Los Angeles and Southern California are alive with a vibrant array of activities and events this week, offering something for every taste from Monday, August 25, through Thursday, August 28. The region is set to host a compelling mix of musical performances, insightful film screenings, engaging cultural experiences, and lively festivals.
Musical Melodies and Nightlife
Music lovers have a packed schedule starting Monday, August 25. Legendary banjo virtuoso Béla Fleck, accompanied by The Flecktones, will grace The Ford stage, promising an evening of eclectic genre-bending music that blends bluegrass, jazz, and world influences. For those seeking contemporary sounds, Passion Pit’s Michael Angelakos is scheduled for two nights at the Moroccan Lounge on Tuesday and Wednesday, August 26 and 27. John Oates will also be performing solo at The Troubadour on Monday, August 25. Meanwhile, Hollywood’s revitalized Blue Note venue is heating up the jazz scene, with Mayer Hawthorne set for two shows on Monday, August 25, setting a sophisticated tone for the week. The Hollywood Bowl is also a hub of activity, featuring a performance by Charlie Wilson and Babyface on Wednesday, August 27, with special guest K-Ci Hailey, and Angélique Kidjo with Yo-Yo Ma on Thursday, August 28. Cyndi Lauper is set to wrap up her farewell tour, “Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Farewell,” at the Hollywood Bowl on August 29-30.
Cinematic Explorations and Discussions
Film enthusiasts can engage with thought-provoking cinema. On Wednesday, August 27, the documentary “Match in a Haystack,” which follows a Ukrainian dance group’s resilience, will screen at Laemmle Royal with a Q&A session moderated by LA Times film critic Katie Walsh. This screening is particularly timely, coinciding with Ukrainian Independence Day. The Vista Theatre will host a screening of Michael Mann’s “The Insider” on Wednesday, August 27, a film known for its exploration of corporate greed and media ethics. For classic film aficionados, repertory cinemas across Los Angeles are offering various showings, including “Brute 1976” with a director and cast Q&A on August 26 at Laemmle Glendale, and a special screening of “Sister Act” and “Sister Act 2” at the Aero Theatre. The Egyptian Theatre will feature a 50th anniversary screening of “Barry Lyndon” on August 26.
Arts, Culture, and Community Events
The cultural landscape is equally diverse. The Museum of Latin American Art (MOLAA) is hosting merengue dance classes, offering a chance to learn the vibrant steps and history of Latin dances. The Department of Cultural Affairs is highlighting several key events, including the “Fluid Dynamics” exhibition at an unspecified venue on August 25, exploring identity and change, and the Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival, which continues with performances of “Love’s Labour’s Lost” and “Doctor Faustus” on August 27. Tours of the iconic Watts Towers are available on August 28, offering insight into the unique artistic landmark. The Autry museum’s “Sizzling Summer Nights” series continues on Thursdays in August, featuring salsa and Latin fusion bands, including Son Mayor on August 28, along with free salsa lessons.
Festivals and Unique Experiences
Southern California is also gearing up for various festivals and unique experiences. The Leimert Park Jazz Festival is a major highlight, celebrating jazz, culture, and community with live performances, panel discussions, and an art exhibition. For those interested in hands-on creativity, OC Parks is offering a “Nature Creativity: Cactus Sculpture with Resin” workshop at Laguna Coast Wilderness Park on August 25, perfect for crafting a desert-inspired piece. The historic Tam O’Shanter restaurant in Atwater Village is presenting a special Prime Rib Philly Cheesesteak Night on Monday, August 25.
This week in Los Angeles and Southern California showcases a rich tapestry of events, from renowned musical acts and classic films to cultural deep dives and community festivals, ensuring a memorable experience for all attendees.
