Monday, November 30, 2009

Esotouric parts with LA Art Walk

Esotouric Severs Ties with Downtown L.A. Art Walk, But Continues To Celebrate Urban Exploration

"Dorothy Parker once described Los Angeles as 72 suburbs in search of a city. Thanks to [Esotouric's Richard] Schave and his friends that may finally be changing." ­
Toronto Star (November 2009)

For much of 2009, Richard Schave and Kim Cooper, the married couple who are the brains behind Esotouric, L.A.'s most eclectic tour company, divided their energies between hosting weekly bus tours into the secret heart of the city and the transformation of the wildly popular monthly Downtown Los Angeles Art Walk into a non-profit community organization with an ambitious new program of cultural activities reflecting the grassroots event's extraordinary draw for locals of all ages. That all changed on November 9, three days before Art Walk, when Richard and Kim resigned.

Taking the reigns at the request of Art Walk's founder, gallery owner Bert Green, Richard was Art Walk's volunteer Director, the event's public face and the author of its Mission Statement, while Kim served as volunteer Curator, developing a series of free walking tours and conversational Salons on L.A. literature and esoteric beliefs. Attendance was up and the Art Walk's official programs were drawing a wider audience of culturally curious Angelenoes -- including foodies who came for blogger Javier (Teenage Glutster) Cabral's walking tours of gourmet food trucks, history fans delighted by free tours of the Mayan and Belasco with the L.A. Historic Theatre Foundation, performance art lovers drawn to Kelley Francis' music, dance and projection installations in the Spring Arcade, and bookish souls attending Salons at Clifton's Cafeteria on downtown bards Charles Bukowski and John Fante, and much more.

Esotouric's other innovations for the Art Walk include the curated Hippodrome shuttle (aka The Party Bus, canceled by DLANC in November 2009), the new map and web site design, an official blog celebrating the people of Art Walk, a successful logo competition, the non-commercial performance Happenings listing service, a series of short YouTube promotional videos, the successful nomination of Art Walk for the Urban Land Institute's first LARC award, and a targeted local and international press campaign that most recently resulted in a feature in the Toronto Star, Canada's largest paper (link below).

It is with great personal regret, but high hopes for Art Walk's bright future as a non-profit in the public trust, that Richard and Kim announce that effective November 9 they have ended their relationship with the Art Walk organization, and resigned as the event's day-to-day volunteer managers. The reason for the split: a philosophical difference with fellow Board members, over if it was appropriate or advisable for Russell Brown, an employee of the Historic Downtown Business Improvement District (a property owners' organization) to play a policy-making role in the non-profit that Richard and Kim envision first and foremost as a PEOPLE Improvement District. As described in its official Mission Statement (link below), the Art Walk non-profit was formed to promote positive public space -- but BIDs have a bad habit of privatizing these places in ways that detract from their free public enjoyment and make the city less livable.

Unfortunately unable to find a common ground with their colleagues, the Esotouric crew had no choice but to tender their resignations.

While Esotouric programming will no longer be featured at the Art Walk, fans of Richard and Kim's unique spin on local history and the inspired enjoymen of the urban core won't be left behind. After a much-needed break from the Downtown scene with a double feature of San Gabriel Valley crime bus tours (Pasadena Confidential with Crimebo the Clown on 12/5 and Blood and Dumplings on 12/12), Esotouric will be back with a bang in 2010 with a very special edition of their flagship Real Black Dahlia tour, offered on the anniversary of Beth Short's 1947 kidnapping. Then peel an eye for a packed calendar dotted with exciting new tours, free public lectures and special events, lost lore of the historic core on the In SRO Land time travel blog, and some very special features coming soon for Esotouric online.

Of particular interest to anyone curious about the history and future of the Art Walk will be Richard's February 27 public space tour THE LOWDOWN ON DOWNTOWN, the subject of the recent Toronto Star feature article.

So as the year draws to a close it's bye-bye, dear Art Walk, from your pals at Esotouric ­ and hello to whatever surprises the future brings!

Upcoming Esotouric bus tour and special event schedule
Sat December 5 ­ Pasadena Confidential crime bus tour with Crimebo the Clown
Sat December 12 ­ Blood & Dumplings crime bus tour
Sat January 9 - The Real Black Dahlia crime bus tour
Sat January 16 - Wild Wild West Side crime bus tour
Sat January 30 - East Side Babylon crime bus tour
Sun Feb 7 - Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles: South LA
Sat Feb 13 - Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles: Route 66
Thurs Feb 18 ­ Jeremy Kasten presents "Spider Baby" with director Jack Hill
Sat Feb 20 - Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles: The New Chinatowns
Sun Feb 21 - Joan Renner lecture "How the 'Bob' Changed History" (tentative)
Sat Feb 27 - Reyner Banham Loves Los Angeles: The Lowdown on Downtown-The Secret History of LA
Sat March 6 - Hotel Horrors & Main Street Vice crime bus tour
Sat March 13 - Raymond Chandler's Los Angeles
Sat March 20 - Maja's Mysteries: Rapture & Release (debut)
Sat March 27 - Raymond Chandler's Bay City
Sat April 3 ­ John Buntin's L.A. Noir
Sat April 10 ­ Crawling Down Cahuenga: Tom Waits' L.A.
Sat April 24 ­ Haunts of a Dirty Old Man: Charles Bukowski's L.A.
Sat May 1 - Pasadena Confidential crime bus tour with Crimebo the Clown
Sat May 8 - Blood & Dumplings crime bus tour
Sat May 15 - The Real Black Dahlia crime bus tour
Sat May 22 - The Birth of Noir: James M. Cain's So. Cal Nightmare

For more info on Esotouric, visit
http://www.esotouric.com

For Toronto Star article on Richard Schave's vision for Downtown, see
http://www.thestar.com/travel/northamerica/article/726919--irreverent-tour-turns-l-a-unconfidential

For Richard Schave's Art Walk Mission Statement, see
http://caseDTLAAW.notlong.com/

Barry Big B Brenner performances this week

Barry Big B Brenner
Materializing This Week At...
********************** ***********************

The Foundry on Melrose: BLUESY TUESDAY :
December 1st – 8 to 11pm
7465 Melrose Ave.
Los Angeles
(323) 651-0915
http://www.thefoundryonmelrose.com
********************** ***********************

Firefly Bistro: THURSDAY NIGHT :
December 3rd, 6-9pm
1009 El Centro Street
SOUTH PASADENA
(626) 441-2443
http://www.eatatfirefly.com
********************** ***********************

Firefly Bistro: SUNDAY BLUES BRUNCH :
December 6th, 11am-2pm
1009 El Centro Street
SOUTH PASADENA
(626) 441-2443
http://www.eatatfirefly.com
********************** **********************

Click the LINK below for 5 New VIDEOS from my recent Coffee Gallery Backstage Gig
http://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Barry+Big+B+Brenner+Coffee+Gallery&search_type=&aq=f

********************** **********************
For a Complete List of Big B’s Upcoming Shows, Go to...
http://www.myspace.com/barrybigbbrenner

Saving Abel cancels tour dates

Platinum certified rock band Saving Abel have announced they will be cutting the Class of 2009 tour short, removing the final week of dates from the group’s itinerary. Saving Abel was forced to cancel three recent appearances in Michigan due to the hospitalization of front man Jared Weeks. A nasty mix of diabetic shock and the flu parked the singer in the hospital for a number of days. The tour resumed in last Monday, but after one week of performances, the prudent decision to give Weeks the opportunity to have an insulin pump inserted in to his body immediately has been made.

The announced Class of 2009 shows from Orono, Maine on November 30 through Atlanta on December 8 are cancelled. The band will perform in Nashville on December 18 and Memphis on New Years Eve.

Saving Abel is the first act in over three years to have three top five rock hits off their debut release. The band’s debut singles” Addicted,” “18 Days,” and “Drowning (Face Down)” have delivered a massive fan base for the Corinth, MS. quintet. Saving Abel’s biggest hit “Addicted,” was a #1 rock hit, crossed over to peak at #7 on Billboard’s Top 40 Airplay Chart and also sold over a million downloads.

Serj Tankian to release new CD/DVD

On March 16th, 2009, Serj Tankian, a Grammy Award winner and one of rock’s most unconventional frontmen, took the stage at the majestic Auckland Town Hall in New Zealand with the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra to perform a very special orchestral interpretation of his critically acclaimed debut solo album Elect the Dead. The dynamic one-off performance was recorded and filmed in HD by six cameras, and the dramatic result has been captured in Elect the Dead Symphony — a CD/DVD that will be released by Serjical Strike/Reprise Records on March 9, 2010.

With the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra at his side, Tankian’s epic songs and operatic vocals take on a whole new sense of grandeur when performed by a full 70-piece orchestra, while the DVD’s sweeping edits showcase the drama of the concert. This unique meshing of two very different musical worlds was a vision Tankian has long wanted to make a reality. What sets Elect The Dead Symphony apart from other successful pairings between rock artists and orchestras is that Tankian specifically rearranged his songs to be performed with only orchestral instruments.

“I was elated to have the opportunity to arrange my songs from Elect the Dead for a full orchestra with the APO,” says Tankian. “The arrangements are quite different than those on the record, including bonus tracks never played live.”

Both bonus tracks, “Gate 21” and “The Charade,” have never been released and are included on the CD, CD/DVD, and vinyl formats of Elect the Dead Symphony. The DVD also features rare and intimate backstage footage, as well as one-on-one interviews with Tankian and various members of the Auckland Philharmonia Orchestra.

John Ure, the APO's Director of Operations, is equally as excited about the partnership, saying: “I was introduced to the music of System of a Down several years ago and became a fan after hearing the first song. Next thing I knew I was speaking with Boh Runga about a dream of mine of the APO performing Serj’s music on stage and as it turned out, she knew him and was able to pass on this idea. It seems that dreams do come true! The excitement and anticipation is almost unbearable!”

Elect the Dead Symphony will be released as a deluxe CD/DVD 6-panel digi-pack with an eight-page full color booklet, on vinyl in a double gatefold jacket with full color insert, and as a CD-only version in a standard jewel-case with a 12-page full color booklet. Each version of the packaging features unique images not included in the other formats.

The album’s track-listing (see below) contains elements of psychedelia, classical, and the trademark surrealist images and skewed time signatures that Tankian has made his own, all of which were scored by Tankian himself and arranged for full orchestra by respected New Zealand composer John Psathas. The album has been mixed by Dutch musician Junkie XL, known for his remixes for such artists as Britney Spears, Beastie Boys, Coldplay, Michael BublĂ©, Madonna, Scissor Sisters, Sarah McLachlan, and many more.

Elect the Dead was released by Serjical Strike/Reprise Records on October 12th, 2007 and received glowing reviews from various media, including the Los Angeles Times, which called it "brutally engaging guitar-rock" with "steely lyricism and throttling textures," while Rolling Stone noted that it "delivers amped, intricate, and political hard rock."

The track-listing for Elect the Dead Symphony is as follows:

1. Feed Us
2. Blue
3. Sky Is Over
4. Lie Lie Lie
5. Money
6. Baby
7. Gate 21
8. The Charade
9. Honking Antelope
10. Saving Us
11. Elect The Dead
12. Falling Stars
13. Beethoven’s C**t
14. Empty Walls

www.serjtankian.com

Macy's to help Elton John AIDS Foundation

The Elton John AIDS Foundation (EJAF) and America's department store Macy's, are partnering this holiday season to sell a limited edition Holiday-scented candle to benefit EJAF's grant-making initiatives. Priced at $25, this special edition candle is available now through Macy's department stores nationwide, as well as through macys.com. www.macys.com

"This holiday season, the gift of candlelight can also be the gift of life, because a portion of the proceeds from each candle will support EJAF's life-saving mission to bring effective HIV prevention programming to men, women, and children across the Americas and the Caribbean who are the most at-risk and the most vulnerable to HIV infection," said Sir Elton John. "I love candles, and it has been a great pleasure to create just the right scent to put everyone in the holiday spirit."

Please visit www.ejaf.org to find detailed information about EJAF's mission and history and to make secure, tax-deductible, online donations in support of its work.

ThundHerStruck at Paladino's Saturday

A show you won't wanna miss!!!!

Come on out and celebrate the holidays with ThundHerStruck as they perform a double whammy....the Back in Black and Highway to Hell albums played THS style!!! :)
I guess this would be the "Back in Hell" set....or maybe "Highway to Black"? LOL!
We hope to see you all there!

Who: ThundHerStruck showtime 10:30pm. Also appearing; Burning Sky (Tribute to Bad Company), Lights Out (Tribute to UFO) and
the GenXters (90's Tribute).

What: Holiday Basharooni :-)

When:Saturday Dec 5th.

Where: Paladino's night club located at 6101 Reseda Blvd. Tarzana CA. (corner of Oxnard).

So come on down and join the party!!!
There will be TONS of FREE Jager Swag too!!!!
Fo more info please log onto the THS website.

ThundHerStruck... The Ultimate All-Girl Tribute to AC/DC!
www.ThundHerStruck.com
Hotline: 213-226-1916
www.myspace.com/thundherstruckrocks

Detweiler releases two albums

2009 marks the release of two new Detweiler CDs, Renditionation Integration and Infusion Went Away.

Infusion Went Away is a collection of 15 tracks of all original material, 10 of which are new releases. New instrumentals include “Fleur De Lis”, and “Jax On Brand”.

Renditionation Integration is a collection of Detweiler-interpreted jazz and blues standards (also both vocal and instrumental) from artists such as B.B. King, Miles Davis, Albert King and Dave Brubeck, and it marks Detweiler’s first release of standards.

Both self-produced CDs feature Detweiler as a solo performer, on guitar and vocals, and were recorded live at the Infusion Gallery during the Downtown Los Angeles Art walk. The absence of editing and overdubbing, along with the audible sound of the audience provides a real roots experience of Detweiler in a live gallery setting.

Detweiler’s bold decision to simultaneously release the raw and gritty CDs on the heels of his highly polished and critically acclaimed 2008 VAVV Records studio album, “Made In New Orleans”, was frowned upon by many of his advisors. Detweiler and VAVV Records, who had no interest in the project, have since parted ways.

“Recording ‘Made In New Orleans’ began in April 2007 but the album was not released until February 2008”, Detweiler explains. “Although the album is an artistic triumph, by the time it was released, it no longer reflected where I was musically”.

Both Renditionation Integration and Infusion Went Away were recorded in August 2009 and released 30 (thirty) days later. “These recordings represent a fresh portrayal of where I am musically, here and now”, says Detweiler, “as well as chronicle early 21st century live music in Los Angeles”.

Both CDs are available exclusively at www.detweilermusic.com or write to scottdetweiler@hotmail.com.

2010 will see the world premiere of Detweiler’s new work for jazz quintet on April 25 at the Madrid Theatre in Canoga Park, California, when his quintet performs as guests of the San Fernando Valley Youth Chorus.

Shimmy Showcase Sunday

Everyone is invited to this cozy haven for a relaxing evening among friends. Select your favorite beverage, hot or cold, from an assortment of coffees, teas, smoothies or juice; add to that a tasty sandwich or pastry; and then seat yourself alongside our magic carpet to enjoy some really great dancing at NO cover charge!

The SHIMMY SHOWCASE begins at 7 p.m. at the I-CANDY COFFEE in Long Beach (1708 E. Broadway -- 562-437-3785).

Below is our upcoming schedule for the next several Sundays at the I-Candy Coffee in Long Beach. If you are a dancer interested in performing at an upcoming showcase, please check out the schedule below for open dates and then email us at
shimmyshowcase@yahoogroups.com
with the dates on which you'd like to perform.

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UPCOMING SHOWCASE CALENDAR
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December 6: Saviya celebrates her birthday month by presenting “Gypsy Fire” with guest dancer (and fellow Sagitarian) Jheri and her troupe JJ & the Habibis. Come join this kumpania of lovely dancers in celebrating Saviya’s and JJ’s birthdays. Shimmyshowcase will provide birthday cake and Rom-inspired Gypsy dances to the delight of all.

December 13: As the holiday season gets into full swing, Xandra welcomes duo Raks Bahlam and trio Kalista, Azira, and Tahira. Adding to the fun will be male dancer Siraj. These dancers will share their seasonal good will with the wonderful patrons of I-Candy as only belly dancers can do--through shimmies and undulations.

December 20: Another great Shimmyshowcase year closes out with Alexiis bringing you the always-popular Mid-Winter’s Dream Shimmyshowcase. Guest Dancers Rachel, Kalila, Sarah, and IrinaXara will express their seasonal or holiday dreams in the form of dance. Please join us for this year-end celebration of the holidays in dance!

December 27: DARK

January 3: DARK (Happy New Year!)

January 10: As the new year gets underway, and the cheerful goodwill of the recently ended holiday season fades, Shimmyshowcase returns to I-Candy Coffee with an apropos theme-- Post Holiday Blues! Coordinator Saviya and guest dancers Kamar and Meryem Vani will enthrall with their creative coupling of Blues music to bellydancing. So, if you’re feeling a little down after all the year end parties and gatherings and dreading the bills that follow, come on down to I-Candy Coffee and treat yourself to some mighty fine dancing to some great American style music! Dancers who would like to perform for this evening are encouraged to contact us at Shimmyshowcase@yahoogroups.com as we expect spots to fill up fast!

January 17: Xandra is excited because Elan returns to I-Candy Coffee for our first Shimmyshowcase of 2010 with LIVE MUSIC! Rico & Marguerite of Elan will delight both dancers and audience alike with their exquisitely played and sung arrangements of middle eastern music, interspersed with some blues and standards during the breaks. Dancers who would like to perform with Elan are invited to contact us at Shimmyshowcase@yahoogroups.com for a performance spot!

January 24: Coordinator Abraiha presents guest dancers May, Ana, Constance, and Akiko from Dance Garden.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Please allow time for parking to avoid missing any of the fun. Since street parking around I-Candy Coffee is scarce, we recommend you try the perimeter of Bixby park located two blocks west of I-Candy Coffee at Broadway and Cherry. Please try to arrive before 7:00 PM (earlier if you’re a performer!) as we try not to start the show until everyone has settled with a tasty beverage.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

for additional information, please visit our website at: www.ShimmyShowcase.com

We look forward to seeing you soon at the Sunday Shimmyshowcase!

Friday, November 27, 2009

End o' week musings Vol. Two - KISS concert update














This just in! Photos from the KISS concert taken by my friend and huge KISS fan Kim Eschoo.












End o' week musings

Gosh, where did my week go? With a holiday yesterday it feels like Sunday, but I'm at work, so that makes it Monday or would that be..... so confusing! But I do remember what I've done lol!


Friday night I went to the La Fetra Center in Glendora to check out the boutique. My mother and I did a little holiday shopping and visited with my podmate Linda, who had baked goods and some of her copper enamel jewelry there for sale. (Her jewelry is beautiful!)


After dropping mom back home I changed and headed out to the Buccaneer in Sierra Madre to catch Adam Marsland's Chaos Band. They are very talented and their players have impressive backgrounds, such as lead guitarist Evie Sands (just Google her and you'll be reading for hours!). My evening became extra special because I finally got to meet one of my readers, Bob Davis, in person. He's a really cool guy- a big fan of the band and also trains. We had a nice chat and I met his lovely wife too. She took some of the photos on my blog today- what a sweetie!


Bob is responsible for turning me on to Adam Marsland's Chaos Band and helping me get in touch with them for an interview a while back. It was a good story and their music is good too. They have a fairly new album out and have been touring here and there, so look for them in your town.


As for Bob, look for him at your train station. He's big into railroads and sent me some really cool photos and a little story about his morning at the Monrovia Gold Line station event. Quite interesting!

Saturday I joined Linda Hermann at her store A&J Cake and Candy Supplies for her candy making demonstration. I was there to write a story for my Fun 101 column and I think I'm hooked. It was so fun and so easy that my mom and I are planning to make some candy for her friends for the holidays.


After candy, my mom and I had an aural treat- we went to the Crown City Symphony concert at the Altadena Senior Center. The program was all Mendelsson and it was quite soothing. I knew a few of the musicians too. After the concert we went to the Spaghetti Factory in Monrovia for an early dinner- yummy!


The No Doo Dah Day Party was Sunday at the American Legion in East Pasadena. I danced, dined on chili, sipped martinis and chatted with everyone. Snotty Scotty & the Hankies was the band for the event and were rockin' the house. There was a lot of royalty in attendance too, including: former queens Ellen, Sierra Madre Sue, Tequilla and me, as well as current queen Skittles and Prince Andrew. Of course the Tsar Tom Coston was there, along with Paddy Hurley, Doug Larner and the list goes on....


Professional news photographer Terry Miller was on hand to capture the scene and shared some photos with me. Visit my Diary of a Doo Dah Queen blog, www.insidesocal.com/doodah to see more.

Wednesday night I went to the KISS concert at the Staples Center. Wow! What a show!! The guys still have it and know how to dish it out. Their performance was outstanding and even included pyrotechnics and other cool tricks. I would love to catch them again!

Yesterday was Thanksgiving, so I cooked dinner. I made turkey with oyster stuffing, mashed potatoes with onions, garlic and cheese and brussel sprouts cooked in cinnamon and ginger and glazed with honey, lemon, butter and almonds. We had olive bread, cranberry jelly and red velvet cake too. I was thrilled because everything turned out perfect and I was a good girl and kept to small portions and only one plate. After dinner we also went for a walk.

Tonight I will be going to 3 Vinos in Covina for a Nightlife story. It's brand new and I've got to get the entertainment scoop. I'll be spending Saturday at Carin and Tom's house and that's as far as my week goes at this point.
In rotation this week: HorrorPops, Dio, Contessa Black and KISS.


Photos we got 'em: Just three-- Bob Davis at the Monrovia Gold Line event, me watching Adam Marsland's Chaos Band and me trying to get Tom to dance at the No Doo Dah Party.



Thought o' the Week: Be kind. I'll admit it, as much as I do things with my mom, we really aren't that close. I didn't grow up in the best home and I still struggle with it. I left young and (thankfully) things were better for my brother. But since he got married, he's not spent much time with mom and I have felt it is my duty to fill the gap. One of those things has been holidays.



OK, I can understand why I'm not invited to family things, as I haven't been a part of my family since I was a teen, but mom? It really hurts her that my brother just wants to be with his wife and step-kids right now. I know that this married thing is new to him, so I'm cool with it... but try and explain it to mom. She refuses to understand. So for now I'm trying to make sure she's not just hiding out alone at home.

I cooked the Thanksgiving dinner at her house yesterday and did everything to try to make it fun and happy. I chatted about all sorts of silly stuff and kept a good attitude. I would have much rather been sewing or working on some project at home with the precious time I had, but it was the right thing to do. I slept well last night, did you? Have you done "the right thing" for someone lately? It's never the wrong time.
Keep on rockin'
Mickie

NextAid to present Wolrd AIDS Day events

Humanitarian organization NextAid presents its second annual World AIDS Day 2009 Events (WAD2009), a multi-date fundraising campaign in cities across the U.S. and in Vancouver, starting on November 25, 2009 in San Francisco and continuing throughout the entire month of December.

Tied into World AIDS Day (WAD), a globally recognized day, which takes place every year on December 1st, NextAid activates the international dance music community to raise funds and awareness for AIDS orphans and other vulnerable children in Africa. The first WAD, established in 1988 by the World Health Organization, was about raising money, increasing awareness, fighting prejudice and improving education, goals that are as relevant as ever in 2009.

A portion of the proceeds from each of NextAid’s WAD2009 events will go towards two of its current projects on the ground in Africa:

the Kawangware Street Children & Youth Project (KSCYP) in Nairobi, Kenya, and the loveLife GoGogetters program in South Africa.

For more information on NextAid and all the WAD2009 events please visit

http://www.nextaid.org/wad2009
and
http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=170439442825&ref=ts.


NextAid, is uniting the dance music communities from coast to coast, including the scenes in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Omaha, New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Vancouver, Charlotte for 12 (& counting) events to recognize the 21st annual World AIDS Day. NextAid has partnered with organizations and media partners with deep electronic music and DJ culture roots such as, Fusicology, Green Galactic, Rhythmism, The MML, URB Magazine, Wantickets, Homemade LA, and Dubspot to help with the massive promotional efforts for NextAid’s growing number of WAD2009 events.

NextAid "World AIDS Day" Events Include:

Nov. 25 supperclub San Francisco D:FUSE / Sen-Sei / Rooz, DJ Bo, Fil Latorre, Dmitri SFC
Nov. 27 Giant Step and Turntables on the Hudson, Sullivan Room, NYC Nickodemus / Nappy G Dec. 1 Marrakesh House L.A. Louie Vega / DJ Rap / Marques Wyatt / TOTH / Raul Campos
Dec. 3 loom España Tapas Bar, Omaha Brent Crampton / Shif-D
Dec. 4 Alive 315 Dakota Lounge, Los Angeles Miguel / The Elevators
Dec. 10 Nordic Trax Ginger 62, Vancouver Luke McKeehan/ DJ Krown / Jay Tripwire
Dec. 11 Playloop Silk City, Philadelphia Lee Mayjahs? / DJ Everyday / Justin Paul
Dec. 11 Tropical Los Angeles Christian Martin / Adnan Sharif / Rithma / Ben Annand
Dec. 11 Charlotte House Music Society Dharma Lounge, Charlotte Mr. V
Dec. 12 Uhuru Afrika All Asia, Boston Adam Gibbons / Max Pela / Sidy Maiga
Dec. 15 Technique Zanzibar, Santa Monica Mark Lewis / Michele Bass
Dec. 20 DEEP Vanguard, L.A. BODDHI SATVA / Marques Wyatt / Wiseacre / Jeremy Sole
Dec. 23 Free Thinking/Uniting Souls Mal’s Bar, Los Angeles Jordan Strong / Michael Tello

The funds raised from the World AIDS Day 2009 campaign of events will go towards two of NextAid’s current projects:

- The Kawangware Street Children & Youth Project (KSCYP) in Nairobi, Kenya

- The NextAid’s “Send A Child to School” campaign through the loveLife goGogetters program in South Africa

Locally created and managed, KSCYP strives to get youth off the streets of Kawangware, a slum bordering Nairobi, by providing opportunities for performance activities and economic development. The profits generated from their gift bag making business help support the youth workers’ basic needs such as food, shelter, medical care and education, while also taking care of the community’s orphaned and vulnerable children. NextAid has joined forces with KSCYP by committing to raise funds for the construction of an eco-friendly, multipurpose facility for the expansion of their micro-business.

NextAid is also working with the well-respected South African organization, loveLife, to be the beneficiary of NextAid’s “Send a Child to School” campaign. goGogetters is a loveLife program to support the many grandmothers (gogos) who dedicate their old-age years to the wellbeing of orphans and vulnerable children. NextAid is raising funds for the schooling needs of some of the most vulnerable children who participate in the goGogetters program. All it takes is $75 to enable one child’s education for an entire year. This donation will ensure that the child is equipped with a school uniform, transportation fees, and school supplies.

NextAid represents the dance music community’s response to AIDS in Africa…

NextAid receives support from a wide range of entertainment industry leaders including some of the most internationally recognized names in dance music, such as Louie Vega, DJ Dan, Miguel Migs, Colette, Samantha James, Nickodemus, DJ Rap, OM Records, Dubspot, Giant Step and URB Magazine. From mega-events like Miami’s annual Winter Music Conference to small clubs and through benefits and other music related activities, NextAid channels the positive energy on the dance floor across the globe to children in Africa.

Check out NextAid’s ‘Artists & DJs PSA to learn more:
http://www.kyte.tv/ch/335172-nextaid/530357-artistsanddjsfornextaid.

Also, check out Funk Aid for Africa: A CD that embodies NextAid’s mantra of “using the beats of our generation to provide hope for the next”! Purchase this charitable compilation produced by Dubspot and DJ OBaH at
http://www.funkaid.com.

100% of the proceeds benefit NextAid.


About NextAid –

NextAid's mission is to improve the lives of youth in Africa by implementing and advancing sustainable solutions. Through music events and public education initiatives, this Los Angeles based humanitarian organization raises awareness for and partners with community-based projects and grassroots organizations in Africa. NextAid adheres to a holistic and integrated approach in addressing the spectrum of challenges associated with establishing lasting change. NextAid provides empowering opportunities for concerned individuals to make a tangible difference

The UN estimated that every 14 seconds, an African child loses a parent to AIDS, and every day, more than 6,000 young Africans aged 15 - 24 acquire the HIV virus. After more than two decades of AIDS devastating the continent where life began, only 10% of the 15 million AIDS orphans are receiving any kind of public support. The enormity of the AIDS pandemic demands a response from every corner of society. NextAid believes that focusing on children is the most effective way to impact this crisis and uses the collective energy generated on the dance floor to make a difference.

About World AIDS Day –

World AIDS Day is a day when individuals and organizations from around the world come together to bring attention to the global AIDS epidemic. This year marks the 21st anniversary of World AIDS Day with the theme of “Universal Access and Human Rights.” The human rights approach is comprehensive, tying directly into the response needed for universal access to treatment, prevention, care and support. World AIDS Day is important in reminding people that HIV has not gone away, and that there are many things still to be done. More information can be found at www.worldaidscampaign.org.

Rebelution, Soja and Zion-I to tour

iTunes and Billboard chart topping group Rebelution announces their headlining Winter 2010 tour alongside acclaimed reggae artist SOJA and critically acclaimed hip-hop legends ZION-I. Continuing with their constant touring schedule, which saw them play over 70 shows and a dozen festivals this year, with their most recent trek across the country selling out many venues including markets in which the band had never previously performed.

Based in Santa Barbara, Rebelution will be headlining 39 performances nationwide throughout January, February, and March 2010. Venues will be in the one thousand to two thousand capacity range, 19 of them House of Blues main rooms. The band has rapidly grown into one of the most notable reggae artists in the music industry today, after the release of their sophomore album Bright Side of Life dominated the iTunes charts in August 2009, capturing the #3 spot for top albums downloaded in the United States in all genres, and the #1 spot in the reggae music genre. Rebelution went on to garner the #54 spot on the Billboard Top 200, #7 on the Billboard Top Independent Albums charts and #1 on the Billboard Top Reggae Albums charts.

Rebelution recently finished a 52 city tour across the United States, playing sold out shows at venues such as The Fillmore in San Francisco, The House of Blues in West Hollywood, HOB Anaheim, HOB San Diego, Paradise Rock in Boston, The Note in Westchester, Neumos in Seattle, The Social in Orlando, Fox Theatre in Boulder, Norva in Norfolk and Music Farm in Charleston to name a few. They have shared the stage with artists such as The Offspring, 311, Slightly Stoopid, Willie Nelson, Damian Marley, Bob Dylan, and Ludacris.

Touring with Rebelution is Washington D.C.s SOJA who released their third full-length album Born in Babylon in August 2009. The album debuted at #1 on the iTunes reggae charts, and #3 on Billboards Top Reggae Album charts. The band is known as a road warrior, averaging 150 shows a year visiting every major city in the United States, and playing internationally for crowds of up to 16,000 people. They have shared the stage with notable artists such as Citizen Cope, Matisyahu, Ben Harper, Slightly Stoopid, Damian Marley, Govt Mule, Umphrees McGee, and Steel Pulse.

Also touring with Rebelution is Oakland based, hip-hop legends ZION-I. The duo consists of producer and DJ AmpLive and emcee Zumbi. They are best known for their futuristic production techniques, using a mix of live instrumentation and samples, and their poetic, positive, and socially conscious lyrics.

Tickets for Rebelution, SOJA, and ZION-Is winter 2010 tour go on sale Saturday, November 21.

REBELUTION / SOJA / ZION-I WINTER 2010 TOUR DATES

January 13 House of Blues Anaheim, CA
January 14 House of Blues Anaheim, CA
January 15 Ventura Theatre Ventura, CA
January 16 Ventura Theatre Ventura, CA
January 17 The Catalyst Santa Cruz, CA
January 20 The Fillmore San Francisco, CA
January 21 The Fillmore San Francisco, CA
January 22 Roseland Theatre Portland, OR
January 23 Showbox at the Market Seattle, WA
January 24 W.O.W Hall Eugene, OR
January 27 Knitting Factory Boise, ID
January 28 The Depot Salt Lake City, UT
January 29 Gothic Theatre Englewood, CO
January 30 Boulder Theater Boulder, CO
January 31 Slowdown Omaha, NE
February 3 Fine Line Music Caf Minneapolis, MN
February 4 House of Blues Chicago, IL
February 5 The Intersection Grand Rapids, MI
February 6 Newport Music Hall Columbus, OH
February 10 House of Blues Boston, MA
February 11 Fillmore at Irving Plaza New York, NY
February 12 9:30 Club Washington, DC
February 13 Fillmore at Theatre of the Living Arts Philadelphia, PA
February 14 The NorVa Norfolk, VA
February 17 The Masquerade Atlanta, GA
February 18 The Ritz Ybor City, FL
February 19 House of Blues Orlando, FL
February 20 Freebird Live Jacksonville Beach, FL
February 21 Freebird Live Jacksonville Beach, FL
February 24 House of Blues New Orleans, LA
February 25 House of Blues Houston, TX
February 26 Stubbs Austin, TX
February 27 House of Blues Dallas, TX
March 2 Rialto Theatre Tucson, AZ
March 3 Marquee Theatre Tempe, AZ
March 4 House of Blues San Diego, CA
March 5 House of Blues San Diego, CA
March 6 House of Blues West Hollywood, CA
March 7 House of Blues West Hollywood, CA


For more information on Bright Side of Life please visit Rebelutions website at
www.rebelutionmusic.com
or Facebook www.facebook.com/rebelution

For more information on Born in Babylon please visit SOJAs website at
www.sojamusic.com
or Myspace at www.myspace.com/soja.

For more information on ZION-I please visit their MySpace at
www.myspace.com/ZionI.

LA Master Chorale to offer Messiah Sing-Along

Messiah Sing-Along - presented by the Los Angeles Master Chorale
Grant Gershon, conductor
Performance Dates/Soloists:

Saturday, December 12, 2009, 2:00 p.m.
Ayana Haviv, Soprano
Amy Fogerson, Alto
Daniel Chaney, Tenor
Steve Pence, Bass

Sunday, December 20, 2009, 7:00 pm
Karen Hogle Brown, Soprano
Rose Beattie, Alto
Pablo Cora, Tenor
Greg Geiger, Bass

Program: GEORGE FRIDERIC HANDEL
Messiah

Venue: Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S. Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Ticket Prices: $24 - $74; group rates available.
Scores are available at the door for $10.

Ticket Information: 213-972-7282 www.lamc.org

(Tickets can no longer be purchased at the Walt Disney Concert Hall Box Office except on concert days starting 2 hours prior to the performance.)

Musicians Institute offering scholarships

To help aspiring musicians who are ready to pursue their education, but unfortunately lack economic means, Musicians Institute has announced “Full Ride,” a nationwide scholarship competition.

Students and potential students are invited to submit recordings via the contest’s website. After preliminary screening is complete, finalists will be flown by MI to Hollywood where they will perform live in the school’s main Concert Hall before a panel of top industry professionals. The grand prize winner will receive a full tuition scholarship to MI beginning in Spring 2010, as well as up to $10,000 in living expenses. The first and second runners-up will receive full and partial tuition scholarships, respectively.

Describing the motivation behind this new scholarship opportunity, MI’s Director of Admissions Jonathan Wilder said, “When the economy is in turmoil it’s tough to afford an education, but it’s also the time when you need it the most. We want to extend a hand to help at least a few talented and highly motivated artists turn their passion for music into a profession, as well as to let aspiring performers across the country know about MI’s unique educational opportunities. The ‘Full Ride’ competition is a chance for us to contact and engage with musicians who are ready to take the next big step forward in their education and their career.”

Since 1977, Musicians Institute (MI) has trained thousands of graduates for careers in every genre of contemporary music. From the beginning, MI revolutionized music education with hands-on, intensive, performance-based programs taught by working professionals. Today, MI’s unique, innovative approach includes degree and certificate programs for career-minded guitarists, bassists, drummers, vocalists, keyboardists, audio engineers, independent artists, guitar makers, music business professionals and filmmakers.

Rock-A-Thon today to benefit Child's Play

The sun will have rotated on its axis more than three times, nearly 1.4 million babies will have been born worldwide and most Americans will have almost worked a full week by the time Ciji Thorton and Freddie Wong of Los Angeles, Calif., along with 14 other gamers, will have played Rock Band™ for 90 hours straight in their quest to become the Guinness World Record-holder (Gamer’s Edition) for the Longest Relay Rock Band concert – all while raising money for Child’s Play charity.

The event, known as The Rock-A-Thon powered by Energizer® Advanced Lithium, will begin on Black Friday, Nov. 27 at 12:05 a.m., when the first set of Rock Band™ players take the stage at the Sports Bar at Meridian in Houston, Texas for the 90-hour marathon. Thorton and Wong will join the ranks of some of the biggest names in the gaming industry, including Robert Paz, a.k.a. Prod1gy X. They’re playing in hopes of not only setting the world record but also raising $100,000 for Child’s Play.

“We are excited to have some of the most-renowned video gamers playing alongside us as we try to set the Guinness World Record for the Longest Relay Rock Band concert,” said Paul Slawinski, President and Co-Founder of The Rock-A-Thon. “We hope people come out to watch the action and to help raise money for Child’s Play.”

For every fan that attends the epic 90-hour charity concert, Energizer, The Rock-A-Thon’s presenting sponsor, will donate $1 to Child’s Play, up to $5,000. Child’s Play is a community-based charity grown and nurtured from the game culture and industry. The charity donates toys, video games, books and cash for sick kids in children’s hospitals across North America.

“Now more than ever, charities are in need assistance, so we are thrilled to power The Rock-A-Thon and help raise money for Child’s Play,” said Jim Olsen, Vice President of Marketing, North America for Energizer. “Our Energizer® Advanced Lithium batteries will allow for hours and hours of uninterrupted game play, helping The Rock-A-Thon rockers raise money and reach their record.”

Energizer® Advanced Lithium batteries provide 20 additional hours* of continuous playing time in wireless gaming accessories. In addition to offering long-lasting power, Energizer® Advanced Lithium has a shelf life of 10 years and weighs 33 percent less than an ordinary alkaline battery. The entire 100-hour performance will be streamed live at www.therockathon.com.


Going for the Record
The Rock-A-Thon members will be setting the first world record for the Longest Relay Rock Band concert. The event will kick-off with four of the 16 Rock-A-Thon members playing a seven-song set. After the opening set, the group will play in 50-song shifts of four people – one vocalist, one guitarist, one bassist, one drummer – plus two additional people for The Beatles™: Rock Band™ songs (which require three-part harmony in addition to the instruments). All songs will be played on the “expert setting.” After the full 90 hours is complete, The Rock-A-Thon members will have played more than 1,050 songs.

The event will be recorded and documented for submission to Twin Galaxies, the World’s official scorekeepers of video gaming records, according to Guinness World Records.

In addition to the donation made by Energizer, The Rock-A-Thon will be selling official “The Rock-A-Thon” t-shirts for $25 and raffle tickets for prizes like a year’s worth of Energizer® Advanced Lithium batteries. All proceeds will benefit Child’s Play. The event is free and open to the public.

See Bernie Pearl at Arcadia Blues Club and get a free CD

Get a free CD with each paid admission to our show at the Arcadia Blues Club December 12.

When I was going over details of our upcoming gig at the ABC with club manager Bob Dahms, he asked me about how many people I expected. I thought for a minute, and then said, Oh, about 50. He laughed and said, That would be fantastic, and then added, I'll bet you can't do it! I came back with, Just watch me! So, I decided to take out some insurance.

Here's the deal: Everyone who buys a ticket, either in advance ($5 -see link below), or at the door ($10), will receive a voucher, good for a free copy of either our latest CD, "Old School Blues, Acoustic/Electric" (a double disc CD), or the classic CD we made with the late Papa John Creach a while back, "Papa Blues". You can pick them up there that night.

Music critic Joel Okida said of Old School, "If you are going to buy just one blues CD this year consider this one before any others." (www.FolkWorks.org )

Of Papa Blues, reviewer Al Lubiejewski said in JazzErie, "Thank the stars we will always have this one shining testament to his greatness."

Good stuff!

You just can't lose on December 12: five hours of great blues with two bands, the Bobby Bluehouse Band and the Bernie Pearl Blues Band, a free blues CD with each paid admission, and tickets costing only $5 & $10. Such a deal!

And that ain't all, folks! I have also decided to try out a new approach to concert music sales suggested by CDBab by offering additional copies of both CDs at a "whatever you can pay" price. Holiday blues gifts made easy. Heck, why not treat the blues fans in your life to a show while you're at it.

Saturday, December 12
The Bernie Pearl Blues Band (Albert Trepagnier, Dwayne Smith, Mike Barry, and I) play at the Arcadia Blues Club (The ABC).
Opening at 8:00 will be the great Bobby Bluehouse Band. We follow with two sets starting at 10:00.
Tickets are $5 in advance, $10 at the door.
Check the links below for advance sales, or call (626) 447-9349.
16 E. Huntington Dr., Arcadia.
It's gonna be fun!

info@arcadiasbest.com
www.arcadiasbest.com

Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Tangent releases video clips from new album

Down And Out In Paris and London, their latest of five studio releases to date, sees prog rock band The TANGENT concentrate more than ever before on their artistic expressiveness.

“Our new album is a 100 percent musical project. Where the previous album, Not As Good As The Book, was this whole multimedia thing with illustrations and science fiction novel, this one is about five pieces of music on a single CD,” keyboardist/guitarist/vocalist Andy Tillison points out. “In terms of format, it’s more like our very first album, kicking off with a 19-minute piece which I am sure fans of the band’s prog stuff are going to like. Hopefully a lot!”

The TANGENT have posted two video clips featuring songs and footage from the new album Down And Out In Paris and London. They can be viewed at the links below:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P9-LVfYwzqg

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibLk-BaapmA

Andy Tillison the leader of the TANGENT had the following to say about the release of the new album:

"The new album is out and so far things are going well. It was nerve racking to see how people would react to the new musicians and rhythm section in particular. While as you would expect it's much discussed, the lager opinion seems to be that it's a good move and that the new guys are a positive boost. I know that already of course!! Progressive Rock is often full of allegiances to "classic lineups" and favourite musicians, but it's also full of exciting changes and taking risks. To me, "Down And Out" is an album encapsulating the Tangent story so far. I'm immensely pleased with it on loads of levels. This is six years of music from a band who only formed to make one album."

There have been line-up changes again since the previous album, Not As Good As The Book: Jaime Jalazar and Jonas Reingold have left the fold, so now The Tangent consists, along with Tillison, guitarist Guy Manning and saxophonist/flutist Theo Travis, drummer Paul Burgess and bassist Jonathan Barrett.

“For the first time since 2003, all the members of the Tangent are English,” Tillison rejoices. “I think that’s an important thing, because one of the most defining things about The TANGENT’s sound has been a certain ‘Englishness’ - an affinity with the roots of prog rock.”


Formats:
CD Limited First Edition Digipak w. bonus track 0505048
CD Regular Edition Jewelcase 0505042

Line-up:
Andy Tillison – vocals, keyboards, electric guitar
Jonathan Barrett – bass guitar
Paul Burgess – drums
Theo Travis – say, flute
Guy Manning – acoustic guitar, vocals


Discography:
The Music That Died Alone (2003)
The World That We Drive Through (2004)
A Place In The Queue (2006)
Going Off On One DVD (2007)
Not As Good As The Book (2008)
Down And Out In Paris And London (2009)

Track listing:
1. Where Are They Now? 19:10
2. Paroxetine – 20mg 07:47
3. Perdu Dans Paris 11:47
4. The Company Car 06:23
5. Ethanol Hat Nail (Canterbury Sequence Vol. 2) 12:55
6. Everyman’s Forgotten Monday 06:22 (bonus track)

http://www.thetangent.org
http://www.insideout.de

LA Children's Chorus winter concert Dec. 6 and 13

Los Angeles Children's Chorus - Annual Winter Concert
Anne Tomlinson, Conductor/Concert Choir/Chamber Singers
Mandy Brigham, Conductor/Intermediate Choir
Amy Brehm, Conductor/ Apprentice Choir

DATES:
Sunday, December 6, 2009, 7:00 PM
and
Sunday, December 13, 2009, 7:00 PM

PROGRAM:
Montserrat Monastery (Spain) Cuncti Simus
JAMES MULHOLLAND Come Let's Be Merry
SERGEI RACHMANINOFF The Angel
JOHN ADAMS “The Palm” from El Niño
ZHOU LONG Winter
Mexican lullaby A la Puerta del Cielo
HENRY MOLLICONE Lullaby
DAVID CONTE Alleluia
MICHAEL HAYDN Dixit Dominus
JOHANN SEBASTIAN BACH Sonntag
Spanish folksong Riu, Riu Chiu
Spiritual Go Where I Send Thee
+ other works to be announced

LOCATION: Pasadena Presbyterian Church
585 E. Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, CA 91101

TICKET PRICES: $42, $36 and $24; _ price for students

INFORMATION & TICKETS: (626) 793-4231 www.lachildrenschorus.org

Peter Himmelman in Venice Dec. 6

Minivan Productions will continue its new all-ages concert series at the Air Conditioned Supper Club in Venice, CA, featuring some of the top artists in the indie children's music genre. The Minivan Kids Series featured artist is Grammy Award nominated artist PETER HIMMELMAN, on Sunday, December 6th at 11 am.

The monthly series will pick up again in January 2010.

Minivan Productions, founded in May 2009 by music industry veteran Dan Perloff, is a new record label and production company for family music. The company debuted with the release of Peter Himmelman's award-winning CD My Trampoline this fall.

Visit http://www.minivanproductions.com for more information.


Show details:
Minivan Kids Series Presents: PETER HIMMELMAN
Sunday, December 6, 11 am
The Air Conditioned Supper Club
625 Lincoln Blvd., Venice, CA 90291
Information: (310) 230-5343


www.airconditionedbar.com
Tickets: $10 for adults & $5 for kids. (Kids under 2 get in free).

Cool holiday packages to benefit Muse Elementary

Help MUSE Elementary, an educational organization which helps children realize their full potential through academic excellence, personal responsibility, global consciousness and environmental awareness by bidding on a holiday package.

More info on the charity can be found here: http://www.charitybuzz.com/auctions/avatar


charitybuzz’s Top 5 Movie Packages for the Holidays

· Meet Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger at the Capitol in Sacramento, CA: Don't miss this rare opportunity to meet the Governor of California, Arnold Schwarzenegger, in his office. The “Terminator” will be available for a meet & greet and photos!

· Attend the LA Premier of "Avatar" as VIPs on Dec. 16! Includes Celebrity-studded After Party, Hotel, Limo & In-Room Makeover: After 15 years as a concept and 4 years of production, James Cameron, the Oscar-winning director of "Titanic," brings the world of "Avatar" to the big screen. Stay in Beverly Hills for the night, attend the premiere, see all the celebrities at the after-party!

· Win a Walk-On Role in an Upcoming Donners' Co. Film, Producer of "X-Men" and Director of the "Lethal Weapon" Series: Find yourself on the set of an upcoming film from Donners' Company, the producers who brought you "X-Men" 1-3, with a non-speaking walk-on role.

· Spend the Day on the Set with Hugh Jackman: Hang with superstar Hugh Jackman for a day on the set of his new upcoming movie.

· A Private Tour of Weta Workshop in New Zealand – Where Middle Earth Was Brought to Life in The Lord of the Rings: Experience a fantasy setting in person by visiting Middle Earth...or at least the facility that brought it to life.

Remember When and the Dickens Christmas Carolers to perform in Sierra Madre Saturday

On Saturday, November 28, Remember When and The Dickens Christmas Carolers will share the main stage in Kersting Court during the Dickens Village Celebration in Sierra Madre from 3:00PM to 5:00PM, located in the heart of the village at the corner of Baldwin Ave and Sierra Madre Blvd in Sierra Madre. Several other local entertainers have been invited to attend, but at this time have not confirmed.

This Traditional Holiday Family Festival is a project of the Sierra Madre Chamber of Commerce. It features booths by local artisans and non-profit vendors in the area, snow sledding on Sierra Madre Blvd, carriage rides in Downtown Sierra Madre and Pictures with Santa Claus.

In the past, there has been a special Christmas Card project to send Holiday greeting to American Troops overseas. That was cancelled last year due to the anthrax scare. Therefore, for the first time, local Cable TV Producer John Johnson is video taping special holiday greetings from all those in attendance to be put on a special "live" Christmas Card to bring them a bit of home this Christmas Season. This card will be a special video placed on YouTube for the world to see. While the booths and downtown stores will be open, the entertainment and the greetings for the troops are free to the public.

Westfield to kick off 12 Days of Shopping

With the most wonderful time of the year approaching, Westfield shopping centers including Westfield Century City, Westfield Culver City, Westfield Promenade in Woodland Hills and Westfield Fashion Square in Sherman Oaks embrace the spirit of the season and kick off the Westfield ‘12 Days of Shopping’ season of celebration on Friday, November 27.

Throughout the ‘12 Days of Shopping,’ holiday joy will fill the air as Westfield shoppers are treated to enter-to-win shopping sprees, car and jewelry giveaways, merry holiday music, charitable giving opportunities, savory food samplings, great prices on holiday gifts and much more.

Launching on November 27, the celebration takes place every Friday through Sunday concluding Sunday, December 20. Also beginning on November 27 is Real Simple magazine’s ‘15 Gifts and You’re Done’ program, a gift with purchase promotion that will extend through the holiday season. In celebration of its launch, Real Simple will offer a free gift to the first 500 Westfield shoppers on Black Friday.

“We know our customers will appreciate all of the unique extras which are part of the
12 Days of Shopping,” said Zanne T. Augur, regional marketing director of Westfield. “The outstanding offerings throughout the season include exclusive savings, contests, special events activities and more.”

Highlights of the “12 Days” include exclusive savings with “five golden deals” (on the “5th day of shopping”), fifty percent off of photos with Santa, complimentary gift wrap and free gifts with purchase. Exciting contests offer the chance to win a car, shopping sprees and trips, jewelry and electronics. Each center will also provide shoppers the opportunity to help local people in need through charitable donations.

Here is a glimpse of what’s in store:

On the first day . . . one shopping spree! Friday, November 27
Free gift from Real Simple magazine for the first 500 shoppers
Register to win one of twelve $5,000 shopping sprees.

On the second day . . . two ways to connect! Saturday, November 28
Shoppers can win a laptop and a Smart Phone.

On the third day . . . three tasty treats! Sunday, November 29
Savor the season with samplings throughout the center.

On the fourth day . . . four smiles with Santa! Friday, December 4
Fifty percent off on photos with Santa.

On the fifth day . . . five golden deals! Saturday, December 5
Enjoy fabulous exclusive savings at your favorite stores.

On the sixth day . . . six choirs singing! Sunday, December 6
Local choirs fill the centers holiday sounds.

On the seventh day . . . seven ways to give! Friday, December 11
Each center will host opportunities to
help those in need in the community.

On the eighth day . . . eight green ideas! Saturday, December 12
We’re giving away a SmartCar and eight tips
to go green this holiday season.

On the ninth day . . . nine elves a-wrapping! Sunday, December 13
Wrap up the season with free gift wrapping on two purchases.

On the tenth day . . . ten fashion moments! Friday, December 18
Register to win a shopping trip to Los Angeles or
New York plus a $10,000 wardrobe.

On the eleventh day . . . eleven shiny gems! Saturday, December 19
Dazzling jewelry giveaway!

On the twelfth day . . . twelve wishes granted! Sunday, December 20
Twelve lucky children will have their holiday
wishes granted by Santa himself.


“The 12 Days of Shopping gives our shoppers even more reasons to shop early, shop often and take advantage of all of the fantastic offerings and activities throughout the season,” said Augur. “And it is also a terrific way for Westfield shopping centers throughout Los Angeles to show its appreciation to customers by offering unprecedented giveaways, shopping sprees, discounts and much more. We are looking forward to a wonderful holiday season at Westfield, where families, friends, neighbors and loved ones can celebrate the season and enjoy a unique shopping experience.”

Shoppers can find their nearest Westfield shopping center in Los Angeles and more information about the ‘12 Days of Shopping’ at www.Westfield.com or stop by the Shopping Concierge at their local Westfield shopping center.

LA Master Chorale to present family concert Dec. 5

Holiday Wonders (family concert)
Los Angeles Master Chorale
Grant Gershon, conductor
John West, Organ
Los Angeles Master Chorale Voices Within Children's Chorus

Performance Date: Saturday, December 5, 2009, 2:30 p.m.

Program: holiday carols, sing-alongs, seasonal music and original compositions by local students

Theater: Walt Disney Concert Hall
111 S. Grand Avenue
Los Angeles, CA 90012

Ticket Prices: $24 - $78; children 12 and under are half price (in any section)

Ticket Information: 213-972-7282 www.lamc.org

(Tickets can no longer be purchased at the Walt Disney Concert Hall Box Office except on concert days starting 2 hours prior to the performance.)

Program, prices and artists subject to change.

Writing workshop at the Arboretum in January

What Julie and Julia Have To Do With You: A One-Day Writing Workshop
Saturday, January 23
10am-2:30pm / Palm Room
Bring your lunch or visit the Peacock Cafe
$60 members / $65 non-members
(includes a copy of Paula Panich’s book, Cultivating Words: The Guide to Writing about the Plants and Gardens You Love)

Julie and Julia had unquenchable passion. So do you. Whether yours is the garden, food, cooking, wine, travel, herbs, hostas or Hamburg, passion is what it takes to write about what you love. Join journalist, fiction writer and teacher Paula Panich for a workshop about writing about your passion with clarity and brio --- no matter if you want to blog, journal, tweet, or sing on the printed page. We promise you’ll return to your home or office energized, ready to clear off that desk and write, write, write --- one page at a time.

Paula Panich has taught writing to people aged eight to eighty. From the New York Botanical Garden, the Massachusetts Horticulture Society and Boston University to the Getty Center, the Huntington Library, and the Japanese American National Museum, it’s been her privilege to hear about the passion that developing writers have for the world around them. She has contributed to the New York Times, the Washington Post, the Los Angeles Times, Gastronomica, and to other publications. She is coauthor of The Desert Southwest and Desert Southwest Gardens (Bantam Books), and is the author of a book about writing. Her short stories have appeared in The Harvard Review, and she is at work on a long, long story, which she would call a novel if only she didn’t understand that writers don’t write books, they write one page at a time.

Please call 626.821.4623 or email jill.berry@arboretum.org to register.

Street Dogs to tour and support Toys For Tots

Boston punk stalwarts Street Dogs are set to roar into the holiday season with a joyful slew of mayhem inducing, beer toasting “Wreck the Halls” shows guaranteed to warm the hearts of young and old punks alike alongside Roger Miret & The Disasters and Stigma.

Fronted by original Dropkick Murphy singer, war veteran and Boston firefighter turned pub rock legend, Mike McColgan, Street Dogs will be playing a traditional set of energetic Irish American chestnuts perfect for rousing holiday sing alongs and celebratory circle pits. What better way to welcome in the New Year than with a set of freshly ringing eardrums care of Street Dogs raucous socially charged punk anthems?

The band will be joined on selected date by notorious guitar wielding heathen Reverend Horton Heat.

Street Dogs will be teaming up with Marines representing the Toys For Tots (http://www.toysfortots.org) Organization to collect new, unwrapped toys for children in need on every date of the Wreck the Halls tour.

Make sure to catch Street Dogs this winter as these will be the last major U.S. tour dates while they hit the studio to work on a new release slated for Fall 2010!

Street Dogs Tour Dates:
Dec 9 - Walter’s On Washington - Houston, Texas (just added)
Dec 11 - The Social - WRECK THE HALLS - Orlando, Florida ^
Dec 12 - The Masquerade - WRECK THE HALLS - Atlanta, Georgia ^
Dec 14 - Cat’s Cradle - WRECK THE HALLS - Carrboro, North Carolina ^
Dec 15 - Jewish Mother - WRECK THE HALLS - Virginia Beach, Virginia ^
Dec 16 - Black Cat - WRECK THE HALLS - Washington D.C. ^
Dec 17 - North Star Bar - WRECK THE HALLS - Philadelphia, Pennsylvania ^
Dec 18 - The Gramercy Theatre - WRECK THE HALLS - New York, New York ^
Dec 19 - Paradise Rock Club - WRECK THE HALLS – Boston, MA ^
Dec 20 - Paradise Rock Club - WRECK THE HALLS – Boston, MA *
Dec 28 - Marquee Theatre w/, Tempe, Arizona #
Dec 29 - House of Blues - Las Vegas, Nevada #
Dec 30 - House of Blues - Anaheim, California #
Dec 31 - House of Blues – Anaheim, California #
Jan 2 - Downtown Brew, San Luis Obispo, California

^ w/Roger Miret & The Disasters and Stigma
*w/Far From Finished, Buddha & The Boys, and the Snipes
# w/ REVEREND HORTON HEAT

For More Information:
www.myspace.com/streetdogs
www.hellcatrecords.com

Black Tusk signs with Relapse

BLACK TUSK formed in 2005 and saw the release of their debut full-length, Passage Through Purgatory, last year via Hyperrealist. BLACK TUSK has most recently released a series of split 7”s including those with ASG, THE HOLY MOUNTAIN, and FIGHT AMP. Audio samples taken from these releases can be heard now via the band’s MySpace page: www.MySpace.com/BlackTusk.



BLACK TUSK are currently rounding out a run of dates with BLACK COBRA in the eastern US. Photos from the band’s recent New York show can be viewed here. Upon returning home, BLACK TUSK will begin writing for their Relapse debut for an expected spring 2010 release date.



BLACK TUSK commented on the signing: “It’s awesome to be on a label with so many bands that have helped shaped our tastes and with a staff that treats like family. We’re stoked to get this next record out and we have a bunch of tours in the works so keep an eye out.”



BLACK TUSK are currently featured in the December 2009 issue of Spin Magazine (on newsstands now) along with label-mates BARONESS as part of a story on Savannah’s burgeoning metal scene.



Stay tuned to www.RELAPSE.com for forthcoming BLACK TUSK news / album release / tour information. Additional information will be made available via the BLACK TUSK website: www.BlackTuskTerror.com and MySpace page: www.MySpace.com/BlackTusk.

Songsalive! holiday party and raffle Dec. 1

WIN!!
THE SONGSALIVE! HOLIDAY RAFFLE
Raffle tickets are $5 each / or 5 for $20
OVER $2300 worth of prizes.
RAFFLE DRAWN AT THE

Los Angeles Songsalive! Holiday/Xmas Party
@ THE MINT
ON Pico in L.A (cnr Crescent Heights)
TUESDAY DECEMBER 1, 2009
DOORS OPEN 7PM
FREE ENTRY
DETAILS AND RSVP: http://fburls.com/80-p3Av4uwB/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133songsalivexmasparty

MUST BE PRESENT TO WIN so come on down. Book a table for dinner and watch 20 Songsalive! members perform on the night
BUY your Raffle Ticket at the door or during the night.

RAFFLE PRIZES – ALL WORTH OVER $2300!!!
INCLUDE.............(see glossy color PDF of prizes at
http://songsalive.org/Content/Documents/Document.ashx?DocId=89338Documents/Document.ashx?DocId=89338)

3 x SONGSALIVE! ELITE MEMBERSHIP
Value $100 (or upgrade from General to Elite value $60) each

3 x SONGSALIVE! CD SAMPLER
Value $20 each

ARIEL PUBLICITY’S “MUSIC SUCCESS IN NINE WEEKS”
Book – a Step by Step Guide to Supercharging your PR, Building your Fan-base and Earning More Money. Value $24

STEVEN MEMEL – HOLLYWOOD’S TOP VOCAL COACH TO THE STARS
2 x FREE One-hour class. http://www.stevenmemel.com/ Value: $250 each

JOHN BRAHENY One free Song Critique
Top consultant/coach for songwriters, writers/artists and music industry entrepreneurs. http://fburls.com/39-nbIOEkgV/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 VALUE: $25

3 x SONG MANAGER FOR BENTO
It gives you one location for all your important song information. Every detail -- key, tempo, genre, key, lyrics, and a general description of the track It also records song registration, whether it’s the Library of Congress or your Performing Rights Organization. It also stores contact information, song activities, emails, song contracts - even audio and video versions of your songs! DONATED BY Mesa Sand Ventures, LLC http://fburls.com/73-5fsaPb7N/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 VALUE: $45.00 each

La’FaMos-PRESS KIT assembly for the independent musician
Press kit includes a professional bio write up, a one sheet design and digital press kit programming in a password protected system for the artist to submit to press outlets. http://fburls.com/37-VWAAxBnw/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 DONATED BY: LaFaMos: Marketing, Publicity & Design VALUE: $2753

SONG MASTERING SESSION with Ronan Chris Murphy
at Veneto West Studio. Winner will receive one free mastering session to master up to 3 songs. Mixes must be delivered for mastering in digital format and the must be completed in one session. http://fburls.com/57-294XOkaz/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 DONATED BY: Ronan Chris Murphy & Veneto West Studio VALUE: $225

THE MUSICIAN'S HANDBOOK, by Bobby Borg
http://fburls.com/64-2S22SXg8/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 Ultimate – A Practical Guide to Understanding The Music Business” PLUS - Musician’s Crash Course: Live DVD Footage featuring over twenty-five top industry guests in panel discussions, class lectures, and chalkboard presentations. Value $59.97

Charlie Cheney’s “Indie Band Manager – The Ultimate Instrument for Booking and Promotion”
Value: $50

I AM A PROFESSIONAL ARTIST – The Key to Survival and Success in the World of the Arts SIGNED COPY
by gilli moon. 3rd edition http://fburls.com/89-fIfIpfGc/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 Value: $19.95

3 books on songwriting by PAT PATTISON (Berklee Music) SIGNED
“Writing Better Lyrics – The Essential Guide to Powerful Songwriting From Generating Ideas to Developing Verse and Beyond” “Songwriting: Essential Guide to Lyric Form and Structure” “Songwriting: Essential Guide to Rhyming” VALUE total $80

ARTIST DEVELOPMENT SESSION
Win 2 hours with Jan Linder-Koda of Angel Diva Music. Choose from a number of comprehensive artist development services, including vocal training, songwriting or co-writing, performance coaching. http://fburls.com/96-1pL5PtPm/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 DONATED BY Jan Linder-Koda of Angel Diva Music VALUE: $220

“IT ALL BEGINS WITH THE MUSIC – Developing Successful Artists and Careers For The New Music Business”
BOOK by DAN KIMPEL and Don Grierson http://fburls.com/90-GRm5SPrI/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 DONATED BY: Dan Kimpel. VALUE: $24.00

THE INDIE BIBLE
2009 EDITION http://fburls.com/60-1sR0FxtT/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 For 10 years now The Indie Bible has helped THOUSANDS of independent artists gain more exposure for their music. Value: $34.95

Cat Cohen’s “SONGWRITING FOR YOUR ORIGINAL ACT”
BOOK http://fburls.com/8-CDxMTjup/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133. Value $20

Gift certificate of MARY KAY COSMETICS
& Skincare products winners choice from web site http://www.marykay.com/LorraineChambers
VALUE:$50 Donated by Lorraine Chambers 949-378-3912 Celtic rock'n'blue soul singer http://fburls.com/25-NK4gjZdZ/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133 alto choir singer at Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church, Newport Beach, CA 92627

SAUCY-WEAR APRONS
- 6 SAUCY-WEAR CHILDREN'S APRONS AND
1 SAUCY- WEAR ADULT BISTRO APRON
DONATED BY: Kathleen Blackwell VALUE: $29.00 Retail

BOOKS FROM PHOENIX BOOKS, INC http://www.phoenixbooksandaudio.com/

- CHICKEN SOUP FOR THE SOUL: THE STORY BEHIND THE SONG: The Exclusive Personal Stories Behind 101 of Your Favorite SongsBook - Songs tell a story, and now popular singers and songwriters share their stories. Artists reveal the inspiration, influence, and background, and divulge when and why they wrote their most famous songs. VALUE: $14.95

- ELTON JOHN: THE BITCH IS BACK VALUE: $22.95

- Life Between the Keys: The Mis Adventures of the 5 Browns [With CD (Audio)] VALUE: $24.95

- Poisoned Heart: I Married Dee Dee Ramone (the Ramones Years): A Punk Love Story VALUE: $22.95

- The Ultimate Kiss Fanzine Phenomenon 1976-2009: Kiss Army Worldwide VALUE: $22.95

JACQUELINE VAN BEIRK VOCAL LESSON
http://fburls.com/50-fH5TP0Wx/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133jacquelinevanbierk (voice lessons) Value $85

Crooks/Walsh Blues EP - CD
- Take two songwriters, a cold winter, a guitar and heartache and you get the Crooks/Walsh Blues. http://fburls.com/69-rzn3u950/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133crookswalshblues DONATED BY: Deborah Crooks VALUE: $7

Songsalive! is a non-profit 501 c)3) organization dedicated to the support and promotion of songwriters worldwide. All monies go towards the operational costs of Songsalive! through this Raffle fund-raiser.501 c)3) public benefit educational charity and a non profit corporation (Inc.) Songsalive!® is a registered trademark. State No 2471071, Federal No 605262034, Public Charity Status: 170 (b) (1) (A) (vi) - exempt under section 501(c)(3)

http://fburls.com/70-u4nBReuf/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133

Join Songsalive! at http://fburls.com/72-cxhzsKbg/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133
See all our programs on our websitehttp://fburls.com/40-dseKKekf/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133
Apply to Showcase as an artist at http://fburls.com/44-evtOs97d/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133
Contact Songsalive! Los Angeles at http://fburls.com/87-HJBlCev3/t/cid/568451/sid/5801133

Theatre 360 in Pasadena to present "Annie Jr."

Theatre 360 (Devon Yates, Artistic and Executive Director) presents ANNIE JR., book by Thomas Meehan, music by Charles Strouse and lyrics by Martin Charnin, for two weekends: December 4-6 and December 11-13.

“Annie is a wonderful show, with great lyrics and music. It was nominated for 11 Tony Awards and won 7, including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, but it also has an important message,” stated Theatre 360 Artistic & Executive Director Devon Yates. She continued, “Theatre 360 has been hit hard through cutbacks in grants, donations and student enrollment… the arts have been the first to go. We are still the only program in the area that offers local youth professional training and the opportunity to work onstage and backstage in Los Angeles. Our attitude is if Annie can, we can. She survived the depression; we can, too.”

Theatre 360’s production of ANNIE JR. is the perfect family entertainment for the holiday season. This Tony Award-winning musical follows the story of Annie, a spunky Depression-era orphan determined to find her parents, who abandoned her years ago on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage run by the cruel, embittered Miss Hannigan. In adventure after fun-filled adventure, Annie foils Miss Hannigan's evil machinations, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt and finds a new family and home in billionaire Oliver Warbucks, his personal secretary Grace Farrell and a lovable mutt named Sandy.

The 20-person cast will be giving a sneak preview performance on Sunday, November 29 as part of One Colorado’s Holiday Sing-A-Long Festival. The event will take place from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm on the One Colorado Courtyard. One Colorado is one city block bounded by Fair Oaks, Colorado Boulevard, DeLacey and Union Street in Old Pasadena. Visit www.onecolorado.com for details and directions.

ANNIE JR. begins performances on December 4 and plays through December 13 at Theatre 360, 75 North Marengo Avenue in Pasadena. The performance schedule is Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m., and Sunday at 2:00 p.m. Tickets are available by calling Theatre 360 at (626) 577-5922.

Jim Croce Anthology Songbook now available

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar, Ingrid Croce has announced the release of the Jim Croce Anthology Songbook, an intimate collection of music and memories that will delight Jim Croce fans and foodies alike this holiday season.

Ingrid has owned and operated Croce's, one of the top fine dining restaurants in downtown San Diego, since 1985. She built it as a tribute to her late husband, singer-songwriter Jim Croce, who died in a plane crash in the early seventies while topping the charts with "Bad, Bad Leroy Brown," "Time in a Bottle" and "You Don't Mess Around with Jim."

The Jim Croce Anthology Songbook brings together 40 of Croce's beloved songs along with Ingrid’s personal remembrances of the stories behind the writing of each of them. Complete with photos and copies of Jim's handwritten notes, this is a beautiful insight into one of the most popular songwriters of a generation. The collection is available at www.croces.com for $22.99.

According to Ingrid, “It is here at Croce's Restaurant & Jazz Bar that we continue to pay tribute to Jim Croce and his music by serving delicious contemporary American cuisine and offering live music nightly to friends and visitors from around the world. This is my way of sharing the memories of Jim's warmth and hospitality.”

One of San Diego’s most beloved landmarks, Croce’s was recently recognized as Best American Restaurant by the Gaslamp Association during the annual Lamplighter Awards and Best American Restaurant, Reader’s Choice by San Diego Magazine. Mike Mitchell, most recently of Oceanaire, and a veteran of the hospitality industry has joined Croce’s as COO.

Croce’s has always stood for the best that San Diego has to offer in Cuisine, Hospitality and live music. I have a passion for all three and want to provide San Diegans and our visitors a place to create memories. Mike Mitchell


About Croce’s Restaurant & Jazz Bar:

In 1985, Ingrid Croce opened Croce's Restaurant & Jazz Bar, pioneering the revitalization of San Diego's historic Gaslamp Quarter. A tribute to her late husband, singer-songwriter, Jim Croce, Croce’s offers a unique collaboration of fine dining and nightclub ambiance with live music nightly. Located on the corner of 5th and F in downtown San Diego, this American fine dining restaurant is decorated with Croce family photos, gold albums, guitars, lyric sheets, and memorabilia. A must-see for all Croce fans! For more information, visit www.croces.com.

Tuesday, November 24, 2009

Man vs Food Dec. 16 at the Wiltern cancelled

Man vs Food, at The Wiltern on December 16th has been cancelled. Tickets can be refunded at point of purchase.


Due to an unexpected change in his production schedule Adam Richman has to postpone his appearance, therefore he is cancelling his December 16th show. He looks forward to rescheduling as soon as his schedule permits. He will be back in 2010 and is excited to bring his show to the stage.

Upcoming concerts around California from Live Nation

On Sale Saturday, December, 5th at 10:00 AM:

JOHN MAYER
STAPLES CENTER

With Special Guests:
MICHAEL FRANTI
SPEARHEAD

March 25, 2010
----------

ON SALE NOW AT HOUSE OF BLUES SUNSET STRIP

Cowboy Mouth - January 9

Expendables, Iration, Passafire, Pour Habit, Roots Down Below - February 27

Rebelution, Soja, Zion-I - March 6 & 7


On Sale Saturday November 28 @ 10am:

New Year's Eve w/ Erykah Badu - December 31

FEAR - January 8

"Cinderella" coming to Lewis Family Playhouse in Rancho Cucamonga

The MainStreet Theatre Company continues its fourth season of high-quality, professional theatre for young audiences, with "Cinderella," opening at the Lewis Family Playhouse January 30 and running through February 13. Mark Rucker directs.

Written in the 1970s, this version of "Cinderella" takes a "fractured fairytale" approach to the age-old rags- to-riches love story.

In this version, the White Rabbit from "Alice in Wonderland", who has fallen through the wrong hole, becomes an integral part of the story, adding a delightful twist to the classic fable.

The creative team, including original composer/lyricist David Coleman is updating the musical for this production. The show will have a new opening, new musical arrangements, and the overall style of the piece will enhance the magical elements inherent in the story. Original book writer Phylis Ravel (formerly Phyllis Ward Fox) will be attending the opening weekend performances.

"I feel like we've discovered a lost jewel, a gem of a show," said Mireya (Murry) Hepner, MainStreet Theatre Company producer. "The script is witty, funny and smart. The music is great, and our production will bring all the magic of the story to life in very surprising ways."

In addition to director Mark Rucker, the creative team includes: Janice Rodgers Wainwright, musical director; Janet Miller, choreographer; Michael C. Smith, scenic design; Brian Gale, lighting; and Angela Balogh Calin, costume design.

"Cinderella" is appropriate for ages six years and up, runs Saturdays at 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm, and one Sunday matinee Feb. 7 at 1:00 pm., which will also be interpreted in American Sign Language. The City also runs special weekday matinees for school children. Tickets are $16.50 for General admission, $14.50 for Seniors, and $13.50 for Youth up to age 12. Specially priced $8 tickets are available during the Target Family Weekend performances on January 30.

For tickets, call the Lewis Family Playhouse Box Office at (909) 477-2752, (877) 858-8422 or visit www.lewisfamilyplayhouse.com.

An intimate, 536-seat venue, the Lewis Family Playhouse is the crown jewel of the three-acre, 89,000-square foot Victoria Gardens Cultural Center. The complex is conveniently located off the I-15 at Foothill Boulevard, as a major anchor of Victoria Gardens. The Box Office is open Monday through Thursday from noon to 6:00 pm and Fridays and Saturdays from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, with free parking available.

Miley Cyrus events at all Walmarts Saturday

Miley Cyrus fans seeking a backstage pass to get a first look at their favorite superstar’s concert experience need look no further than Walmart (NYSE:WMT). In all stores nationwide the retailer will offer a front row seat to an exclusive viewing of select footage from Miley’s Wonder World Tour on Saturday, Nov. 28, at 2:00pm with an encore presentation scheduled at 5:00pm. Shoppers will be offered great prices on the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria for Walmart dress assortment, along with unbeatable* savings on Miley’s latest music. And in select stores with grocery, fans can also enjoy free samples of Marketside Ultimate Cheese pizza.

Airing on screens in the electronics and/or apparel sections of each store, viewers will be treated to:
• Behind-the-scenes tour footage
• Wardrobe tips from Miley Cyrus’ stylist Simone

“Fans will have the opportunity to watch exclusive new footage of their favorite star in action on stage and behind-the-scenes while hanging out with their closest friends,” said Dottie Mattison, senior vice president, apparel for Walmart. “In addition to the music and fun, our viewing parties will be one of the best times to shop for the Miley Cyrus fans on your gift lists this year.”

Create an all-Miley gift pack with

· New dresses from Miley Cyrus & Max Azria, $15
· Other great items from the Miley Cyrus & Max Azria line, including knit tops, woven shirts, jackets, pants, and accessories, all priced at $20 or below
· Miley Cyrus The Time of Our Lives CD, $5

The program also encourages community involvement, providing a glimpse of recent activities with Boys & Girls Club of America and Miley Cyrus’ Get Ur Good On campaign: a partnership with Youth Service America.

“I’m excited about sharing a snapshot of my life, taking people behind-the-scenes at the Wonder World concert, and telling everyone more about Get Ur Good On,” said Miley Cyrus.

*Our stores will match the price of any local competitor's printed ad for an identical product. Not applicable to Walmart.com. Restrictions apply. See store for details.

About Walmart
Every week, millions of customers visit Walmart stores, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Club locations across America or log on to its online store at www.walmart.com. The company and its Foundation are committed to a philosophy of giving back locally. Walmart (NYSE: WMT) is proud to support the causes that are important to customers and associates right in their own neighborhoods, and last year gave more than $378 million to local communities in the United States. More information about Walmart can be found by visiting www.walmartstores.com.

George Michael to release concert DVD and hold film premiere

George Michael is to release ‘Live in London’ a special 23 song full concert plus 3 bonus tracks, DVD on December 8th through Epic Records/Sony Music Entertainment. This is the first live DVD of George’s 30 plus year career. Recorded and filmed at the final two concerts in London’s Earls Court arena on August 24th and 25th 2008, these highly anticipated shows marked the end of George Michael’s triumphant 25 Live Tour and were the last chance to catch George performing on a stage of this magnitude.

‘Live in London’ will premiere for a special one night only showing in digital cinemas in cities throughout North America on December 3, 2009.

‘Live in London’ directed by award winning director Andy Morahan, features tracks from George’s celebrated career including ‘Careless Whisper’, ‘Freedom’, ‘Faith’, ‘Everything She Wants’ and ‘Amazing’. A special behind the scenes bonus documentary, ‘I’d Know Him A Mile Off,’ offers a glimpse behind the magic of these sold out shows even shadowing the man himself before and after his performances on stage. ‘Live in London’ will be available worldwide in two formats, double disc DVD and Blu-Ray disc.

The theatrical release of ‘Live in London’ is distributed by D&E Entertainment (www.DandEentertainment.com) in conjunction with Sony Music and will premiere for a special one night only showing in more than fifty digital cinemas throughout North America. The screenings will be presented in state of the art high definition digital cinemas. These theatrical screenings are the best seat in the house for any fan to enjoy George’s mind-blowing live show. For a complete listing of theaters and cities, please visit: www.GeorgeMichaelLiveInLondon.com.

Evan Saxon and Doug Kluthe of D&E Entertainment commented, “It is a pleasure to bring George Michael's groundbreaking live show the big screen. Seeing George Michael in digital cinema will let his fans feel as if they've been transported to Earls Court for those amazing shows. Now fans who have not had a chance to experience George Michael live and those whop have and want to relive this critically acclaimed masterpiece can do so at their local theatre with the best seat in the house. At D&E we’re able to bring this live experience to fans who are looking for more than the typical film fare at their local cinema, while providing the artist unparalleled marketing opportunities and direct interaction with their fans.”

When George first announced his 25 Live Tour tickets were snapped up in minutes. The critically acclaimed tour saw George perform in front of over 2 million people worldwide with a 49 date 25 Live Arena Tour and a 30 date 25 Live Stadium Tour. In Summer 2008 Michael took his 25 Live Tour to arenas across North America touring North America for the first time in 20 years. In London alone, 350,000 people collectively watched him performing in Earls Court, Wembley Arena, The Roundhouse and the newly renovated Wembley Stadium, where he made musical history as the first artist to perform at the momentous venue in June 2007. His exceptional performances in the UK, Europe and North America received unprecedented praise from both critics and fans across the globe.

George Michael is one of the world’s most successful male artists, selling over 100 million records world wide and encompassing 11 British No.1 singles, eight British No.1 albums and six US No.1 singles. The Multi talented artist also proved to be a big hit on the small screen as he parodied himself in Christmas specials of the hit UK television shows ‘Catherine Tate Show’ and ‘Extras’. Last year George participated in US sitcom Eli Stone, where each episode was titled after a George Michael song and George made several appearances throughout the series.

DISC ONE
1. Waiting (Reprise)
Written by Dennis Morgan, Simon Climie
2. Fastlove
Written by George Michael, Patrice Rushen, Teresa McFadden, Freddie Washington
3. I’m Your Man
Written by George Michael
4. Flawless (Go To The City)
Written by George Michael, Paul Alexander, Nashom Wooden, Gary Turnier, Eric Matthew, Oliver Stumm
5. Father Figure
Written by George Michael
6. You Have Been Loved
Written By George Michael, David Austin
7. An Easier Affair
Written by George Michael, Ruadhri Cushnan, Kevin Ambrose, Niall Flynn
8. Everything She Wants
Written by George Michael
9. One More Try
Written by George Michael
10. Different Corner
Written by George Michael
11. Too Funky
Written by George Michael
12. Shoot The Dog
Written by George Michael, Niall Flynn, James Jackman, Phil Oakey, Ian Burton
13. John and Elvis Are Dead
Written By George Michael, David Austin
14. Faith
Written by George Michael
15. Spinning The Wheel
Written by George Michael, Johnny Douglas
16. Feeling Good
Written by Leslie Bricusse, Anthony Newley
17. Roxanne
Written by Sting
18. My Mother Had a Brother
Written by George Michael
19. Amazing
Written by George Michael, Johnny Douglas
20. Fantasy
Written by George Michael
21. Outside
Written by George Michael
22. Careless Whisper
Written by George Michael, Andrew Ridgeley
23. Freedom ’90
Written by George Michael

DISC TWO (BONUS TRACKS)
“I’d Know Him a Mile Off!” Documentary
Produced by Lisa Johnson, Filmed and directed by David Austin.
Made by G K Panayioutou
1. Precious BoxWritten by George Michael
2. Jesus To A Child
Written by George Michael
3. First Time Ever
Written by Ewan McCall


For a listing of theaters and cities as well as more information on the film, please visit: www.GeorgeMichaelLiveInLondon.com.