Arts & Entertainment
Return of Tony Bennett to Highlight Theatre’s 40th Anniversary Weekend Celebration
La Mirada~The city’s original movie theatre was opened by Stanley-Warner on December 20, 1962 along Luitwieler Avenue (La Mirada Boulevard) with the west coast “Hollywood” premiere of Barrabas starring Anthony Quinn.
For the next 13 years or so the La Mirada theatre was the place where adults, families & kids went to see the latest releases. Teens and others packed the house for Saturday matinees as this writer can personally attest to.
The movie theatre closed on August 19, 1975 a day before the “La Mirada 4” theatre opened at the new, adjacent La Mirada Mall and the City Council approved converting the old movie house to a performing arts theatre.
Two years later, on September 16, 1977, the La Mirada Civic Theatre opened its doors with a premier performance by Tony Bennett and the opening weekend also included an Open House featuring ongoing stage performances viewed by attendees.
Now, forty years later, the La Mirada Theater for the Performing Arts as it is now called, will be re-creating the events of that weekend as part of its 40th anniversary celebration.
It begins on Thursday, October 12 (change of date) at 8:00 p.m. with a gala return performance by the legend himself, the Theater’s original star performer, Tony Bennett.
On Sunday, October 22 from noon to 4:00 p.m. there will be a Open House featuring Phantom Projects, La Mirada Symphony and musical theatre performances who will pay tribute to the Theatre’s tradition of Broadway hits.
In addition, the Theatre will host a fascinating discussion with several key individuals who were part of the building and early days of the Theatre. A behind the scenes tour will also be available.
As part of the celebration, the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts has an exclusive special offer available only to La Mirada residents as a show of gratitude for their support of the Theatre: 50% off all subscriptions to the 2017/18 McCoy/Rigby series at the theatre!
The upcoming season features five incredible shows including South Pacific, Cabaret, Disney’s Newsies, Ain’t Misbehavin’ and End of the Rainbow.
Tickets to the October 12th Tony Bennett performance go on sale to La Mirada residents and theatre subscribers only on August 21-23 (CODE: GoldTony2) with tickets going on sale to the general public September 1st.
For more information on the 40th anniversary celebration or other exclusive special offers visit the theatre website or call the theatre box office at (562) 944-9801. Purchase tickets in person at the box office weekdays between 11:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m and Saturdays Noon to 7:00 p.m.
Phantom Projects Presents #TheWall at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
"We need to be present today with our kids, it's not OUR generation...but we still have influence in shaping THEIR generation"
La Mirada~Shining a light on the emotional turmoil caused by cyber-bullying, #TheWall examines a new method of perpetuating one of the oldest teen issues known to society, Thursday May 18th at 10:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m at the La Mirada Thetare for the Performing Arts.
The themes include real-life stories picked right out of the ashes of tragedy, depicting actual accounts involving teen suicides brought upon by cyber bullying, catfishing and the posting of sexually exploitative photos, which when posted, live on forever. This show focuses heavily on short-term actions, which levy very long term consequences.
Teens and families alike will absolutely resonate with the stories told, and through the medium of performing arts, will gain a heightened awareness of the world in which young people are growing up. There are many lessons to be learned from this play, and given many tragic stories of late, this feels timely.
Watch a behind-the-scenes video here. Listen to an in-depth with Director Steve Cisneros, as he chats about #TheWall with LA Talk Radio here. Enter an opportunity drawing to see Hamilton at The Pantages Theatre here.
#TheWall tickets start at $10 (Backstage Tour VIP Tickets start at $37). Purchase here.
Iconic Musical Playing in La Mirada April 21-May 14
La Mirada~Powerful, poignant and timely as ever, La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment present the fourth show of its 2016-2017 season, the most acclaimed musical of all time, West Side Story, book by Arthur Laurents, lyrics by Stephen Sondheim, music by Leonard Bernstein with musical direction by Brent Crayon, choreography by John Todd and directed by Ovation award-winner Richard Israel.
“Story” will preview on Friday, April 21, 2017 (with a press opening on Saturday, April 22) and run through Sunday, May 14, 2017 at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada.
From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story, is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. As powerful, poignant, and timely as ever, the thrilling Leonard Bernstein and Stephen Sondheim score – including “Tonight,” “Maria,” “America” and the classic “Somewhere,” remains one of the best ever written.
Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City, caught between warring street gangs, the Jets and the Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate, violence, and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time.
Performances are 7:30pm on Wednesdays & Thursdays; 8pm on Fridays; 2pm and 8pm on Saturdays; and 2pm on Sundays. There will be no performance on Saturday, April 22 at 2pm.
Los Angeles Premiere of Hunchback at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
Who is the monster and who is the man? Based on the Victor Hugo and songs from the Disney film
La Mirada~La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment are thrilled to present the first show of its 2016-2017 season, the Los Angeles premiere production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Peter Parnell, musical direction by Dennis Castellano, choreography by Dana Solimando and directed by Glenn Casale.
This brand new musical is the only stage collaboration from two masters of American musical theatre, Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast) and Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin). With a lush, emotionally rich score and beautiful choral arrangements, it’s a dramatic retelling of the epic but tragic Victor Hugo novel. Darker than the Disney film, closer in plot to the novel, the musical showcases the film’s Oscar-nominated score and introduces stunning new songs. For the first time, Quasimodo -- who is deaf in the original novel -- will be played by a deaf actor. Parental discretion is advised.
Hunchback will preview on Friday, September 16, 2016 (with a press opening on Saturday, September 17) and run through Sunday, October 9, 2016 at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada.
Performances are 7:30pm on Wednesdays & Thursdays; 8pm on Fridays; 2pm and 8pm on Saturdays; and 2pm on Sundays. There will be no performances on Saturday, September 17 at 2pm. Talkbacks with the cast and creative team will be on Wednesday, September 21 and Wednesday, October 5.
Tickets range from $20 - $70 and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website, www.lamiradatheatre.com or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Student, Senior, Child and group discounts are available.
Los Angeles Premiere of Hunchback at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
Who is the monster and who is the man? Based on the Victor Hugo and songs from the Disney film
La Mirada~La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment are thrilled to present the first show of its 2016-2017 season, the Los Angeles premiere production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Peter Parnell, musical direction by Dennis Castellano, choreography by Dana Solimando and directed by Glenn Casale.
This brand new musical is the only stage collaboration from two masters of American musical theatre, Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast) and Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin). With a lush, emotionally rich score and beautiful choral arrangements, it’s a dramatic retelling of the epic but tragic Victor Hugo novel.
Darker than the Disney film, closer in plot to the novel, the musical showcases the film’s Oscar-nominated score and introduces stunning new songs. For the first time, Quasimodo -- who is deaf in the original novel -- will be played by a deaf actor. Parental discretion is advised.
Hunchback will preview on Friday, September 16, 2016 (with a press opening on Saturday, September 17) and run through Sunday, October 9, 2016 at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada.
Performances are 7:30pm on Wednesdays & Thursdays; 8pm on Fridays; 2pm and 8pm on Saturdays; and 2pm on Sundays. There will be no performances on Saturday, September 17 at 2pm. Talk backs with the cast and creative team will be on Wednesday, September 21 and Wednesday, October 5.
Tickets range from $20 - $70 and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Student, Senior, Child and group discounts are available.
La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts is located at 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada. Parking is free.
Los Angeles Premiere of Hunchback at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
Who is the monster and who is the man? Based on the Victor Hugo and songs from the Disney film
La Mirada~La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts & McCoy Rigby Entertainment are thrilled to present the first show of its 2016-2017 season, the Los Angeles premiere production of The Hunchback of Notre Dame, music by Alan Menken, lyrics by Stephen Schwartz, book by Peter Parnell, musical direction by Dennis Castellano, choreography by Dana Solimando and directed by Glenn Casale.
This brand new musical is the only stage collaboration from two masters of American musical theatre, Alan Menken (Disney’s The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast) and Stephen Schwartz (Wicked, Pippin). With a lush, emotionally rich score and beautiful choral arrangements, it’s a dramatic retelling of the epic but tragic Victor Hugo novel. Darker than the Disney film, closer in plot to the novel, the musical showcases the film’s Oscar-nominated score and introduces stunning new songs. For the first time, Quasimodo -- who is deaf in the original novel -- will be played by a deaf actor. Parental discretion is advised.
Hunchback will preview on Friday, September 16, 2016 (with a press opening on Saturday, September 17) and run through Sunday, October 9, 2016 at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Blvd in La Mirada.
Performances are 7:30pm on Wednesdays & Thursdays; 8pm on Fridays; 2pm and 8pm on Saturdays; and 2pm on Sundays. There will be no performances on Saturday, September 17 at 2pm. Talkbacks with the cast and creative team will be on Wednesday, September 21 and Wednesday, October 5.
Tickets range from $20 - $70 and can be purchased at La Mirada Theatre’s website, www.lamiradatheatre.com or by calling the La Mirada Theatre Box Office at (562) 944-9801 or (714) 994-6310. Student, Senior, Child and group discounts are available.
Shirley Jones and Paul Williams to Appear at Symphony Gala
La Mirada~You are invited to the first annual Golden Clef Awards Gala, honoring individuals who have made a significant contribution to the musical arts, Saturday, August 20th at 7:00 p.m. at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts.
The first recipients are actress Shirley Jones, composer Paul Williams, Roy Disney, Jr. and Supervisor Don Knabe. Veteran Broadway performers Rex Smith, James Mulligan, and Carly Bracco provide musical entertainment. Host Morgan Brittany will engage Shirley Jones and Paul Williams in intimate onstage chats and include film clips of their career highlights.
Disney fans will enjoy the tribute to Roy Disney, Jr., often credited with saving the Disney legacy. Disney producer and historian, David Bossert, presents a special segment highlighting the missing portion of Fantasia known as “Destino.” The film marries Salvador Dali art to music and will be shown at the gala.
Organizers are working hard to ensure an entertaining evening to kick start the 2016-2017 La Mirada Symphony season. All proceeds go toward funding the free admission concerts provided by the LMS for the community. A silent auction of valuable packages offers another opportunity for music lovers to support the symphony. The $100 VIP package includes an after show reception with hors d'oeuvres, wine bar, and meet-and-greet with the honorees. All other seats are $60.
Order tickets through the La Mirada Theatre Box Office here or call 562-944-9804.
Limited half price tickets available and 15% off VIP using code animate here.
Phantom Projects and La Mirada Blog Partner to Provide Free Theatre for all La Mirada Students
La Mirada~On April 21 at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, Phantom Projects Theatre Group will continue it’s mission of using live theatre as a way to reach and teach teen audiences, with the powerful production of THE CENTER OF THE UNIVERSE. The production, which mixes multi-media presentations and live theatre, focuses on the overall value of human life by comparing tragic historical events with stories inspired by today’s headlines.
The production features an all-youth cast, and an engaging post-show discussion with the audience and the performers.
Thanks to the 2015/16 Season Sponsor, La Mirada Blog, the message of the production, which also tackles bullying, racim, violence and intolerance, will be available for free to all students of La Mirada schools, and students living in La Mirada. The offer, which is only available in person at the La Mirada Theatre Box Office (14900 La Mirada Blvd, La Mirada) is valid on new orders only.
La Mirada’s Phantom Projects Presents The Center of the Universe April 21st
Journey into the past and gain new perspective on the present as stories from slavery and the Holocaust are woven with events inspired by today's headlines.
Phantom’s Project’s next production of their 2015-16 season presented by the La Mirada Blog, The Center of the Universe will leave you motivated with an unforgettable message about the value of human life.
The Center of the Universe, written by Bruce Gevirtzman and directed by Steve Cisneros shows April 21st, 2016 at 7:00 p.m. at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, 14900 La Mirada Boulevard.
Tickets: $10.00. Box Office: (562) 944-9801. Web: www.LaMiradaTheatre.com/PhantomProjects
REVIEW: Catch the Dream at La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts
When it comes to diversity in the arts, the McCoy Rigby Entertainment Group is ahead of the game (you know what I'm talkin' about), especially with their latest presentation, the Tony and Oscar Award winning musical Dreamgirls, currently in its off-Broadway run from now through April 17th at the La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts that continues to bring phenomenal productions to our own diverse community.
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| Brittney Johnson, Jasmin Richardson and Danielle Truitt star in the production of "DREAMGIRLS" - Directed and Choreographed by Robert Longbottom and now playing at LA MIRADA THEATRE FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS. |
Set in the early 60's when the Apollo Theatre in Harlem, New York was busting at its seams with performers like Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, and The Supremes, an amateur night of sorts is where Dreamgirls begins.
This musical moves quickly as The Dreamettes (channel The Ronettes) miss out on their chance of stardom. They are quickly offered to sing back up for the star known as Jimmy "Thunder" Early and despite hesitation by the groups lead singer, Effie (played by Moya Angela) Lorrell (Brittney Johnson) and Deena (Jasmin Richardson) the other two-thirds of The Dreamettes convince Effie this can be the groups "big break."
Cut to The Dreamgirls, now taking stage with Early, popular with hit after hit--- no. What actually happens is indicative of the early 60's when musicians like Little Richard or Muddy Waters penned the songs that would be sung by the non-African American contemporary--- a popular hit on the backs of an artist not credited. Soon the tension becomes apparent amongst The Dreams (formerly The Dreamettes) and a split and replacement of a lead singer transpires. Over a course of nearly a decade, we see the evolution of a female trio, the decline of a musical genre, and the success of writers and performers alike.
I went to see Dreamgirls without much known of the story as I have never seen the movie that starred Beyonce, Eddie Murphy, and Jennifer Hudson. I'm happy I didn't because going in with preconceived notions on how this cast "should" perform hits like "one Night Only" and "And I Am Telling You I'm Not Going" would be unfair to the cast.
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