Colorful musical theater at its most interactive


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Theater is immersion. So when some chump a few rows over is making moment-killing noises during a show — whether that’s pneumonic coughs or ill-timed whoops of praise — standard protocol is to give them the stink eye. I have never known an exception to this rule. I like my theaters kept relatively silent, especially […]

Romances that capture the comedy and tragedy of love


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The new film Valentine’s Day, which opens today, offers audiences “a day in the life of love,” but, as most could easily predict, the film will not be offering anything new. Most Hollywood films about romance tend toward the same dull conventions of narrative and form — as is the case with Valentine’s Day. This […]

Experimental efforts and pop sounds don’t fuse on band’s new album


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Apparently, the sophomore slump does not affect all young upstart bands in today’s evolving music industry. Yeasayer, the talented trio from Brooklyn, has crafted a follow-up to its successful 2007 debut — All Hour Cymbals — that is impossibly fun and brilliantly executed. The band exudes all the irresistible charms that indie groups offer but […]

Weekend Picks


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thursday, february 11 Downtown Art Walk Noon – 9 p.m. > Various Locations > FREE Everything is conveniently planned for you to enjoy Los Angeles’ Downtown Art Walk: the free artwalk DASH shuttle, a participating venue right here on Grand Avenue and free museum admission for three hours. There’s no legitimate reason not to appreciate […]

Valentine’s Day tricks for late planners


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Valentine’s Day is upon us once again, this time with a well-earned three-day weekend. For many students, this means extra wallowing and maybe a one-night stand or two, but, for those who actually have relationships, the weekend holds a bit more significance and a chance for a romantic evening. But for busy college students, planning […]