GRAMMY and Hyundai Emerging Musician Competition: CENTERSTAGE

CENTERSTAGE announced during Grammy weekend it's competition for three emerging music artists to be discovered and then mentored by Grammy award winning musicians.  The competition has a very small window for submitting, with performances to be uploaded on the CENTERSTAGE  site by February 19, 2013.  The underlying web platform powering this competition is the GRAMMY Amplifier engine.  At a recent press conference, shortly before the Social Media Rock Stars Summit that officially kicked off the live web streaming of Grammy weekend, the Grammy Recording Academy and Hyundai announced the competition with Mike Shinoda, member of Linkin Park representing the mentors.  Incidentally, Linkin Park is the number one band on Facebook with almost 50 million fans. Representing The Recording Academy was Evan Greene, CMO, and representing Hyundai was Jon Budd, Senior Group Manager of New Media Hyundai. The three are shown in this picture with Mike in middle, Evan on left, and Jon on right.

A Cirque du Soleil show to call our own: Tickets to "IRIS" go on sale

Hey Oscar, meet your new roommate! The Kodak Theatre's new resident, the long-awaited, dedicated L.A. Cirque du Soleil show arrives summer of 2011. Though "IRIS - A Journey Through the World of Cinema" debuts next year, eager fans will have a chance to purchase tickets in advance this coming Monday, November 22. Just in time for the holidays...

Rooted in history: Los Angeles Heritage Portal

"Progress" and "change" are often associated with Los Angeles. Many pop-culture trends are set here, from fashion, to health and lifestyle philosophies, to entertainment and so on. Living in Los Angeles, we see change on a daily basis as new homes, buildings and commercial properties go up in all parts of the City and County. Not to mention the fast-paced world in which we now live in makes yesterday seem like a distant memory.

A matter of civic pride

Typically, our XLA blog recounts our staff members' L.A. experiences, or we'll inform you of upcoming, fun events and things to do in and around Los Angeles. Occasionally, we'll provide information relevant to L.A. that's not necessarily about an event, but might include some useful tips for our fellow Angelenos.

And while we are huge supporters of taking public transit as much as possible, we understand that a car is still necessary in some circumstances in L.A. Which brings me to my latest L.A. experience: the broken parking meter. Recently I was meeting a friend at one of our favorite cafes in Studio City. I parked at a meter only to discover it was flashing the "Failed" warning at me.

What are you doing on Sunday? Meet Me @ Metro (Traveling Theater)

It's a given that we like to support our local art and theatre. We like even more to support events that are family-friendly, low-cost, let's people experience something new in LA, and promotes the use of public transit.

"Under the Influence: He-Man and the Masters of the Universe Art Extravaganza" Part I

ExperienceLA bloggers Julie and Charity attended a recent opening of the "Under the Influence: He-Man and the Masters of the Universe Art Extravaganza" (open now through January 29) exhibition at Gallery 1988 on Melrose last Friday evening. Part I is a recap of Julie's experience.

Supporting the arts

Here in Los Angeles, we have so many ways in which to appreciate art. At one time, "supporting the arts" might have meant getting dressed up and going to the opera or a high-end gallery, or opening up the checkbook to write a fat check. It might have seemed a little exclusive to those of us with a modest income. But art has become so much more democratic now, and much more accessible.

I'm thankful to live in a city with so much talent and that produces so much. It's amazing how much art is simply there for me to see on a daily basis. Right near my house is a beautiful mural depicting the history of Los Angeles. Every morning, I descend the stairs of the North Hollywood redline station and am surrounded by public art reflective of a NoHo community. Almost every day, there's some live music performance happening near my house or near the office. And of course, working for ExperienceLA I come across so many fun and interesting theatre performances, art exhibitions, live music, etc. that I wish I had more time in my life to simply attend.

What I love about experiencing the arts is that it doesn't have to be stiff and formal. I can go to an art gallery in jeans and sneakers to see drawings on whiteboard, or to see the orchestra perform on casual Fridays. Art is actually fun! If you had told me as a child that going to an art gallery or to see the orchestra was fun, I would've looked at you like you were from another planet.

"Art" to me may not mean the same thing to you. But that's the beauty of it. Art is democratic, and is what you want it to be. Get dressed up, or dressed down. Go see Rembrandt, or comic books. See Dudamel conduct the LA Phil at the Disney Concert Hall, or just a dude and his guitar at your local cafe.

Since January is LA Arts Month, take advantage of some of the discounts and special offers. Throughout the year, don't forget about the museums with their free days. Check out the multiple discount outlets for deals on theatre tickets. Visit ExperienceLA's calendar for free & family-friendly events. The opportunities to experience art are endless, and there really is something for all tastes, budgets and schedules. So go on, get out, and more importantly, have fun supporting the arts!


-Julie

LA dining is truly an experience

You can always count on LA to offer unique and memorable experiences, and that includes dining. Granted, I haven't been to many cities by comparison to some, but I've visited enough to believe that statement. This city, with all its diverse communities, offers a rich blend of exciting flavors. That's not all. Maybe it's because we're in the land where movies are made, but it seems there are many restaurants where the overall production, hi/story and experience, and not so much the menu, are the selling points.

Take for example, Royal/T in Culver City. It's a cafe that also happens to be a gallery. Or, is it a gallery that also happens to be a cafe? It is, actually, LA's first Japanese-style cosplay cafe. When I was first introduced to it, my friends sold me on the fact that it was a gallery with really fun art and where the servers dress up in maid outfits...Oh, and they have good food too (their milk tea is a must!). It's true. Dining in that space and in that environment was such a good time, I found myself telling others about the experience before mentioning the food.

Now that I'm working Downtown, I've had the pleasure of eating at some of the establishments here. My latest and absolute favorite so far has got to be the Edison Room. It's a trip through time to the roaring 20's, where the servers don custom-designed flapper dresses and jazz musicians and burlesque dancers perform on stage. Old silent films play on the wall throughout, and patrons are surrounded by architectural and mechanical artifacts from LA's first private power plant. Don't look for this joint along the main streets, though. Its entrance is hidden in an alley!

There are so many more (I'm sure many of you can tell us about them too!). With next week's DineLA Restaurant Week, you can bet this foodie is planning her next culinary experience. Do I love eating in LA? Absolutely!

-Julie

For a list of restaurants participating in Restaurant Week, visit DineLA.com/restaurantweek.
For information on downtown restaurants, visit DowntownLA.com.

Festival fun

Abbot Kinney Blvd. is one of my favorite spots in LA to simply hang out and soak it all in. Here, the sense of community is strong, and mom & pop shops seem to still thrive along with an eclectic mix of restaurants and galleries.

In such a large and expansive city, the words "community" and "neighborhood" can sound like an oxymoron. Along Abbot Kinney Blvd., however, the energy of a community exists and is real thanks in part to the Abbot Kinney Festival Association. Tomorrow, Sunday, September 27, the Abbot Kinney Festival celebrates its 25th year, and visitors will have the opportunity to see what it is that makes this boulevard special.

After 25 years, the festival has grown to be one of the largest of its kind in the region. Tomorrow's celebration is free, and will feature local artisans, live music, food vendors and family entertainment. The festivities kick off with a Family parade, and all are invited to participate by bringing an instrument or dressing up in costumes. The parade starts at the corner of 6th and California, and will end at the Inside Out Community Art Youth & Family Courtyard.

Complete festival information, including stage line-ups and food truck alley are available at the Abbot Kinney website. If you have the opportunity to make it out, be sure to stop by the information booth, where ExperienceLA will be located. We'd love to say hi!


-Julie

Free Museum Day in Los Angeles

Plan a date with that special someone to a museum tomorrow, Saturday, September 26. The Smithsonian's Free Museum Day takes place across the country, but you can find local participating museums right here in Los Angeles. To take advantage of this offer, visit the Smithsonian website to download your Free Museum Day card. The card is good only at participating museums, and is only valid for Saturday. Be sure to read their restrictions. There is a one card limit per household.

If you can't make it out on Saturday, check out the museums that offer free admission all year round at ExperienceLA.com.

Guest story: I won tickets from ExperienceLA (OC County Fair)

If you've won a prize from one of ExperienceLA's past promotions, write in and tell us about it. You might have the opportunity to be featured on our blog just like Jennifer from San Pedro.

I don't enter many contests but decided to enter to win tickets advertised on Experience LA for the Orange County Fair. Since I have never been to the OC Fair, I was excited thinking about bringing my family. To my surprise, I won four admission tickets and tickets for rides.

We had the best time at the fair and visited Wierd Al's Brain, the pig races, the circus, and the great farm. We loved all the food and even sampled a fried twinkie. We have great memories and photos of our day at the fair and can't wait to go next year.

Thank you so much to Experience LA!

-Jennifer, www.grassrootsmama.com

Living in Los Angeles

Living in Los Angeles, it's easy to forget that it's more than just a city. It's also a county. The nation's largest county in fact, with more than 10 million people residing in 88 cities and many unincorporated areas, and accounting for roughly 27% of California's population.

With such diversity in people and geography, it's a wonder that anyone could ever be bored here. There's so much to see and do in L.A. County and many of the activities are inexpensive or free! That's why at ExperienceLA, we hope to enhance the Los Angeles experience by launching a brand new L.A. County directory of events and destinations. Our goal is to provide information and raise awareness for all of the cultural, recreational and life-long learning opportunities offered by L.A. County government.

In the moment that you find yourself thinking or complaining about LA's traffic or concrete jungle, consider that L.A. County has over 65,000 acres of parks, gardens, lakes, and natural areas, not to mention the beaches. Not much of an outdoors person? Then explore the museums, theatres, concert halls and public libraries.

88 cities and unincorporated areas accessible by public transportation. The opportunities to be entertained by L.A. County are truly endless.


-Julie

LA County Fair Photo Contest

Need some good food mixed with fun activities? Here's a suggestion, how about screaming at the top of your lungs, checking out some cute baby farm animals, and indulging in County Fair cuisines.

The L.A County Fair opens from Sept. 5 thru Mon., Sept. 7 and continues from Sept,. 9 to Oct. 4.

Whether you enjoy shopping, eating, or adventuring, LA County Fair definitely offers something for everyone in the family. There are lots of fun, food and competitions to join. Speaking of competitions, ExperienceLA will hold a contest for all the Fair goers out there. We challenge you to submit your best moment of the L.A. County Fair in pictures and win a Flip Ultra Video Camera. So these are what you need to do:

Submission:

Between September 5 and October 4, email us the photo directly at staff@experiencela.com. One entry per person.

In the Subject Line write:“ExperienceLA Fair Photo Contest” as the Subject Header

Photo Information:
Answer the following in the body of your email for each submitted photo:
1. Your Name & City
2. Photo Title (5 words max)
3. Brief Description (100 characters max)

Specifications:
File size cannot be more than 6mb
Tip: Try to capture funny moments or pictures with story behind it

Restrictions & Licensing:
No inappropriate content (i.e. nudity, sexual content, slander, etc.)
By submitting your photos to this contest, you agree to the following:
You are certifying that the photo is rightfully yours
You are agreeing to share your rights with ExperienceLA for possible promotional use

We will select the top 10 photos and invite you back to vote for the top 3. The 3 contestants who get the most votes on our blog will each receive a Flip Video recorder from Pure Digital Technologies.

Don’t forget to eat some corn dog. Last year, they sold 100,000+ and they are trying to top it again this year. Maybe you can be the one who eats that record breaking corn dog. A picture of that might help you win the contest.

Good luck, happy posing, and enjoy the fair!

A 'Standard' evening

Last Wednesday, I strolled over to the Standard Hotel in Downtown for their Silverlake Wine tasting. My Standard experience has only been with the Hollywood property, so I expected it to be about the same in terms of style and atmosphere - cool, lounge-y, with a bit of that Hollywood competition and attitude. When I arrived, I discovered it was something more up my alley. Still had that cool, lounge-y feel, along with my kind of sense of humor. Sure, the Rooftop with its beautiful view of the city can become a bit of a scene on the weekends, but during the week, it's a perfect spot for unwinding after a long day without feeling like you need to impress anyone. An eclectic mix of young Downtowners and business folk can be seen hanging out with some music in the lounge, on the rooftop on the "Grassy Knoll" and Orange area, or out front in a "Paley Park"(Manhattan) homage.

While each property in the Standard family has an artistic angle, what I appreciated about the Downtown property was the quirky, and sometimes inappropriate sense of humor in the displays and pieces. It creates an interesting juxtaposition if you know the history of the space. Once an office building for Superior Oil, now a stylish hotel that pokes fun at corporate life: hotel rooms have "Hello, my name is" name tags outside of the doors, and meeting rooms are named "Blonde" and "Brunette." The floors are original, as are some of the fixtures in the building, such as the door handles and a global clock that, at one time, was state of the art.

I'm looking forward to coming back, if not to take delight in discovering more of the hotel's jokes. The Standard is definitely not a standard hotel experience. Oh, and yes, the wine and appetizers were delicious. It's a shame my husband had his fantasy football draft on this night. Fortunately for him, the Standard has several weekly events, and he's got a wife who likes to share her fun excursions!


-Julie

Volunteer to help us at Abbot Kinney Festival in Venice

If you've ever felt like ExperienceLA was such a valuable and useful resource that you just had to share it with others, have we got an opportunity for you (cue cheesy sales music)! ExperienceLA will be at this year's Abbot Kinney Festival in Venice, and we're looking for some volunteers to help us spread the word about our web site. Come spend a day in beautiful Venice, enjoy some time at the festival, meet some ExperienceLA staff members, and help us raise awareness for ExperienceLA.com and all the different arts and cultural venues available in this great city of ours.

The event takes place on Sunday, September 27 from 10 AM - 6 PM. If you're interested in volunteering, please send an email with your full name, phone number, and availability with the subject heading: "AKF volunteer" to staff[at]experiencela[dot]com, and we'll provide you with additional details. We thank you for your support!

The Bird and The Bee at Descanso Gardens

We've got another cool ticket giveaway to close out your week! This one's for the music duo: The Bird and The Bee. On Thursday evening, June 25th, the Descanso Gardens will be filled with the sounds of cool art-pop music. Los Angeles' own Inara George combines her whispery wry vocals with Greg Kurstin's catchy mod, tropicalia, electro jazz keyboarding. Your evening plans are complete with barbecue, wine, beer and signature cocktails, which will be available for purchase.

The catch with this give away is that it will end on Monday, so hurry! We've got 10 pairs of tickets to give away. Visit our website, and check out the promotions page. Tickets are also available for purchase for $12 through TicketWeb.

"Leaving on a Jet Plane..."

Some of the ExperienceLA staff members will be flying out of town for the MLK weekend. And we're proud to say that we'll be taking the FlyAway bus to get to LAX. The FlyAway has three pick-up locations: Westwood, Union Station, and Van Nuys. Each bus leaves at every half hour and costs just $4 each way for adults. The non-stop service includes curbside stops at each terminal.

It's definitely the way to go if you don't want to park overnight or deal with traffic on your own. For those of you staying around LA, check out the ExperienceLA calendar for great things to do during this special weekend!

-ExperienceLA Staff

Last Chance: Downtown Guidebook Photo Contest + LA Phil Tickets!

It's the last week of our Downtown LA guidebook photo contest! Do you have what it takes to capture the feel of Downtown LA? Enter for a chance to have your image featured as the cover photo for our upcoming ExperienceLA Downtown LA guidebook, specially produced by Lonely Planet. And if your photo gets chosen as the cover photo, you'll also win a pair of tickets to LA Phil's Concrete Frequency I: Copland, Zappa, Crumb, Varese.

CONCRETE FREQUENCY examine and celebrate the elements is a series of events designed to that define a city... and how they are affected by, and reflected in, music. Anchored by three orchestral programs, this unique exploration will be enhanced by a film series, an art exhibition, and a thought provoking symposium. Check out how you can get up to 58% off of seats for the January 4th kick-off concert!

Contest ends this Friday, so hurry and submit your photos!

-ExperienceLA Staff

ExperienceLA/Lonely Planet Cover Photo Contest!

Do you have what it takes to capture the feel of Downtown LA? Enter for a chance to have your image featured as the cover photo for our upcoming ExperienceLA Downtown LA guidebook, specially produced by Lonely Planet.


From now until December 14th, go out and capture what you think defines Downtown LA... Then follow these steps to submit your photo(s) to the contest. Your photo(s) will be considered for use on the cover of our guidebook that will be distributed free of charge internationally, nationally, and locally to LA visitors! There are also plenty of other chances to be featured (and credited) in our guidebook, so submit as many photos as you want!

Check out ExperienceLA for more information about our contest!

-ExperienceLA Staff

Giveaways: Altar Boyz, They're Playing Our Song, Brazilian Carnaval, Berlin Blues

Many great giveaways currently up at ExperienceLA!

• Altar Boyz (ends today!) at the Wadsworth Theatre


• They're Playing Our Song at the Valley Musical Theatre


• Brazilian Carnaval at the Queen Mary


• Berlin Blues at the Autry National Center

Visit the ExperienceLA site to enter today!:
http://www.experiencela.com/featuredpromotions.asp