Los Angeles Downtown News 05/22/2023

‘Inside Starving’ Coalition protests mayor’s program

LA Summer Guide

The Downtown handbook for the sunshine season

NEWS

Housekeys not Handcuffs Inside Safe critics make a stand

By Morgan Owen LA Downtown News Staff Writer

Los Angeles Downtown News PO Box 1349

South Pasadena, CA 91031 213-481-1448

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Leah Schwartz

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS:

Jeff Favre, Ellen Snortland

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHER:

Chris Mortenson

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS:

Alice Choi

GRAPHIC DESIGNER:

Arman Olivares

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES:

Catherine Holloway (213) 308-2261

Michael Lamb (213) 453-3548

1900 W. BROADWAY ROAD TEMPE, AZ 85282 SINCE

PRESIDENT:

Steve T. Strickbine

VICE PRESIDENT:

Michael Hiatt

In response to Mayor Karen Bass’ State of the City update on Inside Safe, a coalition of advocates who have dubbed themselves “Inside Starving” held a news conference to protest the program first launched in December. They claim that Inside Safe is yet another program for disappearing homeless Angelenos and that those allegedly forced to participate in the program have faced numerous injustices.

At the news conference, several participants of Inside Safe spoke up about their experiences in the program. One Inside Safe participant, Jeffrey Troop, said, “You’re being lied to about the program. We’re not being provided wraparound services. We’re not being fed. Many of us are placed into hotels with deplorable conditions where you’re hardly getting case management.”

Troop said that her neighbors were given little to no information about Inside Safe before the city came in and loaded them into vans. She has been in the program for three months and has repeatedly requested mental health services for her autism to no avail. Even if she were neurotypical and could obtain a full-time job, she said she would not be able to afford housing with the voucher provided by Inside Safe; rent is still too high.

Phoebe Valencia, another person who spoke up at Inside Starving’s news conference, said she was grandfathered into Inside Safe through Project Roomkey, which she had been a part of since June 2020. She said that a few weeks ago, she received an eviction notice saying that her housing voucher had not been paid since March 2022.

“Now I’m faced with an eviction on my

record that will make it almost impossible to obtain housing moving forward,” Valencia said, apologizing as she choked back tears. “I’m a primary example of how these programs are failing us and not following through with their promises of permanent housing. And I’m not the only one.”

At her State of the City address, Bass asked the city council to approve an extra $250 million for the Inside Safe Program. Advocates from Inside Starving want to know how that money will be used and called for greater transparency on how the program has spent the $50 million the city already allocated to Inside Safe. So far, less than $400,000 of the budget expenditures have been logged with City Controller Kenneth Mejia’s office.

Inside Starving has detailed a list of 10 demands for Bass and the Inside Safe Program, including providing participants with information in writing, adequate food and wraparound mental health services to help participants like Troop.

In a published statement, Zach Seidl from Bass’ office stated that “many of the is-

sues raised (at the news conference) are serious institutional problems that have long plagued housing efforts in Los Angeles.” He also insinuated that the mayor’s request for additional funding is targeted at addressing these very issues.

Inside Starving is also asking for the discontinuation of enforcement against those who choose to remain at their encampment, alleging that even though Inside Safe is officially voluntary, participants do not feel as though they were given a choice.

“My neighbors and I were given minimal outreach only days leading up to the sweep, and several had no idea there was even a sweep,” Troop said. “(We) could only keep two trash bags of personal property and (were told) that everything would be thrown out and that (we) couldn’t return. … Once (our) tents were trashed, we had no other choice but to get into vans and they wouldn’t tell us where they were taking us.”

Inside Starving has detailed on its website instances where Inside Safe has instituted “carceral rules,” similar to the circumstances Troop experienced. Its advocates say that Inside Safe participants have experienced restrictions such as “lice checks, a 10 p.m. curfew, a two-bag limit, no visitors, no visiting each other’s rooms, bag checks and pat downs.”

Prior to the news conference, Inside Starving sent five emails to Bass communicating their desire to meet with her along with their list of demands. She was also invited to attend the May 8 conference but did not accept. Two days following Inside Starving’s event, they finally received a response from Bass’ office, though the group did not expand on what that response entailed. The group said that they are working to arrange a listen-in with the mayor.

Chris Mortenson/Staff

Yolanda Orellana shares her experience with Inside Safe, saying that it was “like being in the Twilight Zone.” She said her group wasn’t given any toiletries or resources and that the first hotel they were taken to was infested with pests.

Chris Mortenson/Staff

Shane Smith said she was given no notice before Inside Safe came to take her to a hotel. She recalled that at the hotel she was taken to, she wasn’t given a room key and that security had to walk her in and out of the building every time.

Covered California will help DT CONSIDER THIS Zoom-iquette: Mind Your Manners

It’s never too late to stop being annoying

By Ellen Snortland

LA Downtown News Columnist

“Just so you know, if you’ve got any background sounds we can hear, I will mute you. The same goes for distracting movement; I’ll ‘mute’ your video,” I say. I strive to be a role model of Zoom decorum. I have set up my office space to maximize my streaming presence. I burn a lavender candle to my right (off-camera) for mood enhancement; I have lights that bounce off the ceiling to create ambient light, and my laptop is set up so that a viewer will see me from mid-chest up. I have the proper ratio of headspace above me. I am framed, OK? I have a B.A. in film and theater from UC Irvine, so I know what I’m doing regarding lighting and set decoration.

Thanks to the pandemic, you’d think everyone would have figured these things out by now. Sadly, that hasn’t been the case. I’ve been coaching writers online for three years. This experience led me to design Three Zoom Commandments, the breaking of which can get you muted, at least in my meetings. These infractions can be endearing in less formalized settings like family calls. “Grandpa! We can only see your teeth; can you turn your computer so the light shines on your face?”

I try to share my experience when it’s warranted. For example, while taking an online seminar, I texted the leader to tell her that she looked like a bobblehead with no body. She was wearing black against a completely black background. Her name covered her chin. It was hard to believe that no one else had spoken to her about her on-camera presence, which reminded me of that 80s show “Max Headroom.” (Look it up.) I gave her the remedies: put a light source on the floor behind her so she had subtle backlighting; sit on some pillows; re-aim her camera; have some lights in front of her, etc. Voilá! The following week, she appeared as the professional she really is. Frame yourself properly. If your chin looks like it’s on a window sill, it’s distracting. Do these folks not understand that they can adjust their camera angles

to center their mugs in their square?

In this spirit, here are my Three Commandments of the Zoom-iverse:

Thou Shalt Not Amble — Please don’t walk around with your device: it makes me want to heave. Really. That also applies to rocking back and forth in a chair or bouncing. Any activity that would disrupt meetings in real life (IRL) applies to Zoom … times ten. On-camera movement in your own little square is a more intense experience than you might think. That also applies to using moving backgrounds. They can be pretty and subtle, like the gently rolling surf of a tropical beach. However, I’ll never forget one participant having a live video of a roller coaster as their background. I ordinarily love roller coasters, but forcing other participants to run and get barf bags is a big no-no. Speaking of unwanted movement on camera, “pulling” a Toobin is totally verboten. (Look that up, too.)

Thou Shalt Not Blather — Whether online or in person, so many people blather these days! They can’t seem to keep track of how long they’ve talked or how many times they made the same point, over and over and over … like I just did. (Uh-oh.) If you attempt to talk over a blatherer, which many people try to do, no one will be heard. Seri -

MARGULIES’ OPINION

Hey you! Speak up!

Downtown News wants to hear from people in the community. If you like or dislike a story, let us know, or weigh in on something you feel is important to the community.

Participation is easy. Go to downtownnews.com, scroll to the bottom of the page and click the “Letter to the Editor” link. For guest opinion proposals, please email christina@timespublications.com.

ously. I assume if you’re talking, you do want to be heard, right? In some groups, you may need to be proactive and say, “I’d like the floor for the next few minutes without interruption.” Learning to say what you need out loud could be a source of growth for some of us.

Thou Shalt Not Chew Anything — I have a personal rule that I won’t eat on-camera unless I’ve given someone advance notice or it’s one-on-one with a close friend. As a teacher, never! As a student, occasionally and if so, I turn off my video so people don’t have to watch me masticate. I can’t stand gum chewing IRL, a habit that normal people often tolerate. Apparently, I’m not that normal: I find gum chewing extremely distracting. If you’re attempting to focus on what someone else is saying, but your eyes drift to the mechanical, mouthopen, cow-like motions coming from another’s Zoom square, it will upstage what other people are saying. I hate it, OK? And, if I hate it, others also despise the practice but aren’t able to tell you to nip it.

Here are a couple of miscellaneous peeves:

• Don’t let Fluffy or Fido saunter across your screen unless, of course, everyone is introducing their fur babies. Every actor in the world knows that animals and kids will upstage anything else that’s happening.

• Please don’t sleep on camera. You wouldn’t nap during an in-person meeting, so don’t do it on Zoom.

If I seem a tad too militant about Zoom-iquette, so be it. Zoom is here to stay, folks; it’s even become a verb.

Sincerely,

Ellen Snortland

2023 marks the 30th year that Ellen Snortland has written this column. She also teaches creative writing online and can be reached at: ellen@beautybitesbeast.com. Her award-winning film “Beauty Bites Beast” is available for download or streaming at vimeo.com/ondemand/beautybitesbeast.

Ellen Snortland

Covered California will help DTFEATURE A Community of Makers

Outdoor market MAUM celebrates AAPI business owners and artists

By Leah Schwartz LA Downtown News Staff Writer

At MAUM Market, shoppers can buy one-of-a-kind artisanal goods, perusing a selection of beverages, food, ceramics, flowers, art, jewelry, clothing, home goods and other local handmade products made by dozens of AAPI artists and business owners.

The monthly marketplace will return to ROW DTLA on Saturday, May 27, where it will take up residency until the end of the year — usually on the third or fourth Saturday of the month. The entrance fee is just $5.

When small-business owners Arnold Byun and Kioh Park began MAUM Market in January 2022, they envisioned a thriving maker community. In just a year, that is precisely what the market has become.

“We wanted a platform and communi-

Alice Choi/Contributor

MAUM Market features dozens of AAPI artisans and small businesses.

MAKERS from page 5

ty where we could be in the same space as like-minded creators, specifically Asian American creators and small-business owners,” Byun explained. “We wanted to be adjacent to them and create synergy and collaboration amongst all of us in this community.”

This coming market will host 60 diverse vendors. One vendor, An Candles, sells 100% soy wax candles with Asian-inspired scents like ube matcha and mango sticky rice. Another, Shin+na, makes upcycled canvas tote bags with minimalist and functional designs. A fan favorite at the market, Rise & Shine makes dainty, aesthetic affordable jewelry.

Since its beginning, MAUM has already hosted 27 outdoor markets and currently has 500 makers in its network. “We’re definitely pleasantly surprised but also very inspired that it’s been able to grow this large this quickly,” Byun said. “I think a big part of that is because we specifically collaborate and feature Asian American creators,

and having a safe space like this allows us to come together with like-minded individuals. There’s a lot of synergy that happens.”

The artistic community at MAUM extends beyond the physical space. Many makers who started at the marketplace have been able to make their independent ventures their full-time jobs. Some creators, who have connected at the market, have gone on to collaborate.

Although LA is the primary market, Byun and Park are working to bring MAUM across the country to New York in the fall. Next year, the pair hopes to bring the marketplace to cities across the U.S., listing San Francisco, Chicago, Atlanta, Portland, San Francisco and Seattle as possible venues.

The goal is for MAUM to become a space of innovation to champion Asian-owned small businesses, whether established or just beginning.

“We want to encourage everybody to take a chance at the market,” Park said. “I think it’s a great way to test out your idea, to sell your product and to see if there’s an audience for it. It’s like an incubator.”

MAUM Market

WHEN: 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, May 27

WHERE: ROW DTLA, 777 S. Alameda Street, Los Angeles

COST: $5

INFO: maum.market

Alice Choi/Contributor

The monthly MAUM Market is coming to ROW DTLA on Saturday, May 27.

Covered California will help DT SUMMER GUIDE Play Ball! The Dodgers have plenty of promotions this summer

By Sullivan Maley LA Downtown News Staff Writer

The great American summer pastime has made its yearly return to LA — Dodger baseball is back! This season features a diverse schedule for fans to get excited about, with two homestands in particular featuring a host of giveaways and special events.

This week sees the Dodgers take a crucial road trip for back-to-back series with two of the best teams in baseball, the Tampa Bay Rays and Atlanta Braves. Other notable home series include the New York Yankees (June 2 to June 4), the 2022 World Series Champion Houston Astros (June 23 to June 25), and a 10-game home stretch from Aug. 10 to Aug. 20. The Dodgers will face their hometown rival Angels in two two-game series, the first in Anaheim (June 20 to June 21) and the latter at home (July 7 to July 8).

The team will return from a week on the road on Tuesday, June 13, for a threegame home series with the Chicago White Sox. The first matchup will feature a Will

Smith bobblehead giveaway. The Dodgers will host their Black Heritage Night the following evening, Wednesday, June 14, featuring a special ticket package that includes a special Brooklyn Dodgers Mookie Betts jersey. The third and final game of the series on Thursday, June 15, includes a Clayton Kershaw bobblehead giveaway.

Dodger Stadium will host its 10th annual LGBTQ+ Night the next day, Friday, June 16. The matchup against the San Francisco Giants will feature a pregame Pride Party with specialty drinks and music from DJ Bowie Jane and a drone show after the game. Fans who purchase the evening’s special ticket package will receive a commemorative Dodgers LGBTQ+ jersey upon entering the stadium. The team will play the Giants again two days later, Sunday, June 18, when they will give away exclusive Father’s Day bucket hats.

The week of Independence Day kicks

off a four-game series with the Pittsburgh Pirates, and Gavin Lux bobbleheads will be given to fans in attendance for the series opener on Monday, July 3. Dodger Stadium will host a firework show for the holiday the following evening, wrapping up the Pirates series with a Luau Night ticket package on Wednesday, July 5, and a Tony Gonsolin bobblehead giveaway Thursday, July 6.

Perhaps the most unique piece of memorabilia available to Dodger fans this summer will be the Japanese Heritage Night jerseys, also available with the purchase of a special ticket package to the team’s Saturday, July 8, matchup with the Angels.

Want to take home a jersey with no purchase required? Fans in attendance for the Dodgers’ tilt with the Washington Nationals on Tuesday, May 30, will take home a free Julio Urias City Connect Jersey.

@flyLAXairport

Dodgers/Submited

Dodger fans can grab a free Julio Urias jersey at the Nationals game on Tuesday, May 30.

Covered California will help DT SUMMER GUIDE Revving Up Fans

FuelFest brings ‘The Fast and the Furious’ to life

By Christina Fuoco-Karasinski LA Downtown News Executive Editor

Cody Walker and Tyrese Gibson were catching up at Red Lobster when the conversation turned to Cody’s late brother, Paul, of “The Fast and the Furious” franchise.

Cody told Gibson about his and Chris Lee’s plan to host festival surrounding allthings cars called FuelFest. Gibson was in.

Following two record-setting shows in West Palm Beach and Fort Worth, FuelFest will return for a fifth time to LA at Irwindale Speedway from 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 3.

Hosted by Walker and Gibson, FuelFest blends enthusiasts’ passion for the automotive world with drifting and ridealongs, celebrities, live music and culture.

This year, the show will feature more than 600 top custom, exotic, rare and exclusive cars and trucks combined with drift exhibitions, off-road demos, and

This

new interactive exhibits and experiences.

“I feel like what makes our event special is they’re very approachable,” Walker said. “They’re not just for hardcore motorheads. I think there are a lot of car events that cater more to just the track rats or the hardcore fans.

“We appeal to the mainstream as well. We get people out to our show who aren’t necessarily just hardcore enthusiasts. People are interested who have never experienced motorsports or a car show before.”

FuelFest also reflects the multicultural cast of “The Fast and the Furious.”

“If you look at FuelFest,” Walker said. “What’s made ‘The Fast and the Furious’ as a movie franchise so popular all these years is it caters to all.

“All the different types of cars they have in the films — everything from Japanese tuners cars to American muscle cars — that’s what we’re doing at our

year, FuelFest adds Monster Trucks to its lineup.

shows, too. That’s the allure of the whole thing. Our demographic is just incredible. We are so diverse, just like the films. That’s why ‘The Fast and the Furious’ is so popular. It’s so diverse, and it has a multicultural cast. There’s somebody in that franchise that everybody can relate to in some way, shape or form. Everybody gets together and celebrates the culture.”

Walker is excited about the addition of Monster Trucks.

“We have Monster Trucks, which are going to be really fun to see,” he said. “It’s an all-new experience for people to see. They can ride with drift drivers, too, and experience what that’s like from inside the car, which is always a blast. It puts a huge grin on my face, whenever I’ve done it.”

A portion of the event’s proceeds benefit Reach Out WorldWide, the nonprofit founded by Paul and continued by Cody. The organization was created by the late actor and producer in 2010 after a massive earthquake devastated Haiti. He was inspired to organize a relief team that responded to the disaster.

ROWW’s mission is to fill the gap between the availability of skilled resources in post-disaster situations. As of 2022, ROWW has raised over $300,000 through its FuelFest events to benefit those in need and has deployed to several disas -

ter areas including Tampa Bay following Hurricane Ian and Turkey following devastating earthquakes.

Additionally, Cody and Felicia Walker collaborated with The Weather Channel in 2022 on a new series “Fast: Home Rescue,” to help rebuild homes across the United States that were impacted by natural disasters.

“It’s amazing,” he said of fans’ response. “I am so grateful for all of that support. Honestly, it blows my mind. We miss my brother very much, every day. To put on a fun event that’s upbeat and celebrates car culture and gives back to Reach Out WorldWide has been an absolute dream. It’s great to create something sustainable that also does good.”

The 2023 FuelFest World Tour will also make its way to New Jersey; Las Vegas; Scottsdale; and internationally to Tokyo, Germany and Abu Dhabi.

“This year, we’re returning to Japan and headed to Germany for the first time, in October,” Walker said.

“We’re over the moon about that. We’ll be returning again to the UAE at the end of year in December again. It’s been incredible. We’re planning ahead for 2024 with new markets. We have such an incredible, small team. I’m so proud of everybody. They work so stinking hard. It takes a lot to put these on.”

FuelFest

WHEN: 2 to 9 p.m. Saturday, June 3

WHERE: Irwindale Speedway, 500 Speedway Drive, Irwindale

COST: Tickets start at $40

INFO: fuelfest.com

“The Fast and the Furious” franchise stars Tyrese Gibson, left, and Cody Walker host FuelFest, which returns to Irwindale Speedway on Saturday, June 3.

Covered California will help DT SUMMER GUIDE

A Complete Guide to LA Summer Discover what Downtown offers, from concerts to outdoor movies

By Leah Schwartz

LA Downtown News Staff Writer

Angelenos have no shortage of exciting summer events and activities to explore this summer as Downtown’s arts and culture hubs come alive during the heat-scorched dog days. Relish in the air-conditioned halls of museums and galleries during the day and venture into the parks and rooftops at night.

Walt Disney Concert Hall

111 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 323-850-2000, laphil.com

Dudamel conducts Mozart

Thursday, June 1, to Sunday, June 4

Watch the LA Philharmonic interpret the timeless genius of Mozart under the deft hand of longtime LA Phil music director Gustavo Dudamel. Orchestral musicians will serenade audiences with Mozart’s final piano concerto and symphony, “Jupiter.” Pianist Mitsuko Uchida will join the symphony for Piano Concerto No. 27.

Rufus Wainwright

Friday, June 2

Composer, vocalist and songwriter Rufus Wainwright is set to premiere his new album “Folkocracy,” accompanied by a slew of iconic guests like Chaka Khan, Lucy Wainwright Roche, Madison Cunningham, Petra Haden, Richard Parks, Susanna Hoffs and Van Dyke Parks.

Japanese Breakfast

Thursday, Sept. 28

Michelle Zauner, frontwoman for indie pop band Japanese Breakfast, will perform her latest album, the Grammy-nominated “Jubilee,” along with her earlier catalog from Zauner’s punk underground days. Accompanied by classical guitarist Ichiko Aoba, the band will make its Walt Disney Concert Hall debut.

Jamie Cullum

Friday, Sept. 29

Enjoy a riotous performance from acclaimed English jazz-pop musician Jamie Cullum with his return to Walt Disney Concert Hall. Cullum will play favorite original songs, jazz favorites and reimagined hits by iconic jazz artists.

Natalie Merchant

Saturday, Sept. 30

Performing her first new album in nearly a decade, “Keep Your Courage,” acclaimed singer-songwriter Natalie Merchant reminds audiences of what makes her a groundbreaking

Submitted

The Broad 221 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-232-6200, thebroad.org

The Un-Private Collection: Bill T. Jones + Brad Gooch on Keith Haring

Thursday, June 1

Presented in conjunction with the Broad’s “Keith Haring: Art is for Everybody” exhibition, the Un-Private Collection conversation series will feature Haring biographer Brad Gooch and dancer and Haring collaborator Bill T. Jon. The pair will discuss Haring’s life, work and legacy.

“Keith Haring: Art Is for Everybody”

Through Sunday, Oct. 8

The special exhibition “Keith Haring: Art Is for Everybody” is the first museum exhibit in LA to display Haring’s vast body of work. The collection will feature over 120 artworks and archival materials.

Little Tokyo

213-880-6875, littletokyola.org

Delicious Little Tokyo

Saturday, June 24

Celebrate Little Tokyo’s rich food history with a day of workshops, tours and tastings.

Olvera Street olvera-street.com

Fiestas Patrias, Mexican Independence

On or around Friday, Sept. 15, and Saturday, Sept. 16

Join revelers in celebrating Mexican Independence from Spain with food, cultural activities, traditional entertainment, historical displays and artisan exhibits.

Grand Performances

Two California Plaza, 350 S. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles

213-687-2190, grandperformances.org

Son Rompe Pera, La Verdad, La Papaya Club

Saturday, June 3

Dance the night away with this free concert featuring Son Rompe Pera, La Verdad and La Papaya Club. The three acts will play a modern mix of cumbia, salsa, Latin funk, boogaloo and more.

COLA Artist Fellow 2023

Saturday, June 10

Watch a live showcase by 2023 COLA Artist Fellows Daniel Corral, Jasmine Orpilla and David Ulin. The city of Los Angeles Individual Artist Fellowship from the Department of Cultural Affairs provides grants to artists to experiment and innovate within the disciples of design, lit-

erary arts, visual arts and performance.

Shahin Najafi (Presented by Farhang Foundation)

Saturday, June 17

Classically trained Iranian musician, poet, singer and social activist Shahin Najafi will serenade parkgoers with his musical and lyrical prowess, wrestling with issues like poverty, sexism, theocracy, censorship, drug addiction, homophobia and child labor.

The Poetry of Pride with Brian Sonia-Wallace

Friday, June 23

In celebration of Pride Month, Drag queen Pickle will read banned children’s books aloud amongst a flock of poets creating real-time responses on typewriters in collaboration with the audience.

Sona Jobarteh and the Nubian Sound Group

Saturday, June 24

As a member of one of the five principal kora-playing griot families of West Africa, Sona Jobarteh carries her lineage in her music. She is the first female professional kora player to come out of West Africa.

figure in alternative music.

“Delicious Little Tokyo” will host a series of workshops, tours and tastings in celebration of Little Tokyo’s food history on Saturday, June 24.

Viver Brazil and DJ Muñeka

Saturday, July 8

The bold and culturally rooted Afro-Brazilian dance theater, Viver Brazil, will bring audiences into its world of mythological stories, ancestral practices, street styles and music addressing social and racial equality.

Garret Saracho (Presented by Jazz is Dead)

Saturday, July 15

In association with Jazz is Dead, Grand Performances welcomes Chico jazz legend Garret Saracho, who will perform his 1973 masterpiece “En Medio” in honor of its 50th anniversary. This is the first time the album has been performed live in its entirety.

KCRW Summer Nights

Saturday, July 22

KCRW’s annually anticipated series is back this summer. For over 15 years, Summer Nights has brought free outdoor shows to communities throughout the greater Los Angeles area and beyond. A complete artist lineup will be out in June.

Poetry Night-LA Stories (Hosted by Mike the Poet)

Friday, July 28

Experience a night of raw, honest and humorous takes on like in LA at this Friday night poetry and spoken word showcase hosted by Mike the Poet.

Martha Redbone Roots Project

Saturday, July 29

American blues and soul singer Martha Redbone takes audiences on a musical journey deeply rooted in gospel, folk and blues, drawing influences from her Indigenous and African American ancestry.

A Tribute to Art Laboe (Presented by Dublab)

Saturday, Aug. 5

A diverse array of artists will come together to celebrate the life and legacy of the late Art Laboe, covering some of the legendary DJ’s classic “Oldies but Goodies” backed by a live band led by Rocky Padilla.

Battlecat and Thes One

Saturday, Aug. 12

West Coast Symphony and Grand Performances celebrate 50 years of hip-hop with DJ Battlecat, accompanied by the G-Funk AllStars, with a full night of classic hip-hop covers and reinterpretations.

Mark de Clive-Lowe Presents Jazz in the House

Saturday, Aug. 19

In the vein of his epic CHURCH parties, Mark de Clive-Lowe returns to Grand Performances following a 20-year jazz and club music career. Along with a host of collaborators, de Clive-Lowe will bring his classic dance-inducing beats and rich instrumentation.

Black Voices Poetry Night (Hosted by Shonda Buchanan)

Friday, Aug. 25

Black voices are at the forefront in this poetry showcase hosted by award-winning author Shonda Buchanan.

Grupo Kual

Saturday, Aug. 26

The acclaimed cumbia sonidera band Grupo Kual will close the 2023 summer season. Hailing from Mexico City, the band was among the first to infuse Columbian cumbia with local sounds to create what is now known as sonidera.

Grand Park

200 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-972-8080, grandparkla.org

Launch of the Uncovering LA Initiative

Thursday, June 1

Grand Park sits on land deeply tied to the First Peoples communities of Los Angeles. This knowledge informs the multiyear project, Uncovering LA, which will yield a new interpretive pathway through the park. The launch will kick off the project and feature community listening sessions, input gathering and collective learning about the contemporary and historical connections to the land.

The Lorraine Hansberry Initiative

Wednesday, June 14, to Friday, June 30

The Lorraine Hansberry Initiative’s “To Sit a While” art exhibit is coming to Grand Park on its national tour. The sculpture by artist Alison Saar commemorates playwright, journalist and activist Lorraine Hansberry, whose play “A Raisin in the Sun” was the first play written by a Black woman on Broadway.

Grand Park’s 4th of July Block Party 2023

Tuesday, July 4

Downtown’s largest free Fourth of July celebration is back with food, live music, dancing and a newly added light show. This year will also include immersive art installations and DJs spinning hip-hop, cumbia, jazz, house, funk and Latin soul tunes.

B-Boy | B-Girl Summit

Sunday, July 16

The longest-running annual hip-hop event in the nation returns, bringing current and classic hip-hop fashion, skills and knowledge through poppin’, kids, B-boy and B-girl battles; breakin’ workshops; graffiti artists and panel discussions.

Grand Park’s Sunday Sessions 2023

Sundays, July 23, Aug. 20 and Sept. 17

Grand Park’s Sunday sessions celebrate LA’s contributions to the dance and house music scene with DJs and experiences singular to the genre. This year commemorates the 20th anniversary of longtime collaborator Fusicology, a platform that introduced many DJs who have shaped the club and house genres for the past two decades.

Grand Park’s Health & Wellness Programs 2023

Friday, Sept. 1

Experience outdoor movement, restoration and reinvigoration with restorative yoga, tai chi, meditation, yoga therapy, sound baths, chair yoga, yoga en español and Chinese dance.

Los Angeles Theatre Center

514 S. Spring Street, Los Angeles 213-489-0994, latinotheaterco.org

“A Heated Discussion”

Thursdays through Sundays, through Sunday, June 18

Sit back and be prepared to go deep with this thought-provoking play. “A Heated Discussion” follows a trio of Orishas — entities of the spirit world — disheartened by the state of the world and particularly the plight of African Americans. To ease the situation, they summon the spirits of iconic Black figures to discuss viewpoints and solutions.

Mark Taper Forum

135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-972-7211, centertheatregroup.org

“A Transparent Musical”

Tuesdays through Sundays, through Sunday,

June 25

From the creators of the hit Amazon series “Transparent” comes a timely, innovative musical that delves into the intersection of Jewish and queer identities and what it means to be a family.

“Fake It Until You Make It”

Tuesdays through Sundays, Wednesday, Aug. 2, to Sunday, Sept. 3

A comedy from Larissa FastHorse, “Fake It Until You Make It,” examines Native American perspectives on modern life, focusing on “shifters,” who exist in a world of ever-changing identities. The comedic play poses the absurd question — what happens when you are not the race you want to be?

Ahmanson Theatre

135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-628-2772, centertheatregroup.org

“A Soldier’s Play”

Tuesdays through Sundays, through Sunday, June 25

The 1982 Pulitzer-Prize-winning thriller by Charles Fuller follows the murder of a Black sergeant on a Louisiana Army Base in 1944. The play raises questions about sacrifice, service and identity in America.

“Into the Woods”

Tuesdays through Sundays, Tuesday, June 27, to Sunday, July 30

This theatrical classic from Stephen Sondheim and James Lapine is coming to the Ahmanson straight from Broadway, with many stars reprising their Broadway roles.

“Peter Pan Goes Wrong”

Tuesdays through Sundays, Tuesday, Aug. 8, to Sunday, Sept. 10

Enjoy a lighthearted comedy featuring technical hitches, flying mishaps and cast disputes on their way to Neverland with disastrous albeit hilarious results.

Jerry Moss Plaza

135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-972-7211, musiccenter.org

Cosmogony

Sundays, June 3, June 10 and June 17

Experience a fantastical performance from the Geneva-based digital contemporary dance company Cie Gilles Jobin. In Geneva, Switzerland, dancers are outfitted in motion caption suits and digitally altered into avatars, which populate an LED screen in real time.

The Music Center’s Dance DTLA

Fridays, June 23, to Aug. 18

Along with thousands of dance enthusiasts, try out free in-person beginner dance lessons under the stars. The nine consecutive Friday night lessons will include dance styles like hiphop, salsa, country line dancing, samba and more.

JordanSmith/Submittted

Neo-soul artist Erykah Badu will perform in LA as part of her 25-city “Unfollow Me Tour.”

The Music Center’s Summer SoundWaves

Saturdays, June 24, July 1, July 22, July 29, Aug.

5 and 19

This outdoor concert series will have you grooving all summer long. The six Saturday evening performances will include Cuban sonero Eliades Ochoa, Luciana Souza and Trio Corrente, Chicano band Las Cafeteras, Jazz Unleashed LA, Malian Wassoulou musician Oumou Sangaré, and mezzo-soprano Alicia Olatuja.

Dorothy Chandler Pavilion

135 N. Grand Avenue, Los Angeles 213-972-0711, musiccenter.org

“Otello”

Thursday, June 1, and Sunday, June 4

Composed by the famed Italian operatic composer Giuseppe Verdi, “Otello” transforms Shakespeare’s original play into a powerful opera rife with unbridled emotion.

The Music Center’s 35th Annual Spotlight Grand Finale

Thursday, June 8

Watch 14 unforgettable performances from Spotlight Grand Prize Finalists. The high school artists will dance, sing and act, showcasing their skills and celebrating the culmination of an extensive yearlong journey in the Spotlight program.

An Evening with Renée Fleming

Saturday, June 10

Revel in an evening of pure vocal power from soprano Renée Fleming, known for her operatic performances and spectacular concerts. Fleming is a recipient of the National Medal of Arts and has been nominated for 18 Grammy awards.

Complexions Contemporary Ballet

Friday, June 16, to Sunday, June 18

The innovative ballet company led by dance icons Desmond Richardson and Dwight Rhoden is coming to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, bringing a reinvented approach to dance and contemporary ballet.

Dutch National Ballet: “Frida”

Friday, July 14, to Sunday, July 16

The Dutch National Ballet is set to perform “Frida” alongside a live orchestra. The ballet, choreographed by Annabelle Lopez Ochoa and composed by Peter Salem, is inspired by the life story of famed Mexican artist Frida Kahlo.

Crypto.com Arena

1111 S. Figueroa Street, Los Angeles 213-742-7100, cryptoarena.com

Erykah Badu

Saturday, June 17

Erykah Badu stops in LA on her 25-city Unfollow Me Tour alongside rapper Yasiin Bey. For over 25 years, Badu has been at the forefront of the neo-soul movement.

Eslabon Armado

Saturday, July 15

Eslabon Armado will dazzle audiences with the group’s signature American, regional Mexican sound. The band has been active since 2017 and most recently released the single “Ella Baila Sola,” featuring singer Peso Pluma.

“Jurassic World Live! Tour”

Friday, July 21, to Sunday, July 23

Delve into the world of Jurassic Park and experience some of the franchise’s most iconic dinosaurs like raptors, stegosaurus, triceratops and Tyrannosaurus rex.

Los Angeles Salsa Festival

Saturday, July 29

Salsa music legends Willie Colón, El Gran Combo, Victor Manuelle, Jerry Rivera, Rey Ruiz, Los Adolescentes, Fruko y sus Tesos and Wilfrido Vargas will descend upon LA for this summer music festival.

Lil Baby

Saturday, Aug. 5

Rapper Lil Baby is joined by The Kid LAROI, GloRilla, GLOSS UP, Rylo Rodriguez and Hunxho on his “It’s Only Us Tour.”

Drake and 21 Savage

Monday, Aug. 21, and Tuesday, Aug. 22

Canadian singer and rapper Drake is joined by rapper 21 Savage on his It’s All a Blur Tour — his first North American tour in five years.

Zach Bryan

Wednesday, Aug. 23

Country singer Zach Bryan will stop in LA on his North American tour Burn, Burn, Burn with support from the bluegrass-influenced folk band Trampled by Turtles.

Monster Jam

Friday, Aug. 25, to Sunday, Aug. 27

Watch world motorsport athletes and their 12,000-pound monster trucks compete in competitions of speed and skill during this adrenaline-charged weekend.

50 Cent

Wednesday, Aug. 30

Rapper 50 Cent’s The Final Lap Tour celebrates the 20th anniversary of his seminal debut studio album, “Get Rich or Die Tryin.’”

Carin León

Saturday, Sept. 16

Regional Mexican singer-songwriter Carin León will showcase his third studio album, “Colmillo de Leche,” on his North American tour.

Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival 2023

Saturday, Sept. 23, and Sunday, Sept. 24

Eric Clapton’s Crossroads Guitar Festival is back for the first time in four years. Clapton will perform both nights of the festival, joining artists like Gary Clark Jr., Sheryl Crow, H.E.R., Vince Gill and many more.

Madonna

Wednesday, Sept. 27, Thursday, Sept. 28, Saturday, Sept. 30 and Sunday, Oct. 1

Madonna’s Celebration Tour commemorates four decades of the singer’s biggest hits and features special guest Bob the Drag Queen.

Microsoft Theatre

777 Chick Hearn Court, Los Angeles 213-763-6030, microsofttheater.com

Mike Salazar

Friday, June 2

Known as “The Knight of Comedy,” Mike Salazar is coming to LA on his MisXV Tour to celebrate his 15-year comedy career.

CNCO

Saturday, June 3

Latin American boy band CNCO is coming to steal your heart this summer as it heads out on its Ultima Cita Tour to support its fourth and final studio album, “XOXO.”

Druski

Friday, July 14

American internet personality and comedian Druski begins his first headlining comedy tour, Coulda, Woulda, Shoulda.

RuPaul’s Drag Race

Sunday, July 16

RuPaul’s Drag Race presents Werq the World Tour 2023, featuring some of drag’s biggest names, including Angeria, Aquaria, Bosco, Daya Betty, Ginger Minj, Jaida Essence Hall, Kandy Muse and Rose.

The Feel Good Concert with UB40, Men at Work and Smash Mouth

Friday, July 21

English reggae and pop band UB40 celebrates 45 years of success, joined by Men at Work and Smash Mouth.

El Fantasma

Saturday, July 22

Also known as the “King from the Underground,” Regional Mexican singer-songwriter El Fantasma embarks on his La Septima Vuelta Tour, stopping at LA’s Microsoft Theater.

Banda Cuisillos

Saturday, July 29

Mexican banda group Banda Cuisillos de Arturo Macías, or simply Banda Cuisillos, incorporate less traditional instruments into their music, like the piano and electric guitar, while embracing their heritage, often donning traditional garb for performances and on album covers.

Bugs Bunny at the Symphony

Sunday, July 30

In a blast from the past, the film-and-orchestra concert “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” is back for the first time in eight years. The performance will feature 16 classic “Looney Tunes” episodes projected onto a screen accompanied by a live symphony orchestra.

Ladies Night Out Comedy Tour

Saturday, Aug. 5

Bring to the whole crew and prepare to laugh the night away at the Ladies Night Out Comedy Tour hosted by Atlanta Real Housewife Nene Leakes. The show will feature comedians Loni Love, Jess Hilarious, B Simone and Melanie Comarcho.

(G)I-DLE World Tour

Sunday, Aug. 6

Bop till you drop with K-pop girl group (G) I-DLE as they embark on their 2023 world tour, I am FREE-TY. The tour follows the release of the mini-album “I Feel.”

Santa Fe Klan

Friday, Aug. 11

Rising star and rapper Santa Fe Klan is bringing his newest album, “Mundo,” to the U.S. on a 35-stop tour titled Todo y Nada. Rappers Snow Tha Product and Tornillo will join the rapper on the road.

The Australian Pink Floyd Show

Saturday, Aug. 12

Rock out with The Australian Pink Floyd Show, a Pink Floyd tribute band, as it performs the iconic album “The Dark Side of the Moon” from start to finish to celebrate the collection’s 50th anniversary.

Rapper 50 Cent’s The Final Lap Tour will land at Crypto.com Arena on Wednesday, Aug. 30.

Distant Worlds: Music from Final Fantasy

Sunday, Aug.13

This extravaganza will encompass over 35 years of “Final Fantasy” musical history performed by an orchestra and chorus of over 100 musicians accompanied by HD video from game developers Square Enix.

El Tri

Saturday, Aug. 26

Get into the groove with Mexican rock band

El Tri fronted by Alex Lora, as they celebrate the 55th anniversary of “Y Todo Por El Rocanrol.”

Banda El Recodo

Saturday, Sept. 30

Banda El Recodo will bring its classical Mexican banda music, consisting of four clarinets, three trumpets, a tambora, a snare drum set, a sousaphone, three trombones, two tenor horns and two vocalists, to LA fans.

The Novo

800 W. Olympic Boulevard, Los Angeles 213-765-7000, thenovodtla.com

The Frights

Friday, June 2

American surf punk band The Frights returns to its native Southern California along with Illuminati Hotties and Sad Park.

Donavan’s Yard

Saturday, June 3

Los Angeles-based DJ and collective Donavan’s Yard is coming to The Novo with danceable tunes in hand — be prepared to dance the night away.

Lovelytheband

Wednesday, June 7

American indie pop band Lovelytheband will play alongside Beach Weather and Ava Maybee for a toe-tapping indie music spectacular.

03 Greedo

Friday, June 16, and Saturday, June 17

LA rapper 03 Greedo will roll out his latest mixtape, “Halfway There,” on his Another Purple Summer Tour.

Balance and Composure

Friday, June 23

After breaking up in 2019, American alternative rock Balance and Composure is back with new music, including two new songs, “Savior Mode” and “Last to Know.”

Young Nudy

Thursday, June 29

Rapper Young Nudy is joined by BabyDrill and 2feetBino on his North American tour following the release of his mixtape “EA Monster.”

Ginger Root

Friday, June 30

Ginger Root combines elements from indie and pop contemporaries to create a smooth Bedroom Pop sound.

Jidenna

Saturday, July 22

Nigerian-American rapper and singer Jidenna embarks on this The Silk Road Tour promoting his latest mixtape, “ME YOU & GOD.”

Ginuwine

Friday, Aug. 4

American R&B singer, songwriter, dancer, and actor Ginuwine take the stage at The Novo, performing his edgy and intoxicating dance music, which includes the worldwide hit single “Pony.”

Nurse Blake: Shock Advised Tour

Thursday, Aug. 10

Nurse Blake is on the road again with his newest comedy tour, Shock Advised, sharing new hilarious stories about the ins and outs of being a nurse.

The Front Bottoms

Saturday, Aug. 12

American indie rock band The Front Bottoms celebrates the 10th anniversary of the album “Talon of the Hawk,” which it will perform in its entirety along with other hits. Kevin Devine and the Goddamn Band will join as special guests.

Stephanie Mills

Friday, Sept. 8

Get lost in American singer and songwriter

Stephanie Mills’ ultra-soulful voice, which has garnered her five bestselling albums and 10 Billboard No. 1 singles.

The Theatre at the Ace Hotel

929 S. Broadway, Los Angeles 213-235-9614, acehotel.com

Love and Rockets

Tuesday, June 20

Join English rock band Love and Rockets on its most extensive tour since 1999. The band’s North American tour comes amid the reissuing of its first six albums.

The “H3 Podcast” Live

Friday, June 23

“H3 Podcast” hosts Ethan and Hila Klein are leaving the studio and coming to the stage with this exclusive live podcast recording.

Straight Up with Stassi Live: The Mommy Dearest Tour

Saturday, June 24

Fill a cup of wine and sit with Stassi Schroeder Clark on The Mommy Dearest Tour. The podcaster and reality star will take listeners on a journey of laughs and exclusive gossip during this real-time happy hour.

Jonathan McReynolds

Wednesday, June 28

Grammy-winning American gospel musician Jonathan McReynolds will delve into his newest album, “My Truth,” during his U.S. tour.

Normal Gossip: Live

Wednesday, July 26

Dive into a juicy evening with Normal Gossip host Kelsey McKinney, producer Alex Sujong Laughlin and special surprise guests as they discuss the strange, funny and sometimes banal secrets of strangers.

Killer Mike

Monday, July 31

Rapper Killer Mike of hip-hop super-duo Run the Jewels is back on the road. But this time, he is bringing along a full gospel choir, The Midnight Revival, to accompany him as he plays fan-favorite songs from his extensive catalog.

Mark Normand: “Ya Don’t Say Tour”

Friday, Aug. 11

Stand-up comedian and late-night veteran Mark Normand will dazzle audiences with his wit and astute observational comedy on his Ya Don’t Say Tour.

The Juno Show

Friday, Aug. 18

Prepare to be stunned as self-described alien drag queen Juno Birch hits the stage in her theatrical one-woman show. Joined by her plastic puppet daughter, the pair will embark on a chaotic stage adventure with lobsters, legs and laughter.

Gregory Alan Isakov

Friday, Aug. 25, and Saturday, Aug. 26

Folk singer-songwriter Gregory Alan Isakov reprises classics from his repertoire and is joined by special guest Shovels & Rope.

Ashley Gavin

Friday, Sept. 15

Stand-up comedian Ashley Gavin does not hold back and is known for her deft crowd works and as Carnival Cruise’s first openly gay performer.

Ms. Pat

Saturday, Sept. 16

Stand-up comedian Patricia Williams, better known as Ms. Pat, brings her raw and sidesplitting perspective to her newest tour, “Ya Girl Done Made It.”

The Monkees Celebrated by Micky Dolenz

Friday, Sept. 22

Mike Dolenz, drummer, vocalist and the sole surviving member of the pop-rock band the Monkees performs selections from the 1967 album “Headquarters” along with other hits and classic tracks.

The Tallest Man on Earth

Friday, Sept. 29

Swedish singer-songwriter Kristian Matsson, commonly known as The Tallest Man on Earth, takes his sixth album “Henry St.” on a six-country tour, following 2012’s “There’s No Leaving Now.”

Alamo Drafthouse Cinema

700 W. Seventh, Los Angeles 213-217-9027, drafthouse.com

“Teen Titans Go! To the Movies”

Friday, June 2

As part of the Kids Camp series, Alamo Drafthouse presents “Teen Titans Go! To the Movies.” Join the Teen Titans on their Quest for their own movie for just $5.

“The Howling”

Wednesday, June 7

A classic in the werewolf movie cannon, “The Howling,” comes to the Alamo Drafthouse supporting the Where Wolf Werewolves Across America Tour, with author Rob Saucedo.

“Eighth Grade”

Sunday, June 18

A recent classic, “Eighth Grade,” is back in theaters, following the adolescent intensity of 13-year-old Kayla’s last week of middle school.

Rooftop Cinema

888 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles rooftopcinemaclub.com

“Pulp Fiction”

Thursday, June 1, and Wednesday, June 28

Enjoy Quentin Tarantino’s cult classic “Pulp Fiction” under a sky full of stars at the Rooftop Cinema in the heart of Downtown.

Richard Gomes/Submitted

Madonna’s Celebration Tour will commemorate four decades of her greatest hits.

DTLA-FEMBA-DTNews-QP-4.81x5.72-092622-outlined.indd 1 9/15/22

The Un-Private Collection: Bill T. Jones + Brad Gooch on Keith Haring

Thursday, June 1 at 7:30 p.m.–9:00 p.m.

The Theatre at Ace Hotel | Tickets: $25

Presented in conjunction with The Broad’s special exhibition Keith Haring: Art Is for Everybody, this iteration of  The Un-Private Collection conversation series features legendary dancer/choreographer and Haring collaborator  Bill T. Jones with Haring biographer Brad Gooch.

The pair will discuss the storied life and iconic work of artist Keith Haring and the energy and spirit of the experiences they all lived in New York City in the 1980s. Tickets to the talk include one-time free access to The Broad’s special exhibition  Keith Haring: Art Is for Everybody and the museum’s third floor galleries.

“50 First Dates”

Monday, June 5

Snuggle up with someone special during this early aughts romantic comedy and watch as Henry Roth (Adam Sandler) commits to wooing short-term memory loss victim Lucy (Drew Barrymore) day after day.

“Casablanca”: Open Captions

Wednesday, June 7

Rooftop Cinema welcomes all with this open captioned screening of the classic Hollywood film “Casablanca.”

“White Chicks”

Thursday, June 8

Hilarity ensues when two FBI agent brothers, Marcus and Kevin Copeland, go deep undercover, transforming African American men into a pair of blonde, white women.

“Love Jones”

Tuesday, June 13

Theodore Witcher’s “Love Jones” chronicles two young artists as they fall in love and navigate the torrid waters of youth.

“Goodfellas”

Wednesday, June 14

Martin Scorsese’s “Goodfellas,” which tells the true story of Henry Hill as he climbs the ranks of New York City’s Mafia, is not one to miss at the Rooftop Cinema.

“Grease”

Thursday, June 15

Grab some popcorn and don your fluffiest poodle skirt to hum along with the musical classic “Grease.”

“Coming to America”

Monday, June 19

On Juneteenth, watch comedic genius Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem, heir to the throne of Zamunda, as he searches for his queen in this 1988 classic.

“La La Land”

Tuesday, June 20

There is no better place to watch “La La Land” than overlooking LA’s Downtown cityscape at the Rooftop Cinema.

“American Psycho”

Wednesday, June 21

Based on the 1991 novel by Bret Easton Ellis, “American Psycho” examines the dark side of the American dream.

“(500) Days of Summer”: Open Captions

Thursday, June 22

Grab an Adirondack chair and snack for this sleeper hit. “(500) Days of Summer” tells the story of a young man and his memories of a failed relationship.

“Top Gun: Maverick”

Monday, June 26

“Top Gun: Maverick” continues the legacy of

the 1986 “Top Gun,” with Tom Cruise reprising his iconic role as Pete “Maverick” Mitchell.

“10 Things I Hate About You”

Tuesday, June 27

1999 hit “10 Things I Hate About You” has all the components to satisfy moviegoers: sisterly rivalry, teenage angst and high school plottings.

“Love & Basketball”

Thursday, June 29

The American romantic sports drama “Love & Basketball” takes viewers on an emotional roller coaster and tells the story of two childhood friends and prospective basketball players as they fall in love.

Street Food Cinema

323-254-5068, streetfoodcinema.com

“Do the Right Thing”: Celebration of Juneteenth

Saturday, June 17

In celebration of Juneteenth, stop by Los Angeles State Historic Park to watch Spike Lee’s 1989 masterpiece “Do the Right Thing.”

“Back to the Future”

Saturday, July 1

Bring the whole family together for an outdoor viewing of the American science fiction comedy “Back to the Future” at LASHP.

“The Karate Kid”

Saturday, July 22

Watch an outdoor screening of the heartwarming classic “The Karate Kid” at LASHP.

“Purple Rain”

Saturday, July 22

Cool down with an outdoor evening screening of Prince’s debut film “Purple Rain” at Exposition Park.

Cicada Restaurant and Lounge

617 S. Olive Street, Los Angeles 213-488-9488, cicadaclub.com

Alex Mendham and His Orchestra

Saturday, June 10, Sunday, June 11, Saturday, Aug. 19, and Sunday, Aug. 20

Listen and Jive to British dance band Alex Mendham and his Orchestra performing various music from the 1920s and 1930s.

Mambo Craze Cabaret

Saturday, June 24, and Saturday, July 29

Join the Mambo Craze Cabaret for a sultry night of Latin jazz and vintage-inspired cabaret. The immersive evening will include Mambo dancers, a vixen popping out of a cake and a burlesque dancer bathing in a champagne glass.

Esquires Big Band

Friday, June 30

Dance to the swinging tunes from the likes of Glenn Miller, Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, Cab Calloway, Cole Porter and more from the 1930s and 1940s straight out of the Great American Songbook, performed by Esquires 16-piece Big Band.

Dean Mora Swingtet Armed Forces Tribute

Sunday, July 2

The acclaimed dance orchestra will serenade audiences with big band favorites from the World War II era as a tribute to the men and women who have served in the armed forces. The performance will include vocalists Kayre Morrison, Damon Kirsche and The Lindy Sisters.

Lizzy & Her Contraband

Friday, July 7

Lizzy & Her Contraband will transport audiences to the 1930s and 1940s jazz nightclubs as they serenade audiences with their renditions of the American Songbook — from Billie Holiday to Benny Goodman.

The Wiseguys Big Band Machine

Saturday, July 15

The Wiseguys Big Band Machine is dedicated to preserving great music from swing to swank. The band’s repertoire includes the tunes of Frank Sinatra, Bobby Darin, Dean Martin, and big band favorites from Glenn Miller, Pérez Prado, Count Basie and Buddy Rich.

The Pepper Moons

Sunday, July 16, and Sunday, Aug. 27

The Pepper Moons, fronted by singer Eva

Mikhailovna, are spicing up Southern California’s vintage music scene, highlighting the smooth, pre-bop styles from the days of the swing era.

Stardust Vintage Variety Show

Saturday, July 22

Old Hollywood meets vintage Las Vegas during this classic variety burlesque show.

The Johnny Holiday Show

Saturday, Aug. 5

Dine and dance while serenaded by the music of the Johnny Holiday Orchestra conducted by Dean Mora. The night will include dance numbers by the Honet Taps Dancers and yet-to-be-announced guest stars.

Alpha Rhythm Kings featuring Robert Picardo

Saturday, Aug. 26

Formed in 2017, The Alpha Rhythm Kings will bring high-intensity jazz to the Cicada along with guest singer Robert Picardo.

Tino Productions Saturday Night Dance Party

Saturday, Sept 2

A staple at Disneyland and Knotts Berry Farm, dance band Tino Productions presents a holiday dance party with tributes to the greatest vocalists of all time, including Frank Sinatra, Elvis, Tom Jones, Neil Diamond and more.

The Wiltern

3790 Wilshire Boulevard, Los Angeles 213-388-1400, thewiltern.net

The Interrupters, Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls

Friday, June 2

U.S. ska and U.K. folk punk unite in this triple headline tour featuring The Interrupters, Frank Turner and The Sleeping Souls.

Conway the Machine

Wednesday, June 7

Rapper Conway the Machine will bring his gritty, high-energy show to The Wiltern as he embarks on his tour Will He Do It.

Bryson Tiller

Thursday, June 8

Join rap superstar and singer-songwriter Bryson Tiller on his highly anticipated Back, and I’m Better Tour supporting his latest album, “Serenity.” The 25-city tour is Tiller’s first in five years.

Thrice

Wednesday, June 21, and Thursday, June 22

Critically acclaimed rock band Thrice celebrates the 20th anniversary of its breakthrough album “The Artist in the Ambulance,” which the band will play in its entirety during its 32-city tour.

“Top Gun: Maverick” will be shown at DTLA’s Rooftop Cinema Club on Monday, June 26.

Palace

Friday, June 23

British indie rock band Palace embarks on their highly anticipated North American tour covering over 18 cities, including LA. The London-based trio will play fan favorites along with new music from its upcoming EP.

Citizen

Saturday, June 24

Ohio-rooted rock band Citizen is coming to The Wiltern on its tour Decade of Youth, celebrating the 10th anniversary of its debut album, “Youth.” Special guest Fiddlehead will join the band on tour.

Grandson and K.Flay

Tuesday, June 27

Canadian American singer-songwriter Jordan Edward Benjamin, or Grandson, will co-headline with American singer-songwriter and rapper Kristine Meredith Flaherty, known as K.Flay.

Bebe Rexha

Friday, June 30, and Saturday, July 1

Superstar and pop princess Bebe Rexha will wrap up her Best F*N Night of My Life Tour supporting her newest album, “Bebe,” at The Wiltern.

Colonel Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade and Moon Duo

Friday, July 14

An alternative band for alternative crowds, Colonel Les Claypool’s Fearless Flying Frog Brigade is supported by psychedelic rock band Moon Duo during their U.S. summer tour.

Jesse & Joy

Friday, July 21

Mexican pop duo Jess & Joy blend pop, folk and Latin influences to create their signature sounds. The dynamic sibling pair is known for their introspective lyrics, powerful vocals and mesmerizing stage performances.

JVKE

Tuesday, Aug. 8

One of the fastest-rising artists, 21-year-old hitmaker Jacob Dodge Lawson, known professionally as Jvke, is bringing his earworms to the stage at The Wiltern on his What Tour Feels Like tour.

Ben Folds

Wednesday, Aug. 16

Known for his distinctive piano-playing style, singer-songwriter Ben Folds will take to the stage, performing old hits and songs from his latest album, “What Matters Most.”

Poppy and Pvris

Thursday, Aug. 24

Pop-metal performer Poppy and pop-rock powerhouse Pvris are co-headlining their North American The Godless/Goddess Tour. Opener rapper Tommy Genesis will also join this female-driven tour.

Kamelot

Saturday, Sept. 2

Symphonic heavy metal band Kamelot returns to support its newest album, “Awakening,” on its 17-city North American tour. Finnish band Battle Beast and Xandria will join Kamelot as special guests.

Bruno Major

Thursday, Sept. 14

Closing out its summer season, The Wiltern welcomes British singer-songwriter Bruno Major on his Tour of Planet Earth.

The Teragram Ballroom

1234 W. Seventh Street, Los Angeles 213-689-9100, teragramballroom.com

My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult

Friday, June 2

Industrial pioneers My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult will traverse the U.S. on their Evil Eye Tour with support from electronic duo Adult and underground pop artist Kanga.

Joan

Wednesday, June 7

American duo from Little Rock, Arkansas, Joan is on the road along with supporting acts AVIV and Harriette.

Sam Outlaw Presents: Chattahoochee

Thursday, June 8

Nashville singer-songwriter Sam Outlaw presents his new show “Chattahoochee,” a tribute to the country music stars of the ’80s and ’90s.

Sorry For Party Rocking 2010 to 2015 Pop and EDM Bangers

Friday, June 9

Pretend like it’s 2012 with Teragram Ballroom’s Sorry for Party Rocking dance party featuring iconic club bangers from the 2010s. Fun neon attire is encouraged and song requests are welcome.

Emo Karaoke

Saturday, June 10

Jam out to favorite emo ballads backed by a live band during Emo Karaoke night.

Riopy

Thursday, June 15

Catch French pianist and composer JeanPhilippe Rio-Py, known professionally as Riopy, onstage as he tours his latest album, “Thrive.”

Muscadine Bloodline

Friday, June 16

Teragram Ballroom presents the unapologetically Southern country duo Muscadine Bloodline. The band will play tracks from its latest album, “Teenage Dixie.”

Teragram Ballroom and Church of the 8th Day Present: Cynic & Atheist

Saturday, June 17

American death metal band Atheist and American progressive metal band Cynic team

up for what is sure to be an unforgettable show.

Bangla

Sunday, June 18

Folk-rock band out of Bangladesh, Bangla blends traditional Bangladeshi folk genres like Baul and Lalon with Western flavors like jazz, blues and rock to create a distinctive sound.

YOB

Friday, June 23

Doom metal band YOB from Eugene, Oregon, will thrash its way to LA alongside supporting acts Pallbearer and Faetooth.

Temples

Saturday, June 24

English rock band Temples takes listeners back in time to the psychedelic ’60s and ’70s with their latest album, “Exotico.” The show will include the American psychedelic rock band Post Animal.

Glass Cannon Live!

Thursday, June 29

Join the Glass Cannon crew, Troy, Joe, Skid, Matthew, Sydney and Kate, as they bring their singular absurdist comedy and epic storytelling to the Teragram Ballroom. The show will feature a live gaming session.

Juelz

Friday, June 30

Vancouver-based producer Juelz will bring his hip-hop-infused electronic sounds to the Teragram Ballroom.

Flipper with Wyatt and Fletcher (The Garden)

Thursday, July 6

The influential punk rock band Flipper will join forces with Wyatt and Fletcher Shears of the experimental rock band The Garden. They will be joined by special guests Grace McKagan and The Wash.

Mystery Skulls

Saturday, July 8

Luis Dubuc, the producer behind the electronic dance act Mystery Skulls, is touring his

latest album, “The Gold Album.”

DANG! - A Soulful Electronic Dance Night

Friday, July 14

Dance into the weekend with this soulful and funky dance party.

Scary Goldings

Saturday, July 15

Soul band Scary Pockets and American jazz keyboardist and composer Larry Goldings teamed up to create their proverbial child, Scary Goldings.

Heartless Bastards

Thursday, July 20

American rock band Heartless Bastards will hit the stage at The Teragram Ballroom on their North American tour. Special guest Matthew Logan Vasquez of the indie rock group Delta Spirit will join the band on tour.

Mamas Gun

Friday, July 21

British pop-soul band Mamas Gun conjures the spirit of ’70s soul with its latest album, “Cure the Jones,” which reflects on the world turned upside down.

Vs Self

Sunday, July 23

Hailing from Southern California, far-west emo band Vs Self is coming home. An array of indie acts, including Knumears, Party Hats, Widowdusk and Belted Sweater, will join the band on tour.

Start Making Sense: A Talking Heads Tribute

Friday, July 28

A riff on the album “Stop Making Sense” by the Talking Heads, the seven- to 10-piece cover band Start Making Sense pays tribute to the iconic ’80s act.

Bully

Wednesday, Aug. 23

Guitarist and singer Alicia Bognanno of the solo project Bully is touring her latest album, “Lucky for You,” alongside indie band Bev Rage and the Drinks.

The Jurassic World Live! Tour will fill the walls of the Crypto.com Arena from July 21 to July 23.

U.S. Girls

Thursday, Sept. 7

Toronto-based experimental pop project U.S. Girls is on the road again with its new album, “Bless This Mess.” Fellow Canadian singer-songwriter Dorothea Paas will join the band on tour as the opening act.

Benny Sings

Saturday, September 23

Dutch pop musician, Tim van Berkestijn, better known as Benny Sings, will celebrate the release of his new album, “Young Hearts,” with his U.S. headline tour.

Pile

Saturday, Sept. 30

Hailing from Boston, American indie rock Pile will hit the stage at The Teragram Ballroom with their latest album, “All Fiction,” which explores a percussion-heavy, eerie sound rooted in their signature sound.

The Belasco

1050 S. Hill Street, Los Angeles 213-531-0580, thebelasco.com

Finneas: Only One Night

Friday, June 2

Producer and singer-songwriter Finneas Baird O’Connell, known mononymously as Finneas, steps out on his own during his Only One Night headline tour. Most notably, Finneas has written and produced for his sister, singer Billie Eilish.

No Pressure

Sunday, June 4

Folk-punk band No Pressure will tour its latest eponymous LP.

Old Gods of Appalachia

Saturday, June 10

Experience the bone-chilling horror in person as Old Gods of Appalachia, an el -

dritch horror fiction podcast set in an Alternate Appalachia, takes to the road.

Warren G and Too Short

Saturday, June 17

Influential figures in the West Coast hip-hop scene, rappers Warren G and Too Short, come together for a night of old-school classics.

Drain

Friday, June 23

Straight from Santa Crux, hardcore punk band Drain celebrates its first album under their new record label, Epitaph Records — “Living Proof” — serves as a testament to survival and perseverance.

Archer Oh

Saturday, June 24

Listen to indie-garage band Archer Oh’s new album, “Gradient,” live at The Belasco.

Tarja: Living the Dream Tour

Tuesday, June 27

Finnish heavy metal singer Tarja Soile Susanna Turunen-Cabuli, commonly known as Tarja Turunen or simply Tarja, embarks on her Living the Dream Tour in support of her “Best Of: Living the Dream” album. Most notably, she is known as the former lead vocalist of the Finnish symphonic metal band Nightwish.

Senpai Squad Presents Fire and Ice 2023

Saturday, July 1, and Sunday, July 2

Anime, automotive and gaming enthusiasts unite at this live music and cultural event.

Aqua

Thursday, July 6

Catch Danish-Norwegian Europop band Aqua’s hit iconic single “Barbie Girl” live as they embark on its summer tour.

Foals: Life is Yours Tour

Tuesday, July 18

Much to fans’ delights, British rock band Foals are back on the road celebrating their

seventh studio album, “Life is Yours.”

Cavetown

Wednesday, July 19

English Singer-songwriter, record producer, and YouTuber Robin Daniel Skinner, known as Cavetown, brings his blended indie and bedroom pop ukulele ballads to The Belasco.

The Aquabats

Friday, July 28

Hailing from Huntington Beach, the ’90s rock band the Aquabats bring a lightness to rock, donning comical superhero personas tasked with fighting the forces of evil and boredom.

SYML

Friday, Aug. 18

SYML is the solo venture of Brian Fennel, who was previously involved in the indie band Barcelona. This tour follows Fennel’s latest album, “The Day My Father Died,” which wrestles with the depth of what it means to grieve.

Wave to Earth North American Tour

Friday, Aug. 25

Korean alternative rock band embark on its North American tour supporting its first fulllength album, “0.1 Flaws and All.”

The West Coast Awards Ball: Slay for the Mothers

Saturday, Aug. 26

The West Coast Awards Ball celebrates the beautiful world of voguing, the queer dance tradition originating in the late 1980s, which evolved from the Harlem ballroom scene in the 1960s. Onlookers can watch vogue dancers compete in various competitions for cash prizes.

Electric Callboy “Tekkno” World Tour 2023

Wednesday, Aug. 30

German electronicore band Electronic Callboy celebrates its sixth studio album, “Tekkno.”

Kany Garcia USA Tour 2023

Friday, Sept. 1

Puerto Rican singer and songwriter Kany Garcia rose to fame after appearing on the talent show Objetivo Fama. The singer alights on her U.S. tour supporting her eighth studio album, “El Amor Que Merecemos.”

C.Y. Fest 2023

Saturday, Sept. 2

LA’s premier punk rock festival will include rockers like Slaughter and the Dogs, Varukers, the Skeptix and more.

The Mission (UK), Chameleons and Theatre of Hate (LA)

Saturday, Sept. 23

Restless Nites Presents is proud to host British Post-Punk legends The Mission, Chameleons and Theatre of Hate in Los Angeles as a part of their 31-date U.S. tour.

Wolfmother

Friday, Sept. 29

Australian hard rock band Wolfmother is traversing the globe to entertain fans on its worldwide tour.

The Smell

247 S. Main Street, Los Angeles thesmell.org

Dreyted, Common Girl and Kill Michael

Friday, June 2

The iconic Downtown venue The Smell brings together three lo-fi DIY indie musicians, Dreyted, Common Girl and Kill Michael, for a full night of musical experimentation.

Pride Month Barbie, Titsweat and March Adstrum

Saturday, June 3

Pride Month Barbie, Titsweat and March Adstrum will descend on The Smell to explore the world of punk rock and DIY aesthetics.

JUNK! presents… Quynn’s 21st!

Saturday, June 10

JUNK! presents Quynn’s epic 21st. Open to all, the night will include bands Princess Cut, Rowdy P and Pain Catalyst.

Afterbirth Cartoons, Hot Nife and Princess Cut

Saturday, June 17

Indie band Afterbirth Cartoons offers sardonic punk beats along with Southern California acts Hot Nife and Princess Cut.

Mirrored Fatality, The Groans and Cleo

Saturday, June 24

For just $10, Downtown dwellers can catch this three-act show at The Smell, featuring indie bands Mirrored Fatality, The Groans and Cleo.

The Moonjacks, Alternative Citizens and Chico

Sunday, June 25

Informed by skateboarding, lo-fi music and carefree living, Southern California band The Moonjacks will perform their latest singles, “Fishnets,” “Cruisin’” and “Lemonade,” alongside indie bands Alternative Citizens and Chico.

Couch Dog, Dunk Pacino and Grave Secrets

Thursday, June 29

Four-piece pop punk Grave Secrets will join LA punk band Dunk Pacino and indie garage rock band Couch Dog on The Smell’s main stage.

Black Market the Band, Suspended In Cobwebs and Sik Sik Sicks

Friday, June 30

Experimental indie rock band Black Market the Band will play their latest single, “Towelie,” alongside pop-punk act Sik Sik Sicks and metal band Suspended in Cobwebs.

The Mayan

1038 S. Hill Street, Los Angeles 213-746-4674, themayan.com

Rufus Wainwright will perform his new album, “Folkocracy,” on Friday, June 2.

Mas Flow

Fridays, June 2, June 9, June 17 and June 24

Dance to the sounds of reggaeton, EDM, Top 40s, hip-hop, R&B and more across two rooms during this Latin-led dance party.

Paraiso

Saturdays, June 3, June 10 and June 16

Catch The Mayan’s Paraiso party for the ultimate nightclub experience. DJs will spin Latin music, EDM, hip-hop and more across three dance floors.

Hermeto Pascoal

Thursday, June 8

Brazilian composer Hermeto Pascoal is coming to The Mayan’s stage. The legendary musician has collaborated with some of

the most influential musicians in the 20th century, like Milton Nascimento, Tim Maia, Caetano Veloso, Gilberto Gil and Miles David, and uses unconventional sounds inspired by nature to create his soundscapes.

Prayers

Wednesday, June 14

Leafar Seyer is the man and vision behind the rock act Prayers. Seyer is credited with creating the genre Cholo Goth, which connects lived experiences with the musical realities of gothic and metal music.

La India

Friday, June 23

Puerto Rican singer and songwriter La India combines the sounds of salsa, house music and Latin pop to create a style that is

uniquely her own.

IAMX

Thursday, June 29

IAMX, the solo musical project of Chris Corner, returns for an extensive tour across to celebrate his last beautifully dark electronic album, “Fault Lines.”

Arthur Verocai

Sunday, Aug. 6, and Monday, Aug. 7

30-piece orchestra Jazz Está Morto celebrates the genius of Arthur Verocai, bringing to life his self-titled 1973 debut album on Verocai’s first U.S. Tour.

Cold Waves LA 2023

Thursday, Sept. 28

Cold Waves celebrates the diversity of industrial music. The festival returns to DTLA for a night of industrial stop, darkwave, and electronic fusion and will feature acts like Front Line Assembly, A Split Second, Lead into Gold, Sierra, Ash Code and more.

Japanese American National Museum

100 N. Central Avenue, Los Angeles 213-625-0414, janm.org

Sansei Rocker: Behind the Curtain Saturdays, June 3 and 10, and Sundays, June 4 and 11

This immersive performance combines the classic tunes of the Sansei Dance Party Era of the ’60s and ’70s with illuminating stories of the times. This show features John DePatie, Bobby Flores, Richie Gajate Garcia, Gerald Ishibashi, Royce Jones, Harry Manaka, Harold Payne, Charles Ruggiero and Wayne Waka, who will perform hits from the era and share personal stories about this musical moment in time.

Defining Courage

Wednesday, June 7

The documentary Defining Courage tells the story of Nisei soldiers, Japanese Americans who served in segregated military units during World War II. Emmy Award-winning filmmakers Jeff MacIntyre and ABC-7 News Anchor David Ono shed

light on this little-known portion of history as they recount the trials of these heroes who fought prejudice and home and the enemy abroad.

From Barbed Wire to Boogie Woogie: A Conversation with WWII Concentration Camp Survivors

Saturday, June 17

This multi-part program will examine the impact of dance and swing music on youth in America’s Japanese internment camps through personal storytelling, history, and dancing.

Nima Voices: Episode 13 — Alden Hayashi

Tuesday, June 20

Nima Voices is an interview series, and in this coming episode, guest host Mia Barnett, co-chair of Okaeri, a Nikkei LGBTQ+ community group, will interview Alden M. Hayashi, a Sansei writer originally from Hawai’i now living in Boston.

Natural History Museum

900 Exposition Boulevard, Los Angeles 213-763-3466, nhm.org

Scanning Electron Microscope Demonstration

Every Tuesday and Thursday

Join an NHM scientist at the Scanning Electron Microscope Lab to learn how scientists use essential tools to make discoveries about the natural world.

NHM First Fridays 2023: June

Friday, June 2

Explore the Natural History Museum after hours with live music, DJs, topical discussions, signature cocktails, pop-up experiences, special NHM collections displays and more.

Nature Gardens Exploration: Birding

Every Saturday and Sunday

Meet the museum’s Bird Viewing Platform in the Nature Gardens for an hour of weekend bird watching.

Covered California will help DTENTERTAINMENT

By Jeff Favre

LA Downtown News Contributing Writer

The violence against Black Americans, often by members of law enforcement — including the shooting of Breonna Taylor and the killing of George Floyd — has left veteran actor and director Ben Guillory wanting to scream every day.

Instead, as co-founder with Danny Glover of the Robey Theatre Company, he chose to turn that rage into a play that doesn’t shy away from the question he’s been asking himself.

What can we do about this?

Guillory, perhaps best known for his role in “The Color Purple” movie and a mainstay in LA stage productions, commissioned playwright Levy Lee Simon to find a creative yet unflinching way to delve into the topic of violence against Black Americans. He directs and stars in the production.

“A Heated Discussion” premiered in Los Angeles last spring. Its popularity — along

with more killings, including that of Jayland Walker, who was shot at least 46 times by police — prompted Guillory to direct an updated version.

“A Heated Discussion-Revisited” runs through June 18 at Downtown’s The Los Angeles Theatre Center.

Simon’s work brings 13 famous Black activists from different fields into one setting, including Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Malcolm X, Lorraine Hansberry, Maya Angelou, James Baldwin and Richard Pryor. They are summoned by orishas — spirits or gods from the Yoruba religion that originated in Africa.

“There are dozens and dozens of Black iconic figures who have been victims,” Guillory said. “And I kept asking myself, ‘What would they do?’ So, they have been brought to discuss it and to try to figure out what can be done.”

Simon had material of the speeches, interviews and art these figures left behind as

a starting point.

“I suppose the most clear example is Dr. King and Malcolm,” Guillory explained. “Mal-

colm said ‘by any means necessary’ and Dr. King said ‘by peaceful means’ to work for getting the rights of people of color in this

Ben

country. And they both wanted the same thing, but they are going about it in a different way. And that’s where much of the conversation and discussion comes from.”

Each character is well known and recognizable, with Pryor leaning on his comedy and Bob Marley smoking marijuana, for example.

Baldwin, a thoughtful writer and lecturer, pushes the dialogue early in the play by saying, “One cannot speak about America without speaking about racism. It permeates every area of a Black person’s life from the time he or she is born, even to this day, and I have been off the planet since 1987. But, like the rest of us, I’ve been watching. There have been changes, but quite honestly not nearly enough, as we all can acknowledge.”

While Guillory and Simon discussed the work extensively, he wasn’t sure how the conversation would end — only that he was unafraid to make audiences feel uncomfortable about the killings in recent years.

“I use the word murder, because that’s what it is,” he said. “When we have a Q&A, for instance, which we did with the last production, I would see people back up when they hear that. But there’s blood on the ground, people are dying, and they’re being murdered by the authorities with impunity.”

It’s that kind of theater that Guillory and Glover imagined when they began the Robey, named after famed actor Paul Robeson. They wanted to tell stories no one else would.

“That’s why this play is so important,” he said. “We have to ask the question ‘What do we do about it?’ and to have what can be a very toxic conversation. There aren’t many answers. Many have attempted to find a solution, and there isn’t really one, because there are some very, very, very ugly people who are full of hate.”

But as long as Guillory feels rage — and as long as he has the platform of the Robey Theatre Company — he plans to keep asking the question and looking for an answer.

“A Heated Discussion-Revisited”

WHEN: Through Sunday, June 18

WHERE: Los Angeles Theatre Center, 514 S. Spring Street

COST: $40; $25 for seniors, students and veterans

INFO: therobeytheatrecompany.org

Covered California will help DTSPORTS

‘Force for Good’ LAFC partners with rent reporting platform Esusu

By Luke Netzley

LA Downtown News Deputy Editorr

To help strengthen financial identities and empower Angelenos throughout the city, Los Angeles Football Club has partnered with financial technology company Esusu, which has become the club’s official rent reporting platform.

The partnership will introduce the Captain of the Match program, which will showcase members of the LAFC community at each MLS home game at BMO Stadium, and the Free Kicks for Free Rent sweepstakes, which LAFC fans can enter to win one month of free rent paid by Esusu. Winners will be announced via email and social media throughout the season.

This is the first sports partnership in Esusu’s history. For co-founders Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel, it’s an opportunity to uplift Angelenos struggling to pay their rent in a time of economic uncertainty.

“This program … it’s a win-win,” Goel said. “We stand by the community. We help all stakeholders, and with LAFC in particular, we know a large portion of their fans are renters. They are local Los Angeles natives, and we’ve seen costs of rent go up in Los Angeles and cost of goods go up in Los Angeles. This is a way that we can support (them).”

Esusu’s founding in 2018 was inspired by Abbey and Goel’s life experiences and upbringings. Abbey grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, and was raised by his mother and two sisters following the death of his father. After immigrating to the United States, Abbey and his mother had no credit score.

“We walked into one of the biggest banks in Minneapolis to borrow money and were turned away,” he described. “My mother sold my dad’s wedding ring. We borrowed money from church members, and that’s how we got started in America.”

Goel grew up in an immigrant family from New Delhi, India. When they moved to the United States, he witnessed the challenges his parents faced to make ends meet without a credit score and basic financial resources.

“Inspired by that experience, Samir and I started Esusu on the core premise: No matter where you come from, the color of your skin and your financial

experience, they shouldn’t determine where you end up in the world,” Abbey said. “The way we really make that happen is primarily through our rent reporting products.”

Esusu was built to break down barriers to financial stability, as an estimated 1 in 10 U.S. adults are currently deemed “credit invisible,” with no credit history at one of the three credit reporting agencies: Equifax, Experian or Transunion. The company currently reaches over 3.5 million rental units across all 50 states.

For their new partnership with LAFC, the Esusu leadership duo didn’t want to simply slap their logo on the stadium, but to create meaningful change among the club’s fan base and wider community instead

“The focus of engaging with LAFC is really to invest in a very diverse supporter base … and then create really rooted relationships in the local community,” Abbey explained. “The real ethos here is investments in the communities, having a meaningful tie … and really being a true fabric of LAFC’s community.”

Goel added that the need for Esusu’s work and partnership with LAFC has “never been more pronounced” across LA in the wake of the pandemic and in the midst of widespread economic hardship.

“Over the past couple years, what we’ve seen is renters’ savings dwindle while their credit or debt, so to speak, has skyrocketed,” he said. “Renters have basically maxed out all their credit and

debt vehicles. They don’t have much savings left, and at the same time we’re in this recessionary period where people are struggling in the economic market.

“With inflation, the cost of basic goods, the cost of rent, all these core essentials have gone way up, but wage growth has relatively remained stagnant. So you have this scenario that I’ve just painted where renters are low on savings, they’re high on debt utilization and their earnings are now basically keeping pace with the rate of inflation, so they’re going to be struggling even more to cover basic expenses like rent.”

Goel added that landlords have also felt the strain of the city’s current financial landscape, as they often don’t have the capacity to reduce rent due to increased interest rates.

“Many of them are actually not able to pay their own mortgages, and then with commercial banks failing and whatnot, there’s also less financing options to go around,” he said. “When (Angelenos) have that financial emergency or shock, whether it’s a job loss or a health emergency or they’re just trying to make it work and the economy’s not the greatest right now, we can stand by them cover one to three months of rent and help them get back on their feet.”

Abbey and Goel’s hope for the future is to combat the homelessness and wealth disparity seen throughout LA by using their platform to help Angelenos establish credit and begin a “wealth-building” journey.

“What we want to do as a company is to create a win-win-win construct, build a different form of capitalism and something we call ‘justice capitalism,’ whereby doing ‘well’ and doing ‘good’ are by no means mutually exclusive,” Abbey said. “Currently the status quo in our dear city of Los Angeles is just not sustainable. … We want to roll up our sleeves and get involved in the community. Being involved in LAFC and the strong vibrant supporter base is just the starting point. … We’re really excited and, in our opinion, the best is still unfolding and definitely yet to come.”

LAFC Co-President Larry Freedman described Esusu as a company that shares the club’s values and acts as a “force for good” in the community.

“Esusu’s mission of bridging the wealth gap and working to help improve credit scores and debt-income ratios in our community is vital,” he said. “We are eager to make a difference together.”

Esusu/Submitted

Esusu co-founders Wemimo Abbey and Samir Goel launched their financial technology business in 2018.

COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES

DEPARTMENT OF TREASURER AND TAX COLLECTOR

NOTICE OF DIVIDED PUBLICATION

Made pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 3381

Pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code (R&TC)

Sections 3381 through 3385, the Notice of Power to Sell Tax-Defaulted Property Subject to the Tax Collector’s Power to Sell in and for the County of Los Angeles, State of California, has been divided and distributed to various newspapers of general circulation published in the County. A portion of the list appears in each of such newspapers.

NOTICE OF IMPENDING POWER TO SELL TAX-DEFAULTED PROPERTY

Made pursuant to Revenue and Taxation Code Section 3361

Notice is hereby given that the following parcels listed will become subject to the tax collector’s power to sell on Saturday, July 1, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. Pacific Time, by operation of law. The real property taxes and assessments on the parcels listed will have been defaulted five or more years, except for:

1. Nonresidential commercial parcels, as defined in R&TC Section 3691, which will have been defaulted for three or more years;

2. Parcels on which a nuisance abatement lien has been recorded, which will have been defaulted for three or more years;

3. Parcels that can serve the public benefit and a request has been made by the County of Los Angeles, a city within the County of Los Angeles, or nonprofit organization to purchase the parcels through Chapter 8 Agreement Sales pursuant to R&TC Section 3692.4, which will have been defaulted for three or more years.

The Tax Collector will record a Notice of Power to Sell unless the property taxes are paid in full or the property owner initiates an installment plan of redemption, as provided by law, prior to 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, on Friday, June 30, 2023, when the right to initiate an installment plan terminates. Thereafter, the only option to prevent the sale of the property at public auction is to pay the taxes in full.

The right of redemption survives the property becoming subject to the tax collector’s power to sell, but it terminates at 5:00 p.m. Pacific Time, on the last business day before the scheduled auction of the property by the Tax Collector.

The Treasurer and Tax Collector’s Office will furnish, upon request, information concerning making a payment in full or initiating an installment plan of redemption. Requests must be made at 225 North Hill Street, First Floor Lobby, Los Angeles, California 90012. For more information, please visit our website at ttc.lacounty. gov or contact us at (213) 974-2111.

The amount to redeem the property, in United States dollars and cents, is set forth in the listing opposite each parcel number. This amount includes all defaulted taxes, penalties, and fees that have accrued from the date of tax-default to the date of Friday, June 30, 2023.

I certify, under penalty of perjury, that the foregoing is true and correct. Dated this 6th day of April, 2023.

KEITH KNOX TREASURER AND TAX

COLLECTOR COUNTY OF LOS ANGELES

STATE OF CALIFORNIA

PARCEL NUMBERING SYSTEM EXPLANATION

The Assessor’s Identification Number, when used to describe property in this list, refers to the Assessor’s map book, the map page, the block on the map, if applicable, and the individual parcel on the map page or in the block. The Assessor’s maps and further explanation of the parcel numbering system are available in the Assessor’s Office, 500 West Temple Street, Room 225, Los Angeles, California 90012.

The real property that is the subject of this notice is situated in the County of Los Angeles, State of California, and is described as follows:

PROPERTY TAX DEFAULTED IN YEAR 2020 FOR TAXES, ASSESSMENT, AND OTHER CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2019-2020

167 $2,745.39

SADEKI, HEIDAR AIN: 2428-002-002

168 $2,753.80

SADEKI, HEIDAR AIN: 2428-002-003

169 $2,745.39

SADEKI, HEIDAR AIN: 2428-002-004

1734 $48,714.03

MARTINEZ, TROY SITUS:5810 S NORMANDIE AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90037 AIN: 5002-015-001

1759 $822.07

LOS ANGELES COMMUNITY GARDEN

COUNCIL AIN: 5017029-061

1761 $306.40

LOS ANGELES COMMUNITY GARDEN

COUNCIL SITUS:4712 S VERMONT AVE LOS ANGELES CA 900372964 AIN: 5018-010-045

1766 $5,150.27

COLLATERAL PARTNERS SITUS:4154 S VERMONT AVE LOS ANGELES CA 900371935 AIN: 5020-033-002

1793 $5,360.14

DIVINE HOTELS GROUP CORPORATION SITUS:2268 W PICO BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90006-4843 AIN:

5056-007-003

1814 $6,080.54

CATHOLIC CHARITIES OF LOS ANGELES

C/O C/O DAN OBRIEN

SITUS:2561 VENICE BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90019-6233 AIN:

5073-001-028

1817 $2,566.61

MR KIRBY LLC C/O C/O

TERESA MARTINEZ SITUS:2001 S WESTERN AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90018-1540 AIN: 5073030-065

1819 $3,844.35

ZUNIGA, FRANCISCO D CO TR F AND G ZUNIGA

TRUST SITUS:2582 W PICO BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90006-4009 AIN: 5075-005-004

1821 $101,339.52

GLOBAL VISION

CHRISTIAN CHURCH

SITUS:1637 S VERMONT AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90006-4521 AIN: 5075-016-027

1822 $8,006.85

JULIAS RANGEL, CHRISTINA TR JULIAS FAMILY DECD TRUST AND JULIAS, CHRIS DECD EST OF SITUS:2769 W PICO BLVD LOS ANGELES CA

90006-3913 AIN: 5078035-015

1843 $854.25

VERNON WALL 26 LLC

SITUS:201 E VERNON AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90011-3437 AIN: 5113018-010

1854 $9,588.58

TERIQUEZ, MARIA G TR MARIAS MAY

TRUST SITUS:3805 S SAN PEDRO ST LOS ANGELES CA 900115617 AIN: 5121-013-007

1855 $15,792.45

SOFICAM US LLC SITUS:2834 S GRAND AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90007-3303 AIN: 5122011-007

1856 $1,067.24

SOFICAM US LLC SITUS:2828 S GRAND AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90007-3303 AIN: 5122011-015

1857 $10,302.67

AMAYA, GERMAN C/O

MATT OH SITUS:3600 S BROADWAY LOS ANGELES CA 90007-4430

AIN: 5122-034-010

1875 $8,493.18

CARBALLO, JUAN C

SITUS:1750 JAMES M

WOOD BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90015-1002

AIN: 5137-001-006

1876 $101,001.19

ALINEA INVESTMENT GROUP LLC

SITUS:1212 ALBANY ST LOS ANGELES CA

90015-2020 AIN: 5137030-024

1907 $15,747.28

CHRISTIAN CHURCH

PACIFIC SOUTHWEST REGION SITUS:301 N UNION AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90026-5411 AIN: 5159-004-003

2105 $3,098.20

ERAN SHAHAR INC

AIN: 5431-007-005

2108 $237.80

LOS ANGELES FAMILY

SCHOOL AIN: 5434-037-

012

2188 $3,658.52

VON FERSEN PROPERTIES LLC C/O C/O

FIA HOFFMANN SI-

TUS:514 N LA CIENEGA BLVD WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90048-2002

AIN: 5528-018-041

2189 $3,287.71

VON FERSEN PROPERTIES LLC C/O C/O

FIA HOFFMANN AIN:

5528-018-042

2190 $7,299.34

VON FERSEN PROPERTIES LLC C/O C/O

FIA HOFFMANN SI-

TUS:500 N LA CIENEGA BLVD WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90048-2002

AIN: 5528-018-043

2200 $54,938.80

REALITY CHURCH OF LOS ANGELES SITUS:1313 N

EDGEMONT ST LOS ANGELES CA 900275911 AIN: 5543-021-004

2201 $113,584.83

REALITY CHURCH

OF LOS ANGELES SITUS:4901 FOUNTAIN AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90029-1501 AIN: 5543021-006

2211 $1,127.69

NGUYEN, THAO THI THANH AND LEUNG, CATHERINE T AIN:

5556-003-034

2212 $11,899.25

3 4 5 BODE DRIVE

C/O

FINANCIAL AIN: 5556015-005

3

3

3

C/O C/O BRIDGE LOAN

FINANCIAL AIN: 5556015-010

2216 $9,381.79

3 4 5 BODE DRIVE LLC

C/O C/O BRIDGE LOAN

FINANCIAL AIN: 5556015-011

2217 $149.93

TRABULSI, ALEXIO AIN: 5556-015-043

2218 $133.86

TRABULSI, ALEXIO AIN: 5556-015-048

2219 $29,277.05

3 4 5 BODE DRIVE LLC

C/O

FINANCIAL AIN: 5556015-053

2220 $2,288.49

ZIKRIA, GHEZAL T AND

ABDUL F AIN: 5556-024007

2226 $449.34

HARGITAY, MICKEY AND ELLEN TRS

HARGITAY FAMILY TRUST AIN: 5563-029-

006

2228 $2,767.51

TRABULSI, ALEXIO AIN: 5565-036-001

2229 $7,305.34

WEST HOLLYWOOD

DEVELOPMENT AND ASSOCIATES LLC C/O

C/O MARK H AWAD AIN: 5567-007-005

GORDON, SARA AIN: 5567-025-010

2232 $301.67

GORDON, SARA AIN:

5567-025-011

2234 $421.87

MENDEZ, OTONIEL R

AIN: 5569-031-002

2235 $736.36 MENDEZ, OTONIEL R AIN: 5569-031-003

2236 $33,008.62

MULLEY, TIM AIN: 5569031-027

2237 $5,100.04

INDUSTRIA USA LLC

C/O MICHAEL VARET-DLP PIPER LLP AIN: 5570-025-044

2256 $111,172.27

KHANDAKAPALA BUDDHIST CENTER SITUS:1905 N KENMORE AVE LOS ANGELES CA

90027-1811 AIN: 5589014-022

2257 $3,217.71

PERLMAN, RON AND OPAL AIN: 5592-020-010

2258 $483.02

PERLMAN, RON AND OPAL AIN: 5592-020-023

2259 $100,271.74

NEW LIFE VISION

CHURCH CORP SI-

TUS:4226 E VERDANT ST LOS ANGELES CA 90039 AIN: 5594-006036

PROPERTY TAX DEFAULTED IN YEAR 2018

FOR TAXES, ASSESSMENT, AND OTHER CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2017-2018

1733 $2,130.98

LOWE, DOROTHY TR DOROTHY COLEMAN

TRUST SITUS:714 W 55TH ST LOS ANGELES

CA 90037-4010 AIN:

5001-022-006

1756 $2,709.17

ALBA, ALEJANDRO AND ROSITA TRS

ALBA FAMILY TRUST SITUS:1743 W 45TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90062-1952 AIN: 5016005-019

1757 $5,441.86

THOMPSON, ROBERT F JR SITUS:1721 W 48TH ST LOS ANGELES

CA 90062-2205 AIN:

5016-016-024

1758 $2,756.34

HERNANDEZ, CRISTIAN R CO TR HERNANDEZ AND VELAZQUEZ TRUST SITUS:1227 W 46TH ST LOS ANGELES

CA 90037-2805 AIN:

5017-015-009

1760 $45,132.58

GOODEN, GEORGE TR GOODEN TRUST SITUS:1040 W 45TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90037-2405 AIN: 5017031-019

1762 $6,235.30

FIGUEROA, DIEGO AND CHAVEZ, CARLA AND PALOMARES, JOSE A AND CELESTE L SITUS:910 W 50TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90037-2938 AIN: 5018016-003

1763 $37,634.46

FERMON, MITZI A AND DIXON, RICHARD D SR SITUS:821 W 40TH PL LOS ANGELES CA 90037-1902 AIN: 5019001-013

1764 $8,049.98

MATSUMURA, KELLY H AND MATSUMURA, JANSEN M SITUS:4125 S FIGUEROA ST 402 LOS ANGELES CA 90037-2089 AIN: 5019022-086

SITUS:1215 W 41ST ST LOS ANGELES CA 90037-1705 AIN: 5020015-023

1767 $7,656.75

JACKSON, VICKIE A SITUS:4177 DALTON AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90062-1807 AIN: 5021013-006

1779 $14,099.68

QUINTANA, RAUL AND MARIA J SITUS:3919 WISCONSIN PL LOS ANGELES CA 900371508 AIN: 5037-020-005

1815 $22,525.79

MELENDEZ, GILBERT SITUS:2374 W WASHINGTON BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90018-1448

AIN: 5073-028-007

1816 $28,008.45

MELENDEZ, GILBERT SITUS:2378 W WASHINGTON BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90018-1448

AIN: 5073-028-008

1818 $4,343.48

JONES, MARTHA A TR MARTHA A JONES

TRUST SITUS:1910 S HOBART BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90018-1501

AIN: 5074-032-025

1820 $58,137.13

SAINT SOPHIA FOUNDATION SITUS:2715 W 15TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90006-4301 AIN: 5075-011-013

1823 $26,001.83

LOPEZ, JERONIMO AND HILDA SITUS:952 S KINGSLEY DR LOS ANGELES CA 900061214 AIN: 5080-031-020

1832 $3,079.44

SADLER, STELLA SITUS:126 W 54TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90037-3802 AIN: 5101031-022

1840 $4,411.43

ALCALA, ARTURO JR SITUS:428 E 47TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 90011-3902 AIN: 5109018-022

1841 $745.60

JANELLE INVESTMENTS CORPORATION

SITUS:142 W 52ND ST LOS ANGELES CA 90037-3819 AIN: 5110030-014

1842 $28,465.20

FLORES, MARIA A SITUS:425 E 43RD ST LOS ANGELES CA 90011-3009 AIN: 5113010-008

1863 $19,997.35

ACOSTA, STEVEN SITUS:116 E 28TH ST LOS ANGELES CA 900111418 AIN: 5128-003-004

2096 $8,683.69

BATHAN, LETICIA L TR LETICIA L BATHAN TRUST SITUS:1213 MOHAWK ST LOS ANGELES CA 90026-3023

AIN: 5402-032-018

2097 $73,624.58

CAPEN, MATTHEW AND CAPEN, NICHOLAS SITUS:2124 RESERVOIR ST LOS ANGELES CA 90026-3026 AIN: 5402-033-004

2102 $7,316.73

WEISSEN, CARYL B AND WEISSEN, JOHN C SITUS:1536 N BENTON WAY LOS ANGELES CA 90026-2219 AIN: 5424006-022

2104 $98,000.23

CERVIGNI, ALEJANDRA SITUS:1124 N HOOVER ST LOS ANGELES CA 90029-2054 AIN: 5429001-012

2106 $39,593.34

90039-3543 AIN: 5432026-010

2107 $12,908.00

FITZSIMMONS, DEIRDRE M SITUS:2811 W SILVER LAKE DR LOS ANGELES CA 900392628 AIN: 5434-034-001

2109 $66,152.06

WIERZBIANSKA, TERESA S SITUS:2410 IVANHOE DR LOS ANGELES CA 90039-3211 AIN: 5439-016-026

2110 $1,894.24

AKIYAMA, HIDEO

TR HIDEO AKIYAMA

TRUST AKIYAMA, JEAN

A SITUS:2625 LAKE VIEW TER W LOS ANGELES CA 90039-2606

AIN: 5439-021-014

2191 $763,013.04

JANET L WITKIN CENTER LLC C/O C/O KEVIN RIVAS SITUS:937 N FAIRFAX AVE WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90046-7203 AIN: 5529020-028

2197 $383.12

MEENA, MIKE J CO TR

MEENA FAMILY TRUST AND MUST, JORDAN

SITUS:1163 N KINGSLEY DR LOS ANGELES CA 90029-1347 AIN: 5537-010-003

2198 $76,519.02

LIM, SUN YOUNG SITUS:5200 FOUNTAIN AVE LOS ANGELES CA 90029-1306 AIN: 5537013-007

2207 $11,866.81

RESER, BELINDA M SITUS:1745 CAMINO

PALMERO ST NO 110 LOS ANGELES CA 90046-2908 AIN: 5550001-049

2208 $15,750.05

GAVIOLA, CASSANDRA

Z TR CASSANDRA Z GAVIOLA TRUST SITUS:1745 CAMINO PALMERO ST NO 210 LOS ANGELES CA 90046-2918 AIN: 5550001-065

2209 $870.87

JANNICKY, ELISABETH SITUS:1515 N FAIRFAX AVE 10 LOS ANGELES CA 90046-2694 AIN: 5551-018-031

2210 $4,195.32

1416 NORTH HAVENHURST DRIVE AND OWNERS ASSOCIATION SITUS:1416 HAVENHURST DR NO 24 WEST HOLLYWOOD CA 90046-3883 AIN: 5554-007-040

2230 $12.85

BANCHIK, ROBIN F TR ROBINS NEST TRUST SITUS:8319 UTICA DR LOS ANGELES CA 90046-7715 AIN: 5567021-045

2233 $70,705.33

YOUNAI, SAMAN S TR

SAM YOUNAI TRUST SITUS:7904 ZEUS DR LOS ANGELES CA 90046-1650 AIN: 5569007-074

PROPERTY TAX DEFAULTED IN YEAR 2015 FOR TAXES, ASSESSMENT, AND OTHER CHARGES FOR FISCAL YEAR 2014-2015

2103 $32,453.22

HARALDSON, ROBERT SITUS:834 SILVER LAKE BLVD LOS ANGELES CA 90026-2908 AIN: 5426-021-005

CN996848 553 May 22, and June 5, 2023

1765 $3,802.98

2231 $301.67

ROUSSEVE, DARVI AND BOONE, TONY

ENGEL, LAURA AND WOOD, JIMMIE SITUS:2206 PANORAMA TER LOS ANGELES CA