The Two Foscari

What an evening! My friend and fellow opera lover Blossom Shores and I had the privilege of enjoying this early and less familiar work of Giuseppe Verdi, which opened at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion on September 15.. As the Los Angeles Times critics Mark Swed so well put it, “there is no justice in the world. And parents can’t do a damn thing about it.” Written shortly after the death of Verdi’s wife and two infant children, “The Two Foscari” combines two of Verdi’s recurring themes: the abuse of political power and the bond between father and child.

Taken from a historical play by Lord Byron, you have the libretto of the 15th century Doge of Venice, Francesco Foscari, attempting to hang on to power at the age of 84. His son was accused of murder based on falsified evidence. Francisco puts the law above his love for his son and the ruling Council of Ten exiles Joseph, Foscari’s son. Sent into exile, Joseph dies and evidence is discovered which proves his innocence. Francesco is voted out as Doge and dies of a broken heart.

Placido Domingo is powerful as the elder Foscari in his 140th role. In Act III, Scene 2, his final aria Quel bronzo feral (What fatal knell) produced sustained applause. Francesco Meli as Jacopo Foscari, the Doge’s son, performed more than adequately. But, it is in Act 2 while Jacopo is in prison, that Meli excels in the aria Non maledirmi o prode (Mighty warrior, do not curse me). However, it is Marina Poplavaskaya who shines in her role as Jacopo’s wife. In her arias, whether a solo, a duet, or a trio she is outstanding. She is well on her way to becoming a major star of the opera world. Ievgen Orlov does well as the villain Jacopo Loredano and was appropriately booed as Orlov took his first bow in the curtain call, but the

Francesco Meli as Jacopo Foscari and Marina Poplavskaya as Lucrezia Contarini in LA Opera’s production of “The TwoFoscari.” Photograph by Robert Millard.

n was appropriately applauded for his fine performance. The staging is rather unique especially (as in Act 1, Scene 1) with prisoners enclosed in hanging cages or an “angel” flying over the people of Venice scattering gold during the Act III, Scene 1. I found that Verdi’s music in this opera appeared “light and lyrical” but there were glimpses of what was to come in his later masterpieces. Conductor James Conlon was his usual efficient self and kept things on even keel. Blossom and I agreed that it was another wonderful evening provided by the LA Opera Company. “The Two Foscari” is being presented at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in the Los Angeles County Music Center, 135 No. Grand Avenue in Los Angeles on September 29 and October 7 and 9. Tickets range from $20-$298. For reservations or more information call (213) 972- 8001 or go to laopera.com.

Don Giovanni

Also being performed at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is a dazzling, highly theatrical production new to Angelenos. Opened on Saturday on September 22, the internationally acclaimed Italian bass-baritone Ildebrando D’Arcangelo stars in the title role, Don Giovanni, the legendary Don Juan whose numerous attempted and successful seductions lead him down a fateful path to divine retribution. Mr. d’Arcangelo has performed this signature role with prestigious opera houses in Vienna, Berlin, Geneva, Verona and Milan to name a few.

The cast also includes American sopranos Julianna Di Giacomo and Angela Meade, both making their Company debuts as Donna Anna; Finnish soprano Soile Isokoski as Donna Elvira; Russian tenor Andrei Dunaev in his LA Opera debut as Don Ottavio; Serbian bass David Bizic in his LA Opera debut as Leporello; Romanian mezzo-sorpano Roxana Constantinescu returning as Zerlina, a role she shares with American soprano Micaela Oeste; Australian bass Joshua Bloom in his Company debut as Masetto; and Ukranian bass Ievgen Orlov (Loredano in “The Two Foscari” 2012) as the Commendatore. Director Peter Stein’s psychologically penetrating production of Don Giovanni was first seen in Chicago in 2004 and will be staged in Los Angeles by Gregory A. Fortner, who made his 2012 LA Opera debut directing “La Boheme.” Visit www.laopera.com for the performance schedule. Tickets begin at $19 and can be purchased in person at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion box office, by telephone at (213) 972-8001 or online.

Poetry Open Mic

Poets and would-be poets are welcome to the Encino- Tarzana Branch Library (18231 Ventura Boulevard) on Saturday, September 29 from 2:00 to 4:30 p.m. The public is invited to bring some of their poems or a work by a favorite poet to read and share. For those who sign up (beginning at 1:30 p.m.) you’ll have six minutes to perform. Featured poet of the month is Joe Camhi. Camhi, born in Brooklyn, NY raised in Long Island, has published poetry and fiction in various magazines and websites. He is also a teacher of English, literature and creative writing at the College of the Canyons and Los Angeles Mission College.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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Palm SpringsFollies Returns!

Beginning November 1 andplaying through May 19,the Palm Springs Follies is presenting its newest edition,“Dance to the Music!” (Scenepictured above.) From the stroll to the twist to disco, the Follies is dancing them all. Live and in glorious color starring the Follies’ Legendary Line of Long-Legged Lovelies and Follies Gentlemen. Once again you’ll find lavish production numbers, a star-spangled finale and, through December 31, aspecial Yuletide celebration performed by a cast definitelyold enough to remember theway it really was!

Dance to the Music

Joining the Follies Men arethree world-known guest stars and a remarkable variety act: Lorna Luft (Nov. 1-Dec. 31,2012). Making her long a waited Follies debut, this celebrated vocalist sings the songs her legendary mother, Judy Garland, taught her, including Come Rain or Come Shine, The Man That Got Away and Rock-A-Bye YourBaby.Lou Christie (Jan 8-Mar 9,2013). In addition to his #1 sensation Lightnin’ Strikes, savor golden memories withhis other million-sellers I’m Gonna Make You Mine and Two faces Have I during his first-ever Follies guest appearance. Lesley Gore (Mar 12-May19, 2013) Back by popular demand, she’ll perform her Gold Record hits You Don’t Own Me, Judy’s Turn tocry, Sunshine, Lollipops and Rainbows and, of course, her number one smash and the anthem of a generation, It’s My Party. All season long Palm Springs Follies audiences will be entertained by the World’s Greatest Hula Hoop Artist,Mat Plendl. The cast age ranges from 54 to 83 years young. And, of course there’sMr. Palm Springs Follies,himself…Mr. Riff Markowitz. Need I say more? The Palm Springs Follies is housed in downtown PalmSprings historic Plaza Theatre, a charming neon-encrusted old movie house. Tickets start at just $29 and may be purchased by calling the Box Office at(760) 327-0225 or online atwww.psfollies.com.

Theatre At The West Valley Playhouse

Before Anton Chekhov penned his great dramas, he had written seven once act comedies, together called the “The Sneeze.” Translated by Michael Frayn,the acclaimed author of Noises Off and Copenhagen, who hasnow turned his skills to the best of Chekhov’s short stories and short plays.“The Sneeze” opens onSeptember 21 and will play through October 21 at the West Valley Playhouse. Performances are Friday and Saturday at 8:00 pm. Sundayat 2:30 pm, Thursdays,September 27 and October11th. Ticket prices are $25General, $23 Seniors and Students, Group Discounts Available. For reservationscall (818) 884-1907. The West Valley Playhouse is located at 7242 Owensmouth Avenue in Canoga Park. Seewvplayhouse.com for details.

Aloha fest At The Ford

Take a journey through the islands of Polynesia! PAE Live! is presenting Aloha Fest! at the Ford Ampitheatre on Sunday, September 23 at 7:30pm. “Kanikapila” is the theme for the Aloha Fest concert.During the event the audience will listen to and watch the dances of Samoa, New Zealand, Tahiti and Hawai’i in this fun and entertaining format that even allows audience members to participate. The Kalma Brothers, hot rising stars on the Hawaiian concert scene, are the featured entertainers. They will perform well-known Hawaiian songs as well as music from their latest CD. Their acoustic sound blends rhythm and blues, rock and Hawaiian music. Also on the Ford stage will be three of Southern California’s most prestigious Polynesian performing arts organizations. Le Polynesia, known for outstanding music, drumming, dance instruction and professional performance, will begin the journey of the Pacific with dances and songs fromTahiti. Then, Samoa Matalasi, a cultural organization that promotes and preserves the dances and culture of the people of Samoa. And, the Halau Hula a Kawika Luau‘O Leinani, which has dazzled audiences for more than 15years with their outstanding display of hula, will be presentthe “kahiko” (ancient) and“auana” (modern) styles of hula from Hawaii. Ticket prices start at $20;$12 for full-time students and children 12 and under. Tickets are available at FordTheatres.org or (323) 461-3673. The Ford Theatre is located at 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East in Hollywood, just across from the Hollywood Bowl.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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Dance At The Music Center

The final presentation of the ninth Season of Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center will conclude with the Bolshoi Ballet’s Swan Lake, to be staged at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion for only five performances beginning June 7. This popular ballet will be staged by Yuri Grigorovich after Marius Petipa, Lev Ivanov and Alexander Gorskyu, music by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky and with a live orchestra. Swan Lake’s scenario, initially in four acts, was fashioned from western European romantic novellas. It tells the story of Odette, a princess turned into a swan by an evil sorcerer’s curse.

Book of Mormon

The ballet premiered in 1877 at the Bolshoi Theatre in Moscow as “The Lake of the Swans.” Although there are many versions of Swan Lake, most ballet companies base their stagings both choreographically and musically on the 1895 revival of Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov, first staged for the Imperial Ballet on January 15, 1895 at the Mariinsky Theatre in St. Petersburg, Russia. If you loved the recent movie, The Black Swan its ballet scenes, then you might then want to see the complete ballet Swan Lake. The Glorya Kaufman Presents Dance at the Music Center is one of the leading presents of dance on the West Coast with its offering of significant works by prestigious ballet and contemporary dance artists from around the world. KDMC supports new works and artists-in-residence projects by today’s most influential companies and choreographers with performances taking place from the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion to the Walt Disney Concert Hall. The Dorothy Chandler Pavilion is located at 135 North Grand Avenue, Los Angeles, CA 90012. Swan Lake performance schedule is June 7 at 7:30 pm; June 8 at 7:30 pm; June 9 at 2:00 and 7:30 pm; and June 10 at 2:00 pm. Tickets range from $34 to $125 and can be purchased at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, online at musiccenter.org or by calling (213) 972-0711.

The Book of Mormon

Winner of the prestigious Tony® award for Best Musical, The Book Of Mormon will begin a strictly limited 12- week engagement from September 5 at the historic Pantages Theatre. The musical is a religious satire with book, lyrics and music by Trey Parker, Robert Lopez and Matt Stone. Parker and Stone co-created the music with Lopez, who co-wrote and co-composed Avenue Q (that should give you a hint about the type of humor you’ll find in this musical). The musical is choreographed by Tony Award-winner Casey Nicholaw and is directed by Nicholaw and Trey Parker.

The show tells the story of two young Mormon missionaries sent to a remote village in northern Uganda, where a brutal warlord is threatening the local population. The two missionaries try to share the Book of Mormon, one of their scriptures — which only one of them knows very well — but they have trouble connecting with the locals who are more worried about war, famine, poverty and AIDS than about having their souls saved. Two-time Tony Award nominee Gavin Creel will star as Elder Price in this first national tour of The Book Of Mormon. If you’re an American Express card member you will be able to purchase single tickets beginning Wednesday, May 30 at 10:00 am by calling (800) 745-3000 or visiting Ticketmaster.com. Tickets will remain exclusively on sale until Tuesday, June 5th. On Sunday, June 10 at 7:00 am, single tickets will go on sale to the general public exclusively at the Pantages Theatre Box Office (6233 Hollywood Boulevard) and at 12:00 noon tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster. com or by phone at (800) 982-2787. Prices start at $30. A day-of-the show lottery for a limited number of $25 seats will be held for each performance. For more details go to www. BroadwayLA.org.

Art Workshop At Vasquez Rocks

Join a free artmaking workshop for the new Vasquez Rocks Interpretive Center on June 16 and 17 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. The workshop series invites the public to make rammed earth time capsules and work on the construction of a new public art sculpture for the new interpretive center at Vasquez Rocks Natural Area Park in Agua Dulce. The series is led by rammed earth expert Andreas Hessing of Scrubjay Studios and Didier Hess (Jenna Didier and Oliver Hess), creators of the sculpture. They will offer hands-on teaching of this ancient building technology in which earth is combined with a small amount of concrete. Participants will learn what applications are appropriate for rammed earth, how to test soil to see if it is feasible for use in construction, how to amend soil, build forms and tamp soil into load-bearing walls and benches in the production of a permanent public artwork. The series is free to the public; no experience is necessary. To register (required) and get location details please contact jenna@emanate.org or 323- 913-0915.

A Sizzling Summer Exhibition

The Valley Artists Guild is offer another wonderful collection of work for a Summer Exhibition at the prestigious Whites Art Framing and Restoration Gallery in the lovely oldtown of Montrose (near La Canada-Flintridge) from June 3-June 29. A reception will be held on Sunday, June 9 from 2:00 to 5:00 pm. Bring your family and friends to the reception which will offer refreshments and more than 50 works of art on display. The art show was juried by well-known artist and instructor Gerald Brommer, an internationally recognized teacher of watercolor painting. For more information contact Marian Fortunati, Exhibits Chair-Valley Artists Guild at marian@ fortunatifineart.com or call (8180 943-7538.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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A scene from “La Boheme,” playing until June 2 at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion. Photo by Robert Millard for LA Opera.

ce. (Separate admission, or combination packages available.)
The Will Geer Theatricum Botanicum is located at 1419 N. Topanga Canyon Boulevard, Topanga Canyon, CA 90290.
For tickets/information call (310) 455-2322 or go to www.theatricum.com.

George Thomas

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There’s music in the air in the L.A. area…

The Follies

As you walk into the renowned Ahmanson Theatre during this run, you’ll look at the stage and observe the ragged bunting hanging from the proscenium, the boxes draped in the same black bunting, which is also covering all the walls. This scenery makes the theatregoer feel that he’s not only an observer but a participant. The story of the “Follies” begins when former members of the ‘Weismann Follies’ reunite on the eve of their theatre’s demolition. Two couples remember their past and face the realities of their present. Reminiscing about their younger selves and the years gone by, the run-down theatre brings back memories, both good and bad, for both couples, Ben and Phyllis, Buddy and Sally.

Lora Lee Gayer, Nick Verina, Christian Delcroix and KirstenScott in the Kennedy Center production of “Follies” at the Center Theatre Group/Ahmanson Theatre, showing May 9 through June 9, 2012. Photo by Craig Schwartz.

During the evening you’ll hear such well-known songs as ‘Broadway Baby,” “I’m Still Here,’ “Too Many Mornings,” “Could I Leave You?” and “Losing My Mind,” the songs that reflect the life and feelings of Ben, Phyllis, Buddy and Sally, as well as Carlotta, Heidi, Solange, and Hattie, their fellow vaudevillians and their younger counterparts. My attention was riveted by Ben singing “The Road You Didn’t Take” as he ruminated about what life might have been like if he had done things differently and married Sally instead of Phyllis; Carlotta thumbing her nose at one at all with “I’m Still Here”; Hattie’s defiant “Broadway Baby”; and Sally’s plaintiff “Losing My Mind.” Costume designer Gregg Barnes deserves kudos, as does Warren Carlyle’s choreography for adding so much to the high quality of the evening’s performance.

The cast stars four-time Tony Award-nominee Jan Maxwell as Phyllis, Tony Award-winner Victoria Clark as Sally, two-time Tony Award-nominee Danny Burstein as Buddy, three-time Emmy Award nominee Ron Raines as Benjamin and Olivier Award winner Elaine Paige as Carlotta Campion. Maxwell, Burstein, Raines and Paige are returning to the roles they originated on Broadway. Also returning to the roles they created are Lora Lee Gayer as Young Sally, Lean Horotiz as Young Heidi, Tony Award-nominee Jayne Houdyshell as Hattie Walker, Tony Awardnominee Mary Beth Pell as Solange, Kirsten Scott as Young Phyllis, Nick Verina as Young Ben, Tony Awardnominee Susan Watson as Emily Whitman, and Terri White as Stella Deems. Wednesday, May 9, was opening night at the Broadway Revival of “Follies” at the Center Theatre Group’s Ahmanson Theatre. At the conclusion of the final curtain there was a prolonged standing ovation for the cast and the 28-piece orchestra, who al deserved it. I could go on and on but you have to see the “Follies” for yourself. It’s no wonder that this revival of Follies has received eight Tony® awards in 2012. Tickets are available by calling (213) 972-4400, online at www. CenterTheatreGroup.org or in person at the CTG Box Office at the Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center.

A Blues Festival

Noted vocalist Barbara Morrison will present top talent at the First Annual Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center Blues Festival on Friday, Saturday, Sunday, May 18, 19 and 20. Performers on two stages during the threeday Blues Fest include: Barbara Morrison (Festival Producer); the Sons of Rhythm with Johnny “Lucky” Otis (the grandson of rhythm and blues pioneer Johnny Otis), Richard Berry III (grandson of composer and pianist, Richard “Louie, Louie” Berry ) and Donato James (son of the legendary Etta James); Billy Foster & The Original Medallions; the Bernie Pearl Blues Band; Brother Usef and many other acts. The BMPAC is located at 4305 Degnan Boulevard, #101, Los Angeles CA, 90036. For schedule and ticket information, visit www.barbaramorrisonpac. com. or call the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center at (323) 296-2272.

The Annual Topanga Banjo-fidle Contest On Sunday, May 20 from 9:00 am to 6:00 pm, the Topanga Banjo-Fiddle Contest will take place at the Paramount Movie Ranch, 2813 Cornell Road, Agoura Hills, CA 91301. At one of Southern California’s favorite bluegrass, old-time and folk music events you’ll find over 100 instrumental and singing contestants; see band playoffs at the Dance Barn; clogging, contra and square dancing with live music; whole family fun at the Eucalyptus Grove featuring Scottish Fiddlers; a fiddle workshop with Rebecca Lomicky, children’s crafts and more. On the Pavilion Stage you will find Beginner Playoffs, Kalinka Klezmer, Susie Glaze and the Hilonesome Band, Mike Mahaney’s Cowboy Music, Stuart Mason and John Weed. The Railroad Stage features singing playoffs, and intermediate fiddle playoffs, plus Rebecca Lomnicky and Dave Brewer (The World of Scottish Fiddle and Bagpipe Music) and Ross Altman (The Woody Guthrie Centennial). For information call (818) 382-4819, visit www. TopangaBanjoFiddl le. org or e-mail info@ topangabanjofiddle.org.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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A Night Of Laughs And Song!

Theatre West has done it again. Once a month Theatre West and Executive Director John Gallogly are presenting “The Laugh Pack,” created by comic Bruce Fine. With a friend I attended the Saturday, March 31st program. What a hilarious evening! Bruce Fine (pictured, right) has opened for the Wayans Brothers and other celebrities in various nightclub performances. He’s also been seen on the “Jay Leno Show,” “Last Comic Standing 4,” and “Comics Unleashed.” Fine wanted to create a show like there used to be in the old days of Las Vegas when you had great comedians and singers on stage together.

He was inspired by the Rat Pack and the days when stars like Dean Martin, Frank Sinatra, Joey Bishop, Peter Lawford and Sammy Davis, Jr. cavorted on stage at the Sands Hotel. So, once a month at Theatre West, Bruce Fine gathers several comedians and a singer for an evening of fun. Besides the scheduled performers you’ll see comics dropping in to add to the evening’s gaiety. Theatre West has included in the price of the ticket a buffet of appetizers plus two beverages (including alcoholic beverages for those with I.D.). Free parking is included in the lot across the street. This past Saturday night, a friend and I went to Theatre West and had a fabulous time. California Pizza Kitchen provided the evening’s buffet with a variety of pizzas and three kinds of salads. Non-alcoholic beverages were unlimited. During intermission you could have brownies, cookies or coffee or tea. The evening’s comedians, both scheduled and dropins, were the host himself, Bruce Fine followed by Robert Duchaine, Courtney Cronin, Impressionist Roger Kabler (was he ever fabulous), singer Vanessa Bryan, talented Bresha Webb, Craig Gass and ending the evening was Eric “Smooth E” Schwartz. Ms. Bryan came out twice to perform, both before and after intermission.

Two of the numbers she belted out were “Hey, Big Spender!” from “Pajama Game” and “New York! New York!” from the movie of the same name. Does this lady have a great future! As I said earlier in this column, Roger Kabler was fabulous in his impressions of Richard Dreyfuss (body expression and voice), Robert de Niro, a hilarious impression of Robin Williams and others. There was even an impression of Meryl Streep imitating Julia Childs. He kept us laughing throughout his gig. The other comics were also funny but these two stood out during an evening of laughs and songs. Tickets are $28 in advance or $32 at the door. Doors open at 6:30 pm and the appetizers and beverages are available before the 8 pm. start of the show. For more information and to order tickets go to www. LaughPack.com. Theater West is located at 3333 Cahuenga Boulevard West in Los Angeles CA 90068.

For Children At Theatre West

Children at Theatre West

A musical for children and their families, “Aladdin, the Princess, and the Magic Lamp,” (pictured below) is now playing at the Theatre West on Saturdays at 1 pm until July 14, 2012. Presented by the Storybook Theatre you’ll find “Aladdin, the Princess, and the Magic Lamp” presents the classic story with plenty of singing and dancing and loads of participation by the young audience.

The Center Theater Group Presents:

Here’s some new info from the about Center Theatre Group performances: “The Convert” has been extended an additional week and will now have performances from April 17 through May 19, 2012 at the Kirk Douglas Theatre in Culver City. Four student matinees have been scheduled in this additional week, plus a public performance Saturday, May 19 at 8:00 p.m. Opening night will be April 19, 2012. At the Ahmanson Theatre at the Los Angeles Music Center, the National Theatre of Great Britain production of “War Horse” will begin previews on June 14, and will open Friday, June 29 at 8 pm and will run through July 29th. Finally, Scott Zigler will direct David Mamet’s “November” at the Mark Taper Forum at the Los Angeles Music Center, September 26 through November 4, 2012 with the opening set for October 7, 2012. For information go to centertheatregroup.com.

A Tribute To Billie Holiday

Corky Hale and Freda Payne with special Guest Tricia Tahara will be at the Catalina Bar and Grill when the club presents “A Birthday Tribute To Billie Holiday” on Wednesday, April 25, 2012 at 8:30 pm. For this one-night, Corky Hale, who was once Billie Holiday’s pianist, will perform a tribute program, along with Freda Payne and Tricia Tahara, in honor of the late American Jazz singer, Billie Holiday’s 97th birthday. The program will include signature songs Billie Holiday made famous including “Them There Eyes,” “God Bless the Child,” “Strange Fruit,” “Lady Sings the Blues.” and “Don’t Talk About Me When I’m Gone,” among others. The Catalina Bar and Grill is located at 6725 West Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles Angeles CA 90028. There’s a $20 cover charge. Reservations can be made by calling Catalina Bar and Grill at (323) 466-2210 or online at ticketweb.com.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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MAMMA MIA!

Want a fun evening for you and your family? Then, head over to the historic Pantages Theatre in Hollywood to see the Smash Hit Musical based on the songs of ABBA, MAMMA MIA! Leading the cast of 30 is Kaye Tuckerman as Donna Sheridan, the independent single mother whose daughter, Sophie Sheridan (Chloe Tucker) has invited three men who could possibly be her father to her wedding to Sky (Happy Mahaney). Also invited are Donna’s best friends and former back-up band Rosie and Tanya (May Callanan and Alison Ewing). The three men from Donna’s past and Sophie’s possible dads are Christian Wheelan (Sam Charmichael), John-Michael Zuerlein (Bill Austin) and Paul de Boy (Harry Bright). The cast also includes Stephanie Barnum (Ali), Elean Marisa Flores (Lisa), Ethan Le Phong (Pepper) and James Michael Lambert (Eddie).

The MAMMA MIA!’’s ensemble features (in alphabetical order) Jeff Applegate, Justin Berkobien, Julius Chase, Jeff Diebold, Eileen Faxas, Thomasina E. Gross, Alyuson Lange, Marlene Martinez, Brian Ray Norris, Elana Ricardo, Christopher Sergeeff, Jennifer Swiderski, Travis Taber and Michelle Weissgerber. I was present opening night and found that these numbers were exceptionally good were “Money, Money, Money” sung by Donna, Tanya, Rosie, Sky, Sophie and Company, “ Dancing Queen,” sung by Tanya, Rosie and Donna, “Gimme! Gimme! Gimme! Sung by Sophie, Ali, Lisa and Company, the hilarious “Take a Chance on Me” sung by Rosie and Bill and the encore numbers “Mamma Mia”, “Dancing Queen” and “Waterloo.” Performance Schedule: Tuesday through Friday at 8 pm, Saturday at 2 pm & 8 pm, Sunday at 1 pm & 6:30 pm. Running time is 2 hours and 40 minutes including intermission. Orchestra Level tickets start at just $25. For tickets please go to the Pantages Theatre’s website, www.BroadwayLA.org.

Coming to the Pantages Theatre’s 2012-2013 season are these Broadway hits:

THE BOOK OF MORMON (Sept 5-Nov 25, 2012); DONNY & MARIE CHRISTMAS IN LOS ANGELES (Dec.4-23, 2012); Cathy Rigby as PETER PAN (Jan. 15-27, 2013); JEKYLL & HYDE ( Feb. 12- Mar. 3, 2013); CATCH ME IF YOU CAN (Mar. 12-24, 2013) WEST SIDE STORY (APRIL 9-14); Bette Midler presenting PRISCILLA (May 28-June 16, 2013) In addition to the regular subscription, BROADWAY LA will also be presenting on the Pantages stage RAIN (Jan. 28-Feb. 3, 2013); BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (Mar. 26-April 7, WEST SIDE STORY (April 9-14, 2013) and CHICAGO (May 15-27, 2012). For ticket information please call (866)-755-2929 or go to BroadwayLA.org. A 7-show package can start as low as $241. The Pantages Theatre is located at 6333 Hollywood Boulevard, one block east of historic Vine Street. The cars run every 10 minutes until midnight. Seniors, like me, and the disabled only pay 25 cents each way. Quite a savings from the parking lot fees around the theatre. San Fernando Valley residents will find that the ride on the subway from the North Hollywood Station to Hollywood and Vine a quick, comfortable ride. You can save money, gas and a lot of stress.

CONCERTS AT THE “BOWL”

The Canoga Park Bowl and the San Fernando Valley Symphony presents Concerts at the “Bowl” in the Royal Room at the Canoga Park Bowl on Wednesday nights at 8:00 pm. WEDNESDAY: APRIL 4- The Symphomaniax perform their classical repertoire of “Bach and Vivaldi,” plus original compositions and arrangements featuring James Domine, guitar; Ruth Bruegger, violin; Glenn Grab, cello and Larry Muardian, bass.

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 11- The San Fernando Valley String Quartet will perform the music of Bach, Mozart, Vivaldi, Cole Porter, Leroy Anderson and the Beatles in a medley of tangos, waltzes and more. Featured performers Ruth Bruegger, violin; Florence Titmus, violin; Robin Ross, viola and Glenn Grab , cello. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 18- Jimi Dee, guitar; Gary Herbig, saxophone; Adrian Miller, trumpet; Larry Muradian, bass and Chuck Burkinshaw, drums will perform tunes from the “Great American Songbook.” WEDNESDAY, APRIL 25- The Blues Bandits perform the “Blues,” featuring David Reo, guitar and vocals; Jimi Dee, guitar and vocals; Gary Herbig, saxophone; Larry Muradian, bass guitar and Chuck Burkinshaw, drums. The Canoga Park Bowl is located on the corner of Winnetka and Vanowen, 20122 Vanowen Street, Winnetka CA. For more information call (818) 347-4807. FREE admission but a one-drink minimum. Sorry but persons under 21 years of age are not admitted.

AT THE VALLEY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER

OSCAR WINNER GEENA DAVIS will be performing at the Valley Performing Arts Center on Thursday, April 19, at 8 pm in the beautiful Valley Performing Arts Center on the campus. Ms. Davis will be speaking about her life and passions as part of the California State University Northridge Spoken Word series which is held on campus. Ms. Davis works to promote equality in sports opportunities. She is also working to expand knowledge about gender discrimination in United States educational institutions. For more information please contact Therri Donnelly, Community Outreach, and Valley Performing Arts Center by calling (818) 677-8837 or e-mail: therri.donnelly@csun. edu.

The EMERSON STRING QUARTET

One of the world’s most esteemed chamber music ensembles, will be joined by pianist Wu Han for a concert at 8 pm on Wednesday, April 18, in the Valley Performing Arts Center at California State University, Northridge. The Quartet, Eugene Drucker and Phillip Setzer (violins), Lawrence Dutton (viola) and David Finckel (cello) will be playing works by Beethoven, Shostakovich and Schumann. The New York quartet was formed during the United States Bicentennial year (1976) and named after poet Ralph Waldo Emerson has been together for 35 years and has earned a reputation as one of the world’s premier chamber ensembles, winning nine Grammy Awards and an Avery Fisher Prize, to name just two. For ticket information go to www. valleyperformingartscenter. com, Ticketmaster, or call (8180 677-8837. The Valley Performing Arts Center is located on the campus of CSUN, 18111 Nordhoff Street, Northridge CA 91330. Paid Parking is available in the parking structure which can be reached by entering off Lindley or Prairie Streets.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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Congratulations to Janai Brugger (pictured right), a member of LA Opera’s Domingo-Thornton Young Artist Program, who was one of five winners of the Metropolitan Opera National Council Auditions on March 18. Ms. Brugger will return to LA Opera in the leading role of Musetta in Giacomo Puccini’s “La Bohème” on May 12, 20 and 23rd. Long ranked as the best, Puccini’s “La Bohème” stars Allyn Perez and Stephen Costello in the roles of Mimi and Rodolfo. For ticket information go to LAOpera/box office.

Janai Brugger

La Bohème will be performed at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, County of Los Angeles Music Center, 135 No. Grand Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90012. La Opera’s 2012-2013 season is scheduled as follows: — September 15 to October 9, 2012: “I due Foscari.” — September 22 to October 14, 2012: “Don Giovanni.” — November 17 to December 9, 2012: “Madama Butterfly.” — March 9 to 30 2013: “Der flegende Hollander.” — March 23 to April 13, 2013: “Cenerentola.” — May 18 to June 8, 2013: “Tosca.” Plácido Domingo stars in “I due Foscari.” Oksana Dyka sings Butterfly with Brandon Jovanovich as Pinkerton and Eric Owens as Sharpless. Jay Hunter Morris is Erik in “Der fliegende Holländer.” Kate Lindsey and Ketevan Kemoklidze share the title role of Cenerentola. Sondra Radvanovsky in “Tosca.” For box office information go to LAOpera.com.

26th Annual Charlie Awards

On Thursday, March 29, the Hollywood Arts Council’s 26th Annual Charlie Awards Luncheon will take place in the Blossom Room at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel at noon. Honorees are: — Inaugural Television Arts Award: James Burrows. — Entertainment Arts Award: Cirque du Soleil’s “Iris” — Cultural Arts Award: Feast of San Gennaro Los Angeles — Theatre Arts Award: the Ricardo Montalban Theatre — Hollywood Arts Award: Hollywood Center Studios — Special Recognition: Los Angeles City Council District 13 Eric Garcetti. Celebrity presenters will include Ted Danson, Hector Elizando, Mariette Hartley and more to be announced. The luncheon even will be emceed by ABC Television’s George Pennacchio. Proceeds will benefit Project S.O.A.R. (Students Overcoming All Risks), The Council’s Arts program for underserved and children in the community. Tickets are $100 each and the Awards Show Luncheon is open to the public. For reservations and further information call the Hollywood Arts Council at (323) 871- ARTS or visit www. hollywoodartscouncil. org. An Online Auction for one-of-a-kind items, shows, art, etc. will be held at www.biddingforgood. com/hollywoodartscouncil in advance of the Charlie Awards. The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel is located at 7000 Hollywood Boulevard (at Orange Street), Hollywood CA, 90028.

A Walt Disney Concert Hall Debut

On Friday, March 31 at 8 p.m., Saturday, March 31 at 2 p.m. and Sunday April 1 at 2 p.m., James Gaffigan will come to the Walt Disney Concert Hall for the first time to lead the Los Angeles Philharmonic in three performances of music by Ottorino Respighi, Béla Bartók and Edvard Grieg. Noted pianist André Watts will play Grig’s Piano concert. The concert opens with Respighi’s “Trittico Botticelliano,” inspired by three famous Botticelli paints: “Spring,” “Adoration of the Magi” and “The Miraculous Mandarin.” Conductor Gaffigan comes to the Walt Disney Hall with a reputation for the precision and natural ease of his conducting and the illuminating insight of his musicianship. His passionate and energetic performances and ability to connect deeply with audiences and musicians have attracted international attention, both for his work with orchestras on the concert stage, as well as in the pit at the most prestigious opera houses.

He was recently appointed Chief Conductor of the Lucerne Symphony Orchestra and Principal Guest conductor of the Netherlands Radio Philharmonic Orchestra. He is also an enthusiastic gourmand and his blogs, which can be found on www.jamesgaffigan.com, frequently contain restaurant and wine recommendations. The Upbeat Live preconcert event will take place in BP Hall one hour prior to the concerts and is free to all ticket holders. Veronika Krausas, composer and Professor at the USC Thornton School of Music, will host. The Walt Disney Concert Hall is located at 111 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90012. To purchase tickets visit LA Phil.com, the Walt Disney Concert Hall Box Office or any Ticketmaster outlet. To order by phone with credit card please call the Concert Hall Box Office at (3230 850-2000 or Ticketmaster at (800) 745-30

Laugh Pack Returns

It’s Vegas style entertainment when Comedian Bruce Fine ( www.brucefine.com) presents stand-ups Taylor Williamson (“Last Comic Standing”), YouTube sensation Eric “Smooth- E” Schwartz, sultry singer Vanessa Bryan plus surprise drop-in guests as part of the series of monthly shows beginning on Saturday, March 3. The low ticket price ($28 in advance, $32 at the door) includes the all-star comedy and music show plus a buffet of appetizers (this month sponsored by California Pizza Kitchen Studio City) plus two beverages (including adult beverages for those with I.D.) plus free parking. A March special offers a fourpack of tickets for only $99 (includes live show, food, beverages and parking). Theatre West is located at 3333 Cahuenga Blvd. West, in Los Angeles CA 90068. Free parking is available in the lot across the street. The Laugh Pack was created by Bruce Fine and is presented by Theatre West whose executive director is John Gallogly.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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At Our Museums

Much is happening at our museums in Los Angeles County. In Newhall, a temporary exhibit with film items related to Oscar winners “Hugo” and “The Artist” will be on view until June 3rd. In Los Angeles at the Natural History Museum (NHM) the Butterfly Pavilion will open on April 8th. And more: On Saturday, March 17, the Natural History Museum is inviting all junior scientists to meet and learn about rare reptiles. They’ll learn about the hairy frog and the Spanish ribbed newt that uses its ribs as weapons, and the gliding lizards that can glide from tree to tree to escape predators.

The Curator will reach into his Curator’s Cupboard for strange and amazing reptiles and amphibians to share with your children during a behind-the-scenes tour of the NHM herpetology collection, which includes the extinct golden toad and the largest lizard of all, the Komodo dragon. The Natural History Museum is hosting on Sunday, March 25- Sustainable Sundays: World Water Day L.A. from 9:30 a.m. to 3:30 pm museum visitors will meet organizations that are helping to protect Los Angeles’ sustainable water future and learn how to become a voice for water. It will be a day filled with fun activities and interactive displays for all ages. At the Page Museum, you and your family are invited to spend a night at the museum! The Overnight Adventures programs feature three to four rotations of fun and educational activities at night led by museum educators, a light snack in the evening and a light breakfast in the morning, museum patches for all participants, and an exciting and fun opportunity to spend a night in the museum, surrounded by fossils.

On April 8 – It’s opening day for the Butterfly Pavilion at the Natural History Museum. For the past 14 years the NHM has exhibited hundreds of butterflies and giant moths taking flight in a beautifully landscaped pavilion on the museum’s south lawn. The Pavilion will be with us through Labor Day 2012. On April 27 and 28, you’re invited to the Santa Monica Mountains Science Festival, sponsored by the National Park Service and the NHM. You and your family will learn to identify a wildflower or track mountain lions and bobcats. Come to discover the mysteries of your neighborhood national park. The Natural History Museum of Los Angeles County is at 900 Exposition Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90007. Admission is free the first Tuesday of every month. For more information, call (213) 763-DINO or visitwww. nhm.org.

The Page Museum at the La Brea Tar Pits is at 5801 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90036. Admission is also free for everyone on the first Tuesday of every month. For more information, call (323) 934- PAGE or visit www.tarpits. org. The Hart Park and Museum is at 24151 Newhall Ave. Newhall, CA, 91321. Admission is free. For more information, call (661) 254-4584 or visit www. hartmuseum.org.

At The Donald E. Bianchi Planetarium

Several times a year you’ll find me at the Bianchi Planetarium (pictured, above right), which is located on the campus of California State University Northridge (CSUN). I’m a San Fernando

Donald E. Bianchi Planetarium

Valley resident (Encino) and it’s an easy 15- minute ride from Encino- Northridge. The seats are comfortable, the speakers are interesting, and the price is right. On nearby Reseda Boulevard there’s a host of restaurants: Golden Hunan, Chili’s, Acapulco Sea Food Restaurant, Maria’s Italian Kitchen, China Inn and many, many more. In March and April you’ll find these programs: Friday, March 16 – At 7:30 pm you’ll be able to view the Winter Sky Show and learn about the stars, constellations and planets visible in the sky during the late winter. Then, at 8:30 pm Jeremy Amarant, who is a Director of Sage Planetarium in Palmadale, will present “Sky Lore, the Unification of Cultures.”

Mr. Amrarant will share how many classic tales and poems are rooted in the sky and the stars. Jack and Jill, and Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream are based on the changing season; the Hawaiian story of Maui and how the Hawaiian Island Chain came into being is connected to both the stars; as is the reason we blow out candles on a birthday cake. Hansel and Gretel are connected to the Moon, and the constellations of Cygnus, Aquila and Lyra tell the story of life. It’s an evening devoted to unraveling these signs and symbols from myth and look at the connection to the stars. Friday March 29 – Tonight at 7:30 pm, see and learn about the stars, constellations and planets visible in the sky during the spring of the year. Then at 8:30 pm, come and learn all about Venus. The planet is the third brightest object in our sky, second to the Sun and Moon.

For the past few months we earthlings have been viewing Venus as an evening “star.” Recently NASA launched the Magellan Mission and tonight we’ll be taken on a “grand tour” of our sister planet as we follow Magellan’s progress from its launch through the most significant discoveries, which made the mission of the one most successful ever sent to explore the inner planets of our solar system. Friday April 13 – Again, visitors to the planetarium will see the Spring Sky Show at 7:30 pm. However, the program at 8:30 pm is “Hubble Vision: A Fascinating Tour Of The Cosmos-from Earth Orbit.” For the past 21 years the Hubble Space Telescope has provided incredible images of amazing and unprecedented details to astronomers. There has been an abundance of discoveries, which are the focus of this evening’s program. In the narrated slide program you’ll glimpse a comet crashing into Jupiter, storms on the outer planets and even the faraway worlds of Pluto and Quaoar. Beyond our solar system you’ll see how the Hubble captured the protoplanetary disks in Orion, views of the deaths of stars like our sun, colliding galaxies and deep-field views of the most distant galaxies. The Donald E. Bianchi Planetarium is located on the CSUN campus adjacent to Science Building 3, now Citrus, Hall. CSUN is located at 18111 Nordhoff Boulevard, Northridge. Advance ticket purchase is recommended. To order, call the CSUN A.S. Box Office (818) 677-2488

La Zoo’s Newest Exhibit

This past week the Los Angeles Zoo has introduced its newest exhibit: the LAIR (Living Amphibians, Invertebrates, and Reptiles). Come and view how the LA Zoo has focused visually stunning areas, including habitats for various unique and endangered species, that were here long before humans arrived but now, unfortunately, depend on man for their survival. The collection comprises some of the rarest species among North American zoos with over 60 species of amphibians, invertebrates, and reptiles represented. The Los Angeles Zoo is located in Griffith Park at the junction of the Ventura (134) and Golden State (5) Freeways. For information call (323) 644-4200 or go to www.lazoo.org.

Jean Strauber

Entertainment Writer

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