Young L.A. County filmmakers are on an award-winning streak. C-SPAN visited Long Beach Polytechnic High School in Long Beach on May 19 to celebrate and honor students for their prize-winning documentary filmy entries in C-SPAN’s annual student video documentary competition, StudentCam.

C-SPAN and Spectrum representatives recognized the winning students and their teacher, Jeff Montooth, who served as their StudentCam adviser, at an assembly of classmates, teachers, family members and elected officials.

For this year’s competition, C-SPAN, in cooperation with its cable and satellite television partners, asked middle and high school students to address a theme — “Your Message to the President: What issue is most important to you or your community?” In response, nearly 3,500 students from 42 states and Washington, D.C. sent more than 1,700 entries to C-SPAN.

Award-winning documentaries

Several freshmen from Poly High received top honors and cash prizes for their documentaries:

Second-Place Prize ($1,500):

Nolan Sheets, Rene Ortega and Roman Leonor, freshmen, won second prize and $1,500 for the video “Crime: Perception vs. Reality.”

Third-Place Prize ($750):

Sara Kong, a freshman, for the video “Ocean Acidification: Small Changes, Big Problems.”

Honorable Mentions ($250)

Isabella Sim and Owen Gurga, freshmen, for the video “Editing the Future: Bridging Science, Society, and Policy in Gene Editing.”

Juliet Haesly and Megan Lee, freshmen, for the video “No Means No.”

Eliza Floto and Brianna Goldstein, freshmen, for the video “The Divided States of America: Is the United States Really United?”

Natalie Hebdon, a freshman, for the video “A Safer Tomorrow: America’s Need for Enhanced Disaster Protection.”

“Congratulations to all of the incredibly talented young students who won awards in this year’s competition,” C-SPAN’s Director of Education Relations Craig McAndrew said. “Through in-depth research and interviews with an array of topical and technical experts, [they] have crafted impactful short stories that capture issues of wide public interest and importance. [Their] documentaries set a very high bar for future StudentCam filmmakers.”

C-SPAN is funded by America’s cable and satellite television companies as a commercial-free public service. In Long Beach, C-SPAN is available through Spectrum, the local partner in StudentCam. 

“As a long-time supporter of StudentCam, we are continually inspired by the curiosity and creativity students bring to C-SPAN’s annual competition,” Senior Vice President of State Government Affairs for Spectrum Adam Falk said. “The program provides a unique opportunity for young people to showcase the critical thinking, problem solving and civic engagement skills essential for informed and active communities. We celebrate this year’s winners and look forward to watching them continue to follow their passion for storytelling through this medium.”

Popular Topics Explored

Now in its 21st year, this project-based learning experience asked students to explore and analyze matters of personal, local or national importance.The most popular topics addressed were: 

• Climate, environment and land use (11%)
• K-12 education policies and the cost of college (10%)
• Health care and mental health (10%)
• Gun violence, school safety and firearm policies (9%)
• Inflation, taxes, government spending and the economy (9%)

In addition to the grand prize and first-prize winners, C-SPAN awarded 16 second prizes, 32 third prizes and 97 honorable mention prizes. The StudentCam competition has awarded more than $1.6 million in prizes since 2004. You can watch all 150 winning videos from this year’s competition at StudentCam.org.

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Just after Father’s Day, eight of L.A.’s storytellers will take the stage for one night only, sharing a rich blend of raw, humorous, surprising and touching true tales about their fathers — or about being fathers themselves.

“Manecdotes” returns to The Colony Theatre in Burbank at 7 p.m. on Tuesday, June 24. The 90-minute collection of stories will be preceded at 6:30 p.m. with a half-hour of live music by the Nash-Berry Family Band, featuring Ken Berry, a guitar player who toured with and continues to work in the studio with Barry Manilow.

Berry has written music for television for more than 30 years. His wife, Connie Nassios, is a keyboard and bass player who toured with Aureus. Their daughter, Abbi Berry, is an award-winning jazz and pop vocalist, pianist, guitarist and songwriter and teacher. The Nash-Berry Family Band will add musical interludes throughout the show as well.

“Manecdotes” is a benefit for Burbank’s Family Service Agency, an organization that has provided mental health and counseling services for students, families, couples and veterans for 70 years. 

Suzanne Weerts, a local writer and storyteller, is the producer and director of the show. Weerts has brought two seasons of the national show “Listen to Your Mother,” as well as her own shows “Momnipresent,” “Diversity: Stories of Connection in an Urban Jungle,” “Go There,” “Home” and “Jingle Tales” to The Colony Theatre stage.

As producing artistic director for JAM Creative, Weerts develops storytelling productions as benefits for worthy causes. Since 2016, JAM Creative has raised more than $50,000 for local charities. 

General admission tickets are $25 and make a great Father’s Day gift, Weerts says. They can be purchased at jamcreativestories.com.

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Looking for an easy escape from L.A. for spring break? Las Vegas is a quick road trip or flight away. With temperate springtime weather, Vegas is a perfect getaway for families seeking indoor and outdoor fun. 

Here are five of our favorite family-friendly Vegas picks this spring:

1. Shark Reef Aquarium: Dive Into Underwater Adventures

The Shark Reef Aquarium at Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino will celebrate its 25th anniversary this summer with special events and activations. For now, visitors can view displays with more than 3,400 creatures from 140 species, including 14 types of sharks within 1.6 million gallons of water and 14 exhibits. Guests also can “dive” into the ocean depths through the immersive Undersea Explorer Virtual Reality theater. For an extra fee, kids (and adults) can feed sharks, sea turtles and stingrays. Tickets: $24 and up.

2. Sphere Experience: Futuristic Fun for the Whole Family

If it’s in your budget, Sphere is worth the splurge. At The Sphere Experience, guests can chat and even crack jokes with the world’s most advanced humanoid robot, Aura, and marvel at a 50-foot holographic wall. Included in the experience is a screening of “Postcard from Earth” from Academy Award-nominated director Darren Aronofsky.

The sci-fi-meets-nature, 4D film features seat haptics with active movement sensations, flashing lights, visual and sound effects and atmospheric simulations of fog, scents and wind. (Pregnant women and those with sensory sensitivities should consider whether it’s for them. Accessible seating is available upon request.).

Word to the wise: Lower seats are best if you tend to get queasy. In addition, Sphere’s spectacular spring lineup of multi-sensory entertainment features immersive concert film V-U2, plus shows by Dead & Company with John Mayer, the Eagles and Kenny Chesney. (Backstreet Boys will take the stage in July.) Tickets: $95 and up, depending on the type of event.

3. Family Pools and Movie Nights

Las Vegas resorts are renowned for their lavish pools, and poolside time is a fun way for families to spend Vegas downtime together. Non-gaming (aka no casino) resort Waldorf Astoria Las Vegas offers a high-class, low-key vibe for its hotel guests, with chaise lounges, cabanas and two pools (one for families, one for adults). Bonus: Parents can indulge in a range of restorative poolside massages while staying within earshot of splashing kids, including chair massage, chaise-lounge massage and traditional table massage in an open-air or private cabana. Try the signature Relaxation Massage, the Cabana Cool Stone Massage or the Lounging Around Focus Massage. 

For extra relaxation or should the temps soar, cooling collagen masks are applied, along with nourishing massage oils and tropical scrubs to create an aroma sensory experience by the resort’s expert therapists (Dear reader: The massage I experienced on a scorching day last July from Alexandra was one of the best of my life). Guests come away refreshed — and with a small gift. “Our pool therapists always add a special touch by giving guests a little wellness takeaway so they can remember their massage experience they had at the pool,” says the resort’s spa director, Michelle Wilkos. Pricing: $200 and up. 

MGM Grand Pool, open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., features 6.5 acres of elaborate water fun, including four swimming pools, three whirlpools, cascading waterfalls and a lazy river (until 5 p.m.). Pool bars serve tropical drinks and poolside fare (and massage) is available. Cost: $50/all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, poolside seating and cabanas. Free entry and seating for MGM Grand guests, depending on availability.

Resorts World’s Family Pool at its mega pool complex features a playful water attraction to cool off younger kids amid giggles. Reopens in May. Free for hotel guests.

To kick off pool season, Fontainebleau Las Vegas is offering Dive Into Bleau rates, with up to a 20% discount on hotel stays and a $50 daily resort credit. The Oasis Cinema Club at Oasis Pool is back every Friday starting May 2, featuring favorite family flicks such as “Barbie,” “Inside Out 2,” “Toy Story,” “Avengers: Endgame” and “The Incredibles” projected on a poolside screen. Enjoy a menu serving tasty takes on concession classics. Admission: $10 for non-hotel guests; free for Fontainebleau Rewards members, hotel guests and kids 5 and under. Daybeds and cabanas available for a fee. Tickets here.

Dive In Movies at The Cosmopolitan’s Boulevard Pool, the Strip’s rooftop poolside (or in-pool) movie night, returns weekly on Mondays beginning May 19, inviting families to enjoy classic and recent blockbusters on the resort’s 65-foot screen, along with stellar views of the spectacular Las Vegas skyline. Premium daybeds and cabanas can be reserved with a food/beverage minimum. Admission: $15 for non-hotel guests, $10 for locals. Free for MGM Rewards members, hotel guests, first responders and military. Tickets here.

4. Beachy Vibes

At Mandalay Bay Beach, an 11-acre aquatic playground on the Strip, families can ride tides in the wave pool, play in the sand, flow along the lazy river under refreshing waterfalls, lounge in a lagoon, chill in a cabana and more. The Beach Bar and Grill offers bites and drinks at three bars. Cost: $30/weekdays; $40/weekends all-day access per person; additional fees for food/drinks, seating and cabanas; free for hotel guests.

5. Top Thrills: High Roller, Zip Line and Iconic Vegas Rides

Thrill-seeking kids and parents who want adrenalin-pumping fun can enjoy breezy aerial views while experiencing the highest amusements in Las Vegas (and even in the world).

High Roller Observation Wheel & Fly LINQ Zipline

The High Roller Observation Wheel is 550 feet high and is the tallest Ferris wheel in North America. The experience features 28 spherical (and, yes, air-conditioned!) cabins for up to 40 guests, with floor-to-ceiling glass windows for 360-degree Las Vegas views Extra fun: At night, the wheel glows, with changing colored lighting synced to hit songs. The full-rotation ride lasts 30 minutes. Tickets: $10 and up, free for kids 3 and under.

Bold ones can soar on the Strip’s only zipline, Fly LINQ. Riders launch from a 12-story tower and fly 1,121 feet from Las Vegas Boulevard, down The LINQ Promenade and finish at the High Roller at up to 35 miles per hour. Tickets: $49 and up; some discounts apply.

The Big Apple Coaster & Arcade

The Big Apple Coaster at New York-New York is the first in the world to include a 180-degree “heartline” twist and dive. The heart-pounding ride speeds up to over 67 mph — with twists, turns and loops, whizzing by Strip views. Catch your breath (or wait out the ride) at The Big Apple Arcade for family-friendly games. Tickets: $25 and up.

The Strat Tower

Four of the world’s highest rides are located in one place at The Strat in Las Vegas. The Tower (at 1,149 feet tall) is the highest observation tower in the U.S. Your bravest family members (at least 4 feet tall) can free fall 855 feet at 40 mph on the SkyJump or catapult 1,081 feet up — and down — on the Big Shot. Riders beware: G forces are real. (The X-Scream dangling teeter-totter is currently down for maintenance.) For a more mellow, but still breathtaking experience, you can enjoy unparalleled views of Las Vegas and beyond at the sky-high indoor and outdoor observation decks, plus food and drinks at the highest dining spot and bar in Vegas. Tickets: $21.95 and up.

Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck

If you’re in Vegas, but your heart’s in Paris (oui, c’est moi!) or you just want to take in an iconic, high-altitude experience with your family, you won’t want to miss out on the Eiffel Tower Viewing Deck at the Paris Las Vegas resort on the Strip. A half-scale replica of the Eiffel Tower landmark in Paris, France, the tower takes guests 46 stories (541 feet) high for 360-degree views. Mirroring the nightly, glittery illuminations of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, the Las Vegas attraction also offers a synchronized twinkling, colored lights event for all visitors to see for free on the Strip. The light show happens every night for 30 minutes from sunset to midnight. Tower tickets: $19 and up; some discounts apply.

There’s so much for families to enjoy in Las Vegas, aka “Disneyland East.” For more family-friendly ideas, including deals, visit Visit Las Vegas for the latest and greatest.

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As award season gets underway, it is easy to get swept up in nominations, wins and the fashion of it all. However, we should always remember that, whether someone is still seeking or further establishing their career in the entertainment industry, it all began with a dream.

One of those who had a dream that is becoming reality is actress Kyriana Kratter, a rising talent on the hit series “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew.” The Disney+ show premiered on the streaming service in December.

The 14-year-old Los Angeles native plays the role of KB, who is described as being quite perceptive.

“KB is a quiet girl,” Kratter says. “She’s very practical, straightforward and great with tech. She’s very sensitive to other people and animals and understands droids. She has extra powers because of her augmentation, but she’s also somewhat limited because of it, too.”

The show follows KB, who is part of a quartet of friends Fern, Neel and Whim on an accidental trip that takes them around the galaxy once they find a buried starship. It is while being with her old friend Fern and new friends Neel and Whim that the character KB discovers herself while on this adventure. KB, known for her silver hair and retractable eyes, defines what it means to figure things out with her distinctive features and qualities — and why it matters. On a personal level, the character has been teaching Kratter about herself.

“On ‘Skeleton Crew,’ KB was learning how to speak up for herself and so was I,” she says. “On set, everyone is usually an adult, and it’s hard sometimes to figure out what to say and what not to say.”

Kratter knows that her role is significant for anyone who looks like her. A fan told her this about the show she recalled at the show’s premiere.  

“At the premiere, another Asian person congratulated me on being one of the few people of Asian American heritage in ‘Star Wars,’ she says. “I’m very proud to represent Asian Americans in the ‘Star Wars’ world!”

In taking on the role of KB, Kratter knows exactly how she wants her career to grow moving forward.

“I want to do everything and I’m curious about every single job there is! For now, I would love to be in an A24 movie, a martial arts movie and a romcom,” Kratter says.

She may have multiple genres in mind for the various roles that she wants to portray, but her creativity crosses over into another area: music.

“…I’m also hoping to release an Indie album with my brother, who is a music producer. I’ve been singing ever since I was really little, and I love writing songs,” Kratter says.

It is the mystique of Downtown L.A. and her family that provides the teen with both comfort and inspiration.

“I’m very grateful to be surrounded by so many amazing people, and I couldn’t have done anything without their love and support,” she says.

The post Kyriana Kratter: ‘Skelton Crew: STAR WARS’ Star on the Rise appeared first on L.A. Parent.

‘Tis the season for everyone’s favorite holiday ballet, “The Nutcracker.” We’ve rounded up our favorite versions of Tchaikovsky’s ballet, whether you’re looking for a festive night at the theater without the kids, a family-friendly edition featuring youth dancers or a version with an L.A. twist like the Los Angeles Ballet’s performance, we

Family @ The Playhouse: Bob Baker’s Nutcracker

10:30 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat., Nov. 30 – Jan. 5, 2025 | Sierra Madre Playhouse

“Bob Baker’s Nutcracker,” Bob Baker Marionette Theater’s (BBMT) delightful and spellbinding 1969 marionette adaptation of the beloved ballet classic, makes its highly anticipated Sierra Madre Playhouse debut this holiday with 50 performances running from November 30, 2024, through January 5, 2025. A perennial and beloved yuletide tradition for Angelenos of all ages, “Bob Baker’s Nutcracker” has been carefully renovated for this special 2024 presentation at the Playhouse.

The show features more than 100 handcrafted puppets, including Clara and Fred, the Nutcracker, the Rat King, and the Sugar Plum Fairy, alongside a number of other Bob Baker playful creations. NBC4 proclaims it “a panache-filled fantasia full of marionette-y merriment.”

Bob Baker’s original Nutcracker show, created in 1969, was performed with hand-and-rod puppets, but over the years, BBMT’s talented team of artisans and craftspeople transformed the adaptation of the ballet into a fanciful dreamscape with large-scale marionettes and intricate sets.

American Contemporary Ballet: The Nutcracker Suite

1 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sat., Nov. 30 – Dec. 24 | American Contemporary Ballet

American Contemporary Ballet transports “The Nutcracker” to an immersive snow-filled dream world unlike any other, filled with the enchanting dance and live music you’d expect from L.A.’s most magical holiday ballet… and so much more that you never would, with surprises at every turn. Watch a holiday fantasy become real November 30 through December 24.  The company recommends getting tickets early, as performances sell out quickly.

The Nutcracker

2 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. Fri., Dec. 6 – 8 | Pasadena Civic Auditorium
Dec. 13-15 | UCLA Royce Hall
Dec. 19-28 | Dolby Theatre

Journey with young Clara and her beloved Nutcracker as they battle the most memorable Mouse King, encounter dancing Snowflakes, and travel to the Palace of the Dolls. Los Angeles Ballet stays true to the traditions of the holiday story with tastes of Southern California such as an elegant Spanish-style Hancock Park home, calla lilies, bougainvillea, the snowy forests of Big Bear, Venice Beach archways, and a moonlit Pacific Ocean. 

The Nutcracker opens at Pasadena Civic Auditorium (Dec. 6-8), then moves to Royce Hall at UCLA (Dec. 13-15) and culminates holiday week at Dolby Theatre in Hollywood (Dec. 19-28). Performances at Dolby Theatre feature Tchaikovsky’s iconic score performed live by the Los Angeles Ballet Orchestra. 

Festival Ballet Theatre: The Nutcracker

11 a.m. – 6 p.m. Sat., Dec. 7 – 24 | Irvine Barclay Theatre

Festival Ballet Theatre’s breathtaking production features superb colorful scenery and dazzling costumes, which make this age-old tradition sparkle like new. Be swept away by Tchaikovsky’s iconic score as the Sugar Plum Fairy, our heroine Clara, and a cast of hundreds take you on a magical journey to mystical lands. 

Add tickets to Clara’s tea party, $45 for adults and $35 for guests under age 21 to enjoy a pre-performance gourmet tea and champagne party one hour prior to the performance.

Inland Pacific Ballet: The Nutcracker

2 p.m. – 2 p.m. Sat., Dec. 7 – 8 | Bridges Auditorium

This annual production tells the story of a young girl named Clara who receives a magical nutcracker doll on Christmas Eve and sets out on a wondrous journey to the Land of the Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets.

“The Nutcracker” comes to life in this magnificent ballet with beautiful sets, dazzling costumes, Tchaikovsky’s classic score, and more than 80 dancers on stage. Toy soldiers, life-sized dancing dolls, falling snow, a fantastic dream with battling mice, dancing snowflakes, waltzing flowers, gingerbread characters and the delightful Sugar Plum Fairy stir the imagination. A wonderful production for all.

In addition to IPB’s Company of professional dancers, the diverse cast includes a total of 62 youth between the ages of 6-18 who make up multiple casts at the two venues. Participating youth come primarily from the IPB Academy, where many are from local area communities.

Special guest artists will be performing in this year’s performances as the Sugar Plum Fairy and Cavalier:

Dec. 21 and 22 at Bridges Auditorium at Pomona College in Claremont, former IPB Academy student and now a New York City Ballet principal dancer, and the first Asian American female principal in NYCB’s 75-year history, Mira Nadon returns to IPB’s Nutcracker to dance in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, along with fellow NYCB principal dancer Peter Walker dancing in the role of Cavalier. 

For performances on Dec. 7 and 8 at Bridges and Dec. 14 and 15 at Fox Performing Arts Center in Riverside, Lori Hernández, a highly sought after guest principal artist who has over 1.2 million followers on TikTok, will dance in the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy, along with former American Ballet Theater dancer Marshall Whiteley in the role of Cavalier.

American Ballet Theatre’s The Nutcracker

12:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 12 – 22 | Segerstrom Center for the Arts

SoCal’s favorite holiday tradition returns with American Ballet Theatre’s critically acclaimed production of The Nutcracker. Created by one of today’s most celebrated choreographers, Alexei Ratmansky, this dazzling holiday treat features ABT’s roster of superstar dancers along with gorgeous sets and costumes by Tony winner Richard Hudson, and Pacific Symphony playing Tchaikovsky’s timeless score. 

A limited number of exclusive Sweet Seats are available for performances of The Nutcracker! Along with prime Orchestra seating, this ticket also comes with a Segerstrom Center keepsake ornament, The Nutcracker collectible poster, luxurious Laderach chocolates and a delicious holiday cookie – all in a Segerstrom Center tote bag! Make it a holiday experience your loved ones will remember forever

Dorrance Dance: The Nutcracker Suite

8 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 12 | The Soraya

Tap shoes kick pointe shoes aside in this American version of the holiday classic, “The Nutcracker Suite.” Duke Ellington and Billy Strayhorn reimagined Tchaikovsky’s score in 1960, providing today’s preeminent tap company a platform to jazz up the holidays. The colorful fantasy was featured as the nation’s Nutcracker in 2023 with appearances at the Kennedy Center. 

The Nutcracker

1 p.m. – 6 p.m. Sat., Dec. 14 – 15 | Alex Theatre

The Red Chair’s annual Nutcracker performance features Los Angeles youth dancers, ages 7 to 18, in principal and supporting roles along with adults.  

Experience the wonder as these dancers bring to life the enchanting storybook tale of a young girl’s magical Christmas Eve, taking both her and the audience on a delightful holiday journey with lavish sets, glittering costumes and more.

Long Beach Ballet’s The Nutcracker

2 p.m. – 7 p.m. Sat., Dec. 14 – 15, 20 – 22 | Long Beach Convention Center

As always, the beloved production bursts with special guest performances and additional surprise treats the entire family will love. 

This production boasts a full symphony orchestra, a flying sleigh, a real live horse, onstage pyrotechnics, and a cast of over 250. Former Disney designers Elliot Hessayon and Scott Schaffer created the enchanting scenery, Australian artist Adrian Clark designed the detailed costumes, and renowned magician Franz Harary created the special effects.

Performances Dec. 14 at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m., Dec. 15 at 2 p.m., Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m., Dec. 21 at 2 and 7:30 p.m., and Dec. 22 at 2 p.m., at the Terrace Theater, Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center.

GMCLA’s SugarPlum Fairies

8 p.m. – 8 p.m. Sat., Dec. 14 – 15 | Saban Theatre

The Gay Men’s Chorus of Los Angeles, comprised of 200 men, will sing and dance 25 songs that celebrate holiday choral traditions and musical confections from classic melodies like “Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairies” from “The Nutcracker,” to popular hits like Dolly’s “Hard Candy Christmas” and Sia’s “Candy Cane Lane!” They will also bring you into a world of “Pure Imagination” with a special tribute to the recent film “Wonka” and the original “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory,” showcasing some of the most magical music ever written!

The Nutcracker 2024

3:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Fri., Dec. 20 – 21 | Smothers Theatre

Celebrate the holiday season with a cherished classic tradition as the award-winning California Dance Ensemble presents its 17th annual ballet production of Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky’s “The Nutcracker.” Starring Joel Kioko as the Nutcracker Cavalier and Sophia Shahani as the Sugar Plum Fairy, this stunning production features over 150 performers, including Academy students, pre-professional dancers and professional guest stars. Complete with real snowfall, magical elements, sword fights and sugar plum fairies, this version of “The Nutcracker,” under the direction of Jennifer and Robbin Shahani, is inspired by the ballet’s first American choreographer, Willem Christensen.

California Dance Academy is well-recognized for graduating dancers who have danced professionally with San Francisco Ballet, Joffrey Ballet, Los Angeles Ballet, Colorado Ballet, Ballet West, Ballet Project OC, Milwaukee Ballet, Syracuse City Ballet, and more..

Experience the magic of “The Nutcracker” in this stunning production in Malibu.

The post 11 Ways to Experience The Nutcracker in Los Angeles appeared first on L.A. Parent.

In partnership with Bricks & Wood, Amazon Studios recently hosted a holiday event featuring a screening of Prime Video’s premiere holiday movie, “Candy Cane Lane,” and donated $50,000 to Destination Crenshaw, an open-air museum dedicated to preserving the history and culture African Americans.

Part of the money will contribute to Crenshaw’s Christmas Light display. The event included fun holiday activities for families to get into the season’s spirit, including a snow sledding hill, retail pop-ups to get a head start on holiday shopping, free hot chocolate and apple cider with cookies, giveaways and more.Following the screening was a surprise Q&A session with the director of the film, Reggie Hudlind. “Candy Cane Lane,” which stars Eddie Murphy and Tracee Ellis Ross, is now showing on Prime Video.

The movie follows a man (Murphy) on a mission to win his neighborhood’s Christmas decoration contest. He inadvertently makes a deal with a mischievous elf who brings the 12 days of Christmas to life, wreaking havoc on the town. The movie reunites director Reginald Hudlin, Murphy and producer Brian Grazer for the first time since their 1992 hit “Boomerang” — and the screenplay comes from Kelly Younger, inspired by his own holiday experiences on Candy Cane Lane in El Segundo.

The post Amazon Donates $50K to Destination Crenshaw at Holiday Event appeared first on L.A. Parent.

As the holiday season approaches, the Los Angeles region is set to dazzle with a variety of enchanting performances that capture the spirit of the festivities.

From timeless classics like “The Nutcracker” to innovative theatrical productions, families can enjoy an array of shows that promise to entertain audiences of all ages. Whether you’re looking for a heartwarming ballet, a captivating musical or a festive concert, this roundup highlights the best holiday performances in L.A., ensuring there’s something magical for everyone to experience.

Theatrical Productions

La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts presents “Fiddler on the Roof” Nov. 8-Dec. 1. Starring Tony Award winner and “Seinfeld” star Jason Alexander, this moving Broadway classic features the musical hits, “If I Were a Rich Man,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker” and more. Recommended for ages 6 and up. $21.45-$132. lamiradatheatre.com

The Colony Theatre in Burbank and Imagine Theatre, L.A.’s equity theater for young audiences, present “The Girl Who Made the Milky Way,” Nov. 9-22.The world premiere play inspired by Khoisan folklore follows a young girl through the South African savanna on a magical journey to a time long ago. For ages 5 and up. $20-$30. imaginetheatreca.org

Handspring Puppet Company, the team behind Little Amal, joins Cape Town’s Baxter Theatre to present “Life & Times of Michael K” Nov. 21-24 at The Wallis. Based on J.M. Coetzee’s 1983 Booker Prize-winning novel, this puppet theater adaptation follows a humble man in search of his mother’s ancestral home. Recommended for ages 12 and up. $49-$109. thewallis.org

Lythgoe Family Productions returns to L.A. with “Peter Pan and Tinker Bell: A Pirate’s Christmas” Dec. 13-29 at Scherr Forum Theatre at the Bank of America Performing Arts Center in Thousand Oaks. This all-ages singing, swashbuckling comedy adventure will be performed in the popular theater tradition of a British holiday pantomime. $39.50-$59.50. 5startheatricals.com

If the holidays have you feeling nostalgic, bring the family to “Back to the Future: The Musical” at Segerstrom Center for the Arts Dec. 26-Jan. 5. The beloved movie has been transformed into a Broadway musical featuring original music by Grammy winners Alan Silvestri and Glen Balard and directed by Tony Award winner John Rando. $44.07-$157.07. scfta.org

‘The Nutcracker’

In its 32^nd year, “NUTCRACKER! Magical Christmas Ballet” travels to Pasadena Civic Auditorium Dec. 13 and to The Wiltern Dec. 20-21 during its national tour. The all-ages holiday spectacular features acrobatics, 10-foot-tall puppets, hand-painted backdrops and local children’s cast from Grace Ballet who will dance alongside the professional ballerinas. $35-$280. nutcracker.com

The Los Angeles Ballet’s annual holiday performance of “The Nutcracker” returns to the Dolby Theatre in Hollywood Dec. 19-28. The very L.A. version of this holiday classic features Spanish-style Hancock Park homes, the moonlit Pacific Ocean and more. $45-$143. dolbytheatre.com

From Dec. 13-14, San Pedro City Ballet performs its version of “The Nutcracker” at the James Armstrong Theatre in Torrance. $45. torrancearts.org

American Ballet Theatre returns to Segerstrom Center for the Arts Dec. 12-15 for its critically acclaimed production of “The Nutcracker,” which features a cast of more than 100 performers. VIP “Sweet Seat” tickets include prime seating, a keepsake ornament, poster, chocolates and holiday cookies to make for a special holiday outing. On Dec. 7, little ones ages 5 and up can attend “The Nutcracker for Kids!,” which features an all-ages version of the ballet, plus themed crafts, a photo station and S.T.E.A.M activities before and after the concert. $32.77-$349.17. scfta.org

Holiday Music

TOArts presents the Mannheim Steamroller Christmas on Nov. 27 at the Fred Kavli Theatre. The holiday tradition celebrates 35 years of its multimedia concert, featuring classic Christmas hits and 15 musicians playing more than 20 musical instruments. $56.50-$136.50. bapacthousandoaks.com

The community chorus Pasadena Chorale presents “Twilight of the Year” Dec. 14-15 at the Altadena Community Church. Gather for beautiful choral music of the season. FREE. pasadenachorale.org

LA Phil’s “Deck the Hall” holiday concerts at Walt Disney Concert Hallfeatures a concert for everyone, including the family-favorite annual Holiday Sing-Along. On Dec. 14, EGOT winner Jennifer Hudson sings songs from her new album “The Gift of Love.” On Dec. 18, catch “Home Alone in Concert” Dec. 21-22 and more. $39-$209. laphil.com

On Dec. 24, the 65^th Annual L.A. County Holiday Celebration returns to the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion with a free evening of music, dance and more. The all-ages performance features L.A.-based performers and artists live on stage and streaming on PBS SoCal. FREE. musiccenter.org

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

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Dive into the enchanting world of Treasure Trackers, the all-new family adventure brimming with nostalgia and Halloween magic! This film is a must-watch as we begin to embrace the spooky season! Check out the trailer of the thrilling new tale here.

Treasure Trackers follows California surfer Leah (Charity Rose) who must relocate to the small town of Carterville, where she bands together fellow misfits Marshy (Sean Jay) and Tessa (Amelia Salazar) to track down the town’s mythic treasure. When the trio uncovers the truth behind the treasure’s Halloween curse, they must outsmart the high school troublemakers before an evil spirit is accidentally released.

As the feature film debut from directors Nate & Drew Garcia, they sought out to recapture the magic of an era where movies were aspirational, heartfelt, and tinged with a bit of whims. Treasure Trackers formed from a blend of creative vision, ambition, and the timeless elements that the producers felt would make for a compelling movie: a thrilling treasure hunt, a Halloween curse, a trio of misfit middle schoolers who beat the odds with wits and ingenuity, and a young hero who discovers that the real treasure lies in the friendships forged along the way.

Face your fears, embark on a treasure hunt, and join Leah and her friends in their thrilling adventure to uncover the cursed treasure. Treasure Trackers is now available for purchase on Apple TV and Fandango at Home, brought to you by Storyboard Entertainment, Level33 Entertainment, and Particular Crowd.

ABOUT TREASURE TRACKERS
Release Date: Available to Purchase on Digital Platforms 10/1
Starring: Charity Rose, Amelia Salazar, Sean Jay, Sam Coffelt, Kim Sandwich, Cooper Tomlinson, Zephaniah Terry, Jaymee Vowell, Mike Stanley, Jim Johnson, Matthew Tarricone, Constance Reynolds, Alfred E. Rutherford, Julie Oliver-Touchstone, Cliff Jestice, Patrick G. Keenan, Leora Berry, Chris Thiede, Austin Von Johnson
Executive Produced By: Tomás Yankelevich, Peter Bevan, Mariana Sanjurjo, Matthew D. Miller
Produced By: Jason Potash, Paul Finkel, Ricky Blumenstein, Harris Kauffman
Co-Produced By: Nicholas Chow, Roxana Dellocchio, Alan Luna, Natalie Ballesteros
Screenplay By: Harris Kauffman
Directed By: Drew and Nate Garcia
Run Time: 93 mins
Rating: PG for some scary moments, language, mild thematic elements and a suggestive reference.

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There is nothing quite like music to uplift our individual and collective spirits. And HaZamir: The International Jewish Teen Choir aims to give young people an outlet to celebrate their Jewish heritage and feel a sense of belonging and pride through the creative outlet of music.

Designed for students in grades 9-12, there are 26 HaZamir chapters across the U.S., plus nine in Israel, and an upcoming Carnegie Hall gala will feature hundreds of HaZamir singers. Rehearsals for the 2024-25 season will begin in September, culminating in a gala performance at Carnegie Hall in the spring.

The HaZamir Los Angeles and HaZamir L.A. Valley chapters combine teens from different
congregations who alternate hosting duties and join once a month for a joint group gathering with members of both LA chapters, rehearsing together and fostering an even greater sense of community. Dor Kaminka, an Israeli-American singer, composer and pianist, serves as conductor for the L.A. group.

New members are welcome, and local teens can join the local HaZamir Los Angeles chapters. For more information, email hazamirla1@gmail.com or Rabbi Cantor Alison Wissot at awissot@templejudea.com.

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Attending theatrical shows is a great way to support local artists and theaters whilst also experiencing the fervor and spirit of a live performance and audience. If you’re looking to catch an outdoor live theater show in L.A. this summer to early autumn, this roundup is for you!

Griffith Park Free Shakespeare Festival

July 10-Sept. 1, 7 p.m.
4730 Crystal Springs Drive, Los Angeles

Since 2010, Independent Shakespeare Co. has brought free Shakespeare to Griffith Park every summer. This year, the company continues the L.A. summer tradition with the romantic comedy “As You Like It,” featuring live music, pre-show discussions and theme nights. FREE. iscla.org

Pro tip: Shows start at 7 p.m., but come early to catch the immersive prologue at 6 p.m.

Theatricum Botanicum

Through Oct. 20
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd., Topanga

Your summer isn’t complete until you’ve experienced at least one magical night of theater under the stars at Theatricum Botanicum’s historic stage nestled in Topanga Canyon’s hillside. This summer, their season includes “The Winter’s Tale,” “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” “Wendy’s Peter Pan,” “Tartuffe: Born Again” and a new play, “The Hispanic/ Latino/ Latina/ Latinx/ Latine Vote,” by Bernardo Cubría.  $15-$60; free for ages 4 and under. theatricum.com

Pro tip: For newcomers and parents of younger kids, we recommend bringing the family to “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” Theatricum’s signature production.

Shakespeare by the Sea

Through Aug. 3, 7 p.m.
Various locations throughout L.A. and Orange counties

Shakespeare by the Sea’s 2024 season presents a lesser-known Shakespeare play, “Cardenio,” and a classic, “Henry IV,” at various outdoor spaces throughout L.A. including Long Beach, Beverly Hills and South Pasadena. These family-friendly shows are about two hours long, so we recommend bringing your big kids, tweens and teens to this one. Arrive early to get a good spot and enjoy a picnic dinner before the show. FREE. shakespearebythesea.org

Pro tip: If you can’t decide, we recommend attending the July 12 performance of “Cardenio” at Wilmington Waterfront Promenade. This is a new park at the Port of L.A., located along the water’s edge.

To find more activities and entertainment for summer nights in L.A., visit our full roundup.

Nina Harada is Digital Editor of L.A. Parent.

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