Innervision Records Celebrates Silver Anniversary

ORANGE COUNTY (27 February 2023): Consistent excellence in artistry combined with passion, innovation, and imagination have been the hallmarks of Innervision Records during its 25 years. The Southern California-based imprint that specializes in shades of jazz spanning groove, smooth and chill along with neo-soul and world music continues to ride high on the Billboard charts after their artists Blake Aaron and Will Donato scored No. 1 singles in 2022 and Kim Scott collected the highest honor: Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Song of the Year.

Aaron was the first artist inked to Innervision Records thus there’s something special about the guitarist continuing to be a part of the label’s storied successes. His “Dreamland” occupied the No. 1 spot on five charts  - Billboard, Groove Jazz Music, Mediabase, Radiowave, and Smooth Jazz Network - simultaneously last summer. The cherry on top is that Aaron is the featured soloist on Scott’s year-end chart-topper, “SHINE!"

"As one of the first artists on Innervision Records, I've had the honor of watching Innervision Records grow from a very small label into a major player in the industry with dozens of amazingly talented artists and become a powerhouse in the genre. It is exciting to see Innervision Records all over the Billboard charts each and every week, and most of the time, at the top. As one of the most artist-friendly labels out there, Innervision Records is truly a ‘family’ that I'm honored to be a part of,” said Aaron who has captured the No. 1 position on the Billboard singles chart for Innervision Records five times.

With roots in classical and jazz, Scott’s success has come by crafting a groove-laden mélange of urban, jazz, soul, and pop music. The flutist has notched Billboard No. 1 singles in the past yet “SHINE!” accomplished the rare feat of becoming the most-played song of the year without hitting the peak position. With an MVP performance by labelmate Aaron’s electric jazz guitar, the title cut of Scott’s “SHINE!” album is a shimmering and sophisticated blend of R&B and contemporary jazz.  

“I’m so honored that “SHINE!” was the most played smooth jazz song of 2022 and that it was named Billboard’s #1 Song of the Year. It was truly a labor of love to co-write the song and I was instantly inspired to write the melodies for the verses and chorus. They flowed from my spirit almost effortlessly. It was like a bright light was shining on me as I wrote it, bringing me energy, joy, inspiration, and hope. Featuring Blake Aaron on the track made the song shine even more and he did a brilliant job with his guitar solo! I’m so proud to have played a part in this achievement for Innervision Records, my team, and all the artists involved with the song. I plan to continue to let my light shine so listeners can find joy and inspiration in my music,” said Birmingham, AL-based Scott.

For the fourth consecutive year, Innervision Records placed third on Billboard’s Smooth Jazz Label of the Year tally on the strength of Scott’s massive airplay and No. 1 singles by Aaron and saxophonist Donato, the latter who recently vaulted into the top spot with his soul-powered single “Good On You.” Other Innervision Records artists to enjoy Billboard's top 20 success in 2022 were JJ Sansaverino, Cal Harris Jr., and Tom Braxton.

Innervision Records will celebrate its silver anniversary at its tenth annual After NAMM JAMM on April 16. Many of the artists on the label’s roster are expected to take the Spaghettini stage in Southern California for the popular post-NAMM show jam session. 

“We’re excited to bring everyone together for our Innervision Records After NAMM JAMM once again.  Originally starting out as a get-together for our artists and their musician friends to come out and jam during the heavily attended annual music industry convention, the After NAMM JAMM has evolved into an exciting opportunity for many of our Innervision Records family members to get together and celebrate the label, our shared successes, the fans and, most importantly, our friendships face to face,” said Steve Belkin, Innervision Records’ general manager.

Independent labels come and go fast in today’s music industry thus reaching a 25th anniversary is a testament to Innervision Records’ vision and execution. The label eagerly anticipates celebrating the milestone with its artists at the After NAMM JAMM. And while they are enthused by their accomplishments to date, they’re energized about what’s ahead.   

“To think Innervision Records has been around for 25 years is pretty crazy.  What started as a very tiny independent one-artist label has developed into an eclectic, creative, and artistic boutique label featuring artists from around the country. I'm very proud to be a part of Innervision's growth and success, in building a distinct brand. Watching several of our artists go from emerging to chart-topping artists is like proud parent moments. The artists deserve the credit, but you can't help but take some pride in their success,” said Belkin. 

Innervision Records’ A&R and radio promotions executive Adam Leibovitz concurs, acknowledging the role fans have played in the label’s accomplishments.

"Innervision Records has endured and grown into a major source of talent and I am so proud of what we have accomplished. I’m proud of our artists who create incredible music, and, of course, grateful to all of the fans who have been so loyal and so dedicated to what we have built. I am amazed when thinking about where Innervision Records started, beaming with pride over what it has become, and most of all, filled with excitement over what it will be!" 

For more information, please visit www.innervisionrecords.com. 

The Fountain Theatre's 'The Lifespan of a Fact'

(l-r) Inger Tudor (seated), Ron Bottitta, and Jonah Robinson
in 'The Lifespan of a Fact'

By Darlene Donloe

Truth in journalism is under a microscope in Director Simon Levy’s ‘The Lifespan of a Fact,’ currently running through April 2, at The Fountain Theatre.

The comedy/drama is a case study in the ethics of storytelling. 

What’s more important: writing the truth, telling a good story – or somewhere in between?  It takes an intimate look at accuracy, truth, judgment, and ultimately creative license. 

As the story goes, John D’Agata, a cantankerous writer played with boldness by Rob Bottitta, has written an article, I mean an essay, about a Vegas teen’s suicide. 

His editor Emily Penrose, played with flair by Inger Tudor decides to have Jim Fingal, an intern deftly played by Jonah Robinson, fact-check/research the essay. Penrose gives him five days to complete the assignment. Both Penrose and Robinson quickly realize – there’s more to D’Agata’s essay than meets the eye.

In an effort to do a thorough job, Fingal has proudly written a more than 130-page spreadsheet of corrections/questions/inquiries for an essay that was only 15 pages long.

The question becomes just how many alternative facts someone can use in an essay before it becomes a pack of lies or just some semblance of the truth. 

How many alternative facts or 'fake news' accounts can someone use and the essay still be considered trustworthy? 

In ‘The Lifespan of a Fact,’ definitions of the truth can literally be split three different ways. 

It can be a slippery slope where essays are concerned. The same can’t be said for hard news stories which require facts. Most bonafide journalists have no use for pliable truths.

‘The Lifespan of a Fact’ is a heady, thought-provoking piece that nudges the audience to think.

For instance, if someone describes a brick as being red when everyone else sees it as brown, who is right and who is wrong?  Does it make a difference in the outcome of the story? Does it make a difference if someone fell 9 feet instead of 10? Well, maybe. It’s all about perception, or is it?

At one point in the show, D’Agata declares, “I’m not interested in accuracy. I’m interested in truth.”   

Chew on that audience. 

To his credit, D’Agata doesn’t consider himself a journalist. Instead, he considers himself an essayist who has creative liberties when it comes to bringing his essays to life. 

The play is based on a real essay penned by the writer John D'Agata and Jim Fingal, which was in turn based on their actual encounter in getting an article ready for a glossy New York magazine. The piece was originally called, ‘What Happens There.’

(l-r) Inger Tudor and Ron Bottitta

In real life, Fingal, a Harvard graduate, worked for a publication called The Believer. The essay was submitted to Harper’s Bazaar but was rejected because of its factual inaccuracies.

You don’t have to be a writer/journalist to understand what’s going on in this play.

It presents its case as both a drama and a comedy – and both genres work. 

What really makes this play work is the smart writing, solid directing, costuming, lights, sound, and most of all, the actors. Bottitta rings true as a crotchety, self-involved writer who has drunk his own Kool-Aid one too many times. Robinson brings intensity and just the right amount of naivety, innocence, and inexperience. Tudor has the unenviable job of trying to navigate a slippery slope between a veteran writer she respects and a fresh-faced intern eager to make his mark.

Levy has directed a sharp play. The movement around the stage keeps the pace going forward. The repartee between the trio is rapid and witty.

The ending of the play offers no conclusion. In fact, after the show, everyone was asking, ‘What do you think happened?”

Opinions were evenly split with everyone giving their analysis, convinced about what they just witnessed.

(l-r) Jonah Robinson and Ron Bottitta

After viewing this play, the skeptics and critics who have always had a distrust of the press, will, no doubt, feel justified in continuing to give it the side eye. 

‘The Lifespan of a Fact,’ directed by Simon Levy, written by Jeremy Kareken, David Murrell, and Gordon Farrell, based on the book by John D'Agata and Jim Fingal, stars Ron Bottitta, Jonah Robinson, and Inger Tudor. 

On the DONLOE SCALE: D (don’t bother), O (oh, no), N (needs work), L (likable), O (oh, yeah), E (excellent), ‘The Lifespan of a Fact’ gets an O (oh, yeah).

‘The Lifespan of a Fact,’ The Fountain Theatre, 5060 Fountain Ave., Los Angeles, CA  90029, (corner of Fountain & Normandie, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., 8 p.m. Mon. (dark Monday, March 13) through April 2; $25-$45, Pay-What- You-Want seating is available every Monday night, for reservations and information, 323 663-1525 or www.FountainTheatre.com.

'SNOWFALL' Cast Discusses Show and Creator John Singleton at Pan African Film Festival

LOS ANGELES, CA - Members of the cast of the FX hit series SNOWFALL will discuss the influence and legacy of the series.  Cast members will also discuss the importance of continuing the legacy of show creator John Singleton–one of the greatest storytellers of all time, and how FX’s SNOWFALL honored his vision. The panel will take place at the PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL (PAFF) at the Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD (4020 Marlton Ave.) on Mon., Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. (5 p.m. red carpet) The panel is FREE and open to the public.  

Michael Hyatt (Cissy Saint) and Gail Bean (Wanda Bell) will reflect on his memory together and share stories about the man they knew closely as a trailblazer, artist, mentor, and friend and how his legacy lives forever, through the powerful and unapologetically real stories he told that shared the beauty and hardships of the Black experience in America. 

Over the course of five seasons, FX’s SNOWFALL has chronicled how an off-the-books CIA operation contributed to the destruction of rock cocaine leveled upon the vibrant community of South Central L.A.

The sixth and final season of “Snowfall” will return on Feb. 22 at 10 p.m. ET on FX, and stream the next day on Hulu, the network announced. The premiere will include the first two episodes of the 10-episode final season.

The panel is free and open to the public to attend.  

WHO:

Michael Hyatt 

Gail Bean

WHAT:

A panel discussion with members of the cast of the hit FX series “Snowfall” on the show's legacy and show creator John Singleton

WHEN:

Monday, February 20, 2023

5PM - Red Carpet

6PM - Program

WHERE:

Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD

4020 Marlton Avenue 

Los Angeles, CA 90008

Pan African Film Festival Final Weekend Events

LOS ANGELES, CA – The final weekend of the 31ST ANNUAL PAN AFRICAN FILM & ARTS FESTIVAL in Los Angeles will see a number of additional special guests and events. The BLACK HISTORY MONTH SHOWCASE is the largest in L.A. County and the country and spans 12 days every February featuring a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and African-Americans. The film festival is held at the Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD.

In addition to the films, PAFF hosts 100 established and emerging fine artists and unique craftspeople from all over the world during its ARTFEST at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza.

The festival concludes on President’s Day February 20.

Below are a few highlighted events, a full calendar of events can be accessed here.

ARTFEST

All Day – The PAFF ARTFEST which hosts 100 established and emerging fine artists and unique craftspeople from all over the world will run through 9 p.m. on President’s Day.

Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 18

Kids in the Spotlight

10:30AM – Actor TERRY CREWS will join KIDS IN THE SPOTLIGHT (KITS) on Saturday morning at PAFF. Crews stars in “Bully” alongside Ariel Winter and introducing Rodney Jackson-Brown from KITS.

KITS is a Black-led, Los Angeles County-based organization that helps foster youth heal and grow from trauma through the power of storytelling and filmmaking. In the KITS flagship Script-to-Screen program, foster youth ages 12-22 write, cast, and star in their own short films, telling their stories their way. KITS envisions a pipeline of Black and Brown leaders in positions of decision-making power. By building the pipeline, KITS pursues the restoration of economic stability and generational wealth for Black and Brown youth.

The screening is free and open to the public. RSVP is required at paff.org.

Location: Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD 

Nashville Legacy

4:15PM – Hallmark Movies & Mysteries will present a FREE screening of their new romantic comedy-drama NASHVILLE LEGACY starring ANDREA LEWIS, POOCH HALL, STAN SHAW, and ROZ RYAN — along with RUBEN STUDDARD, who has a cameo role.  

NASHVILLE LEGACY tells the story of Naima has recently moved to Nashville, where she is getting her doctorate while interning as a curator at a Nashville museum. The tales her late grandmother shared about the old days in Music City during the 1950s provided a fascination that led music enthusiast Naima back to her grandmother’s old haunts. As she begins her work at the museum, Naima meets Damian. The two begin to get close, bonding over their love for music and their desire to leave their respective marks on the world.

Confirmed red carpet participants are ANDREA LEWIS, POOCH HALL, ROZ RYAN, STAN SHAW, TONI JUDKINS, and ERICA ASH.

The screening is free and open to the public. RSVP is required at paff.org.

Location: Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD.

Behind the Music: The Influence Of Music On TV, Film + Social Media

6PM – A panel discussion on how musicians use their talents to contribute and amplify the voice of Black creators in music. 

The panel is free and open to the public.

Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, 1st Floor @ Afro City.

Spokenword Fest

6:30PM – This year’s poet showcase will honor poets Matthew Cuban Hernandez and Alyesha Wise-Hernandez for their many contributions to the poetry community. One of the most popular spoken word events in Los Angeles, the PAFF SPOKENWORD FEST is hosted by PAUL MABON (of the Progressive commercials).

Tickets are available at paff.org.

Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, 2nd Floor @ The Bridge, Near Macy’s.

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 19

Fashion Show

2PM – The PAFF FASHION SHOW is L.A.’s premier international fashion experience, highlighting the essence of African culture and aesthetics that aims to promote world-class designers and labels that push the envelope while staying true to the traditions and inspiration of the African continent and diaspora. Join PAFF for a “tour de force” in high fashion with an Afro-touch! Free event!

Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, 2nd Floor @ The Bridge, Near Macy’s.

Closing Night

5:15PM – The 31st annual Pan African Film & Arts Festival’s Closing Night will feature the Los Angeles premiere of TO LIVE AND DIE AND LIVE starring AMIN JOSEPH of “Snowfall.”

In TO LIVE AND DIE AND LIVE, Muhammad (Amin Joseph), a strong, handsome Hollywood film director, makes his way through the gorgeous and alluring landscapes of a rebuilt Detroit — the glistening legacy of his newly deceased stepfather Khalid, a beloved and highly regarded building contractor. Muhammad has returned for the funeral, but his own battle with addiction, which he hides from the world, drives him to immediately fade away into the sultry, late-night, drug-saturated after-hours of Detroit and an equally intoxicating romantic relationship. As he struggles to cope, Muhammad’s family and friends look to him as a leader and provider, and he forges ahead shouldering all of their needs, claiming he’s got this, even though it’s a lot — maybe too much.

TO LIVE AND DIE LIVE is produced by FOREST WHITAKER, QASIM BASIR, AMIN JOSEPH, CORY HARDRICT, and OMARI HARDWICK.

Red carpet starts at 5:15 p.m.

Tickets are available at paff.org.

Location: Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 20

Filmmaker’s Award Brunch

10AM – The winners of the PAFF film competition will be announced. In addition LOS ANGELES COUNCILWOMAN HEATHER HUTT will receive the PAFF Community Service Award and actress ANGELA LEWIS of FX’s “Snowfall” will receive the PAFF Beah Richards Award.

Tickets are available at paff.org.

Location: Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, 2nd Floor @ The Bridge, Near Macy’s.

FX’s “Snowfall” Legacy Panel

6PM – The Legacy Panel will highlight the concept of Legacy, what it means and how to honor the legacies of the greats who have contributed so much to their generations and those that follow. Panelists will discuss the importance of continuing the legacy of John Singleton and how FX’s “Snowfall” honored his vision, as well as the importance of the contribution of other Black TV creators in FX’s slate of shows. Panelists will also speak to the legacy of Afeni Shakur, mother of Tupac Shakur who are both spotlighted in the upcoming documentary series, FX’s “Dear Mama”. Collectively, the panelists will discuss the legacy of Black creativity and the home that it has at FX.

The panel is free and open to the public to attend. RSVP at paff.org, keyword Snowfall.

Cinemark Baldwin Hills & XD.

This year’s PAFF is presented by Stocker Street Creative, Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza, and FX Networks

For more information, please visit paff.org.

###

Casting Set for "Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992"

Anna Deavere Smith

Originally performed solo by Smith, “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” has been reimagined for a cast of five performers. Thirty years after its world premiere, Center Theatre Group will celebrate the West Coast premiere of the revised production by giving away 1,000 tickets to Angelenos.

Casting has been set for the West Coast premiere of the revised production of playwright Anna Deavere Smith’s transformative “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992,” coming to Los Angeles at Center Theatre Group / Mark Taper Forum March 8 through April 9, 2023, and opening March 15, 2023.

The cast of the new take of “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” features an ensemble of actors including Hugo Armstrong, Lovensky Jean-Baptiste, Lisa Reneé Pitts, Jeanne Sakata, and Sabina Zúñiga Varela. “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” draws on more than 300 interviews with politicians, activists, police, jurors, shopkeepers, and countless other Los Angelenos to explore the uprising sparked by the acquittal of the men charged in the Rodney King police brutality case. Through the words of these real people, “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” delves into the long-simmering tensions that set the stage for the L.A. Riots and explore the immediate impact on individual Angelenos and the community as a whole.

To celebrate the homecoming of this groundbreaking production, and to ensure Angelenos can experience the story that is about and for the citizens of L.A., Center Theatre Group will be giving out 1,000 free tickets to various educational institutions, social justice organizations, and community groups.

“We are beyond excited to welcome Anna Deavere Smith back to the Mark Taper Forum, where her landmark play rocked Los Angeles 30 years ago, and offered an opportunity for the community to gather, grieve, and bond over one of this city’s darkest and most challenging times,” said Center Theatre Group Managing Director / CEO Meghan Pressman. “Today, the show is, unfortunately, as timely and relevant as it was back in 1993. As such, we want to ensure everyone in Los Angeles who wants to see this show is able to do so. We are proud to offer free tickets to students, community partners, and others to attend and see this iconic work that was made in Los Angeles for the people of Los Angeles.”

The creative team for “Twilight: Los Angeles 1992” at the Mark Taper Forum, who are all Southern California-based creatives, includes Efren Delgadillo Jr. (scenic design), Samantha C. Jones (costume design), Brandon Baruch (lighting design), Jeff Gardner (sound design), Tru (original music), Yee Eun Nam (projection design), and Stephen Buescher (movement). Casting is by Nicole Arbusto, CSA, and dramaturgy is by Dorinne Kondo, Marcos Nájera, and Lindsay Jenkins. Shawna Voragen is the production stage manager. Erin Nicole Washington is the dialect coach and Sharifa Johka is an EDI Consultant. It has been previously announced that Los Angeles-based director and NAACP Best Director winner Gregg T. Daniel will direct the new production of “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” at the Taper. 

Smith commented on the revision of the play for five performers, “…the work was never meant to be restricted to a one-person show format. I wanted all of my work to be done by groups of actors, especially in schools and universities, or in communities where discussion might follow. Democracy is all about a variety of individuals working towards a goal. The cast of a play can exemplify that."

Originally commissioned by Center Theatre Group where the solo show made its world premiere at the Mark Taper Forum in May 1993, “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992”’s sold-out run in Los Angeles was followed by many successful revisions of the play, with each inviting a new group of collaborators. Those include a production at The Public Theater followed by a Broadway run and two Tony nominations; a national tour mounted at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre; a film produced by Ms. Smith and others in partnership with PBS; and the most recent reconceptualized production for five actors at the Signature Theatre in New York. New York Magazine hailed the reworked production as an “excellent revival. There’s a moral thrill in the work that will never fade,” while The New York Times named it a Critic’s Pick and called the production, “as necessary now as when Los Angeles was actively smoldering.”

Tickets for “Twilight: Los Angeles, 1992” are currently on sale and start at $35. They are available through CenterTheatreGroup.org, Audience Services at (213) 628-2772 or in person at the Center Theatre Group Box Offices (at the Ahmanson Theatre) at The Music Center, 135 N. Grand Avenue in Downtown L.A. 90012. Performances run Tuesday through Friday at 8 p.m., Saturday at 2:30 p.m. and 8 p.m., and Sunday at 1 p.m. and 6:30 p.m.

Hosts Line-Up Announced for 30th Annual Los Angeles Women's Theatre Festival

The 30th Annual Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival (LAWTF) has a roster of distinguished artists who will co-host six evenings of programs virtually. This year’s overall theme is CELEBRATION! Empowering Voices of Solo Female Performers for 30 Years,

The four days of performances and celebration will take place at Barnsdall  Gallery Theatre, 4800 Hollywood Boulevard,, Hollywood, CA 90027.

Thursday, March 23, 2023, at 8 p.m.

The Champagne GALA and Awards Ceremony honors distinguished women for their contributions to the theatre (who will be named in a separate press release) and presents theatre and vocal performances.

The theme of the GALA: BRAVA!

The hosts are Hattie Winston and Ted Lange.

Hattie Winston has starred on Broadway (The Tap Dance Kid, The Me Nobody Knows, Two Gentlemen of Verona, Hair, Scapino!,  I Love My Wife, Does the Tiger Wear a Necktie?), on television (Becker, The Electric Company, Homefront) and feature films (The Battle of Shaker Heights, Beverly Hills Cop III, and Jackie Brown). Hattie Winston is a Founding Member of the Negro Ensemble Company, where she performed in Day of Absence, Song of the Lusitanian Bogey, Daddy Goodness, and Kongi’s Harvest, among others.

Ted Lange is known internationally for his portrayal of Isaac Washington on the long-running TV series The Love Boat for 10 years. Lange received the Renaissance Man Theatre Award from the NAACP for his stage accomplishments as an actor both on Broadway and in Los Angeles, playwright (23 plays), and director. His one-man show in which he portrays Paul Lawrence Dunbar, Behind the Mask, tours worldwide. He more recently appeared in the play Willie and Esther with BerNadette Stanis.

Friday, March 24 at 8 p.m.

Theme: Of Self

The hosts are Eloise Laws and Ben Guillory.

Eloise Laws is an award-winning member of the legendary and celebrated  Laws jazz family (Ronnie, Hubert, and Debra Laws). Best known for her work as a jazz vocalist, her credits also include musical theatre (including South Pacific, House of Flowers, and Candide) and opera (The Metropolitan Opera’s The Return). She starred in and co-wrote the Tony® nominated musical It Ain’t Nothin’ But the Blues. She is also the recipient of the Cherry Blossom Award from the Tokyo Music Festival.

Ben Guillory is the Producing Artistic Director and Co-Founder (with Danny Glover) of The Robey Theatre Company, one of Los Angeles’ longest-operating and most award-winning African-American-led theatre companies. His producing and directing credits include the notable productions of The Magnificent Dunbar Hotel, Dr. DuBois and Miss Ovington, Anna Lucasta, Yohen, Bronzeville, The Haitian Trilogy; For the Love of Freedom, and many more. He is also an actor.

Saturday, March 25 at 3 p.m.

Theme: Culturally Speaking.

The hosts are Margaret Avery and Akuyoe Graham.

Margaret Avery was the recipient of an Academy Award ® nomination for The Color Purple, Other prominent movies include Cool Breeze, Which Way Is Up?, Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins, and more. She appeared regularly on the BET TV series Being Mary Jane. She starred in the acclaimed Robey Theatre Company production of The River Niger, and won the L.A. Drama Critics Circle Award for her performance in Does the Tiger Wear a Necktie? Her other stage credits include The Sistuhs and Revolution.

Akuyoe Graham’s personal path with her transcendent inner beauty was the culmination of a long journey, which she re-enacts in her acclaimed one-woman play, Spirit Awakening. Animating the pivotal characters who influenced her along the way, Akuyoe takes audiences on her odyssey of self-discovery. Whether in a prison classroom with a dozen inmates – or on stage before hundreds of students or regular playgoers – Akuyoe’s journey electrifies audiences and inspires them to look beneath their own social masks to their unchanging inner essence.

Saturday, March 25 at 8 p.m.

Theme: It’s All Relative.

The hosts are James Reynolds and Lissa Reynolds.

James Reynolds is known and loved by millions for his four decades as Mayor Abe Carver on the daytime drama Days of Our Lives, for which he is the longest-running Black actor on a daytime series. He received an Emmy ® Award. He has also been a series regular on the TV shows Generations and Time Express. The Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of Fremont Centre Theatre in South Pasadena, he was previously managing artistic director of Los Angeles Repertory Theatre in Old Town Pasadena. He starred in an acclaimed Black History presentation, I, Too, Am America.

Lissa Reynolds is Co-Founder and Co-Artistic Director of the Fremont Centre Theatre, where she has produced numerous plays. She received Woman of the Year honors from Rep. Adam Schiff of the 29th Congressional District in recognition of her engagement in community affairs and charities. Also an actor, her screen credits include the lead in a rom-com, Say Yes, and a memorable turn in the sci-fi classic Night of the Comet. On stage, Lissa received acclaim for her starring role in A Woman of Independent Means.

Sunday, March 26 at 3 p.m.

Theme: We, The People

Hosts are Dawn Didawick and Rose Portillo

Dawn Didawick is a Founding Member of the Antaeus Theatre Company. Her long, varied career has taken her from New York to Europe in the classics and new works.  At Antaeus, her credits include The Man Who Had All the Luck, The Bear,, Autumn Garden, The Seagull, The Crucible, and multiple roles in ClassicsFest including Amanda in The Glass Menagerie and Big Mama in Cat On A Hot Tin Roof {Stage Raw Award). Her many TV and film appearances include Hart of Dixie, Pretty Little Liars, Christmas with the Kranks, and Erin Brockovich.

Ms. Portillo is an accomplished actor/writer/director/educator and visual artist whose stage and film career began with a lead role in Luis Valdez's Zoot Suit, (original LA production, Broadway, film), and the role of the Mother in the 2017 revival. She was the Associate Director of About Productions, now celebrating 35 years of creating original theater works. As an actor, Rose has extensive credits in regional theatre, film, and television.   Rose has been honored with the Lee Melville Award for Outstanding Contribution to the Los Angeles Theatre Community.

Sunday, March 26 at 7 p.m

. Theme: Songbirds and Dancing Feet

The hosts are Jude Narita and Angela Robinson Witherspoon.

For over three decades Jude Narita’s award-winning one-woman plays have portrayed Asian and Asian American women with humor, courage, and fearless celebration. Jude first created the women in her plays to challenge the Asian stereotypes that existed when she first began acting, and to show the human cost of wars that have raged in Asia for over a hundred years.  Thirty years ago,    she began bringing to the stage-specific accents and culturally correct portrayals of different Asians, some of whom had never been portrayed on the American stage before.

Angela Robinson-Witherspoon has appeared on stage in Sirens, Happy Ending, The Last Straw, and A Song for You). She has also been visible in films (The Moment After, 48 Hours, Crossroads, The Meteor Man, Hold On, Lilin’s Brood) and on TV (Ugly Betty, Joan of Arcadia, The Wayans Bros. and 3rd Rock from the Sun, Criminal Minds, Crazy Ex-Girlfriend). She is also a director and producer (Bettye Saar: Ready to Be a Warrior, Wish Me Luck, Last Call, and more).

Founded by Executive Producer Adilah Barnes and Miriam Reed, the Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival is an Annual Event unique among Los Angeles cultural institutions, not to be missed.

The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival is a non-profit arts organization supported in part by Lendistry, California Arts Council, Los Angeles County Arts and Culture, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, City of Culver City, City National Bank, The California Wellness Foundation, Women in Media KPFK, Anonymous Foundation, and Adilah Barnes Productions.

Tickets to the March 23 GALA are $60 each or $100 a pair (including reception). Tickets to each of the weekend’s other five shows are $25 for early birds (through March 10) and $30 thereafter. A VIP all-access pass for the entire weekend is $150 and includes a Day Pass to INTERSECTION: A Day of       Workshops and Panels on March 22nd at Theatre 68 in North Hollywood.   Reservations will be available at (818) 760-0408 or go to http://www.lawtf.org To join and follow LAWTF on Facebook and Twitter, click on their links at http://www.lawtf.org

Festival performers and honorees are the subjects of separate releases. For more information about Festival programming and tickets, please go to www.lawtf.org or call (818) 760-0408.

Samara Joy Reschedules The Soraya Concert

(Los Angeles, CA) February 10, 2023 —The Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra featuring Samara Joy scheduled for Saturday, February 11, has been rescheduled to Sunday, March 26, 2023, at 7pm. 

“Following one of the most incredible weeks of my life, I’m now under the weather. Although I’m going to be just fine in a week or so, based on doctor’s orders, we are going to have to postpone my concert this Saturday at The Soraya - NEW DATE: MARCH 26th. I am looking SO FORWARD to sharing the stage with the incomparable Clayton-Hamilton Orchestra at that time, and we can all celebrate together!”  - Samara Joy 

 Joy won her first two GRAMMY® Awards, Best New Artist, and Best Jazz Vocal Album at the 65th Annual GRAMMY® Awards on February 5, 2023. 

All tickets purchased for the Feb 11 performance will now be valid for the new date on March 26 and no further action is needed unless a refund is requested. The same information applies to purchasers of the Discover Jazz Virtual Pass, and Jazz Pass holders, who will receive a link to the live stream on March 25, twenty-four hours before the new concert date.

While the concert is currently sold out, jazz fans eager to experience Joy’s stunning vocals can still purchase a live stream pass to watch the pre-show content and full concert virtually, for just $19!

Stocker Street Creative Sponsors PAFF Opening Night Events

LOS ANGELES – The team helming the redevelopment of the Stocker Street Creative (SSC) project in Baldwin Hills is excited to announce a return to its platinum sponsorship for the opening night festivities of the 31st annual Pan African Film Festival (PAFF). For a second year in a row, 4S Bay Partners LLC, based in Chicago, along with its Los Angeles-based project development consulting team, Pantheon Business Consulting LLC, readies to kick off a memorable night of Black culture at PAFF in a global celebration of Pan African culture during Black History Month. 

For opening night, the festival will premiere CHEVALIER  at 7 p.m. on February 9, 2023, at the Directors Guild of America (DGA) in Los Angeles.  Directed by Stephen Williams, the film is inspired by the incredible story of composer Joseph Bologne, Chevalier de Saint-Georges. Except for opening night festivities, screenings will be held at the Cinemark 15 Theatres, located at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza in Los Angeles. (The theatre is situated on the corner of Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard and Crenshaw Boulevard.)

Jessica Sarowitz is the woman behind SSC, set to redefine the landscape of LA's creative community through philanthropy, filmmaking, and social impact investing. “As a multi-racial woman of color, an immigrant, and a social impact investor, I am committed to projects that help level the playing field by providing economic development and growth to underserved communities around the country,” she said. This year, Sarowitz will be screening two powerful films at PAFF where she serves as executive producer – that is, IMAGINING THE INDIAN and WITH THIS LIGHT – under her shingle, Miraflores Films LLC.

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 10, 2023 | 6:30 p.m. private screening for media and panel discussion to follow

CINEMARK15 AT PAN AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL

IMAGINING THE INDIAN | Runtime: 95 minutes | Movie synopsis

“IMAGINING THE INDIAN: The Fight Against Native American Mascoting” is a feature-length documentary film, which examines the movement to eliminate the use of Native American slurs, names, logos, images, and gestures that many Indigenous people and their allies find demeaning and offensive. The film investigates the impact of caricatures, such as Chief Wahoo, the cartoonish logo of the Cleveland Indians; gestures like the "tomahawk chop" of the Atlanta Braves; and sports teams branding and epithets like the former name of Washington NFL team, "Redskins;" and its effect on the Native American community, the sports community and society in general. Co-directed by Aviva Kempner and Ben West, IMAGINING THE INDIAN has been making the film festival circuit throughout the country, advocating for the end of the appropriation of Native American culture. For more information, visit ImaginingTheIndian.org. Please note: This is a private screening for media and invited guests only.

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 13, 2023 | 6:30 p.m. screening and panel discussion to follow

CINEMARK15 AT PAN AFRICAN FILM FESTIVAL

WITH THIS LIGHT | Runtime: 87 minutes | Movie synopsis

WITH THIS LIGHT follows Franciscan nun, Sister María Rosa Leggol, who for more than 70 years, helped more than 80,000 Honduran children escape abject poverty. Even into her 90s, as economic pressures intensified and gang violence threatened the very fabric of Honduran life, Sister Leggol never slowed down. At the age of 93,  Sister Leggol tragically died in October 2020 after contracting COVID-19, but her legacy lives on. Co-directed by Nicole Bernardi-Reiss and Laura Bermudez, WITH THIS LIGHT follows two young women in Sister Leggol’s programs as they try to navigate the uncertainty and dangers of modern Honduras. The doc made its world premiere at the 2022 Austin Film Festival, winning the Documentary Feature Jury Award. In addition, the film was screened with the Embassy of the Argentine Republic to Italy, and producers were granted a private audience with Pope Francis.  For more information, visit WithThisLight.com

For tickets, visit https://paffreimagined23.eventive.org/films/63ba4f54c7d8790036f48e86

“I am humbled to bring such impactful storytelling to the big screen for diverse audiences at the Pan African Film Festival,” said Sarowitz. “As we shed light on various issues impacting BIPOC communities, I hope the films will inspire social responsibility, raise awareness and serve as a call to action.” 

Along with these powerful screenings, Sarowitz and 4SBay in conjunction with Pantheon Business Consulting will be inviting filmgoers to the Stocker Street Creative Gallery, an immersive salon where visitors and community members can view and share their thoughts on the direction of the SSC project.  In addition, a variety of panel discussions will be held in the Stocker Street Creative Gallery, addressing topics such as schematic design, certified studio sustainability tax credit elements, negotiations and intellectual property, and virtual production. The gallery will also feature the panel -- “John Singleton …The Legacy Continues Navigating Film Production from Script to Screen” to encourage and ignite emerging Black filmmakers by providing them with the support and resources to create original and innovative film that echoes the cultural contribution of Singleton’s cinematic catalog. During the run of PAFF, the SSC Gallery will be open to the public from February 9 through February 20, 2023.

PAFF is the largest Black film festival in the United States and one of the largest Black History Month cultural events in the nation, attracting local, national, and international audiences. It presents and showcases a broad spectrum of Black creative works, particularly those that reinforce positive images and help to destroy negative stereotypes of Africans and African Americans. Since 1992, PAFF has remained dedicated to the promotion of Black stories and images through the exhibition of film, visual art, and other creative expressions. In addition, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has designated PAFF as an official qualifying film festival for live-action and animation short films. 

By sponsoring PAFF, it gives 4S Bay Partners the perfect opportunity to introduce SSC to the entertainment and creative community. There is a synergy between the missions of both 4S Bay Partners and PAFF, which serve to amplify creative voices in underserved communities. Through the years, PAFF has stood as a pillar in the diverse Black community, welcoming filmmakers from across the world to showcase their pride, their voices, and their unique stories. 

“For 30 years, the Pan African Film Festival has been plugged into Black culture and has not only given Black creatives a platform to showcase their impressive work but also, a seat at the table in reaching Hollywood and Nollywood,” said Stanley Washington, CEO of Pantheon Business Consulting. “We are excited to support PAFF for the second consecutive year to showcase our SSC design concept and host engaging industry panel discussions, garnering input and comments on the design of the project campus, along with insights into the creative industry ecosystem.”

“This partnership with SSC and PAFF is important for the African American community and the entertainment industry. SSC is building a state-of the-art creative space in the heart of Los Angeles’ Black creative community where Black creatives can tell their stories authentically. And PAFF believes film and art can lead to a better understanding, and foster communication between people of diverse cultures, races, and ethnicities in an entertaining way while serving as a vehicle to initiate dialogue on the important issues of our times,” said Marc Brogdon, head of marketing at PAFF.

30th Annual LAWTF Returns March 23-26

Vannia Ibarguen
photo by: LAWTF

The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival (LAWTF) marks 30 years of producing close to 700 extraordinary multicultural and multidisciplinary solo performers from around the globe.

The longest-running Annual Solo Festival for women in Los Angeles, LAWTF will take place March 23- March 26 at Barnsdall Art Park Gallery Theatre, 4800 Hollywood Boulevard, Hollywood, CA 90027.

The LIVE Champagne GALA and Awards Ceremony will take place Thursday, March 23, 2023. The GALA reception begins at 6:30 p.m. with the Awards Ceremony following at 8 p.m. PST and will be hosted by Hattie Winston (Becker) and Ted Lange (The Love Boat). The event will honor women of exceptional achievement and contribution to the world of theatre. The honorees will be announced in a forthcoming press release. There will be live performances in addition to the awards presentation. Theme: BRAVA!.  

Performers include:

Morgana Shaw in All About Bette Davis. In this excerpt, Morgana breathes life into historical icon Bette Davis, who fought to play characters with strength, brains, and depth.

Jacquelyn Brown-Benefield. Jacquelyn celebrates vocal empowerment through song. Vocal selections include I Am Enough and Rise Up.

Christina Linhardt. A classical vocalist with amazing range and expressiveness, Christina soars through song.  Selections include O mio babbino caro (from Puccini’s opera Gianni Schicchi) and Time to Say Goodbye.

*Friday, March 24 at 8 p.m. Theme: Of Self

Joyful Raven in Breed or Bust. In a world where female reproductive choices are being criminalized, this excerpt examines the truth about women’s bodies and their real lived experiences.

Lynne Jassem in Being Richard Greene. Gender is explored in this comedic and poignant identity piece.

Monique DuBose in Mulatto Math: Summing Up the Race Equation in America. A one-woman show meant to initiate conversation and healing around race relations in America.

*Saturday, March 25 at 3 p.m. Theme: Culturally Speaking

Meg Lin in What Am I, Chopped Suey? Heart-warming and heart-wrenching, this raw personal account challenges stereotypes about growing up Chinese-American.

Alina Cenal in Cuba:My Return. A woman returns to her motherland, Cuba, after being gone for 54 years.

Vannia Ibarguen in Andean Triptych. In this dance piece, Vannia asks: What is a cholo? in a clash between Indigenous and western cultures.

Bellina Logan in Confessions of a Mulatto Love Child. The complex story of a co-dependent bi-racial child, her outrageous English mother, and the bond they shared.

*Saturday, March 25 at 8 p.m. Theme: It’s All Relative

Misha Gonz-Cirkl in Hummingbird. A tender, funny, coming-of-age story and tribute to a beloved mother.

Barbara Brownell in Finding My Light, Finding Me. Barbara goes on a search for the truth of who her biological father really is.

Dee Freeman in Poison Gun. A six-year-old is placed in the impossible position of telling what she knows about her grandfather’s secret to the authorities.

*Sunday, March 26 at 3 p.m. Theme: We, the People”

Helen Stolzfus in Dispatches from the Great Burning. The sobering subject of climate change is met head-on.

Kirsten Laurel Caplan in Is It History or Is It His-Story? In a humorous, satirical game show, contestants vote on who ought to be included in history books.

Juliette Jeffers in Judgment Day. What if God was held accountable in a court of law for all of the injustices that African-Americans have endured?

*Sunday, March 26 at 7 p.m. Theme: Songbirds and Dancing Feet

Juli Kim. Juli explores her culture through traditional Korean dance that explores loneliness, yearning, and longing for love. Selections include Moonflower and Autumn.

Alaina Pamela. Alaina explores her inner feelings through song. Vocal selections include All in My Head and Give In to Me.

Freda Payne in Freda Sings Ella and Lena. Freda Payne, herself a living legend of Soul, pays homage to two iconic singers, Ella Fitzgerald, and Lena Horne.

Karen A. Clark in The Women. A tribute to women including those in her family through song and spoken word.

Lynne Jassem in Rhythm Anonymous. Lynne explores anonymity in this tap piece.

The four days of Festival performances will be preceded by a day of workshops and panels on Wednesday, March 22, at Theatre 68 Arts Complex, 5112  Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, CA 91601. Details to be announced.

Founded by Executive Producer Adilah Barnes and Miriam Reed., the Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival is an Annual Event unique among Los Angeles cultural institutions, not to be missed.

The Los Angeles Women’s Theatre Festival is a non-profit arts organization supported in part by Lendistry, California Arts Council, Los Angeles County Arts and Culture, City of Los Angeles Department of Cultural Affairs, City National Bank, The California Wellness Foundation, City of Culver City, Women in Media, KPFK, Anonymous Foundation, and Adilah Barnes Productions.

Tickets to the March 23 GALA are $60 each or $100 a pair including reception. Tickets to each of the weekend’s other five shows are $25 for early birds (through March 10) and $30 thereafter. A VIP all-access pass for the entire weekend is $150.Reservations will be available at (818) 760-0408 or go to http://www.lawtf.org To join and follow LAWTF on Facebook and Twitter, click on their links at http://www.lawtf.org