A celebration of the solo journey, SOLOFEST has been recognized as the largest solo festival on the West Coast. This year’s festival program offers premieres and audience favorites live on stage, with some shows available as a stream-on-demand option.  SOLOFEST 2025, produced by Susan Simons and The Whitefire Theatre is hosted by Bryan Rasmussen and Victoria Watson Winkler. 

Solofest 2025 May shows run May 1 through May 25.  

Thursday, May 1 at 8:00pm
WHAT EVER THIS IS... 

Whatever This Is…is written and performed by Laura Baggett. Looking back, it all seemed to be in alignment, so meant to be this move out to LA.  Yet the pressures of leaving New York, disappointing family, and rollerblading everywhere has led Laura to a rock bottom.  On one busy brunch shift at La Pain Quotiden, her life changes forever And she has to learn how to pick up the pieces. laurabutterfl2.wixsite.com/laurabaggett.  16+.

Friday, May 2 at 8:00pm
TANGERINE VAGINA 

Tangerine Vagina, a world premiere solo show performed by Nina Dicker written by comic Nina Dicker, and directed by Liam Tully, finds the sex positive in all of sex’s negatives. Tangerine Vagina is every woman’s coming of age story: clumsy sexscapades, daddy issues, and a choice between life or death. Trigger Warning: SA, self-harm, and really good jokes.  Ages 16+. 

Saturday, May 3 at 8:00pm
HOLY SHITAKE: A Wok Star is Born ~ BEST OF FEST WINNER 2024!

Filled with pathos and humor, Holy Shitake: A Wok Star is Born written and performed by Katie Chin, directed by Fran de Leon, produced by Paul Hemstreet, chronicles Chef Katie Chin’s journey as a Chinese American girl growing up in Minneapolis in the 1970s where she was raised by her remarkable mother, seamstress turned restauranteur, Leeann Chin.  Ages 16+.

Saturday, May 10 at 8:00pm
BARRYMORE ~ BEST OF FEST WINNER 2025! 

Barrymore, a play by William Luce, performed by Vito D’Ambrosio, directed by Bryan Rasmussen, depicts actor John Barrymore a few months before his death in 1942 as he is rehearsing a revival of his 1920 Broadway triumph as Richard III. Barrymore’s Richard III revival never took place, but was a device invented to serve as a dramatic framework for the actor to reminisce about various episodes in his life and about his career downslide due to alcoholism. Though classified as a one-person play, Barrymore makes frequent use of a second character, Frank the stage manager, who interacts with Barrymore over the theatre loudspeaker. Ages 15+.

Read the NoHo Arts theatre review>>

Friday, May 16 at 8:00pm
JONATHAN LIVINGSTON SEAGULL: A SOLO FLIGHT ~ BEST OF FEST WINNER 2025!

Richard Bach’s bestselling 1970 novella “Jonathan Livingston Seagull” is brought vividly to life in Jonathan Livingston Seagull: A Solo Flight by adapter, performer, producer Andrew Thacher, and directed by Paul Millet.  No ordinary bird, join Jonathan on his journey through the here and now, and all of eternity, as he soars to the heights of perfection, freedom, and love. Ages 12+.

Sunday, May 18 at 5:00pm
A MILE IN MY SHOES 

A mix of poetry, drama, comedy and consciousness-raising theater. Creator Kathryn Taylor Smith portrays 19 characters inspired by interviews with past and present members of the homeless community and those who advocate for them. This socially conscious and relevant piece will compel you to do more and act kinder to your homeless brethren. Directed by Zadia Ife. Ages 16+. Donations needed for My Friends House: Please bring new or gently used shoes (adult & children) and/or toiletry items (soap, lotion, shampoo, conditioner, razor, shaving cream, sanitary napkins, toothbrush and mouthwash) www.myfriendshousela.org. Ages 16+.

Sunday, May 25 at 7:00pm
A Life Behind Bars ~ BEST OF FEST WINNER 2025! 

Dan Ruth’s award-winning, critically acclaimed A Life Behind Bars returns to the Whitefire Theatre’s Solofest. An original roller coaster solo comedy bar crawl, A Life Behind Bars focuses on the soul-sucking restaurant and service industries. Through gritty storytelling, Dan Ruth shares dark comic monologues, interwoven with characters he’s encountered while working and drinking in the seedy bars and dives of pre-Giuliani NYC. The original solo black comedy has been performed in New York City, Los Angeles, Idyllwild, Pittsburgh, Wisconsin Dells and Richmond, VA. The show is written and performed by Dan Ruth and directed by multi-award-winning performer-producer-director, Tanya Moberly. ***Strong language, sexual situations, drug and alcohol use, rock & roll and redemption. 18+.

Tickets for SOLOFEST 2025 May Shows : 

General Admission Tickets for live shows are $25.00 each, unless otherwise noted. Buy tickets at https://whitefire.stagey.net/schedule

For information about SOLOFEST 2025, to buy tickets, or for parking tips please visit whitefiretheatre.com or call 818-687-8559.

When:

Solofest 2025 May shows run May 1 through May 25.

Where:

The Whitefire Theatre
13500 Ventura Boulevard (at Sunnyslope Avenue), Sherman Oaks, CA 91423.

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“This motion is focused on revitalizing local film production, streamlining the City’s permitting process, making it more efficient and less bogged down by bureaucracy,” said Councilmember Nazarian at a rally on City Hall steps after the vote.  “It also aims to increase access to City-owned property for filming and prevent price gouging that drives up everyday production costs. More production means more jobs for L.A. families, and the communities where they live and shop. Keep Hollywood home!”

“Every lost production means fewer jobs for hardworking families,” said Councilmember Hugo Soto-Martinez. “Thank you to Councilmember Nazarian for leading on this critical issue. Together, we’re fighting to keep the heart of our creative economy right here in Los Angeles.”

”Councilmember Nazarian’s motion to keep film production in Los Angeles by cutting through bureaucratic red tape and streamlining inefficiencies is critically important to the hardworking film and television crews who make this industry possible,” said actress Yvette Nicole Brown. “In recent years, we’ve seen production leave our city, and jobs and opportunities leave with it. I know firsthand how challenging it can be to break into this industry and build a sustainable career. The dream of moving to Los Angeles is the hope of working in Los Angeles. That’s why it’s essential we support Councilmember Nazarian’s efforts to protect these jobs, uplift working-class professionals, and ensure that Los Angeles remains the entertainment capital of the world.”

Nazarian’s motion calls for reducing regulatory obstacles and making the city more competitive with other locations in the United States and abroad. It directs the City’s Chief Legislative Analyst (CLA), and all relevant departments to report back on adjustments to City fees, permits, parking and security requirements for location shooting, filming on City-owned property and certifying new sound stages.

“This motion speaks to something deeply personal for so many of us. It’s about protecting the soul of Los Angeles,” said Brigitta Romanov, President of the Costume Designers Guild, IATSE, Local 892. “It’s getting harder to make a living in this business –not only because we’re working less, but because the system productions work within has become too costly, too complex, and too out of reach for many productions. This motion is a crucial step towards reversing that.”

“Too many hardworking film crew members are out of work, and this motion is a critical step towards bringing good union jobs back to Los Angeles,” said Alex Aguilar, Secretary-Treasurer of Laborers International, Local 724. “Reviving local production not only helps workers — it also supports the small businesses that keep our neighborhoods thriving.”

“Los Angeles is the creative capital of the world – yet far too many productions are taking projects elsewhere,” said Nella McOsker, President and CEO of the Central City Association. “We must streamline permitting, reduce unnecessary fees, and offer additional incentives in our fight to keep this industry and its thousands of jobs here. Councilmember Nazarian’s motion is a win for the hard working Angelenos and local businesses whose livelihoods are tied to film, television, and entertainment.”

As a State Assemblymember, Adrin Nazarian authored AB 2936 to expand statewide production tax credits. Although the State legislature is still considering expanded credits, the City of Los Angeles, with its vast pool of talent, experienced workers, and superior facilities can act now to make sure our city remains the motion picture capital of the world.

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The SPRING Beverly Hills Art Show 2025 will showcase 235 artists, have an array of food trucks and feature a Creative Zone for all ages and an adult beer & wine garden.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant showcase of exceptional art from 235 artists spanning four blocks within the picturesque Beverly Gardens Park on Santa Monica Boulevard from Rodeo Drive to Rexford Drive. This bi-annual extravaganza, held every May and October, captivates art enthusiasts and families alike, drawing in a multitude of visitors to Beverly Hills.

Artists will showcase their work in 10 categories, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, glass, drawing, watercolor, traditional printmaking, photography & digital art, jewelry and more.  A myriad of festivities will include gourmet food trucks offering delectable treats, a Creative Zone brimming with fun hands-on artmaking, art demonstrations in chalk, trace drawing, watercolor, painting and more, and a beer and wine garden where adults can unwind in the shade while listening to relaxing music in the park.  For more information, visit beverlyhills.org/artshow.   

The Beverly Hills Art Show started over 50 years ago as a small arts and crafts fair on one block in Beverly Gardens Park.  Today, it has grown to 235 artists spread across four blocks and has attracted over 30,000 people over the two-day weekend, making it one of the most beloved and long-standing community events in Beverly Hills.   

The spring Beverly Hills Art Show 2025 sponsors and partners are:  The Los Angeles Art Association, Los Angeles Printmaking Society, Southern California Women’s Caucus for Art, NoHo Arts District, Children’s Hospital of Los Angeles, Exceptional Children’s Foundation, Mount of Angels, reDiscover Center, Blank Beverage, SALT Catering, the Beverly Hills Unified School District, Next Beverly Hills, the Beverly Hills Conference & Visitors Bureau, the Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce, the Beverly Hills Fire Department, the Beverly Hills Police Department and Just in Case BH.

When:

Saturday and Sunday, May 17 and 18, from 10AM to 6PM  

Where:

Santa Monica Boulevard from Beverly Drive to Crescent Drive.

Parking:

Convenient parking for the Art Show is located directly across from the show grounds and in surrounding public parking structures.  A map to the City’s public parking structures can be found at beverlyhills.org/parking. 

For more information about the Beverly Hills Art Show May 2025:

Visit beverlyhills.org/artshow or call (310) 285-1000. 
Admission is free. This event takes place rain or shine!

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56th Annual Academy of Magical Arts Awards Show

Don’t miss the 56th Annual Academy of Magical Arts Awards Show on May 2. Dress to impress and mingle with the world’s greatest magicians while enjoying exclusive, world-class performances rarely seen in Los Angeles.

Magic Castle Live on Stage

Next, if it’s only magic you’re looking for, enjoy even more enchantment with Magic Castle Live on Stage on May 3 and 4, matinee or evening.

Both shows feature internationally celebrated magicians, many of whom have wowed audiences on America’s Got Talent, Penn & Teller: Fool Us, and Masters of Illusion. It’s a rare chance to see these award-winning performers in action!

Both shows will take place at the stunning United Theater on Broadway and are perfect for the whole family.

Magic Shows Tickets:

How to get your tickets with a 15% discount: Go to AXS.com to choose your performance. Then, head to the “Partner Offer” section and enter code NoHo15 to receive a special 15% discount. But hurry—tickets are selling fast!

Exclusive Bonus – MAGIC CASTLE Tickets!

Get your invitation to the legendary Magic Castle!

When you purchase tickets, you’ll receive an exclusive invitation to the Magic Castle®, a private club that is usually only accessible to members and their guests. This is a rare opportunity to visit one of the most mysterious and sought-after destinations in the magic world.

You’ll receive an email the week of May 5, 2025, with details on how to redeem your invitation for up to 6 people. Your invitation allows you to make a one-time reservation for a visit Monday–Wednesday up until October 15, 2025. Guests must be 21+ with a valid ID and adhere to a strict dress code. Passes are non-transferable and cannot be sold. For full terms and conditions, visit www.magiccastle.com/invitationinfo

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In her three-hour interview, Sharon Bialy discusses growing up in Brooklyn, NY and her early love of theater. She shares how she came out to Los Angeles and got her start in casting, how she formed a partnership with Rick Pagano, and talks about several of the early television projects she cast, including The Young Riders, Picket Fences, and The Mind of the Married Man. She recalls how she met Sherry Thomas and how they formed their partnership, which continues to this day. Bialy then discusses casting The Unit, Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead, Fear the Walking Dead (from season 3 on), Halt and Catch Fire, The Last Tycoon, The Handmaid’s Tale, The Act, The Comedy Rule, Julia, Perry Mason, Vice Principals, Barry, and several other shows. She shares how the COVID-19 pandemic impacted casting, talks about the craft of casting, and offers advice to both aspiring casting directors and aspiring actors. B-roll features memorabilia from Breaking Bad, plus books that were turned into television projects that she worked on. Amy Harrington conducted the interview on October 18, 2023 in Santa Monica, CA.

To read more about Sharon Bialy and see the full interview, visit The Interviews series by The Television Academy Foundation: 

https://interviews.televisionacademy.com/interviews/sharon-bialy

To watch hundreds more industry interviews, visit https://interviews.televisionacademy.com/

Video courtesy of the Television Academy Foundation Interviews: https://www.televisionacademy.com/foundation

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[NoHo Arts District, CA] – Meet Juliana Sloan, a volunteer at Animal Tracks sanctuary who sings to the animals.

Many visitors to nohoartsdistrict.com may not know about my deep affinity for companion and exotic animals. In addition to publishing nohoartsdistrict.com, I proudly serve as the president of Animal Tracks, an enchanting exotic animal sanctuary nestled in Agua Dulce, CA. One memorable morning, while wandering through our sanctuary, I heard a captivating musical performance echoing from the bird enclosures. To my surprise, it wasn’t a radio but Juliana Sloan, a cherished volunteer, serenading Casper, a white cockatoo, with her angelic voice. This encounter marked the beginning of a beautiful bond, where Juliana’s musical gifts bring comfort and joy to our animal residents.

Now, I’m delighted to introduce Juliana Sloan, a talented singer, actress, and part of the Animal Tracks family.

How long have you been volunteering at Animal Tracks?

This summer will mark my fourth year of volunteering at Animal Tracks. When I first began, I worried I wouldn’t be able to keep the commitment of one day a week, especially if I was cast in a show or taken out of town for my work. However, Animal Tracks has become a second home for me, and it is truly my happy place. Even while I’m in rehearsals and performances, I find a way to maintain my once a week commitment to the animals… for their sake and my own!

What inspired you to sing to the animals?

I can’t actually remember! I am always singing. It just pours out of me. I remember both Alyson, the assistant director, and a long-time volunteer named Michelle, encouraged me to sing to the birds and the fennec foxes, once they heard me singing. I try to give as much love and time to the animals as I possibly can, every time I’m there, and especially the animals who may not get as much attention from some people (the monkeys steal the show). The fennec foxes see me coming now, and they squeak in excitement, then immediately flop down to be serenaded and pet… practically falling asleep! I use my “lullaby voice” since they have such huge ears. With the birds, they like to sing along- squarking in excitement mainly, but sometimes Casper does match pitch and coo along with me. His favorite song is Feed the Birds by The Sherman Brothers (from Mary Poppins) and I swear he even sang the last lyrics with me once. Our equines really love the music too! It brings me so much joy to be providing a unique service for them all. 

How do you choose what songs you sing to which animals?

I think I unconsciously chose songs which remind me of the animals – Feed the Birds and Tikki Room for our birds, Brandi Carlile’s Stay Gentle for our little fennec foxes (as well as Over the Rainbow, a very special song for me, having played Dorothy twice), and I’m Beginning to Feel the Years (which has our horse Spirit’s name in it twice… he recognizes his name and stops eating to look at me and give me kisses). When I’m in a musical, I find myself pulling in those songs too, like Edelweiss or Sunday in the Park with George!

How did the recording of this song come about?

Brandi Carlile is my all-time favorite band, and I was incredibly star-dust blessed to have an opportunity to sing with them in 2023 at their music festival in Mexico. Alyson heard me singing The Story to our little fox Dobby, the title song off one of their albums (written by the incomparable Phil Hanseroth), and she said I should record myself singing to the animals. I thought- “I don’t want this to be just about me. I want to highlight the beauty of this sanctuary and the love that 60+ volunteers have for these animals”. We all have our unique relationships with these animals, and I wanted to honor that. It just grew from there. And Phil’s song is a love song, in its purest sense of the word. I couldn’t imagine anything else being so perfect. So I asked my uncle to help me make a cover version.. and called on favors with everyone I know in Los Angeles, basically. 

How long have you been singing and where have you performed?

I sang before I could speak. My dad and my uncle had a band when I was a child, so I grew up with wonderful music in the house- The Beatles, The Beach Boys, The Shirelles… Mamas and the Papas… as well as all the old movie musicals and Disney classics. At age five, I performed in my first professional musical, Annie (I played Molly) in the SF Bay Area, and two years later we were living in Los Angeles and I had agents… the whole childhood actor thing. 

I’ve had a wonderful career in theatre and concert work. I toured with the Broadway tour of Thoroughly Modern Millie (Millie), originated a role at Playwrights Horizons in Saved, have played so many dream roles in dream shows (Les Mis, Sunday in the Park with George, The Sound of Music, Mary Poppins, Sweeney Todd)… I also had about seven years of touring the world with Disney in Concert, performing with the San Francisco Symphony, Melbourne Symphony, at sold-out stadiums in Taiwan and Korea… to name a few! I performed as Jasmine in Disney’s musical Aladdin- a Musical Spectacular as their full-time Jasmine for three years, and as good friends with Pocahontas in Mickey and the Magical Map, which was a full circle moment since I grew up seeing shows in that very theatre, and Disney so sparked my love for theatre. My two highlights have been my close friendship and collaborations with Disney legend Richard Sherman in the last several years of his life, and voicing Miss Wendy in Pixar’s Toy Story 4. Working with Richard, and working with Jonas Rivera and the Pixar team… it doesn’t get better than that. They are the best of the best of the best and I learned so much and had the most fun. Special doesn’t begin to cover it. 

Aren’t you a vocal coach as well?

I am! I teach singing, and I’m also entering my second year of training under voice expert Patsy Rodenburg. After this summer, my training will be complete, and I’ll be a certified Patsy Rodenburg Associate (PRA), which is thrilling. Patsy’s work in voice and presence is transformative, not only for actors, but for anyone who needs to use their authentic voice and full power and presence in their work – CEOs, doctors, politicians. I love helping individuals and groups connect to their true presence and power, and to really use their voices to make a powerful difference in this world, especially as technology (Zoom meetings, texting, for example) is making true connection increasingly more challenging. My work as a voice coach is about helping return us all to our full humanity, and I’m honored to have a small part in that. 

Where are you performing next? 

I’m in rehearsals right now for A Man of No Importance at A Noise Within, in Pasadena. I’m so excited! This show is rarely performed, although it is universally relatable and timeless, and written by some of the best theatre has seen – Terrence McNally wrote the libretto, and Flaherty and Ahrens (who wrote the Tony-Award winning score to Ragtime) wrote the music. I’ve also been a fan of A Noise Within since I was a child, seeing shows there throughout my life. We just had our first read/sing-through and it was magical. What a cast!!! We run May 10-June1, every Thursday-Sunday. Please come see us!

CONNECT WITH JULIANA SLOAN:

www.JulianaSloan.com | https://www.instagram.com/julianaasloan

SUPPORT ANIMAL TRACKS SANCTUARY:

Visit Animal Tracks to learn more about the sanctuary’s mission and how you can support their work!

https://www.animaltracksinc.org

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Internationally Acclaimed Pianist Marina Grozdanovic transports us from NoHo to Paris! 

About Marina Grozdanovic Solo Piano Program 

Get ready for an unforgettable afternoon as Marina Grozdanovic, a world-renowned pianist, graces the stage in the NoHo Arts District. Marina’s talent and passion for music have captivated audiences around the globe, and now you have the chance to experience her brilliance up close with beautiful imagery and lighting curated for each piece. Prepare to be transported on a musical journey through Paris from the Chopin, Debussy and Ravel. Stunning imagery and lighting curated for each piece by the pianist herself, promises an immersive experience. 

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the magic of live music in the heart of NoHo. Grab your friends and loved ones, and join us for an afternoon filled with beautiful French melodies, immersive imagery and  lighting, and unforgettable moments. Mark your calendars now and get ready to be moved by the incredible sounds of Paris! 

What: 

https://athenafoundationarts.org/marina-grozdanovic-may-18-2025

The Athena Foundation for the Arts Spring 2025 Season Concert Piano maestro Marina Grozdanovic takes us on a musical journey to  Paris with immersive imagery right here in NoHo 

When: 

Sunday, May 18, 2025 
Doors Open: 3:30 PM

Tickets: 

$45 General Admission 
$36 Student with ID 
$17 Children 12 and under accompanied by an adult 

Eventbrite: 

https://www.eventbrite.com/e/marina-grozdanovic-internationally-acclaimed-pianist-comes-to-noho-tickets-918233219277

Where: 

Community Auditorium 
Church of SCN of the Valley 
11455 Burbank Blvd. North Hollywood, CA 91601 

FREE Parking in Farmdale Avenue lot 

Tickets may also be purchased at the door. Scan the Eventbite QR code  provided, or cash or credit card. 

About The Athena Foundation for the Arts

Our Mission: Create. Culture. Community. The Athena Foundation for the Arts sets the stage, providing an annual world-class concert series, bringing stellar musicians from around the world to share their outstanding programs with our community. Your tax-deductible donations make these programs possible. Ask about our corporate sponsorship program, connecting culture with commerce. Help the Athena Foundation for the Arts by donating today! It’s a Sound Investment.

Donate at: https://athenafoundationarts.org/donate/

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When:

Sundays, April 27, May 25, June 22, July 27.
12-5PM

Where:

NoHo Plaza (the green alley)

5223 Lankershim Blvd., NoHo Arts District, CA 91601

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What:

Each month, NoHo Market will have a variety of vendors with everything from clothing – original designs, upcycled and vintage – original art, photography, tarot card readings, hand-painted nightmare bags, baked goods, vintage home decor, and much more! Each week, there will be local DJs too!

The NoHo Market Vendors:

Here are all the lovely vendors:

@nofacevintage1
Vintage clothing 

@zlatataaa
Watercolor artist

@born2.wander
35 mm photography and prints

@selena_jacks0n
Tarot card readings

@uhl333nuh
Vintage clothing 

@zoom.chen
Artist 

@fromthesoulrarot
Tarot readings

@1800deaddreams
Hand-painted nightmares, purses/wallets

@shopartstar
Upcycled and custom clothing

@everything_kills_2
Photography and art

@SaltandAngelVintage
Foraged vintage and antique trinkets and home goods 

@xx.milagro
DJ, Artist 12-3pm

@hors3srun
DJ 3-5pm

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Not all of the theaters in NoHo have weathered these storms as smoothly as El Portal Theatre. Named after New York’s bohemian SoHo district, NoHo once boasted the second-largest theater district in the country, with 22 live theaters, trailing only Broadway. In the 1990s, creatives from Hollywood fled rising rents and NoHo attracted artists — until gentrification and rising rents pushed many out.

Can the historic North Hollywood Arts District make a comeback?

Read the full article here>>

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“This one-night performance at The Soraya is a true collaboration with Martha Graham Dance Company and its artistic director, Janet Eilber,” said Thor Steingraber, The Soraya’s Executive and Artistic Director. “Rarely seen masterpieces will come to life as dancers from across Los Angeles join for The Soraya’s second contribution to Graham100, celebrating America’s longest-running dance company. This centenary event features outstanding dancers from L.A.’s top dance companies, high schools, and universities, showcasing pieces from Martha Graham’s vast 180-piece catalog.”

When:

Saturday, April 26 | 8PM 

Tickets:

Ticket Office: 818-677-3000

https://thesoraya.org/whats-on/en/la-dances-graham100

Where:

Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts (The Soraya)
18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge, CA 91330

About the LA Dances Graham100 Program

The April 26 repertoire includes Panorama, El Penitente, Lamentation Variations, Satyric Festival Song, Conversation of Lovers, and Ritual to the Sun (Helios). Martha Graham Dance Company’s Lamentation Variations Project, initiated in 2007 to commemorate 9/11, involves contemporary choreographers creating short works inspired by a 1940 film of Martha Graham dancing Lamentation. Intended for a single performance, audience enthusiasm led to its addition to the company’s permanent repertory.

Two brand new Lamentation Variations will be presented: the Glorya Kaufman School of Dance at USC and Lula Washington Dance Theatre. A third Lamentation Variation created by Larry Keigwin in 2007 will be danced by performers from the CSUN School of Dance.

LA Dances Graham100 aligns with the second year of the company’s three-year celebration of its 100th anniversary, making it the oldest dance company in the United States.

“As part of our centennial we are trying to spread the Graham artistry far and wide, inviting professional (and student) dancers around the world to license a Graham ballet and perform it. So, there’s going to be a collection of them at The Soraya,” said MGDC Artistic Director Janet Eilber.

The program for the evening will include two of Martha Graham’s earliest solos Satyric Festival Song and Deep Song, in addition to El Penitente, Lamentation Variations, Panorama (previously performed at The Soraya) and will close on two pieces of Graham’s later work, Conversation of Lovers, and Ritual to the Sun (Helios).

About LA Seen

The April 26 LA Dances Graham100 performance is part of The Soraya’s first-ever LA Seen festival, which launches April 6 with GRAMMY©-winning jazz trumpeter and composer Terence Blanchard. Additional LA Seen festival performances include the return of downtown L.A.’s Colburn Orchestra with conductor Stéphane Denève on the podium (April 12), and The Soraya & ARTDONTSLEEP Present Adrian Younge Something About April with full orchestra (April 17). 

About the Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for the Performing Arts (The Soraya) 

The Younes and Soraya Nazarian Center for The Performing Arts (The Soraya) is an award-winning, state-of-the-art 1,700-seat theatre designed and built by HGA Architects and Engineers and opened in January  2011 as the Valley Performing Arts Center (VPAC). Through a transformative gift by Younes and Soraya Nazarian, the venue was renamed The Soraya in 2017. Vibrant programming has served to establish The  Soraya as the intellectual and cultural heart of the San Fernando Valley and its 1.8 million residents and as one of the top arts and culture venues in Southern California. Since its inaugural season, The Soraya has presented over 500 artists and companies across the genres of music, dance, theater, and film and is a highly in-demand location for filming and rental events. 

The Soraya’s 2024-25 Season boldly advances the expansive sound of orchestras both traditional and  contemporary; the freestyle vibe of jazz; an array of dance luminaries, and a cultural bounty drawn from  the musical well of global voices. The Soraya continues its vigorous commitment to innovating, excelling,  and amplifying access by offering a wide variety of performances that reflect Los Angeles’ many distinctive  communities and featuring new and original work and artists from the local region as well as nationally  and around the world. 

Located on the vibrant campus of California State University Northridge (CSUN), The Soraya and the Mike  Curb College of Arts, Media, and Communication share an integral link that enhances student access and  opportunities in the arts and performing arts. A $5 million contribution from record producer and former  California Lieutenant Governor Mike Curb was pivotal in ensuring the completion and opening of The  Soraya in 2011. For his founding support and in acknowledgment of the integral relationship between the  Mike Curb College and The Soraya, Mike Curb is recognized as one of The Soraya’s Cornerstone  Benefactors. This partnership fosters academic and artistic excellence, elevating the talents and the future  growth of CSUN’s students through master classes, student tickets, concerts of student ensembles, and  students appearing alongside renowned artists such as Wynton Marsalis, Aida Cuevas, and Martha  Graham Dance Company. 

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