[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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Card games have been a part of human civilization for centuries. They have evolved from simple pastimes into complex games that require strategy, skill, and sometimes, a little bit of luck. From traditional games like Poker and Rummy to digital versions such as world of solitaire alternatives, the world of card games is vast and full of opportunities to learn and grow.

So, how does one embark on this journey from novice to pro? Let’s delve into the world of card games and discover the path to mastery.

Understanding your audience is key to crafting persuasive copy, whether you’re selling a product or promoting a service. This principle applies even when you’re introducing a new concept or game, like euchre game. This strategic and exciting card game is gaining popularity due to its unique blend of strategy and luck. By understanding the psychology of potential players – their need for entertainment, their desire for a challenge, and their interest in learning new skills – we can craft compelling copy that not only introduces them to the game but entices them to try it out and experience the thrill for themselves.

Understanding the Basics

The first step in your card game journey is understanding the basics. This involves learning the rules, familiarizing yourself with the deck, and getting a grasp of the game’s objectives. Whether you’re playing a traditional card game or exploring the online gaming world, knowing the basics is crucial. Remember, every master was once a beginner.

Practice Makes Perfect

Once you’ve got the basics down, it’s time to practice. And when we say practice, we mean a lot of it. It’s through repetition and experience that you’ll start to recognize patterns, develop strategies, and improve your decision-making skills. Isn’t it amazing how a simple game of cards can teach us so much?

Learning from the Pros

As you continue to practice and improve, it’s always beneficial to learn from those who’ve already mastered the game. This could involve watching professional tournaments, reading strategy guides, or even playing against more experienced opponents. Who knows? You might even find yourself competing in the World Series of Poker someday.

Exploring Different Games

While it’s great to become a pro at one game, exploring different card games can significantly enhance your skills. Each game has its unique strategies and challenges, and learning to adapt to these can make you a more versatile player. Have you tried out world of solitaire alternatives yet? They offer a refreshing change from the traditional game and can provide a new set of challenges to conquer.

Never Stop Learning

The journey from novice to pro is a continuous learning process. Even the best players in the world constantly strive to improve and adapt to new challenges. So, keep learning, keep improving, and most importantly, keep enjoying the game.

Now that you’re equipped with these insights, are you ready to embark on your card game journey? Remember, the goal isn’t just to become a pro; it’s to enjoy every step of the journey. So, shuffle the deck, deal the cards, and let the games begin!

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“Masquerade Macabre” is a quality production reflecting the talent and dedication of Judith Flex Helle, the dance company’s founder. I met Judith back in 2009 when she was creating this contemporary ballet and aerial dance company.  Judith was determined and dedicated to give Los Angeles a home-based professional ballet and aerial dance company of the highest quality and creativity.  Judith’s training and in-depth experience in all aspects of contemporary ballet, aerial, filmmaking and music enabled her to realize that dream.  Luminario Ballet is now internationally known and recently toured India as the Cultural Ambassador for the US State Department representing the US values of equity, justice and diversity.

“Masquerade Macabre” began with a pre-show of jumbotrons surrounding the theatre with spectacular videos of dance routines performed by its talented company members from previous shows. 

This production was vivid and exciting with a wonderful, creative mix of art forms, styles of music, and the great Master of Ceremonies, Grasan Kingsberry – Emmy Award-winning Broadway veteran of 11 shows, including “The Color Purple” and “Motown.” 

The show presented several world premieres and included these spectacular performances.

“Witch Tango” 

an aerial dance piece by Bianca Sapetto (“Quidam” Cirque du Soleil, Teatro ZinZanni) with music played live by the eight-octave range singer and composer Morgan Sorne.

“Tend” 

A contemporary trio by emerging choreographer Adrian Hoffman for Luminario Ballet,a beautiful presentation all about tending to our fractured friendships post covid lockdown.

“Never Tell” 

An aerial rope sling ballet by international aerial dance superstar Rebekah Burke (“Zumanity” Cirque du Soleil Las Vegas, “Queen of the Night” New York, “Palazzo”, Hamburg Germany, “The Act” in Dubai UAE, and much more. This piece won the U.S. Aerial Championships in 2015.

“Letterman” 

From Schubert’s “Winterreise” commissioned by Angeles Concert Artists 2011 “Vampires and Ghosts” performed live from the dance film “L’Invalide” 2021 created with a grant from LA County Arts and Culture.

“Mandolin” and “Kashmir”

Pieces from “LedZAerial” 2009-2022.

There are not many opportunities to see professional ballet of this caliber so mark your calendars for their upcoming show..:

What:

Luminario Ballet at The Wallis

”Heroes, Sheroes, Eros” and “The Last Supper”

The company’s two programs include ”Heroes, Sheroes, Eros,” in which a collective of Luminario Ballet choreographers and special guests explore the tangled paths of history/herstory/ourstory; and “The Last Supper” – a rollicking tale of Jesus, Judas and Mary Magdalene’s visit to the Coachella Music Festival in 2017. This wild tale of the ages looks at themes of personality, Black Lives Matter, relationships, sexuality, drug addiction, betrayal, and resolution through explosive, emotional dance theater choreography from ballet to acrobatics to aerial dance.

Choreography by: Jamal Story, Dreya Weber, Bianca Sapetto, and Judith Flex Helle

When:

Friday and Saturday, February 17-18 

If you are reading this review, you know the importance of keeping the arts alive.  Please support Luminario Ballet’s return to the stage!  Visit https://luminarioballet.org/.

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I’M NOT A COMEDIAN…I’M LENNY BRUCE is approaching its 400^th performance.  This smash hit ran for 125 performances in L.A. and nine months Off Broadway with dozens of rave reviews, including “Critic’s Choice” – Los Angeles Times and “Terrific & Amazing” – George Pennacchio, ABC7.

 I’M NOT A COMEDIAN…I’M LENNY BRUCE is about the legendary Lenny Bruce, a comedian, social critic and satirist who set the stage for counter-culture era comedians such as Woody Allen, George Garland and Richard Pryor, to name a few. This show chronicles the life and death of Lenny Bruce through his personal pain, conviction for freedom of speech and social commentary.  

Ronnie Marmo stars in this one-man tribute and is is a seasoned actor, writer and producer who created a mesmerizing masterpiece of theatre.  He has produced more than 110 plays and has starred in more than 70 feature films and television shows.

Marmo’s performance was powerful and riveting, making me laugh and cry from scene to scene. 

From my experience seeing Lenny Bruce perform in the 60s, I have to say, Marmo’s performance felt like a repeat performance of Lenny.

The show was flawless..the lighting and sound were spot on. The show was perfectly executed which reflects on the experience and exceptional talent of the director Joe Mantegna, who many of you know from his starring role in the CBS drama Criminal Minds.

The NoHo community is thrilled to have Theatre 68 back after covid. II’M NOT A COMEDIAN…I’M LENNY BRUCEis an example of the great shows you will be able to see at the new Theatre 68 Arts Complex.  Applauds to Ronnie Marmo, artistic director of Theatre 68 and Racquel Lehrman from Theatre Planners for having the vision and determination to create this beautiful thre-theatre and rehearsal space complex in the NoHo Arts District.

Don’t miss this show! More reviews>>

When:

Special limited engagement of I’M NOT A COMEDIAN…I’M LENNY BRUCE. Closes October 1, 2022

Performances: Thursday, Friday & Saturday 8:00PM and Sunday 7:00PM

Tickets:

www.plays411.com/lennybruce 

General admission: $35.00. 

(Note: Brief Nudity)

Where:

THEATRE 68 ARTS COMPLEX

5112 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601

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What is The MaD JaCKRaTS “Makin a Movie” show ?

Well, there’s nothing quite as fun as live, improvised comedy, and LPNSImprov troupe The MaD JaCKRaTS deliver a fun take on the art form with their monthly comedy show “Makin’ a Movie.” Each show opens with a quick musical parody based on the month’s theme and then continues with three improvised segments that the audience suggests This talented group weaves each suggestion into a hilarious “mini-movie” on the spot. 

There were two troupes performing in February, The MaD JaCKRaTS and The MaD RooKieRaTS,  for a total of 13 talented and creative individuals who pulled out all the stops to make sure the audience exploded with laughter and ear-shattering applause.These talented actors were able to please a diverse audience of ages and backgrounds.  Both groups kept me engaged throughout the show and I truly was mesmerized at their ability to create the funniest stories around a simple suggest from an audience member.

The MaD JaCKRaTS performers are a dedicated and hugely gifted bunch!  I gave a standing ovation to not only the troupes but also to Lauren Patrice Nadler who staged this production and shares her incredible training in acting and her ability to be creative and hilarious again and again.

The MaD JaCKRaTS have been a mainstay of NoHo theatre for years and we are so happy that they will be continuing their tradition of excellence for many more to come!

Don’t miss The MaD JaCKRaTS “Makin a Movie” show. 

When:

March 20
April 17
May 15
June 19
July 17
August 21
September 18
October 16
November 20

Where: 

The H.E.ART MKM Cultural Arts Center
11401 Chandler Blvd.
NoHo Arts District, CA 91601

Tickets: 

https://lpnsimprov.ticketleap.com/makin–a-movie/

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Believe the hype. “Hamilton” is a must-see show for several reasons.

A Teaching Moment

This historical show kept you spellbound from beginning to end. Due to not having much interest in my history classes, I only vaguely remembered the name Alexander Hamilton, and was not sure exactly what he did. However, through the show’s quick, witty and innovative rap/hiphop lyrics and the dance that enhances the spoken words, I learned a bit more about the forming of our nation and the American Revolution. Who says teaching moments must be boring? No one.

Cast the Best

The cast was simply outstanding. I wanted to jump out of my seat to sing and dance. Jamael Westman played Alexander Hamilton superbly. Jamael brought Hamilton alive, showing his passion and determination to create a democracy surpassed by no other country at the time. Eliza Hamilton, wife of Alexander Hamilton played by Joanna A. Jones, had one of the most beautiful voices I have heard in a long time. King George played by Rory O”Malley was hilarious, and his comedic delivery was outstanding.

I must say that Lin-Manuel Miranda, who wrote the book, music and lyrics for “Hamilton,” has set the stage for the importance of blind casting.

A Proud Moment

The struggles of different ideology and personal differences between Alexander Hamilton, Aaron Burr, Thomas Jefferson, George Washington gave insight to today’s lack of unity and power struggles of our government and its people. Maybe we can take it as a lesson? But, what it did reinforce is American idealism. An orphaned immigrant, a scrappy group of folks who believed in an ideal (at least at that time) U.S. who created a solid, smart and adaptable document to try and make that ideal U.S. a reality.

Yet, “Hamilton” is first and foremost a musical, but, an informative musical that can be enjoyed by anyone 10 years to 100 years of age. Also, it’s my bet that it will be a giant step in getting more people to love live theatre.

Covid Who?

Sitting in the beautiful Pantages Theatre after 18 months of being away from live theatre brought tears of joy to me. However, the theatre did an impressive and efficient job of checking everyone in and seating seating the patrons safely. So, even though Covid restrictions at the theatre were in place, including masks on at all times, it did not stop me – or anyone – from pure enjoyment as only musical theatre can offer!

In Sum

Go see “Hamilton” at the gorgeous Pantages Theatre. And, go support live theatre!

Check out the amazing discounts: https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/events/hamiltonupdates/hamiltonjanfebnoho

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Do you know the NoHo BID?

The NoHo Arts District is an arts district because of the theatres, dance studios, recording studios and the many folks who create art. It stays an arts district because of these performing and visual artists. But there is one group that has helped to #KeepNoHoArtsy (and clean and safe) – the NoHo Business Improvement District (NOHO BID).

So what is a Business Improvement District?

A Business Improvement District or BID is a geographically defined area within the City of Los Angeles, in which services, activities and programs are paid for through a special assessment to property owners. BIDs provide enhanced programs and services, above and beyond what the City of Los Angeles provides. The NoHo BID, established in 2007, primarily provides Clean and Safe services in the form of a Safety Ambassador team and Sidewalk maintenance services in the form of a Clean Team. A smaller amount of the budget is allocated to Marketing and Communication services.

NOHO BID 2022 Update

The NOHO BID is a vital part of the NoHo Arts District. You’ve seen them, the yellow shirts cleaning up and on bikes to maintain safety. But, for 15 years, the BID and nohoartsdistrict.com have coordinated the NOHO Card/APP discount program.  This program now has 55 participating NoHo businesses providing great discounts that you can use daily, if you like.  It is not like a coupon that you can only use once!  Check out all the discounts, and then download the app. It’s free! You’ll be supporting local businesses, too.

https://nohoartsdistrict.com/nohocard/

In April of last year, the NOHO BID co-produced NOHO Day with nohoartsdistrict.com. The BID wanted to make sure that Greater Los Angeles knew NOHO was “Open for Business.”  Restaurants, theatres, acting/dance studios and other local businesses provided free or discounted items.  

Also, the BID took an active role in the Restaurant Al Fresco program, which proved to be a success in warm weather months.

The NOHO BID also manages our community event space, NoHo Plaza. It is available to use for community events and many individuals and organizations have done dance and music shows, visual art exhibits, flea markets, dance/yoga classes, and the list goes on.  There is no rental fee and the application process is simple.    

Check it out https://www.nohobid.com/noho-plaza-policy-of-use

Besides providing all of the above services, here is how the NOHO BID plays a major role in keeping our community safe and clean:

Safety Ambassador 2022 stats:

• Hotline calls received- 1,616
• Property patrol checks- 3,118
• Merchant contacts- 1,612
• Unhoused/homeless individual contacts- 954
• Clean Team 2022 stats:
• Trash bags collected- 10,352
• Pounds of trash collected/removed- 237,696
• Graffiti tags removed- 3,337
• Bulky items picked up- 1,803
• Pressure wash hours- 62

NoHo BID Website | NoHo BID Hotline: (818) 761-8230

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