’s a good one: Because April 6 is Good Friday, the April First Friday has been moved to March 30. Still, it’s worth the shift, considering that big-brained writer Jared Diamond will be on hand. He’ll get all Tower of Babel on us as he talks about whether the world would be better off speaking a single language. The night includes a tour of the Dinosaur Hall exhibit and performances by Matthew Dear and Songodsuns. At 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3466 or nhm.org.
photo courtesy REDCAT photo by Gary Leonard
Downtown celebrates Easter early at Pershing Square. The Easter Bunny and his egg-hiding skills will be in the park on March 31.
Kids get the run of REDCAT on two weekends from May 5-13. It’s the return of the REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival. The lineup includes “Little Red Plane Touch My Heart” (shown here).
The classic Bohemian
love story
Erin Go Bar: Last year, Downtown got wiggy on March 17, when Casey’s Irish Bar held a massive street festival. Although all the details have not been revealed, the venerable Grand Avenue joint is preparing for another St. Patrick’s Day blowout. This year the fun takes place on a Saturday, and Casey’s is already promising/warning that the Bush Mills will flow. In case that’s not enough, St. Patrick’s Day is Irish Heritage Day for the 12:30 p.m. Clippers game at Staples Center, and Casey’s will give those with ticket stubs (the Clips play the Houston Rockets) drink deals. Just don’t reference Blake O’Griffin. At 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or 213nightlife.com/caseysirishpub. Read It and Dance: In the past year, the Last Bookstore has become one of Downtown’s most necessary businesses — heck, last month this paper gave owner Josh Spencer a Downtowners of Distinction award. On March 29, the Historic Core destination proves why’s it a community resource, and not just a bookstore. From 7-11 p.m., the staff will stage their End of Quarter Blowout. The shop, along with its neighbor the Crocker Club, will feature a big batch of performers and musicians, including Geoff “Double G” Gallegos and his Dakah Hip-Hop Orchestra, and theater organized by the troupe Poor Dog Group. Plus, visitors can pick up a cheap book. BTW: The Last Bookstore has a consistent events line-up, including writers’ workshops. At 453 S. Spring St., (213) 488-0599 or lastbookstorela.com.
Stephen Costello
Ailyn Pérez Meet opera’s next great couple in the return of
We Like Bikes: The only problem with CicLAvia, the twiceannual event in which the streets are closed to cars, and bicyclists and others not in motorized vehicles take over, is that it’s almost too popular. During the October CicLAvia the Civic Center was thronged with two wheelers, and some of the skateboarders, roller skaters and families pushing strollers were overwhelmed by the relative speedsters. The next CicLAvia rolls April 15, and the 10 miles of shuttered L.A. roads will include ample portions of Downtown, including a spur toward Olvera Street. One recommendation: If you don’t have a bike, reserve a rental at least a week in advance. Last year, it was almost impossible to get one the day before the ride. On First Street, Spring Street, Central Avenue, Seventh Street and a lot of other places, ciclavia.org. This One’s for the Kids: Atonal music and experimental theater usually don’t click for pre-teens. Fortunately REDCAT, Downtown’s premier avant-garde performance venue, has something in the spring for younger audiences. On May 5-13, the space in the back of Disney Hall holds the REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival. The two weekends feature live action and animated works from countries including Japan, Brazil, Vietnam and Russia. There are usually several programs each day that last from an hour to 90 minutes. Don’t expect Disney or Pixar fare. This is different and, some would say, better. At 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. Contact Jon Regardie at regardie@downtownnews.com.
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Arts & Entertainment
This Is How They Rock Music Is a Many-Splendored Thing in Downtown This Spring by Richard Guzmán
City Editor ike love, music in Downtown this spring is a many-splendored thing. There will be arena rock shows, grimy club dates and events that bring big stars to small venues. Fans will recall a forgotten hip-hop star and aged rockers, and will get in touch with some expert songsmiths. These are just a few of the rock and pop shows on local stages in the coming months. For a complete lineup, see p. 18.
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Rock Records: Mexican rockers Mana are about to break a record at Staples Center. Don’t worry Kobe, they’re not going to score 82 points in a game. Rather, they will surpass Britney Spears for the most concerts played at the arena. Their shows April 19-20 will mark the eighth and ninth times (Britney has eight) they have filled the nearly 20,000-seat Downtown Los Angeles venue. The poprock band has been around for more than 30 years and is one of the biggest Latin rock groups of all time. Their lyrics are romantic and sometimes playful, and even those who don’t speak Spanish can get into the groove since their music is easy on the dance floor. At 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7326 or staplescenter.com. Still Too Legit to Quit: The man and myth known as MC Hammer wasn’t kidding when he rapped that he was “too legit to quit.” The dancing, fortune-losing performer
of “U Can’t Touch This” will perform at Club Nokia on May 5. He may be well beyond his heyday, but he’ll seek to prove that for MC Hammer, there is no expiration date. We’ll see if he can still pull moves like The Hammer Dance, aka the Chinese Typewriter (when he moved side to side with those big baggie genie pants). Hopefully he’ll leave the “Pumps and a Bump” era alone. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. The Roof, the Roof, the Rufus Is on Fire: The guy Elton John once called “the greatest songwriter on the planet” has been out of the pop music game for a while, concentrating on things like staging an opera and having a kid. But Rufus Wainwright has used all these experiences as the basis for his seventh album, Out of the Game. He’ll appear at the majestic Orpheum Theatre May 12 as part of a series arranged by public radio station KCRW. The new album was heavily influenced by the 1970s, in particular artists such as Elton John, Harry Nilsson and Steely Dan. At 842 S. Broadway, (877) 677-4386 or laorpheum.com. Occupy the Arena: The 1% needs to beware, because The Boss has his eyes and guitar on you. In support of his newest album, Wrecking Ball, Bruce Springsteen and the E Street Band will occupy the Sports Arena April 26-27. While Springsteen often writes about blue collar Americans and tough
photo courtesy of AEG
Mana will be breaking records when the band performs for the ninth time at Staples Center April 19-20.
times, the new record is about those at fault for making things hard for the regular guy. Springsteen has something of a love affair for the aged arena in Exposition Park, and it seems he drops by virtually every time he tours. This time, expect a somber memorial to late sax man Clarence Clemons. At 3939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 747-7111 or lacoliseumlive.com Idol Power: The original “American Idol” is out to prove that she may be the most powerful TV-created pop star ever. Kelly Clarkson, the 29-year-old singer and first winner of
the singing reality show that inspired about 8,000 other singing reality shows, drops by the Nokia Theater April 3. Expect the catchy pop tunes that have driven her nearly decadelong career. At 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6000 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. Dunes Tunes: Take a couple of old school L.A. punks like Kate Hall of Mika Miko and Stephanie Chan of Finally Punk and you get Dunes, a new lo-fi punk band. Mix in Abe Vigoda, the always entertaining L.A. punk quartet, and it sounds like a good night. Add
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March 5, 2012
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will own the stage every Friday night at Casey’s Irish Pub. Expect the softer side of indie with homages to ’60s and ’70s pop music and plenty of harmonies. The band plans on unveiling new songs during the residency and will premiere a new music video too. If you haven’t heard the old songs or seen the old videos, no worries. At 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or 213nightlife.com.
photo by Danny Clinch
The Boss is putting the 1% in check when he occupies the Sports Arena April 26-27.
in a $10 charge to see both and it’s confirmed that you, yours and the rest of the sweaty masses will have a fine time at the Bootleg Bar on March 31. Abe Vigoda is on stage first, Dunes closes the night. If this one ain’t for you, then check the Bootleg website, as the Beverly Boulevard joint has blossomed into a top-notch rock venue. At 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. Move It: Think of reggaeton as a mix of reggae and just about any other Latin sound with a beat, along with a little rap added for flavor. It’s not the most innovative or even artistic sound, but more like a hot dance soup. Reggaeton comes to the Conga Room May 4 with the dynamic duo Angel y Khriz. The Puerto Rican performers have released five albums. Don’t expect much depth, poetic lyrics or even good musicianship, but do plan
to lose control on the dance floor. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-0162 or congaroom.com. Rock Opera: Roger Waters is bringing Pink Floyd’s defining work to the Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on May 19 when he does a live performance of The Wall. Waters, the band’s bassist and lyricist, wrote the dark, theatrical album after feeling like the group was growing apart from its fans. Yet those feelings of isolation resulted in many more fans, and Rolling Stone named the album the 87th best record of all time. Some thought it should have been much higher. Keep your eyes open for the flying pig. At 3939 S. Figueroa St., (213) 747-7111 or lacoliseumlive.com. Giddy Up: During the month of March, Pasadena-based indie pop group C-horse
Little Honest Ani: She describes herself as a “little folksinger,” but let’s be frank: With more than 20 albums to her credit, there is nothing little about Ani DiFranco and her music. The singer, songwriter, poet and all around talent will perform at the Orpheum Theatre March 24. She has a new album out on her own Righteous Babe label, titled ¿Which Side Are You On? If you’re there and anyone asks, just say you’re on the side of the righteous babe. At 842 S. Broadway, (877) 677-4386 or laorpheum.com. Meet the Hurdy Gurdy Man: We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: The Grammy Museum is one of the jewels of Downtown, and its intimate theater offers unparalleled musical opportunities. The 200-seat space hosts all manner of local and national talent, and on March 29 Donovan drops by. Though many these days may only be familiar with “Hurdy Gurdy Man,” the troubadour had 11 Top 40 hits between 1966 and 1969, and in April he’ll be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. He’ll talk with museum Executive Director Bob Santelli, take audience questions and perform a few songs. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-8000 or grammymuseum.org. On the Road: It seems like country star Willie Nelson just can’t get off the road. Ever. The musical outlaw and lover of the most
photo by Patti Perret
Songstress, poet and all around righteous talent Ani DiFranco comes to the Orpheum Theatre March 24.
powerful strains of cannabis ever invented by man or plant has been a star transcending his country roots for decades. But the road has never brought him to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. That changes on March 13. Yes, he’ll play “Always on my Mind” and “On the Road Again.” But that’s just the start for a true musical genius. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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Arts & Entertainment
March 5, 2012
The Color and the Shape A Bit of the Present and a Lot of the Past Are on Display at Downtown Museums contributing writer
S
hapes and colors are the dominant themes at Downtown Los Angeles museums this spring. Some shows highlight practical purposes for design, while others celebrate the pure artistry of form. The history of the city’s architecture is the focus of one exhibit, while the folding paper art of origami is featured in another. Flying, living works of art will soon land, and a queen known for her beauty will be highlighted in an expansive, artifact-filled exhibit. Here are some of the spring’s offerings at Downtown museums. A full lineup is on p. 21.
In the Fold: Intricate and delicate, the art of folding paper known as origami first arrived in Japan 1,400 years ago. Today, it remains a popular and honored craft even on our side of the Pacific. The Japanese American National Museum is hosting Folding Paper: The Infinite Possibilities of Origami. The show, which runs March 10-Aug. 26, features more than 100 works by 45 artists, with abstract and representational examples from around the world. The history of origami is detailed, as well as its influence on realms beyond art, even delving into science and fashion. The origami sculptures on display range from simple, streamlined cranes to highly complex masks and interlocking geometric shapes. At 369 E. First St., (213) 625-0414 or janm.org.
Building the City: Los Angeles would not look as it does now without the designs of four architects: The work of Eugene Choy, Gilbert Leong, Helen Liu Fong and Gin Wong is examined in Breaking Down: Chinese American Architects in Los Angeles (19451980), running through June 3 at the Chinese American Museum . The show in the venue at El Pueblo de Los Angeles Historical Monument features original drawings, models and images by iconic architectural photographer Julius Shulman. Structures by the four pioneers dot the landscape. Leong’s Chinatown contributions include the Kong Chow Benevolent Association and Temple and a Bank of America building. Fong helped push forward the Googie movement with designs that are best exemplified by the chain of Norm’s restaurants. Wong is responsible for the layout and look of one of the city’s most recognizable venues, Los Angeles International Airport. At 425 N. Los Angeles St., (213) 485-8567 or camla.org.
photo by Alex J. Berliner/ABI Images
Explosive Art: Cai Guo-Qiang creates art with a variety of media, but none more volatile than gunpowder. Explosions are part of the process,
meaning the results can be unpredictable. Cai Guo-Qiang: Sky Ladder, appearing April 8-July 30 at the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, will feature several of these gunpowder “drawings,” with some created onsite. There will even be an “outdoor explosion event” which Guo-Qiang, a native of China who now lives in New York, has described as a mysterious beauty that arises from the destructive act of igniting the gunpowder. This seems somehow fitting for a museum in a building that once housed an LAPD garage. At 152 N. Central Ave., (213) 626-6222 or moca.org.
The clothes from the silent film The Artist recently captured the Oscar for Best Costume. They are also on display at FIDM through April 28 as part of the exhibit The Art of Motion Costume Picture Design.
photo © Robert J. Lang.
Plain paper gets folded and turned into art in a show at the Japanese American National Museum. The Infinite Possibilities of Origami opens March 10 and features more than 100 works.
photo © Darryl Moran
The California Science Center shines a light on one of history’s most interesting women. Cleopatra: The Exhibition opens May 23 and features more than 150 artifacts and items. photo by Ryan Miller/Capture Imaging
by Jeff favre
The Natural History Museum has a winner every spring with the Butterfly Pavilion. The exhibit on the lawn of the Exposition Park attraction features more than 50 specimens of butterflies and moths.
Butterflies Are Back: During its time of transition and renovation, the Natural History Museum is undergoing a metamorphosis — last summer the wonderful Dinosaur Hall came online. So it is only fitting that spring brings an annual, popular exhibit all about change. The Butterfly Pavilion, set up on the front lawn of the Exposition Park attraction, runs April 8-Sept. 3. The ecosystem loaded with more than 50 species of butterflies and moths from around the country allows visitors to see the life cycle, from the leaf-munching caterpillar to the regal Monarch, and from the California dogface to the Spicebush swallowtail. The pavilion’s moving landscape changes throughout its existence as different species are introduced. Butterflies are not the only creatures that will wow visitors this spring. The museum’s biggest single draw remains its Bug Fair. For the happening that takes place May 19-20, some 70 exhibitors will get buggy with live and preserved specimens. There will even be edible dishes cooked up by bug chefs. Eaters wanted. At 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3466 or nhm.org. And Justice for All: True change for civil rights doesn’t take hold until the legal system comes into play. The California African American Museum, also in Exposition Park, looks at some of those watershed legal moments in Justice, Balance and Achievement: African Americans and the California Courts. Running through May 27, the exhibition combines shows from the California Legislative Black Caucus and the California Judicial Center Library. Slavery, fair housing, equal rights to transportation and African Americans marrying people of other races were issues that California dealt with before most states, and a few key cases and people paved the way. The exhibition also details the 14 African American justices who have served, or are serving, on California Courts of Appeal, beginning with Edwin L. Jefferson in 1941, and the three who have served on the California Supreme Court, starting with Wiley Manuel, who was appointed in 1977. At 600 State Dr., (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Queen of the Nile: Queen Cleopatra VII
ascended to the throne at the age of 17, and today her brief life (she died at just 39) as the ruler of Egypt still fascinates. Cleopatra: The Exhibition, the largest ever display of artifacts dedicated to one of history’s most famous women, is making its only West Coast appearance at the California Science Center, opening May 23. The 13,000-square foot show features 150 ancient Egyptian objects, including handwritten notes from Cleopatra’s lost palace in Alexandria, which was submerged after an earthquake and a tsunami. One section details the ongoing search for Cleopatra’s lost tomb — it hasn’t been found, but several objects have been recovered and are on display. A companion movie, Mysteries of Egypt, will play at the IMAX theater next to the museum. At 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3466 or californiasciencecenter.org.
What to Wear: Period clothing dominated the Academy Award nominees for this year’s Best Costume Oscar. The winner, which was not much of a surprise, was The Artist. The real winners, however, are those who spend time in Downtown Los Angeles, as the FIDM Museum & Galleries is showing the duds from that film, and the other nominees, as part of its 20th annual The Art of Motion Picture Costume Design. The show, which runs through April 28, features works from more than 20 films, everything from Hugo to Jane Eyre to A Very Harold and Kumar 3D Christmas (guess which one was not a Best Costume nominee). The show also has an outfit from the previous year’s Oscar winner, Alice in Wonderland, along with a few dozen choices from classic movies. At 919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 623-5821 or fidmmuseum.org. Lucky 23: Born Ricardo Gouveia, the Portuguese muralist known as Rigo 23 will take over the Gallery at REDCAT April 22-June 17. He collaborated with textile workers, carpenters and activists from Mexico to develop sculptures and full-scale environments for the exhibition Autonomous Space Program. Rigo 23’s show deals with the political and social situation in Chiapas, Mexico. At 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.
March 5, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
Downtown News 15
Sacrifice the Virgin L.A. Opera Stages a Mixed Albert Herring by Marc Porter Zasada
T
here are plenty of opportunities for Monty Python-level humor in the opera Albert Herring, Benjamin Britten’s 1947 send-up of provincial British culture. Picture the show at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion through March 17 as a Python skit: A delegation of dull village officials arrives at the house of prudish Lady Billows to help select the purest town virgin to play the May Queen at the annual village fair. Finding no girl sufficiently modest, clean and upright, they instead choose a virginal mama’s boy. The grocer’s son, fittingly named Albert Herring, gets to be the “May King.” Albert hardly wants the honor of being dressed in a white suit and garlanded with flowers, but mama insists. He’s tricked into getting drunk at the fair, then finally rebels against the town’s expectations. Flying sheep or any of the other common Python tropes would not be out of place. Alas, the Python gags never appear. Visual humor is limited to a few mild and obvious entendres and a few scampish village children. Most of the interesting action takes place chastely off stage. Albert’s mother is a dull, unthreatening shopkeeper. The end result is a generally tame and respectable Herring that would have been quite all right with Lady Billows, were she around to censor it today. There are a few bright spots, among them a fine performance from tenor Alek Shrader, who made his debut as Albert in the 2010 Santa Fe Opera production that has been im-
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ported to Downtown Los Angeles. Shrader adds depth and pathos to the character without destroying its charm, and while his tenor rarely fills the hall, he’s spot on with the complex rhythms. Additionally, there is a superb rendering by the L.A. Opera orchestra, once again under the baton of company Music Director James Conlon. The company is advertising Herring as a good choice for first-time operagoers. The subject matter makes sense for the gambit, but in reality, this is a work that has far greater appeal to the educated ear. As with much 20th century opera, Britten gives most of the interesting bits to the orchestra, limiting the vocal line and eschewing set arias or hummable melody. Beyond the superb ensemble moments, opera aficionados will find many clever musical references in the pit, from Strauss to Wagner. One thing audiences won’t encounter are references to Britten’s homosexuality. The part of Albert was originally written to be sung by Britten’s life partner, tenor Peter Pears, and many critics have read the story as an elaborate allusion to a coming out event. None of this is telegraphed in the Downtown production. Scottish director Paul Curran, better known for his staging of serious opera around the world, makes an attempt to bring out the darker edges of the piece, at least in the breakdown of Albert following the May Day feast. However, he generally underutilizes a talented cast, which he might have used to develop either a comic or a dramatic heft. He also misses the chance to develop the
photo by Robert Millard
Tenor Alek Shrader plays the title role in Albert Herring, a work by Benjamin Britten now at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion.
charm of Britten’s imaginary English village, Loxford. Herring was written as a chamber opera for a small hall, but in the large Chandler space it would benefit from an expansive treatment, including more villagers and frolicking youth. Instead, Loxford is rendered largely through a lovely miniature set by stage designer Kevin Knight. It’s cute and the lighting by Rick Fisher is great, but the effect is just a little too “small.” Liam Bonner and Daniela Mack, as Albert’s more liberated friends Sid and Nancy (no relation to the troubled rocker and his girlfriend), give engaging performances within the limits set by Curran. Bonner, in particular, brings much-needed energy, along with a light and enjoyable baritone voice. It would be great to see what Bonner could do if he were given more latitude and allowed to be-
come a truly dangerous friend to the weakwilled Albert. Other ensemble players execute the tight Britten harmonies with musical élan, even as Curran keeps the action in check — and the comic lament that dominates the last act is beautifully voiced. Stacy Tappan, as repressed schoolteacher Miss Wordsworth, stands out. Ronnita Nicole Miller makes much of her part as Florence Pike, Lady Billows’ sloppy housekeeper. Special mention also goes to soprano Erin Sanzero, who wonderfully outshines the principals every time she barrels onto the stage as Emmie, one of the village children who is sure to disappoint British morals when she gets a little older. Albert Herring runs through March 17 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or laopera.com.
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March 5, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
The Swerving Sounds of Classical Music Old Names, New Creations, and Some Unexpected Locations by Ryan VaillancouRt staff wRiteR
I
t is a rite of spring: Downtown is packed with classical music concerts and events every year at this time. This year is no different. As usual, Walt Disney Concert Hall is the epicenter of the happenings. In the coming months, composer John Adams will wield the baton before the L.A. Philharmonic as it plays his own violin concerto. Later, the hall’s stage will be transformed by architect Frank Gehry for a version of Mozart’s opera Don Giovanni. The Colburn School’s Zipper Hall will be busy too, as will some less common venues. The Farmers and Merchants Bank in the Historic Core, for example, will resound with the bowed strings of the Turtle Island Quartet. There are many more intriguing classical happenings coming this spring. A full list is on p. 20. Shakespeare and Shamrocks: The 40-strong chorus of lady singers Vox Femina Los Angeles reconciles the differences between the English and the Irish in a St. Patrick’s Day concert. On, you guessed it, March 17, the gang will blend the Bard with Gaelic tunes at Zipper Concert Hall in the Colburn School. During the 8 p.m. performance the Voxes will sing sonnets in Gaelic to the tune of Celtic melodies. Don’t try this at home. At 200 S. Grand Ave., (310) 922-0025 or voxfemina.org. Super Schubert: March 16-22 is Schubert week for the L.A. Phil (insert lame joke about orange or raspberry Schubert here). On March 16 at 8 p.m., baritone Matthias Goerne and pianist Christoph Eschenbach lead the troops through Schubert’s Die schöne Müllerin (The Beautiful Maid of the Mill), a 20-song cycle that moves from cheerful optimism to despondency and tragedy. Goerne and Eschenbach return two nights later to play Schubert’s Winterreise. What about Schubert’s “Great” Symphony No. 9, you ask? The L.A. Phil digs into the masterwork in C Major on March 20-22. It’s all at Walt Disney Concert Hall. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 850-2000 or laphil.org. Adams’ Glass Half Full: Composer John Adams’ violin concerto is the Richard Simmons of violin concertos, a work so demanding on the soloist that even the lovely Leila Josefowicz will be sweating by the time she finishes sawing through the electric score. This is a good thing. Adams is on hand at Disney Hall to conduct his work on April 5-7 (each show is at 8 p.m.) in concerts that will also feature the West Coast premiere of master minimalist Philip Glass’s Symphony No. 9 and Arvo Pärt’s Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 850-2000 or laphil.org. Now Sphere This: Piano Spheres is a series singularly dedicated to the most sonically diverse of percussion instruments: the piano. On April 26 at 8 p.m., series co-founder and certifiable keyboard wizard Susan Svrcek gives a concert
photo by Robert Millard
L.A. Opera trots out a warhorse May 12 with Puccini’s La Bohème. It is a revival of the production the company first mounted 19 years ago.
at Zipper Hall primarily of works by John Cage, including Quest, Ophelia, Suite for Toy Piano and A Room. Svrcek also plans a world premiere of a work by Edward Cansino called L.A. Times. Rumor has it that the piece masterfully conveys the sound of layoffs. At 200 S. Grand Ave., (323) 692-8075 or pianospheres.org. Heroes in a Half Shell: The Turtle Island Quartet is comprised of four virtuosic classical players with an ear for jazz. Apparently, they also have ears for romance. The group takes their chamber chops to John Coltrane’s landmark record “A Love Supreme” at 4 p.m. on April 29 inside the Farmers and Merchants Bank building in the Old Bank District. The genrebending group will also tackle works by another composer not often associated with string quartets: Jimi Hendrix. It’s another show put together by the standout Da Camera Society. At 401 S. Main St., (213) 477-2929 or dacamera.org. The Best Time You Can Have With Tuberculosis: Though the era is often romanticized, life in 19th century Paris wasn’t all that easy. That’s what Giacomo Puccini taught the world in La Bohème. That’s also what Downtown Los Angeles audiences will be reminded of May 12, when L.A. Opera’s 1993 staging of the show is mounted in the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. The story about several young bohemians struggling with life and, yes, tuberculosis will be directed by Gregory A. Fortner, making his company debut. In the cool fact (or is it cool gimmick?) department, the husband and wife team of Stephen Costello and Ailyn Perez will assay the roles of the lovers Rodolfo and Mimi. The show runs through June 2. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-8001 or laopera.com. Don Dudamel: Not to upstage their neighbor, the L.A. Opera, but on May 18, 20, 24 and 26, the Los Angeles
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Philharmonic launches an ambitious staging of the Mozart/ Da Ponte opera trilogy, starting with Don Giovanni. There’s a lot of star power in this show at Disney Hall. Gustavo Dudamel, for one, will conduct. Downtown-based fashion designers Rodarte are handling costumes and Disney Hall architect Frank Gehry is on hand to take care of the set. Plácido who? It’s the first installment of a three-year project, with the other operas coming in 2013 and 2014. At 111 S. Grand Ave., (213) 850-2000 or laphil.org.
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March 5, 2012
Downtown News 17
Arts & Entertainment
LISTINGS
What Can Brown Dance for You? photo by Rachel Papo
SPONSORED LISTINGS New Nights at Bar 107 107 W. Fourth St., facebook.com/bar107 or twitter.com/bar107. Mondays, 9 p.m.-2 a.m.: Didn’t you know that Mondays are for cheap beer and Jameson? Well, you do now. Every Monday, Bar 107 is slanging 10 different beers for $2 and Jameson shots are $4. Well drinks are $5. Bar 107 – where $10 buys you one hell of a Monday. Full Moon Party: Once a month on the full moon (that’s March 7 this month), Blue Moon sponsors a Bar 107 party with $4 well drinks, $3 pints and specials on all liquor. The bar nixes the lights so that you too can act like an animal during the full moon.
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EVENTS
A
cclaimed choreographer Ronald K. Brown brings his Evidence, A Dance Company to the Ahmanson Theatre March 9-11. The three performances will feature a repertory program highlighted by “On Earth Together,” set to the music of Stevie Wonder. Also on the bill is “Grace,” which Brown choreographed in 1999 for the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Expect contemporary moves tricked out with traditional African dance elements. At 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-0711 or musiccenter.org.
Monday, March 5 SCI-Arc Lecture Series 960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200 or sciarc.edu. 7 p.m.: Award-winning architect Peter Eisenman talks about his large-scale housing and urban design projects, innovative facilities for educational institutions and inventive private houses. Tuesday, March 6 Jonathan Kirsch at Aloud Mark Taper Auditorium, Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7 p.m.: Book critic Jonathan Kirsch discusses the work of late historian Tony Judt in Thinking the Twentieth Century. He’ll be talking with Timothy Snyder SCI-Arc Lecture Series 960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200 or sciarc.edu. 7 p.m.: This one promises to be interesting: Architectural theorist Jeffrey Kipnis, a professor of architectural design and theory at the Ohio State Knowlton School of Architecture, has been working on a close reading of SCI-Arc Director Eric Owen Moss’ work. He and his students will present their conclusions. Wednesday, March 7 SCI-Arc Lecture Series 960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200 or sciarc.edu. 7 p.m.: Phillippe Rahm talks about architecture and climate change. Pac-12 Tournament Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or staplescenter.com. March 7-10: The Pacific Life PAC-12 Basketball Tournament, where the hopes and dreams of collegiate hoopsters are made and broken. UCLA fans are invited to ease their suffering at one of the many adjacent watering holes. May we suggest Excalibur for ye olde sorrowful Bruins? Thursday, March 8 Art Walk Historic Core, (213) 617-4929 or downtownartwalk.org. 5-11 p.m.: The galleries, bars and restaurants host their monthly open house for neighbors and strangers alike to explore the diverse wonder of local flavor. Friday, March 9 AIA Memorial Candidate Forums Ronald F. Deaton Civic Auditorium, 100 W. First St., (213) 639-0764 or aialosangeles.org. 7 p.m.: The L.A. chapter of the American Institute of Architects hosts mayoral candidate Wendy Greuel. She’ll discuss city planning, urban design and architecture issues with City Planning Commission chair Bill Roschen and L.A. Times architecture critic Christopher Hawthorne. saTurday, March 10 This Is Your Library Mark Taper Auditorium, Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. 7 p.m.: The latest installment of the Library Foundation’s This Is Your Library series features Justin Veach helming a talk-show like format. Tonight’s guests are six-time NBA champion and vegan John Salley, actor and “Dexter” serial killer Colin Hanks, design maven and Unique LA creator Sonja Rasula, and the acclaimed author of House of Leaves Mark Z. Danielewski. California African American Museum 600 S. Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. 2 p.m.: Films at CAAM presents Sing Your Song, about Harry Belafonte. sunday, March 11 California African American Museum
600 S. Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. 2 p.m.: Isabel Wilkerson, Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author, appears. FuTure LisTings AIA Memorial Candidate Forums Ronald F. Deaton Civic Auditorium, 100 W. First ST., (213) 639-0764 or aialosangeles.org. March 16, 7 p.m.: Eric Garcetti takes his turn before the AIA-LA panel. Aloud Mark Taper Auditorium, Central Library, 630 W. Fifth St., (213) 228-7500 or lfla.org. March 13, 7 p.m.: This is a year dominated by worldwide public demonstrations, congressional stagecraft and conflicting narratives. Poet-performer Douglas Kearney and artist-activist Edgar Arceneaux of the Watts House Project try to make sense of it all. March 15, 7 p.m.: “From the Outside Looking In: Writers Finding Their Place in Los Angeles” is a panel discussion with Bernard Cooper, Joyce Farmer, Lynell George, Marisela Norte and Michael Tolkin. March 20, 7 p.m.: Author and L.A. Times journalist Jim Newton discusses his book on Ike, Eisenhower: The White House Years. He’ll speak at the library with A. Scott Berg. March 22, 7 p.m.: Navigating the waters of heartbreak with force and wit, Mark Salzman takes the stage to perform a monologue based on his memoir The Man in the Empty Boat. April 3, 7 p.m.: From Jonah Lehrer, the author of How We Decide, comes a look at the new science of creativity. He’ll discuss Imagine: How Creativity Works with USC biology professor Michael Quick. April 5, 7 p.m.: Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and former New York Times executive editor Joseph Lelyveld discusses Great Soul: Mahatma Gandhi and His Struggle with India. He’ll be in conversation with Nicholas Goldberg. April 10, 7 p.m.: Using film clips and text, Wayne Koestenbaum celebrates the astonishing range of Harpo Marx’s body. He’ll discuss it all and read from his book The Anatomy of Harpo Marx. April 12, 7 p.m.: “Concrete Rivers: The Emotional Topography of L.A.” features a reading and conversation with poets Wanda Coleman and Lewis MacAdams. MacAdams also heads the group Friends of the Los Angeles River. April 17, 7 p.m.: Tod Goldberg interviews author Mark Haskell Smith about the underground botanists, outlaw farmers and the race for the cannabis cup in his book Heart of Dankness.
Continued on next page
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18 Downtown News
March 5, 2012
Arts & Entertainment
photo courtesy Bob Baker Marionette Theater
Master of Puppets I
n 1964, a young man named Bob Baker mounted the puppet show Fiesta, which featured dancing cacti, skating sombreros and other kid-friendly creations. Forty-eight years later, Baker is still pulling the strings. Fiesta is on stage once again at the City West Bob Baker Marionette Theater, and members of those 1964 audiences are now bringing their kids, and in some cases their grandkids, to the show. What it’s about doesn’t matter. What does is that there are more than 100 puppets and they have nothing to do with Dora the Explorer and Thomas the Tank Engine. At 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com.
Listings Continued from previous page April 19, 7 p.m.: Adam Mansbach and Ricardo Cortes welcome Jenna Elfman for a dramatic reading of the follow-up to the insta-popular kids book for adults Go the F*** to Sleep. The new tome is titled Seriously, Just Go to Sleep. April 24, 7 p.m.: Slovenian critical theorist Slavoj Žižek, and Boris Gunjevi, a Croatian theologian, dissect and reconstruct three major faith-based systems of belief, showing how each faith understands humanity and divinity. Really, it will be interesting. April 26, 7 p.m.: Javier Sicilia, the leader of Mexico’s Movement for Peace with Justice and Dignity, is turning personal horror into hope for himself and his country. After the death of his son at the hands of drug traffickers last year, Sicilia swapped his pen for protest. He’ll be in conversation with Ruben Martinez. May 9, 7 p.m.: Terry Tempest Williams speaks with Aloud curator Louise Steinman. Williams’ new book is When Women Were Birds: Fifty-Four Variations on Voice. May 10, 7 p.m.: Alison Bechdel, author of Fun Home, discusses autobiography and the graphic novel. May 15, 7 p.m.: Incognito: The Secret Lives of the Brain pits David Eagleman with Susan Orlean in a battle with the secrets of our gray matter. May 16, 7 p.m.: Documentary filmmaker Marina Goldovskyaya screens her documentary A Bitter Taste of Freedom. May 24, 7 p.m.: Hired mourners who will scatter your loved one’s ashes and nameologists (who help you name your child) are among the subjects Arlie Russell Hochschild takes on. May 31, 7 p.m.: Novelist Richard Ford speaks with KCRW’s Bookworm host Michael Silverblatt. Art Walk Historic Core, (213) 617-4929 or downtownartwalk.org. April 12 and May 10, 5-11 p.m.: The galleries, bars and restaurants host their monthly open house for neighbors and strangers alike to explore the diverse wonder of the Downtown arts scene. It’s a great opportunity to rub shoulders with thousands of neighbors. California African American Museum 600 S. Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. March 16, 7:30 p.m.: The L.A. Phil presents a free concert featuring Tchaikovsky’s boisterous Symphony No. 5. March 24, 2 p.m.: Celebrating Women’s History Month, Dawn Norfleet will present musical inter-
MAR 5
pretations of songs of protest and freedom made famous by Nina Simone, Tracy Chapman, Billie Holiday, Aretha Franklin and others. March 25, 2 p.m.: Learn the story of the life and work of Simon Rodia, the Italian immigrant who single-handedly built the Watts Towers on a residential lot in South Los Angeles. The event includes a talk with Brad Byer, Rodia’s nephew. CicLAvia Throughout Downtown. April 15: Cut the car! Ten miles of shuttered L.A. roads means cyclists, skateboarders, roller skaters and families pushing strollers will take over. First Fridays Natural History Museum, 900 Exposition Blvd., (213) 763-3466 or nhm.org. March 30, 5:30 p.m.: This monthly gem blends the wonders of science with the mystique of music. Lectures from Dan Keeffe and Jared Diamond wash with the delicious waves of live rock from Matthew Dear and Songodsuns. May 4, 5:30 p.m.: Another chance to glimpse dinosaur bones, catch some bands and hit on people. Performers TBA. Folk Art Everywhere At Olvera Street, cafam.org March 31, 2 p.m.: During the 11 a.m.-2 p.m. happening, artist Votan Henriquez will explore the culture and history of Native American people in our fair city. In particular, he’ll focus on the Gabrielino Indians. Lucha VaVoom At the Mayan Theatre, 1038 S. Hill St., luchavavoom.com. May 4-5, 8 p.m.: Celebrate Lucha’s 10th anniversary year with three wrestling matches and striptease from The Wau Wau Sisters, Lucy Fur and others. There will also be a lowrider parade, oodles of tequila and a Polite in Public Donkey Photo Booth. SCI-Arc Lecture Series 960 E. Third St., (213) 613-2200 or sciarc.edu. All lectures at 7 p.m. March 14: Thom Mayne, a Pritzker Prize winner and architect of Downtown’s Caltrans building, comes to speak. March 21: Anthony Vidler. March 28: Nicholas de Monchaux. April 4: Alex McDowell. April 6: Exhibition discussion with Peter Cook and Eric Owen Moss.
ROCK, POP & JAZZ Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or
bluewhalemusic.com. All shows at 8 p.m. March 5: Ben Goldberg Ensemble. March 6: A Night with Three Drums: Zach Harmon, Dan Schnelle and Kevin Kanner. March 7: Emily Hay, Motoko Honda and Brad Dutz. March 8: Garrett Smith Group. March 9: Scott Amendola Trio. March 10: Sara Leib CD Release Party. Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. March 5, 7:30 p.m.: Seventies rock lives on with the soothingly raucous riffs of the Janks alongside the Alternates, Nicole Vaughn, Last American Buffalo and Reva. March 6, 7:30 p.m.: Halcyon reverb and obligatory whistling in this folk hootenanny featuring Auditorium and Dylan Trees. March 7, 8 p.m.: Warm, cozy indie rock from Yellow Red Sparks caps off a night featuring Rachel Cantu, Allison Weiss and Sveta Bout. March 8, 8 p.m.: Straightforward singer-songwriter promises to wow you with waltzing fingers and a slippery fret board. March 9, 8 p.m.: Churning indie rock meets guided meditation in the hypnotic songwriting of Vanaprasta. Caught A Ghost & TS and the Past Haunts join in for good measure. March 10, 8 p.m.: Catch the rock mavens in Tribes before they hit SXSW. Ticketholders will also be treated to official admission into the Bleeding Knees Club and a blast of Army Navy’s dichotomous rock. March 11, 8 p.m.: Victoria Bergsman’s set of breezy electro-folk plays like a ransom note written by arborescent foes. It’s Taken by Trees with Simone Rubi. Broadway Bar 830 S. Broadway, (213) 614-9909 or broadwaybar.la. March 8, 10 p.m.: Broader Than Broadway presents Saltwater Gypsy, Civil Clothing and Hysteric Haus. Caña 714 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-7090 or canarumbar.com. March 6, 10:30 p.m.: Salt Petal presents their sonic baby, a love child of rock and South American folk. Casey’s Irish Pub 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or bigcaseys.com. March 9, 10 p.m.: C-horse comes straight from the LA underground to bump their straight-up indie jams. March 10, 10 p.m.: The Mo-Odds bring rock delivered with love.
Mayan Theatre 1038 S. Hill St., (213) 746-4674 or clubmayan.com March 7, 8 p.m.: Jay Farrar, Will Johnson, Anders Parker and Yim Yames. Nokia Theater 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6020 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. March 10, 8 p.m.: Paquita la del barrio, aka Franny from the neighborhood, will be holding it down for ranchera music. Orpheum Theatre 842 S. Broadway, (213) 538-3831 or laorpheum.com. March 9, 8 p.m.: Prepare to be banjo’d out of your seat with Bela Fleck & the Flecktones. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar.com. March 5: Frank Fairfield. March 6: Sketch Monsters, Sassafras and Bastidas. March 8: Kill Pills. March 9: The Dogs, the Truly Blessed, Black Beverly Heels and Fiction Reform. March 10: Battalion of Saints. March 11: Skip Heller and Mike Vernon. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. March 5: From jazz to funk its Bijon Watson. March 6: The Makers will regale you will improvisational jazz of yore. March 7: Deacon Jones’ Blues Review with Lady GG. The Smell 247 S. Main St., alley between Spring and Main streets, thesmell.org. March 8: Coasting, Cool Moms and Peter Pants. March 9: FYF presents Deafheaven, DNF, Whirr and Marriages. March 10: Lucky Dragons, White Magic, Excepter and Thulebasen. March 11: Protectme, Crazy Band, Tiktik and Duane Scary. The Varnish 118 E. Sixth St., (213) 622-9999 or thevarnishbar.com. March 6, 9 p.m.: Jamie Elman tickles the keys. March 7, 8:30 p.m.: Somewhere deep in a Downtown back room Mark Bosserman will play you a song. Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. March 10, 8 p.m.: Phish frontman Trey Anastasio performs orchestrations of Phish tunes and solo compositions. This promises to offer an awkward parking lot scene. March 11, 7:30 p.m.: Fearless San Franciscobased string masters the Kronos Quartet and L.A.’s own modern jazz pianist/composer Billy Childs play their own sets, then collaborate on a piece written by Childs. Future rock Blue Whale 123 Astronaut E. S. Onizuka St., (213) 620-0908 or bluewhalemusic.com. March 13: Jam Session hosted by the Gary Fukushima Trio. March 14: Brent Canter Group. March 15: Kneebody I. March 16: Kneebody II. March 17: Kneebody III. March 20: Jessica Vautor Group. March 21: Gonzalo Bergara Group. March 22: Oscar Hernandez Quintet. March 23: Richard Sears Quartet. March 24: Hamilton Price Group. March 27: Dwight Trible Quartet. March 28: Gavin Salmon Group. March 29: Jesse Palter Group. March 30: Vardan Ovsepian Chamber Ensemble I. March 31: Vardan Ovsepian Chamber Ensemble II. Bootleg Bar 2220 Beverly Blvd., (213) 389-3856 or bootlegtheater.org. March 12, 8 p.m.: The Janks are grooving at the Bootleg once again with The Wind, neo-Beatles quartet King Washington and Royal Canoe. March 14, 8 p.m.: No man is an island, except Islands, which are in their very own sea of downtempo pop for the broken hearted. March 15, 8 p.m.: Bluesy and a little heavy, Mojo Stone is like John Lee Hooker pumped full of magic and caffeine and split five ways.
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March 5, 2012
Downtown News 19
Stern Visions photo courtesy of Phil Stern Gallery © Phil Stern-CPi
March 16, 8:30 p.m.: Subdued and reverent, the kids in Memoryhouse signed with Sub Pop to make that good rainy day music for a little bit of nostalgia. March 18, 6 p.m.: The new duke of rockin’ ivories, Doran Danoff invites you to attend his album release party where he will prove that he is an excellent entertainer, like a less unnerving Little Richard. March 19, 9:30 p.m.: As is customary every Monday this March, take in the Janks. For free! March 19, 9 p.m.: Two shows at once? Yes, that is the magic of the Bootleg. If you’re not satisfied getting your Janks on, come catch Emil Savanengen, aka Loney Dear, and his Swedish perspective on the wide wonderful world of contemporary songwriting. March 20, 8 p.m.: KCRW presents Milagres, one of New York’s most highly touted indie outfits and some damn-fine songsters. They’ll be joined by Silver Lake’s own Hands and 1,2,3. March 21, 8 p.m.: Yellow Ostrich’s looping backbeats and digital harmonies are very much in vogue in this, the era of the producer. Arrive early because there’s more than meets the eye with Niki & the Dove (editor’s note: no doves will be present at this performance). March 22, 8 p.m.: Why deal with your deep-seated issues when you can write extremely melancholy songs about them and tour the country rehashing your inner torment every night of the week? Great question for tonight’s artist, Perfume Genius. March 23, 8 p.m.: Ex Indigo Girl Amy Ray trots her band out for an evening that will have you reminiscing about the days of Lilith Fair. March 24, 9 p.m.: It’s going to be a low-key evening when Release the Sunbird takes the stage. March 25, 12 p.m.: Somewhere below the grungy annals of noise is the celebration of all things strange and groovy called LA Psych Fest. A half dozen bands including Lumerians and Dahga Bloom are here to initiate you into the cult of psych. March 26, 7 p.m.: Gregory Alan Isakov practically oozes pastiche through his meaty, deep folk. March 26, 8:30 p.m.: Mondays in March mean its time to take your meds and the Janks are playing. March 27, 8 p.m.: If you’re not on board with Harriet’s upbeat indie the instant you hear their track “I Slept With All Your Mothers,” you either don’t have a taste for indie music or have a severe Oedipal complex. March 28, 8 p.m.: Fashionable kids who like to make accessible music and hang out with beautiful blond girls comprise Gold Fields. They’re Australians importing a little slice of Orange County electro rock from a distant hemisphere. March 31, 8 p.m.: Embrace the ever-molted forms of punk rock in the digital age with Dunes, Abe Vigoda and Stephanie. April 1, 8 p.m.: Charlotte Martin brings that polished yet damaged pop vibe that sounds like Mandy Moore with a bad case of PTSD. April 2, 8 p.m.: Every Monday this month it’s the vulnerable but rangy vocal stylings of the wonderful Grace Woodroofe. April 4, 8 p.m.: SanguinDrake, the duo whose sultry songs embrace the sensual and forbidden in a gumbo of decadent demise. April 5, 8 p.m.: Beards to go around when Megafaun, the ZZ Top of indie, come to town. April 6, 8 p.m.: Ironically, Rubblebucket’s music lends the same plasticine comforts and purposeful, time consuming engagement that kept bringing me back to Mr. Bucket as a child. April 8, 7 p.m.: Pop, folk and punk. Do we have your attention yet? No? Well go see Moses Campbell anyways. April 9, 8 p.m.: Grace Woodruff has floated in a rowboat for hours in the name of music. Come support her residency. April 10, 8 p.m.: Wreck of the Zephyr sounds like a Gordon Lightfoot/Red Hot Chili Peppers cover band. The truth is not that far off. April 13, 8 p.m.: Q: How many hipsters does it take to screw in a light bulb? A: However many people attend Brooklyn indie duo Boom Chick’s concert. The Bootleg needs some of those high ceiling fixtures replaced. April 14, 8 p.m.: Seattle native Damien Jurado recalls rock heroes in the vein of Krist Novoselic, nearly catatonic and just happy to be here. April 16, 23, 8 p.m.: Welcome home Grace Woodroofe. April 24, 8 p.m.: State to State, the rangy alt rock answer. April 25, 8 p.m.: To all those who assumed Manda Mosher was a thrash outfit, be advised, the Southern California singer-songwriter is a gentle acoustic vixen, not a circle pit breeding monster. April 27, 9 p.m.: The Bright Light Social Hour are the energetic lads all of Austin can’t stop talking about. May 2, 8 p.m.: Groovy songstress Sophie Barker has collaborated with the likes of Zero 7 and The Egg. Her solo project Seagull is a thing of beauty. She’ll be stopping in with The Janks. May 4, 8 p.m.: With an illustrious name, Seattle native Shenandoah Davis must be musical gold. Ian Cooke headlines.
Arts & Entertainment
P
hil Stern spent decades shooting Hollywood’s biggest names. He took iconic photographs of individuals including John Wayne, Orson Welles, Rita Moreno and Jackie Chan (shown here, stretching before a take for the 1998 film Rush Hour). Stern, who is 92, doesn’t shoot professionally anymore, but he does have a Downtown gallery named after himself. His exhibit Inside Hollywood, featuring some of these images as well as other shots that show what life is like behind the scenes on a set, is up through April 21. At 601 S. Los Angeles St., (213) 488-0138 or philsterngallery.com.
May 10, 8 p.m.: Lovedrug is some low down gold for those late nights. Sexy, chic indie rock for the masses. May 18, 8 p.m.: Chappo is the best garage band you will see all year, except for your little cousin Tony’s three piece tribute to Old Skull. Broadway Bar 830 S. Broadway, (213) 614-9909 or broadwaybar.la. Thursdays at 10 p.m.: Broader Than Broadway presents Saltwater Gypsy, Civil Clothing and Hysteric Haus. Caña 714 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 745-7090 or canarumbar.com. March 27 and April 3, 10:30 p.m.: Salt Petal. Casey’s Irish Pub 613 S. Grand Ave., (213) 629-2353 or bigcaseys.com. Fridays in March, 10 p.m.: C-horse comes straight from the L.A. underground to bump their straightup indie jams. Saturdays in March, 10 p.m.: The Mo-Odds bring straight up rock delivered with love directly to your face. Club Nokia 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-7000 or clubnokia.com. March 20: Needtobreath unifies the two disparate demographics of South Carolinians and Christian rock fans into one highly marketable package. March 27: Monster Energy Outbreak Tour Presents XXL Freshmen live featuring Big Sean. March 29: Vans Warped Tour kick-off party. No Mohawk required. March 30: The Dan Band needs you now tonight, they blankin’ need you more than ever. March 31: The club will be turned up to 11 with Mindless Self Indulgence. April 1: You’ll love the penultimate musical experience of hearing rapper TYGA’s hit single “Coconut Juice” live and in person. April 6: Lalah Hathaway, first daughter of soul. April 11: The beautiful people will all be in tow for the Revolver Golden Gods show with Marilyn Manson, Slash, Evanesence, Sixx: A.M. and Black Veil Brides. April 17: If you’ve ever sought validation for your inappropriately long dreadlocks or proclivity for low-key alt rock, you’ll love Counting Crows. May 3: It’s family night with Overkill, Belpegor, Aborted, Suidakra, System Divide and Diamond Plate. May 5: Rumors of his death were greatly exaggerated: MC Hammer. Grammy Museum 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. March 21, 7:30 p.m.: Local blues rockers Terraplane Sun have earned a slot in the museum’s heralded “Homegrown” program. Mayan Theatre 1038 S. Hill St., (213) 746-4674 or clubmayan.com May 2, 8 p.m.: Indie rockers Cage the Elephant. Nokia Theater
777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6020 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. March 16 and 17, 8 p.m.: Ricardo Arjona. March 31, 8 p.m.: Terrified of puppets? Live a humorless life? You’ll love Jeff Dunham! April 3, 8 p.m.: That’s right, Kelly Clarkson’s still making music. April 13, 8 p.m.: Dierks Bentley with the Eli Young Band. April 28, 8 p.m.: Like a gaggle of Enyas piled on top of one another, Celtic Woman. May 26, 8 p.m.: Julion Alvarez. Orpheum Theatre 842 S. Broadway, (213) 538-3831 or laorpheum.com. March 23, 8 p.m.: Concertgoers will get a taste of the true Boston pop with the Magnetic Fields. With luck they’ll play a hefty selection from 69 Love Songs. March 24, 8 p.m.: The incomparable indie guitarslingin’ righteous babe Ani DiFranco. March 25, 7:30 p.m.: The Pink Floyd Experience cover band plays Wish You Were Here in its entirety. April 21, 8 p.m.: Marcel Khalife and Al Mayadine Ensemble present Fall of the Moon, an homage to the Poet Mahmoud Darwish and a salute to the Arab Spring. April 24, 8 p.m.: Johnny Hallyday. May 12, 8 p.m.: Rufus Wainwright and Teddy Thompson. May 18, 8 p.m.: Forget Emerson and Palmer, you’ll get an entire evening with Greg Lake. REDCAT 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. March 24, 8:30 p.m.: The Los Angeles new music high-fliers California E.A.R. Unit meet up with the techno godfather Morton Subotnick and revisit the electronic music pioneer’s iconic works, rendered with new technology. April 12 and 13, 8:30 p.m.: Musicians, electro-mechanical instruments, dancers and multiple speakers are dispersed in and around the audience for this “rebirth” of ancient morality tales in the technologically ingenious 21st century with KarmetiK Machine Orchestra. Redwood Bar and Grill 316 W. Second St., (213) 652-4444 or theredwoodbar.com. March 13: Cobra Venom, Sassafras and the always spunky Blacklight Revelation. March 15: Lost Marauders. March 16: Best Western, Boyscott Jamboree and Moon Chaser. March 17: Longtime rockers the Lords of Altamont, with The Blackerby’s, Green Lady Killers and Dirty Eyes. March 18: Charlie Don’t Surf. Did someone see Apocalypse Now? March 19: Ari Shine. March 20: Jamtown Superheros, Sassafras and Roman Candle Wars. March 21: Merle Jagger. March 22: Cyclops, the Flytraps and taking home
Downtown News’ band name of the week, it’s Guantanamo Baywatch. March 24: Kamikaze Queens. March 26: Ari Shine. March 27: Piss Broke Rebels, Sassafras and Hellbat. March 28-29: Tough Choices. Seven Grand 515 W. Seventh St., (213) 614-0737 or sevengrand.la. March 12: Jazz + Kenny G hair + whiskey = your Monday night with the John Daversa Small Band. March 14: The Vibrometers return with their double guitar and sax assault on jazz that demands your rapt attention while also asking important questions about Seven Grand’s seismic retrofitting. March 19: The Katisse Buckingham Quartet will be on hand to help mitigate that residual post St. Paddy’s headache. March 21: Artwork Jamal and the Acid Blues Band are here to remind you that live music is great and Schedule A drugs are illegal. Everyone loves Artwork Jamal. March 28: Dante’s Inferno delivers some hellishly good jazz. The Smell 247 S. Main St., alley between Spring and Main streets, thesmell.org. March 23: Black Spring Festival featuring Black Love, Black Mare and Black Sea. March 24: Batwings Catwings, Chapter 24 and Peter Pants. March 25: Yuri Landman workshop. March 26: Performance by Yuri Landman & Orchestra with Gagakirise and VVDBLK. March 30: Manhattan Murder Mystery, RAD, Gibbons and the Sluts and Seasons. April 26: Takeoff Fest with Dunes, David Scott Sctone, ParallaxScroll, Protectme, Exotic Dancer Funtime Orifice (actual name redacted) and Mutations. Staples Center 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or staplescenter.com. March 27, 8 p.m.: Drunk and lonely country fans don’t just belong in the Inland Empire or East County San Diego anymore. Welcome Downtown, where your champions, Lady Antebellum are here to fill the void. April 19 and 20, 8 p.m.: Mana is a force of rock en Espagnol nature. The Varnish 118 E. Sixth St., (213) 622-9999 or thevarnishbar.com. Tuesdays, 9 p.m.: Jamie Elman tickles the keys. Wednesdays, 8:30 p.m.: Somewhere deep in a Downtown back room Mark Bosserman will play you a song. Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. March 13, 8 p.m.: American legend and music superstar Willie Nelson makes his first-ever appearance at Walt Disney Concert Hall. It’s an evening of pure songwriting magic and a celebration of the
Continued on next page
20 Downtown News
Arts & Entertainment
photo by Becky Snodgrass
Barbarian at Our Gate
M
y Barbarian, an experimental theater company spearheaded by Malik Gaines, Jade Gordon and Alexandro Segade, was founded in Los Angeles in 2000. What their work is about — well, that’s not always clear. They have something called the Post-Living AnteAction Theater (PoLAAT) project, and on April 14-15 they’ll be at REDCAT to stage the show Post-Paradise, Sorry Now. Images of the work on the troupe’s website show, among other things, people in their underwear with guitars. Sorry Now looks to be an attempt to update 1960s countercultural theater to the modern age. You already know if you like this kind of stuff or not. At 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org.
Listings Continued from previous page musical roots of America. March 27, 8 p.m.: Experience the music of Keith Jarrett in the pristine acoustics of Walt Disney Concert Hall as he celebrates the release of Rio, a live solo recording. May 7, 8 p.m.: Seminal indie demi-gods Death Cab for Cutie bask in the wonders of Disney’s acoustics. May 19, 8 p.m.: Following an unparalleled journey of iconic performances, from Sondheim’s Company to her Tony-winning show Elaine Stritch at Liberty to her hilarious Emmy-winning appearances on 30 Rock, the ferociously age-defiant “Broadway Baby” makes her Disney Hall debut.
FILM Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. March 8, 7 p.m.: Give Me the Chains is new work by Killsonic in conjunction with the Poptart Gallery. March 5-7, showtimes vary: Pina is a featurelength dance film in 3D following the German choreographer Pina Bausch. March 11, 1-5 p.m.: “Lunafest Short Films” is an afternoon of quick movies to raise funds for the Breast Cancer Fund and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. IMAX Theater California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) 7442019 or californiasciencecenter.org. Through April 19: Soar over primordial earth in Flying Monsters 3D. Through June 28: Experience the gripping story full of hope, crushing disappointment, dazzling ingenuity, bravery, and triumph in Hubble 3D, the seventh film from the award-winning IMAX Space Team. Million Dollar Theatre 307 S. Broadway, (213) 617-3600 or milliondollartheater.com. March 7, 7:30 p.m.: It’s the return of the original. Kurt Neumann’s 1958 The Fly and 1965’s The Curse of the Fly. Regal Cinemas LA Live 1000 W. Olympic Blvd., (877) 835-5734 or lalive.com. Through March 8: Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax (12:30, 2:50, 5:20 and 8 p.m.); Dr. Seuss’ The Lorax 3D (11:30 a.m. and 1:50, 4:20, 7 and 9:40 p.m.); Project X (11:50 a.m. and 12:40, 2:10, 3, 4:40, 5:30, 7:10, 8, 9:50 and 10:40 p.m.); Act of Valor (11:50 a.m. and
2:20, 5:10, 7:50 and 10:30 p.m.); Gone (10:40 p.m.); Tyler Perry’s Good Deeds (11:30 a.m. and 2:10, 4:50, 7:30 and 10:20 p.m.); Wanderlust (12:10, 2:50, 5:20, 7:50 and 10:20 p.m.); Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance (11:20, 4:30, 10 p.m.); Ghost Rider: Spirit of Vengeance 3D (1:50 and 7:10 p.m.); This Means War (11:40 and 2 p.m.); Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (11:40 a.m. and 4:30 and 9:30 p.m.); Journey 2: The Mysterious Island (2 and 6:50 p.m.); Safe House (1:40, 4:40, 7:40 and 10:30 p.m.); The Vow (12, 5 and 7:30 p.m. with Open Captions at 2:30 and 10:10 p.m.); Chronicle (12:20, 2:40, 5:10, 7:40 and 10:10 p.m.); The Woman in Black (12, 2:30, 5, 7:20, 9:50 p.m.). March 9 (Partial): John Carter 3D (1, 4:20, 7:40 and 11 p.m.); Silent House (12:30, 3, 5:30, 8 and 10:30 p.m.); A Thousand Words (11:30 a.m. and 2, 4:30, 7 and 9:30 p.m.). Future Film Downtown Independent 251 S. Main St., (213) 617-1033 or downtownindependent.com. March 23-25: LA Film + Music Weekend 2012 returns with classes, seminars, live music and close to 20 films. March 29-April 22, show times vary: National Theatre Live presents a simulcast of She Stoops to Conquer, a play by Oliver Goldsmith. IMAX Theater California Science Center, 700 State Drive, (213) 7442019 or californiasciencecenter.org. Through April 19: Soar over primordial earth in Flying Monsters 3D. Through June 28: Experience the gripping story full of hope, crushing disappointment, dazzling ingenuity, bravery, and triumph in Hubble 3D, the seventh film from the award-winning IMAX Space Team. Last Remaining Seats Los Angeles Theatre, 615 S. Broadway, (213) 6232489 or laconservancy.org. May 30, 8 p.m.: The annual run of classic films shown in classic theatres kicks off with 1973’s Paper Moon. Million Dollar Theatre 307 S. Broadway, (213) 617-3600 or milliondollartheater.com. All shows at 7:30 p.m. March 14: Marilyn Monroe double feature with Gentlemen Prefer Blondes and Bus Stop. March 21: Loneliness has followed Travis Bickle his whole life. Just be sure you’re not talking to him. Don your fatigue jacket and trim your mohawk for Taxi Driver. March 28: Another South Bay reject invades Downtown. Spicoli and company in Fast Times at
Ridgemont High with the ramones’ Rock N Roll High School. REDCAT 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. March 22, 8:30 p.m.: What do a luxury automobile, a wall clock and a cymbal have in common? Daniel Eisenberg’s latest film, The Unstable Object, explores contemporary models of production. April 2, 8:30 p.m.: Poet, essayist and filmmaker Abigail Child shows films from 1977 to 2009 including Peripeteia I, Perils, Mayhem, The Future Is Behind You, Mirror World and Ligatures. April 9, 8:30 p.m.: REDCAT veteran Sharon Lockhart’s Double Tide screens. April 16, 8:30 p.m.: Nathaniel Dorsky’s work explores the world through images of beauty. Catch his films Pastourelle and The Return. April 23, 8:30 p.m.: Since The Film of Her (1996), filmmaker Bill Morrison has completed more than 20 experimental pieces. With The Miners’ Hymns, he teams up with Icelandic composer Jóhann Jóhannsson to celebrate the culture and political struggles of the Durham collieries in Northeastern England. April 30, 8:30 p.m.: The Imaginary Voices of Maureen Selwood features hand-drawn animations juxtaposed on contemporary photographs. May 1, 8:30 p.m.: In Transparent Cities, a portrait of Los Angeles, layers of sound and image combine with music. May 2-5, 8 p.m.: The CalArts School of Film/ Video presents a juried selection of four screenings that feature new short and feature-length films by students in its Experimental Animation, program. May 5-13: The REDCAT International Children’s Film Festival delivers two weekends worth of movies from around the world. May 7, 8:30 p.m.: Cine Povera showcases work from Mexico by filmmakers who persist in working in 16mm. May 21, 8 p.m.: A celebratory screening to mark the 40th anniversary of New Day Films, which was created by Julia Reichert and Jim Klein when they failed to secure distribution for Growing Up Female.
THEATER, OPERA & DANCE Albert Herring L.A. Opera, 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or laopera.com. March 8, 7:30 p.m., March 11, 2 p.m.: It’s spring in a bucolic English country village. Time to choose a May Queen from the lovely local maidens. But the only virgin to be found is Albert Herring, a meek mama’s boy who reluctantly becomes Loxford’s first May King. After his friends surreptitiously ply him with liquid courage at the coronation ceremony, Albert discovers the nerve to assert himself for the first time in his life. Buddha Bootleg Theater, 2220 Beverly, (800) 838-3006 or bootlegtheater.org. March 8-10, 7:30 p.m. and March 11, 3 p.m.: John C. Reilly directs Evan Brenner in a one-man show about the triumph and tragedy of the Great Sage. Fiesta The Bob Baker Marionette Theater, 1345 W. First St., (213) 250-9995 or bobbakermarionettes.com. Marcg 6-9, 10:30 a.m. and March 10-11, 2:30 p.m.: “Fiesta” is a south of the border marionette extravaganza featuring everything from skating sombreros to dancing cacti. It was first presented at the theater in 1964 and still resonates with children of all ages. Short Eyes LATC, 514 S. Spring St., (213) 489-0994 or thelatc.org. March 8-10, 8 p.m.; March 11, 7 p.m.: Short Eyes, about a pedophile is back. WindChimes Company of Angels, 501 S. Spring St., 3rd Floor (213) 489-3703 or companyofangels.org. March 9-10, 8 p.m., March 11, 7 p.m.: A volatile relative returns, past joys and pains are reexamined and secrets are revealed. Each family member must decide what it means to forgive and be forgiven in a play written by John Dubiel. Future theater, Opera and dance Bootleg Theater 2220 Beverly, (800) 838-3006 or bootlegtheater.org. Through April 1: Buddha. March 22-24: Can resurrection of purpose triumph over a terminal case of boho destitution? Find out in The Morning After Show, a libidinous sing-along written and performed by Ayana Hampton. March 29-April 22: Phantoms Go Down is a dark comedy chronicling the journey of three siblings as they make their way to Cabo San Lucas to bury their mother’s ashes. It’s inspired by a study of Faulkner. Ahmanson Theater 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. March 13-April 22: Get ready for razor guitars, thundering drums, an anti-hero named Johnny and appearance from St. Jimmy. That’s the prelude to the musical Green Day’s American Idiot.
March 5, 2012 May 3-June 9: When former members of the “Weismann Follies” reunite on the eve of their theater’s demolition, two couples remember their past and face the harsher realities of the present in Stephen Sondheim’s Tony Award-winning Follies. Company of Angels 501 S. Spring St., Third Floor (213) 489-3703 or companyofangels.org. Through March 18: Windchimes. See above. LA Opera 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 972-7211 or laopera.com. March 14, 7:30 p.m., March 17, 2 p.m.: Albert Herring. May 12- June 2: In La Boheme, a candle flickers out on Christmas Eve, tentative hands meet in the dark, and a rapturous duet soars under the moonlight. Follow the tale of six young Parisians who live an exuberant bohemian existence. There are six performances with various show times. Mark Taper Forum 135 N. Grand Ave., (213) 628-2772 or centertheatregroup.org. March 14-April 22: Originally written in French, Nobel Prize winner Samuel Beckett’s masterly translation of his seminal work Waiting for Godot is widely recognized as the most significant English language play of the 20th century. The tragicomedy follows two men waiting on a country road for some dude named Godot. What a thrilling wait it is. May 23-July 1: The uniquely Southern California experience is celebrated in Los Otros, the song cycles of a Mexican-American man growing up in Carlsbad, and a San Diego native reminiscing of her encounters with the Mexican community. Nokia Theatre 777 Chick Hearn Court, (213) 763-6020 or nokiatheatrelalive.com. April 20- 21: Tyler Perry brings his Madea franchise to the stage in a modern embodiment of theater incarnate titled Madea Goes to Work. REDCAT 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. March 31-April 1: In Studio: Spring 2012 original, we weill also see ambitiously offbeat performances by a lively mix of experimental Los Angeles artists. April 5-8: In Gloria’s Cause, the complexities of the nation’s history receive clashing revisions. The show inspired by the American Revolution features choreographer and director Dayna Hanson’s blend of live rock music, idiosyncratic dance and inventive theatrics. April 14-15: With humor and allusion, My Barbarian’s ongoing Post-Living Ante-Action Theater project interrogates counterculture theatrical forms of the ’60s and translates them into slyly subversive music-theater of the moment. April 28, 8:30 p.m. and April 29, 7 p.m.: Explosively inventive Dutch theater ensemble Wunderbaum merges with rock trio Touki Delphine to create a theatrical superband in Wunderbaum: Songs at the End of the World. This show is inspired by imagery from Werner Herzog’s Antarctica documentary Encounters at the End of the World. May 11-12: The resident ensemble of the Sharon Disney Lund School of Dance at CalArts brings innovative and memorable new dance to REDCAT. Choreographers Stephan Koplowitz and Laurence Blake co-direct this year’s program from The Next Dance Company. May 16-20: Leading butoh Oguri collaborates with Dublin-based Morleigh Steinberg and Liz Roche on Cold Dream Color, featuring a score by U2 guitarist The Edge and Paul Chavez of Feltlike.
CLASSICAL MUSIC tuesday, march 6 Colburn School 200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool. edu. 8 p.m.: Piano Spheres presents one of the finest virtuosos of the ivory keys: Mark Robson. The recital includes the world premiere of Drive Through for piano and video by Los Angeles composer Bruno Louchouarn, which was commissioned by Piano Spheres, as well as works by contemporary masters Karlheinz Stockhausen, Toru Takemitsu, Rodion Shchedrin, and Conlon Nancarrow. LA Philharmonic Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. 8 p.m.: Chamber music from the L.A. Phil featuring the work of Beethoven and Dvorák. Wednesday, march 7 LA Philharmonic Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. 8 p.m.: Jeffrey Kahane and the Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra celebrate the group’s 15th anniversary with a performance featuring Margaret Batjer on violin, Andrew Shulman on cello and Kahane on piano. thursday, march 8 Colburn School
March 5, 2012 200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu. 8 p.m.: Camerata Pacifica’s crop of talented chamber musicians performs Debussy, Bennett, Xenakis, Takemitsu and Shostakovich.
Downtown News 21
Arts & Entertainment
Paradise Lost and Found photo courtesy WireImage.com
Saturday, March 10 LA Philharmonic Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. 10 a.m.: Toyota Symphonies for Youth presents Holst’s The Planets. Knowledge is power, kids. Da Camera Society At Pompeian Room, Doheny Mansion, 8 Chester Place, (213) 477-2929 or dacamera.org. 8 p.m.: Descending from the great Russian musical tradition, violinist Misha Keylin joins cellist Sergey Antonov, gold medalist at the Tchaikovsky Competition, and pianist Maxim Mogilevsky in powerhouse performances of Rachmaninov (Trio No. 1 in g “Elégiaque”), Arensky (Trio No. 1 in d, Op. 32), and Tchaikovsky (Trio in a, Op. 50). Sunday, March 11 Colburn School 200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.: The first day of the Piatigorsky Festival features master classes with Jean-Guihen Queyras and Laurence Lesser, an overview of the Bach Cello Suites and a performance of those six pieces. Future claSSical Da Camera Society At Pompeian Room, Doheny Mansion, 8 Chester Place, (213) 477-2929 or dacamera.org. May 4, 8 p.m.: An All-French program of Debussy (Piano Trio in g), Ravel (Sonata for violin and cello), and Faure (Piano Trio in d, Op. 20). Violinist Ida Levin and cellist Peter Stumpf join in on the revelry. Colburn School 200 S. Grand Ave., (213) 621-2200 or colburnschool.edu. March 14-18, 11 a.m.-9 p.m.: The Piatigorsky Festival is a smorgasbord of performances and master classes oriented around the cello mastery of Gregor Piatigorsky. March 17, 8-10 p.m.: Vox Femina Los Angeles continues its 15th anniversary season with “From Shakespeare to Shamrocks,” a spring concert celebration that brings the English and Irish together in song on St. Patrick’s Day. March 25, 3 p.m.: The Glendale-based Lark Musical Society presents the Dilijan Chamber Music Series. March 25, 6:30 p.m.: Rosemary and Ishac Cohen and their children have created a program to honor the memory of their daughter and sister, Liana, and to encourage and inspire young musicians and artists. In this concert, young musicians will perform pieces by Beethoven, Chopin, Mozart and Bach. March 26, 8 p.m.: Work by the wildly undervalued Stefan Wolpe, bouncing out of jazz and the Austro-German avant garde, frames the program. Get ready for his brilliant late quartet with trumpet and sax, and his astonishing mid-50s oboe quartet. March 31, 8 p.m.: The Jazz Bakery Movable Feast presents Chano Dominguez and “Flamenco Sketches.” April 9, 7 p.m.: Abeya is Japan’s top TsugaruShamisen musical ensemble. They are masters in performing Japanese folk music on the three stringed shamisen, and will take the audience on a tour of the past 150 years of Japanese traditional music. April 15, 3 p.m.: The Glendale based Lark Musical Society presents the Dilijan Chamber Music Series in a tribute to Armenian genocide remembrance. April 23, 8 p.m.: The late Aldo Clementi, master of the magic of highly systematic music, is celebrated close to the first anniversary of his death. L’orologio di Arcevia, a spellbinding piece of elaborate clockwork for tuned percussion instruments, is paired with his Madrigale, for piano and tape. April 24, 8 p.m.: Piano Spheres presents one of the finest virtuosos of the ivory keys, Susan Svrcek LA Philharmonic Walt Disney Concert Hall, 111 S. Grand Ave., (323) 850-2000 or laphil.com. March 15, 8 p.m.: On this evening of the Piatigorsky International Cello Festival, the darkly romantic Dvorák concerto is played by Ralph Kirshbaum. Other selections include Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 5. March 17, 8 p.m.: Piatigorksy-palooza continues with Maisky playing selections from Dvorák, Tchaikovsky and Shostakovich. March 18, 2 p.m.: Cellist Alisa Weilerstein takes on selections from Dvorák, Tchaikovsky, Respighi and Shostakovich. March 18, 8 p.m.: Eight master cellists combine their powers into one mighty morphing power ranger of Piatigorsky for this recital. March 21, 8 p.m.: Tabla virtuoso Zakir Hussain’s Masters of Percussion offer a thrilling exploration of the depth and breadth of Indian music. From meditative classical ragas to high-energy rhythmic drumming and dance, a fascinating musical journey will unfold. March 23-24, 8 p.m. and March 25, 2 p.m.: Vanska conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic
T
he title alone is intriguing: Trouble in Paradise: Music and Los Angeles 1947-1975 hints at a world of conflict and possibility. The show at the Grammy Museum through June 3 has plenty of material on which to build. The dozens of items in the fourth floor gallery, curated by the museum and USC professor Josh Kun, explore the tensions between the myth of an idyllic Southern California and the harsh realities. The exhibit features photos, album art, handbills, interviews and more and touches on a variety of musical forms, including the Laurel Canyon folk rock scene, the Sunset Strip rock musicians, as well as surf rock, jazz and R&B. Trouble in Paradise runs through June 3. At 800 W. Olympic Blvd., (213) 765-6800 or grammymuseum.org. through the works of Sibelius. March 25, 7:30 p.m.: Organist Isabell Demers performs a recital of pieces from Bach, Widor, Wagner and Prokofiev. March 27, 8 p.m.: Experience the music of Keith Jarrett in the pristine acoustics of Walt Disney Concert Hall as he celebrates the release of Rio, a live solo recording. March 30, 8 p.m. and March 31 and April 1, 2 p.m.: The Phil welcomes pianist Andre Watts as he plays Respighi, Bartok and Grieg. March 31, 8 p.m.: After savoring Bach’s St. Matthew Passion in 2010, now hear the earlier, more vivid and dramatically intense St. John Passion on Palm Sunday weekend. Musica Angelica rejoins the L.A. Master Chorale for two high baroque performances presented the way listeners would have heard it in Bach’s time. April 3, 8 p.m.: Chamber music from the Phil featuring Brahms, Pereira, Schoenberg and Brahms. April 5, 6 and 7: 8 p.m.: Composer John Adams conducts the Phil as it plays works from Arvo Part and Adams himself. The program includes the West Coast premiere of Philip Glass’s Symphony No. 9. April 10, 8 p.m.: The Green Umbrella’s commitment to lesser known, yet equally ambitious and influential classical pieces welcomes John Adams to conduct Stockhausen, Cage and Bettison. April 13 and 14, 8 p.m. and April 15, 2 p.m.: Herbert Blomstedt leads the LA Phil through Beethoven’s Missa Solemnis. April 14 and 21, 11 a.m.: Toyota’s Symphonies for Youth presents its “Minimalist Jukebox.” No shouting out for Journey hits. April 16-18, 8 p.m.: Baritone Matthias Goerne and pianist Christoph Eschenbach present a program titled “Sublime Schubert.” April 19, 8 p.m.: Straight from South Korea, the Seoul Philharmonic presents Debussy’s La Mer as well as pieces from Ravel and Tchaikovsky. April 20 and 21, 8 p.m. and April 22, 2 p.m.: Sublime Schubert returns with the LA Phil playing Schubert’s works Orchestrated Songs and Symphony No. 9. April 22, 6:30 p.m.: Sir Neville Marriner conducts the Colburn Orchestra in Rossini, Barber and Elgar. April 24, 8 p.m.: Bach lovers will revel in this baroque program featuring three major instrumental works by Bach, in the context of Italian composers who made such an impression on Johann Sebastian. April 26, 8 p.m., April 27, 11 a.m. and April 29, 2 p.m.: Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos conducts the Phil folk in pieces by Turina, Rodrigo and Brahms. May 4 and 5, 8 p.m. and May 6, 2 p.m.: Sir Simon Rattle conducts mezzo-soprano Magdalena Kozena and the LA Phil in Ligeti, Wagner, Mahler and Bruckner. May 6, 7:30 p.m.: Organist extraordinaire Peter Conte presents a recital of Bernstein, Guilmant, Dupre, Bach, Mendelssohn, Elmore and Dukas. May 8, 8 p.m.: The Green Umbrella series hosts Dudamel conducting selections from Berio, Pereira and Akiho. May 9, 8 p.m.: The New York Philharmonic comes to town with a little Dvorák, Lindberg and Tchaikovsky. May 10 and 12, 8 p.m.: Dudamel conducts
Mozart’s Adagio and Fugue, K. 546 and Posthorn Serenade, K. 320. May 18, 24 and 26, 8 p.m. and May 20, 2 p.m.: With all three operas conducted by Gustavo Dudamel, the epic three-year Mozart/Da Ponte Trilogy begins with the masterful dramedy Don Giovanni, featuring costumes by Rodarte and stage design by Frank Gehry. Le Salon de Musiques Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., (310) 498-0257 or lesalondemusiques.com. March 25, 4 p.m.: Champagne, distinguished company and lofty discourse in this intimate chamber performance of Schumann’s Liederkreis Op. 39 and Piano Quintet in E Flat Major Opus 44. April 22, 4 p.m.: The chamber will be piped full of Tchaikovsky’s Variations on a Theme Opus 34 and “Souvenir de Florence.” May 20, 4 p.m.: The fruits of high culture ripen and fall off the vine with chamber music featuring Brahms’ Cello Sonata in E Minor Opus 38 and Myaskovsky’s Cello Sonata N.2 in A Major Opus 81. May 22, 8 p.m.: Members of the Phil play Chamber music in the mode of Mozart. May 25, 8 p.m. and May 27, 2 p.m.: Dudamel conducts the LA Phil in Mozart’s Exsultate jubilate and Posthorn Serenade, K. 320. May 31 and June 1, 8 p.m. and June 2-3, 2 p.m.: Dudamel conducts the world premiere of John Adams’ The Gospel According to the Other Mary. REDCAT 631 W. Second St., (213) 237-2800 or redcat.org. March 23, 8:30 p.m.: The supremely gifted cellist Frances-Marie Uitti makes a rare Los Angeles appearance for the debut of Michael Jon Fink’s new cello concerto, written especially for her pioneering technique of playing with two bows simultaneously, and chamber ensemble. April 18 and 19, 8:30 p.m.: Richard Nunns, the world’s foremost authority on Maori music, is the guest artist for a two-day celebration of New Zealand contemporary chamber and orchestral works and music for nga taonga puoro — traditional Maori instruments.
MUSEUMS African American Firefighter Museum 1401 S. Central Ave., (213) 744-1730 or aaffmuseum.org. Ongoing: An array of firefighting relics dating to 1924, including a 1940 Pirsch ladder truck, an 1890 hose wagon, uniforms from New York, L.A. County and City of L.A. firefighters, badges, helmets, photographs and other artifacts. Annette Green Perfume Museum FIDM, second floor, 919 S. Grand Ave., (213) 6241200 or fidmmuseum.org. Ongoing: The FIDM Museum presents an exceptional collection of fragrance, cosmetics, and ephemera from the house of Lucien Lelong. This group of objects was graciously donated by Monique Fink, wife of artist Peter Fink, who worked for Monsieur Lelong as package designer and interior decorator. Ongoing: One of a kind, the museum is dedicated to enhancing our understanding the art, culture
and science of the olfactory. Originally opened in New York City in 1999, the collection — 2,000 bottles, perfume presentations and documentary ephemera dating from the late 1800s to the present — was donated to FIDM in 2005. Also, High Style: Perfume and the Haute Couture features a selection of fragrance bottles and packaging that reflect the many ways that fame inspires design. California African American Museum 600 State Drive, (213) 744-7432 or caamuseum.org. Through March 29: Women: Game Changers, Less Known, Here Celebrated. Utilizing CAAM’s soaring entrance space, flying banners celebrate centuries of achievements by African American women, many of whom are less publicly known. Ongoing: The multi-functional Gallery of Discovery offers visitors the opportunity to connect with the lineage of their own family, engage in artistic workshops, educational tours and other programs of historical discoveries. Hear recordings of actual living slaves from the Library of Congress archives and discover stories from the past. California Science Center 700 State Drive, (323) 724-3623 or californiasciencecenter.org. Through March 11: 1001 Inventions is a traveling international exhibition that promotes awareness of scientific and cultural achievements from the “Golden Age” of Muslim civilization during the 7th to 17th centuries from a diverse region stretching from Spain through China. Through interactive displays, explore basic science principles in such fields as optics, time-keeping, hydraulics, navigation, architecture and math. Opening May 23: Cleopatra: The Exhibition at the California is a 13,000-square-foot exhibit with the largest collection of Cleopatra-era artifacts from Egypt ever assembled in the U.S. Ongoing: Science in Toyland presents physics through favorite kids toys. This hands-on exhibit engages museum visitors with Dominos, Sails and Roller Coasters in a fun, but informational primer
MorE LiStinGS Hundreds of listings of fun and interesting things to do in Downtown Los Angeles can also be found online at ladowntownnews.com/calendar: Rock, Pop & Jazz; Bars & Clubs; Farmers Markets; Events; Film; Sports; Art Spaces; Theater, Dance and Opera; Classical Music; Museums; and Tours.
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Combat in the Doll House It’s All Fun and Games Until You Try to Skate With the Derby Dolls’ Junior Team by RichaRd Guzmán city editoR
F
or five days, I needed help putting on my socks. I had to sleep with a heating pad. My 5-year-old daughter noticed that her dad is “slow like an old man.” Even if the back pain made me walk like Yoda with a cane, at least I could say I got hurt skating with the insane members of the Los Angeles Derby Dolls. Except it isn’t true. For my latest Downtown Challenge, where I take on different jobs and activities that are part of the local community, I hoped to skate with Downtown’s first ladies of roller derby at the Doll Factory, their Temple Street home. Like a lot of things in life, it was a good idea at the time. However, if there’s one thing I learned, it’s that gravity sucks. Well, that and that 9-year-olds are much better skaters than I am in. But I’m getting ahead of myself. For the uninitiated, the Derby Dolls are an all-women league who compete on a banked track. They were founded in 2003 by Rebecca Ninburg and Wendy Templeton, who like all Dolls have cool nicknames. Ninburg goes by Demolicious and Templeton is Thora Zeen. Other skaters include Killo Kitty, Iron Maiven and Broadzilla. They are divided into
five teams with monikers such as Fight Crew, Tough Cookies and the L.A. Ri-Ettes, the league’s All-Star squad. While a match can look like a chaotic blur, the rules of roller derby are actually quite simple. Each squad has five players: four blockers and one jammer. With the help of the blockers, who function like NFL offensive tackles on wheels, the jammer has 60 seconds to break through the pack and pass opposing skaters. Each opponent she passes is worth one point. It’s a full-contact sport where the women can hit the barriers at speeds of up to 25 mph. Every Doll has war stories. “I broke my arm during a game last year, so you can certainly get hurt,” said Trixie Biscuit, a member of the Fight Crew. Becoming a Doll Because I’m freaking nuts, I asked the league to let me skate with them to see if I have what it takes to be a Doll. I made my request to Edie Lundeen (aka Vodka Toxic). In the interest of disclosure, I told her I was old, out of shape and haven’t skated in years. After laughing a bit, she said I should see a match first. So I showed up for a contest between the Ri-Ettes and Team Bionic of the Missile Mountain Roller Derby Co. I knew within seconds that this might not be my brightest idea. It’s one thing to see pic-
photo by Gary Leonard
L.A. Derby Dolls co-founder Demolicious delivers some pointers. The all-women roller derby league plays in the Doll Factory on Temple Street.
tures of the Derby Dolls looking all fierce, but it’s quite another sitting ramp-side and hearing the loud thumps their bodies make when they slam into the metal track. There was one amusing part. Every time a skater hit the deck, she’d pop back up. It was just like an old kid’s cartoon, and I thought of how Tom chases Jerry, ends up getting splat-pancaked on a wall, and then springs right back into shape. I just couldn’t figure out how anyone, man or woman, could take this kind of abuse without at least crying. “I’m really going to get hurt,” I said out loud. Then things got scary. During a particularly tough run, one skater fell after trying to block a jammer and went airborne. It seemed like she landed right on her face. The crowd
of about 1,500 people went silent. The Derby Doll Repair Team, the honest-to-god name of their medical unit, reached her quickly. After a few moments they helped her to her feet. She skated off and the crowd went crazy with applause. “This is no joke. I’m really, really, really going to get hurt,” I said out loud again. Don’t Skate With Your Face A couple days later I got a call from Vodka Toxic (do I call her just Vodka? Ms. Toxic?). Given what I’d seen and what I had told her about my abilities, she offered a proposal: I could attend a 3:30 p.m. session with the Junior Derby Dolls, a team of kids aged 7-17. If the instructor thought I fared well enough, then I could join the 6 p.m. Derby Por Vida class with adults. It’s an eight-week
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course and the participants are almost as tough as the actual Derby Dolls. “That’s fine,” I said. When I arrived I was actually kind of confident in my roller skating abilities. I remembered going to the roller rink when I was in high school. I could easily do laps while looking cool and smiling at the ladies. I figured it would all come back to me. I also got some pointers from Trixie Biscuit, who was teaching the junior class. “You’ve got to bend your knees,” she told me. “Skate with your feet, not with your face, and stay low because the lower you are the less distance you have to fall.” It sounded easy enough. So I strapped on a pair of skates, some kneepads, wrist guards and a helmet and hit the track with the rest of the little girls. Trouble came quickly. While the girls, many of whom looked to be about around 9, zoomed around like little bunnies celebrating Easter on skates, I looked like a not so jolly drunk giant trying not to crush anyone by falling on them. Much like my hair, my balance has disappeared since my high school days. Seeing my predicament, Demolicious took me under her skates for the afternoon. She held my hand and reminded me to bend my knees every time I felt like I was about to fall. I got comfortable enough to make it around the bottom, flat portion of the track. I also participated in a few drills, including one where a skater follows the person in front of her and then does a pass, which is used to help move the jammer forward. Then, like Napoleon, I met my Waterloo. In the French ruler’s case it was, well, Waterloo. For me, it was an exercise where the girls practice walking sideways up the ramp so they can learn to skate on an angle. The Junior Dolls had no trouble walking sideways up the ramp. I, how-
Connector Continued from page 6 The $1.37 billion Regional Connector would lay new underground light rail track through Downtown, creating three new stations. The project’s chief purpose is to link Metro’s regional rail lines to minimize rider transfers and speed travel. With the project, currently scheduled to break ground in 2014 and open in 2019, riders would be able to go from Pasadena to Long Beach and from Culver City to East L.A. without transferring. Those trips currently require two transfers. Bart Reed, executive director of advocacy group the Transit Coalition, likened the Connector to the un-built backbone of Metro’s rail system. Without it, Reed said, the soon-to-open Expo Line and the opening of other planned lines would push the network over capacity as ridership increases and stations where passengers transfer become overcrowded. That’s also why Reed, along with a chorus of other transit advocates and Downtown stakeholders, lamented Metro’s 2010 decision to drop plans for a Regional Connector station at Fifth and Flower streets. It was eliminated for budget reasons. Killing the Fifth and Flower station was a blow to some of the same Financial District property owners pushing for Metro to minimize building impacts. Flower Street stakeholders now feel they will suffer the most in terms of construction without the future benefit of a station, said Carol Schatz, president and CEO of the Central City Association, which lobbies for Downtown business interests. Schatz helped organize the ongoing meetings between the property owners and Metro. Metro officials planned to use those sessions to explain in greater detail why tunnel boring is not feasible on Flower Street, Roybal Saltarelli said. It’s unclear whether Metro and the Flower Street property owners will reach a compromise in the coming weeks, but the agency still intends to schedule the project’s environmental report for board approval on March 22, said Katz. Absent a compromise, Metro could find itself facing a lawsuit. Among the attorneys hired by the property owners is Bonaventure representative Christopher Sutton, who this month negotiated a $24 million payout to settle a dispute between a client and the Metro Gold Line construction authority. That rail extension is slated to break ground in 2015. According to the Los Angeles Times, the authority estimated that a court fight could have delayed the Gold Line by two years and inflated costs by $100 million. Contact Ryan Vaillancourt at ryan@downtownnews.com.
photo by Gary Leonard
The author poses with the Junior Derby Dolls, a group of 7- to 17-year olds who train with the main team.
ever, am no Junior Doll. Noticing my balance problems, Demolicious took my hands and tried to help me up the ramp. “Look up. Look at me. You’re doing great. You’re doing so good,” she said sweetly as she maintained a firm grip on my hands. It reminded me of when I was teaching my son how to walk, except she’s way hotter than me, and my son is way cuter than me. He’s also 1 year old. I didn’t make it all the way up the track. Instead, gravity took over. I crumbled to the metal surface, then coasted down the track like a dying sloth sliding down a tree. There was a small step at the bottom of the inclined track that leads to the flat center. When I reached that point, I could feel my back stretch out of place. It wasn’t a dramatic fall and didn’t seem too bad at the time. However, the pain set in a few hours later, and
for almost a week I was barely able to move. My colleagues at work are always quick with a joke when I do these challenges, but this time I think they really felt bad for me. On the bright side, for my efforts, the Dolls gave me a nickname: I’m Rocky Road. I may not have gotten to skate with the team, but they can’t take my title away. Feel free to call me Rocky. Or Mr. Road. Actually, there’s another bright side. Things could have been a lot worse. I asked Demolicious how she thinks I would have done with the real Derby Dolls. “Oh, they would have [expletive] you up,” she said. The L.A. Derby Dolls skate at the Doll Factory, 1910 W. Temple St. The next home match is Saturday, March 10. A season schedule and tickets are at derbydolls.com. Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownnews.com.
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Wal-Mart Continued from page 1 Building With a History Steven Restivo, a spokesman for the retail giant, said the company has signed a lease for the space at the corner of Cesar Chavez and Grand avenues. It is on the ground floor of Grand Plaza, a 302-unit senior housing complex that the Community Redevelopment Agency helped open in 1991. Restivo said the company plans to open the business, which is being branded a Wal-Mart Neighborhood Market, by 2013. The space was originally built to accommodate a grocery store. Just a few blocks west of Chinatown, and cattycorner from the Ramon C. Cortines School of Visual and Performing Arts, it includes 140 parking spaces and loading docks that can handle delivery trucks. Yu said it has never been occupied. The store will employ 65 people and, in addition to groceries, it will include a pharmacy, said Restivo. “This store is going to be part of the solution for folks who don’t have affordable grocery options close to home,” Restivo said. “Plus the opportunity to revive a vacant property is right in line with our sustainability goals and is going to help deliver an added economic boost to the area.” Restivo said that since the space is fully entitled as a market, the project will not require any approvals from the City Council. That is key, because in 2004 the City Council passed an ordinance that discourages Wal-Mart and other retailers from opening superstores within city limits. The ordinance allows the city to view factors such as job quality and the impact on traffic and other neighborhood businesses before approving stores larger than 100,000 square feet. Although the council’s power over the project may be limited, that doesn’t mean elected officials are ignoring it. Councilman Ed Reyes, whose First District includes the site, said he has some concerns. The issues, Reyes said in an email, relate to the original agreement between the city and the developer of the housing complex. He pointed out that the property opened more than two decades ago.
“The decision for a mixed-use residential market facility in Chinatown was made before a school was built there,” Reyes wrote, “and before traffic, public access and safety issues surfaced, especially given the seniors, students and other pedestrians nearby. Convenience must be balanced with the ability to promote public safety.” LAANE officials are also questioning the history of the development deal. They claim the space that will house the Wal-Mart is part of a project that received city subsidies in exchange for creating 190 permanent jobs in the building. “I think the city needs to make sure whatever store comes in fills these conditions,” Nguyen said. Small Concept The Wal-Mart neighborhood market concept was created in 1998 to offer mostly grocery items in spaces smaller than the typical Wal-Mart superstore, which average about 150,000 square feet. There are 167 Wal-Mart Neighborhood Markets in the country, but this will be the first in Los Angeles County, Restivo said. There are currently 28 Wal-Marts superstores in the county and five in the city, he said. Four of those opened before the council’s 2004 legislation. According to the trade publication Supermarket News, Wal-Mart is the nation’s top grocer and generates about $170 billion in grocery sales each year. Mark Hamstra, the journal’s retail editor, said that in keeping with the company’s overall focus, Wal-Mart’s smaller grocery outlets focus on having very low prices. “I think you’ll see that prices at the neighborhood markets are comparable to what it has at its Wal-Mart super-centers,” he said. “What analysts have found is that in general WalMart prices are about 15% below what you would find in traditional supermarkets.” Hamstra said the smaller footprint allows Wal-Mart to get into areas where they are otherwise not able to open. “They’ve run into problems all over the country with opposition to the super-center format, and this really is a traditional supermarket, so there really is no reason for people to object based on the size of the store,” he said. Yu scoffed at the criticism of Wal-Mart, and predicted that many people in the community would welcome the store. Although Nguyen of LAANE worries that Wal-Mart would kill some of the small poultry and vegetable markets in Chinatown, Yu believes that customers will still shop at places
photo by Richard Guzmán
Wal-Mart has signed a lease for a 33,000-square-foot space at 701 W. Cesar Chavez Ave. Plans call for a grocery store to open by 2013.
such as the Ai Hoa Market on Hill Street and the Far East Supermarket on New High Street, which sell Asian products that Wal-Mart may not carry. “It will create additional options here for our residents,” Yu said. Yu said several efforts to attract a market to that location have failed. The most recent occurred in 2011, when Rio Ranch Market, which focuses on the Latino audience, was slated to occupy the space. In offering groceries to Downtowners, Wal-Mart would follow Ralphs Fresh Fare, which opened in 2007 in South Park, and Target at Figat7th, which will open this fall and include an emphasis on food items. Nearby, there is also LAX-C, a business at 1100 N. Main St. which has been likened to a Thai Costco. Unlike those stores, which appeal to a wide swath of Downtown residents, and were generally welcomed and even sought, Wal-Mart still has some minds to win over. That doesn’t phase Restivo, who said that if they build the store and no one comes, then they will have learned a lesson about Downtown. “We just don’t think that’s going to happen, and quite frankly our critics don’t think that’s going to happen either,” he said. “The day that store opens, there’s going to be thousands of Downtown residents that shop the store. Again, I don’t think our critics will disagree.” Contact Richard Guzmán at richard@downtownews.com.
CROSSWORD PUZZLE
Answers to last week’s puzzle on page 27
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Contact Cartifact for the full-color, every-building version of this map . Available in print, web and mobile media.
700 S. Flower St, # 1940 Los Angeles, CA 90017 213.327.0200 maps�cartifact.com
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26 Downtown News
March 5, 2012
Twitter/DowntownNews
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RESIDENTIAL BROKERAGE
DRE # 01309009
1000 E. 7th Street, Los Angeles, CA 90021
Voted BEST Downtown Residential Real Estate Agent!
Located in Central City East 150 Efficiency Apartments includes microwave, refrigerator & full size bathroom Amenities Furnished, Energy Star Appliances, Laundry Facility, Community Room w/ Computers, Game Room, On-site Manager
Rosslyn Hotel Studio 280 sqft. Full Bathroom Apartment
INCOME & PROGRAM RESTRICTIONS APPLY Rents from $560 to $672 per month
Whether your preference is a boutique or traditional loft experience, our leasing staff will assist in helping you select the ideal space to create the most amazing downtown living experience.
610 S. MAIN STREET, DOWNTOWN LOS ANGELES 866.561.0275
TM
Downtown since 2002
Call for detail 310.388.3219
Within walking distance of either property you will find unique dining venues and the epicenter of nightlife which includes local favorites such as The Varnish, The Association, Coles Sandwiches, Mignon Wine & Cheese, BabyCakes NYC, and PE’s newest establishment Artisan House, featuring a posh, full service bar/restaurant and marketplace.
Contact us today for availability and special pricing.
the LOFT expert!
$600 mo. to mo. $580 on 6 mo. Lease
Please apply by calling (213) 229-9365
No Application Fee! - Sec. Dep. $175
Fully furnished with TV, telephone, microwave, refrigerator. Full bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly maid service.
Monthly from $695 utilities paid. (213) 627-1151
Free Utilities, 24 hr. laundry, Around the Clock Courtesy Patrol
112 W 5th St., Los Angeles, CA 90013 213.624.3311 • Rosslyn@SROhousing.com Premiere Towers
7000 sqft. Basement Space ✦ set up for Gallery/Office space
Call For PRice
Casaloma L.A. Apartments Clean unfurnished bachelor rooms with shared bath at $550/mo. with private bath at $695/mo. Sec. Deposit Special @$100
Monthly from $550 utilities paid. (213) 612-0348
Sell Your Car!
Expose your auto to Downtown Los Angeles. With one of the fastest growing residential areas Los Angeles Downtown News gets results.
Call 213-481-1448
VIP Room Available. The Best Way For Business Meetings & Entertainment
213.627.6913 | cityloftsquare.com
Professional massage for men & women. Services include Thai Massage, Shiatsu Massage, Swedish Oil Massage, Foot Massage, Sauna, Steam, and more. Lounge area.
madison hotel
Includes utilities, basic cable channels, laundry room on site. Gated building in a good area. 208 W. 14th St. at Hill St. Downtown LA
SAKURA HEALTH GYM & SAUNA, INC.
For English Call Pierre or Terri 213.744.9911 For Spanish Call Susana 213.749.0306
First Professionally Licensed Massage Shop in L.A. County.
Health Dept. rank A for 7 Consecutive Years
111 N. Atlantic Blvd. Ste #231-233 Monterey Park, CA 91754 (626) 458-1919 [Corner of Garvey Ave.]
HBODY
MASSAGEH
3386766 0119
Furnished single unit with kitchenette, bathroom. Excellent location. Downtown LA. Weekly rate $275 inc.
THAI MASSAGE SPECIALIST
• w/Gallery Lights • Wide Private (Spring St.) Entrance • Ideal for Art Gallery, SPA, Office Space • Wired for internet service/telephone outlets • Prime Location in Downtown (Gallery row, residential area, wine bar, café, market)
Clean furnished single rooms. 24-hour desk clerk service. •Daily, $30.00 •Weekly, $109.00 •Monthly, $310.00 (213) 622-1508 423 East 7th St.
(2 blocks west of San Pedro St.) Starting Jan. 1, 2011
LOFT LIVING
Your number 1 source for Loft sales, rentals and development! DowntownNews.com
March 5, 2012
HIGH SCHOOL diploma! Graduate in 4 weeks! Free Brochure. Call Now! 1-866-562-3650 ext. 60 www.SouthEasternHS.com (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
Misc. services ATTENTION DIABETICS with Medicare. Get a free Talking Meter and diabetic testing supplies at No Cost, plus free home delivery! Best of all, this meter eliminates painful finger pricking! Call 888-781-9376. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN) ATTENTION SLEEP APNEA Sufferers with Medicare. Get free CPAP Replacement Supplies at No Cost, plus free home delivery! Best of all, prevent red skin sores and bacterial infection! Call 888-699-7660. (CalSCAN) (Cal-SCAN) SAVE ON CABLE TV-InternetDigital Phone. Packages start at $89.99/mo (for 12 months.) Options from all major service providers. Call Acceller today to learn more! CALL 1-888-8977650. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
HeaLtH & Fitness ATTENTION JOINT & Muscle Pain Sufferers: Clinically proven all-natural supplement helps reduce pain and enhance mobility. Call 877-217-7698 to try Hydraflexin Ristk-Free for 90 days. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN) DIABETES/CHOLESTEROL / Weight Loss. Bergamonte, a Natural Product for Cholesterol, Blood Sugar and weight. Physician recommended, backed by Human Clinical Studies with amazing results. Call today and save 15% off your first bottle! 888-392-8780 (Cal-SCAN) (CalSCAN) FEELING OLDER? Men lose the ability to produce testosterone as they age. Call 888-904-2372 for a Free trial of Progene- All Natural Testosterone Supplement. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN) VIAGRA 100MG and CIALIS 20mg!! 40 Pills 4 free for only $99. #1 Male Enhancement, Discreet Shipping. Only $2.70/ pill. Buy the Blue Pill Now! 1-888-904-6658. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
LegaL
tax services
SOCIAL SECURITY Disability benefits. Win or Pay Nothing! Start your Application In Under 60 Seconds. Call Today! Contact Disability Group, Inc. Licensed Attorneys & BBB Accredited. Call 877-490-6596. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
TAX Preparation From $49+ We can do your Taxes: On-Line, Mail, In-Office www.ABTTEAM. com 888-808-0344 2500 Broadway 90404 888-808-0344
PETS/ANIMALS
2007 NISSAN FRONTIER Certified, 21k miles, NI2053/129626 $9,499 call 888-838-5089 2008 AUDI A4 2.0T Certified, Low Miles, ZA10095/8A164278 $17,810 Call 888-583-0981.
ADOPT (OR FOSTER) your forever friend from Bark Avenue Foundation. Beautiful, healthy puppies, dogs, cats and kittens available at Downtown’s largest private adoption facility. Call Dawn at 213-840-0153 or email Dawn@BarkAveLA.com or visit www.Bark Avenue Foundation. org.
2008 VW BEETLE CONVERTIBLE Certified, Low Miles ZV1420/8M412815 $16,378 Call 888-781-8102. 2009 CHEVY IMPALA Certified, Low Miles, #CH1041-1 $9,995 Call 888-879-9608
ITEMS FOR SALE
2009 NISSAN VERSA Certified, Must See CU0547P-1/497708 $12,995 call 888-845-2267
BOOks
2009 PORSCHE CAYMAN Certified, Silver/Black, Only 18k Miles, 9LA04712 $44,891. Call 888-685-5426.
BOOK - THE Complete Works of Shakespeare 980 pages. $111.00. 323-962-1012
2010 MERCEDES C300W Certified, 3.0L, 34k miles, Blk/Blk 112182-1/R090076 $27,711,Call 888-319-8762.
Misc. iteMs 100 PERCENT Guaranteed Omaha Steaks - SAVE 65 percent on the Family Value Collection. Now only $49.99 Plus 3 free gifts & right-to-the-door delivery in a reusable cooler. Order Today at 1-888-525-4620 or www.OmahaSteaks.com/ family16, use code 45069TVH. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
For a complete list of our pre-owned inventory, go to www.DTLAMOTORS.com
AUTOS
FinanciaL services DOWntOWn L.a. autO grOuP POrSchE VOLKSWAgEn AUdi MErcEdES-BEnZ niSSAn chEVrOLET cAdiLLAc
DONATE YOUR car, truck or boat to Heritage for the Blind. Free 3 Day Vacation, Tax Deductible, Free Towing, All Paperwork Taken Care Of. 888-9026851. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
DODGER SEASON TICKETS Quarter Share 4 seats, 20 games (u pick). Loge level 138 (1st base), row M (in shade). Great seats for $3,425.00 @ cost. Call Alex: 818 497-4102.
ANNOUNCEMENTS auctiOn ADVERTISE YOUR Auction in 240 California newspapers for one low cost of $600. Your 25 word classified ad reaches over 6 million+ Californians. Free brochure call Elizabeth (916)2886019. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
$9,499
Certified, Low Miles..
$16,999 Certified, 21K Miles. N120652-1/N129626 2008 Nissan 350Z .............................................. $20,999 Certified only 27K Miles. NI3884/M704287 2009 Infiniti FX35 .............................................. $34,499 Only 18K Miles. Certified. NI3876/9M103735 2007 Nissan Quest 3.5S ....................................
AUDI OF DOWNTOWN L.A.
$17,810
$27,878 2008 Audi A6 ...................................................... $29,838 Certified, Auto, Nav, Low Miles. ZA10079/N077967 2010 Audi A5 Cab .............................................. $43,788 Certified, Auto. ZA10094/AN022822 2009 Audi A4 Cab .............................................. Certified, Auto Low Miles. ZA10101/9K001417
Fictitious Business name statement File no. 2012027754 The following persons doing business as: 1) VILLA COLDEW PROPERTIES, 2) JAMAICA FARMER’S MARKET, 3) JAMAICA FARMERS, 4) JAMAICA HOT, 5) OCHO RIOS NICE, 6) JAMAICAN FARMERS, 7) JAMAICA HUB, 8) KINGSTON NICE, 9) NO LINGA, 10) NUH LINGA, 633 W. 5th Street, 28th Floor, Los Angeles CA 90071, are hereby registered by the following registrant: JAMAICA SCOPE CORPORATION, 633 W. 5th Street, 28th Floor, Los Angeles CA 90071. This business is conducted by a corporation.
OVER 500 PREOWNED CARS, TRUCKS, SUV’s & VANS IN STOCK!
888-I-LOVE-LA DTLAMOTORS.COM
DOWNTOWN L.A. AUTO GROUP 888-I-LOVE-LA (456-8352) W W W . D T L A M O T O R S . C O M
Certified, Low Miles.
$20,580 2009 VW EOS KOM ........................................... $21,639 Certified, Low Miles. ZV1434/V002187 2010 VW CC Sport .............................................. $24,887 Certified, Low Miles. ZV1460/AE513581 2012 VW Jetta SE ............................................... Certified, Low Miles. ZV1534/CM305740
FELIX CHEVROLET
888-879-9608 330 S. Figueroa St. • felixchevrolet.com
$9,995
2009 CHEVY IMPALA CH1041-1
Certified, Low Miles
$10,995 2012 Chevy Cruze ECO ..................................... $16,995 Loaded, Low Miles. F12014-1 2011 Cadillac Escalade ..................................... $45,995 Loaded, Navi and More. UC921R 2007 Pontiac G6 Coupe .................................... Loaded, Mint! UC863
888-319-8762 • 1801 S. Figueroa St. • mbzla.com
2010 MERCEDES C300W
$27,711 Certified, Black/Black, 34K miles, 3.0 Liter
$27,991 2009 Mercedes E350W ..................................... $31,991 Certified, Blk/Blk, 44k Miles. 111852-1/ B396329 2008 Mercedes SL550R .................................... $47,991 Certified, Silver/Black, 39k miles, 5.5 Liter. 5350C/ F136283 2008 Mercedes CLK350C .................................
CARSON NISSAN
Certified, White/Black, 31k Miles, 3.5 Liter. 5602C/F254750
888-845-2267 1505 E. 223rd St., Carson carsonnissan.com
$15,995
888-781-8102 1900 S. Figueroa St. • vwdowntownla.com
ZV1420/8M412815
LOFT LIVING Your number 1 source for Loft sales, rentals and development! LAdowntownnews.com
112182-1/R090076
2005 NISSAN TITAN
$16,378
THE ANSWER TO LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE
FictitiOus Business naMe
L.A. AUTO GROUP
VOLKSWAGEN OF DOWNTOWN L.A. 2008 VW BEETLE CONVERTIBLE
plication has been made to the Board of Police Commissioners for a permit to conduct a DANCE HALL & CAFE/ ENTERTAINMENT SHOW. NAME OF APPLICANT: BRUNO, INC. DOING BUSINESS AS: PREMIERE EVENTS/ LOT 613 LOCATED AT: 613-617 S. IMPERIAL STREET & 614 S. MATEO, LA CA 90021 Any person desiring to protest the issuance of this permit shall make a written protest before MARCH 21, 2012 to the: LOS ANGELES POLICE COMMISSION 100 W. First Street Los Angeles, CA 90012 Upon receipt of written protests, protesting persons will be notified of date, time and place for hearing. BOARD OF POLICE COMMISSIONERS Pub. 3/5, 3/12/12
LEGAL
Certified, Low miles..
ZA100095/8A164278
notice oF aPPlication FoR Police PeRmit Notice is hereby given that ap-
MEET SINGLES right now! No paid operators, just real people like you. Browse greetings, exchange messages and connect live. Try it free. Call now: 888-962-3056. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
888-583-0981 1900 S. Figueroa St. • audidtla.com
2008 AUDI A4 2.0T
POLice PerMit
nOtices
DOWNTOWN
888-838-5089 635 W. Washington Blvd. • downtownnissan.com
N120553/ N129626
READERS & Music Lovers. 100 Greatest Novels (audio books) ONLY $99.00 (plus s h.) Includes MP3 Player & Accessories. Bonus: 50 Classical Music Works & Money Back Guarantee. Call Today! 1-866-979-4428. (CalSCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
Sell your items under $300… 12 words, 2 weeks it’s FREE!
NISSAN OF DOWNTOWN L.A.
2007 NISSAN FRONTIER
MANTIS DELUXE Tiller. New! FastStart engine. Ships free. One-Year Money-Back Guarantee when you buy direct. Call for the DVD and free Good Soil book! 888-815-5176. (CalSCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
SELL YOUR car, truck or SUV Today! All 50 states, fast pickup and payment. Any condition, make or model. Call now 1-877818-8848. www.MyCarforCash. net (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
Registrant(s) has not begun to transact business under the fictitious business name or names listed herein. This statement was filed with DEAN LOGAN, Los Angeles County Clerk on February 17, 2012. NOTICE—This fictitious name statement expires five years from the date it was filed in the office of the county clerk. A new fictitious business name statement must be filed before that time. The filing of this statement does not of itself authorize the use in this state of a fictitious business name in violation of the rights of another under federal, state, or common law (see Section 14411 et. seq. Business and Professions Code). Pub. 2/27, 3/05, 3/12, 3/19/12
tickets
aDOPt a Pet
autOs WanteD
Pre-OWneD
EVER CONSIDER a Reverse Mortgage? At least 62 years old? Stay in your home & increase cash flow! Safe & Effective! Call Now for your Free DVD! Call Now 888-698-3165. (Cal-SCAN) (Cal-SCAN)
Downtown News 27
DowntownNews.com
Certified, Gray, 86K Miles. CU0574P/540992
2006 Pontiac Grand Prix .......... Certified. CU0603P/217429
$10,995
PORSCHE OF DOWNTOWN L.A.
888-685-5426 1900 S. Figueroa St. • porschedowntownla.com
2009 PORSCHE CAYENNE 9LA04712
$44,891 Certified, silver/black, Nav, Park Asst., Loaded!
$38,895 2007 Porsche 911 Carrera Cabriolet .............. $57,891 Certified, midnight blue. 7S765803 2009 Honda Fit ....................... $13,595 2010 Porsche Panamera S ................................ Certified. $79,982 Certified, Gray 34k Miles. AL062364 C120276-1/025079 2009 Nissan Versa .................. Certified. CU0547P-1/L497708
$12,995
2008 Porsche Cayman Coupe .......................... Certified, Black/Black, 18k Miles. 8U762547
28 Downtown News
March 5, 2012
Twitter/DowntownNews
We Got Games
ally contenders. They close the week at home against the Warriors.
The Masked Mamba Strikes Back Los Angeles Lakers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7100 or nba.com/lakers. March 11, 12:30 p.m.: The Lakers hit the road and head to Metta World Peace’s favorite NBA Arena, the Palace of Auburn Hills, to face the Detroit Pistons. Playing with a mask to shield his broken nose (thanks Dwyane Wade), Kobe Bryant has proved once again that he is tough as nails. He continues to get tough against Kevin Love’s Minnesota Timberwolves (March 7) and then against the hapless Washington Wizards (March 9). These, of course, are all tune-up games for the always electric match-
up against the Celtics at home, even if both teams are aging and barely clinging to contender status. Los Angeles Clippers Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7100 or nba.com/clippers. March 11, 6:30 p.m.: The Clippers continue their road trip, and start the week looking for revenge against the Timberwolves in Minnesota (March 5). Then it’s on to Jay-Z’s turf to tangle with the New Jersey Nets (March 7). The trip ends in San Antonio (March 9) against the tough Spurs. In the fiercely competitive Western Conference, now’s the time for the Clippers to show whether they’re re-
Los Angeles Kings Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., 1 (888) KINGS-LA or kings.nhl.com. The Kings go traveling, with stops in Nashville (March 6), Columbus (March 8), Detroit (March 9) and Chicago (March 11). Pac-12 Tournament Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., (213) 742-7340 or staplescenter.com. March 7-10: The Pacific Life PAC12 Basketball Tournament is where the hopes and dreams of collegiate hoopsters are made and broken. UCLA fans are invited to ease their suffering at one of the many adjacent watering holes. You never know, you may run into some Bruin players — even before the games. —Ryan Vaillancourt
photo by Gary Leonard
Kobe Bryant and the Lakers host the Celtics this week.
Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore!
Grand Tower 255 south Grand avenue Leasing Information 213 229 9777
Promenade Towers 123 south Figueroa street Leasing Information 213 617 3777
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Pool / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Covered Parking
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dishwasher (most units) ~ Central Air Conditioning & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
On-site: ~ Dry Cleaners / Dental Office / Restaurants
Now For l l a C n Specials Move-I
8 7 7 - 2 65 - 714 6
museum Tower 225 south olive street Leasing Information 213 626 1500
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove & Dishwasher ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Solariums and/or Balconies
On Site: ~ Convenience Store / Coffee House / Yogurt Shop / Beauty Salon
Community Amenities: ~ 24 Hr. Manned Lobby ~ Concierge ~ Pool / Spa / Saunas ~ Fitness Center ~ Gas BBQ Grills ~ Recreation Room
Apartment Amenities: ~ Refrigerator, Stove, Microwave & Dish washer (most units) ~ Central Air & Heating ~ Balconies (most units)
It’s our business to make you comfortable... at home, downtown. Corporate and long term residency is accommodated in high style at the Towers Apartments. Contemporary singles, studio, one bedroom and two bedroom apartment homes provide fortunate residents with a courteous full service lobby attendant, heated pool, spa, complete fitness center, sauna and recreation room with kitchen. Beautiful views extend from the Towers’ lofty homes in the sky. Mountain vistas and slender skyscrapers provide an incredible back drop to complement your decor. Far below are a host of businesses ready to support your pampered downtown lifestyle. With spectacular cultural events nearby, even the most demanding tastes are satisfied. Downtown, it’s not just big business anymore. Visit the Towers Apartments today.
TOWERS T H E
A PA RT M E N T S
www.TowersApartmentsLA.com
MAID SERVICE • FURNITURE • HOUSEWARES • CABLE • UTILITIES • PARKING RESIDENCES: SINGLES • STUDIO • ONE BEDROOM • TWO BEDROOM