Broadway To Vegas

Copyright: January 12, 2025
By: Laura Deni
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(DEI) LOS ANGELES FIRE LIVED UP TO DIVERSITY, EQUITY, INCLUSION - SPARING NO ONE

Thousands of Los Angeles residents need help as never before.

Good hearted individuals have stepped forward to offer assistance.

That means that nefarious individuals are also on the prowl.

Natural disasters are looked upon by criminals as a job opportunity.

If a bedraggled total stranger comes to your door begging to be taken in. Don't let the marauding stranger in. Seek verifiable reference and identification.

Don't let your kind heart result in bodily harm.

Paris Hilton

Paris Hilton watched her Malibu home burn down to the ground on live television. "Heartbroken beyond words. Sitting with my family, watching the news, and seeing our home in Malibu burn to the ground on live TV is something no one should ever have to experience," she wrote on Instagram, alongside a screenshot of a news segment. "This home was where we built so many precious memories. It’s where Phoenix took his first steps and where we dreamed of building a lifetime of memories with London," she commented about her two children.

"We pray for the safety of the firefighters and first responders," the statement continued.

Paris who owns several homes in the area, one of which is now toast, also mentioned that she offered one of the houses to her personal friends who needed shelter. Paris also started a clothing collection to be distributed to those she knows.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex - that would be Meghan and Harry - also opened up their home to close friends.

'Friends' being the operative word.

Most of those who have lost their homes have only the clothes on their backs - or perhaps what they could carry. With that in mind many are trying to clothed the victims.

Designers and fashion brands have announced plans and initiatives to support those heavily impacted by the blaze. From fundraisers to clothing drives, here are what some are doing to help. . .

Collina Strada - - New York-based designer took to Instagram to share that LA was her first home and seeing it "devastated by fires is incredibly heartbreaking”. She added that she will be donating clothing and supporting all clothing drives aimed at aiding those impacted, before going on to encourage others who have the means to also contribute to relief efforts.

Devin Kang - - the founder and creative director of LA-based Noend Denim, shared on social media that he and the brand would supply those in need of clothes. Thanks to a drive hosted by Korea Town, the label was able to package up over 1,000 pairs of jeans, 1,500 hoodies, T-shirts, sweatshirts, jackets and 800 masks.

LoveShackFancy - - a fashion and fragrance retailer staged a fundraiser on its Instagram aiming to raise money to support the LA Fire Department.

Stoney Clover an accessories brand said it was putting together bags to support those who may have lost everything, and was working to ensure they were distributed as quickly as possible to reach impacted communities. In the post on Instagram, Stoney Clover called on other brands who are able to donate over 250 units of essentials, including clothing and skincare products, to collaborate on the initiative.

Rudy Jude was packaging up bundles of past season clothes and samples to bring over to its Venice store for anyone who has been displaced or lost their home. The company has since shared that it has closed its LA store “until it's safe to open again”.

Dippin Daisys - - On its official social media account, swimwear label Dippin Daisys announced it would be donating “as much apparel as we can to local organizations” and asked those interested in collaborating to reach out. Citizens of Humanity - - Denim brand Citizens of Humanity opened up its own headquarters in Huntington Park as a site for clothing donations, where individuals in need are able to select up to six items. The company will also be donating to a clothing drive at Franklin Elementary School, which will open January 13. In total, the brand will be donating over 3,500 units of women’s and men’s clothing from both its own line and Agolde.

For Love & Lemons - LA-born lingerie brand said it was “heartbroken by the devastation these fires have brought” and noted that it was “committed to supporting our community during this difficult time”. With this, the label announced it was organising donations and requested recommendations on organizations in need or brands looking to contribute. It further asked followers to point them in the direction of individuals who have lost their home and who may therefore like to receive a clothing package.

Centric Brands, the parent company of Joe’s Jeans and Hudson Jeans, revealed it was donating $10,000s between the American Red Cross and the LAFD Foundation. In a statement to Sourcing Journal, the company’s senior vice president, marketing and philanthropy, Amy Rapawy, also announced that it would be partnering with Delivering Good and their on-the-ground partners to distribute needed products, such as T-shirts and underwear.

The Garry Marshall Theatre in Burbank has opened its doors as a donation collection site stating: "we ARE able to accept the following items ONLY: Gift cards for families and first responders - NEW undergarments/underwear - NEW toiletries and hygiene items - Non-perishable food items - NEW blankets - NEW sheets - NEW pillows - N95 Masks - Meal bars, snacks - Electrolyte drinks - Hydration drink packets - Bottled Water - Diapers, Wipes, Formula - Universal phone chargers.

"What we are NOT able to accept for our final day is: NO worn clothing - NO used towels, blankets - NO toys, books, games - NO stuffed animals - NO items outside of the "we are able to accept list"

With multiple wildfires still burning across the Greater Los Angeles area, several events and performances have been forced to cancel or postpone.

Jeremy Jordan was scheduled to give two concert performances at The Wallis Center January 9 and 10. Both have been canceled and rescheduled for January 21 and 22.

Canceled are some performances of the national tour of Wicked, currently at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. According to Instagram posts from the Pantages, performances January 8-10 performances were canceled.

Anything Goes in Concert and Follies in Concert, which Pasadena Playhouse were to have presented over two consecutive weekends at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium (January 24-25 and January 31-February 1, 2025) have been cancelled due to the ongoing situation with the Eaton Fire affecting Pasadena, Altadena, and surrounding areas.

Danny Feldman, Producing Artistic Director of Pasadena Playhouse, the State Theater of California and recipient of the 2023 Regional Theatre Tony Award, says, "Pasadena Playhouse is heartbroken by the devastation that this week’s fires have inflicted on so many within our community, and we continue to be grateful for the outpouring of concern and support. We are fortunate that our historic building has not sustained any significant damage.

"Given the extensive impact of the fires on Playhouse staff, artists, and audiences, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the upcoming In Concert productions of Anything Goes and Follies at the Pasadena Civic Auditorium.

"This was not an easy decision to make, but our theatermakers and staff are currently unable to come together to continue the vital work of creating these monumental productions. We remain committed to the safety and support of all the artists, crew, and staff who have been deeply impacted."

The Victory Theatre has postponed the January 17 opening of Four Women in Red as members of the cast, creative team and audience have been impacted by the wildfires. Four Women in Red is a new play by Laura Shamas about the current crisis of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. A revised performance schedule will be announced at a later date.

As expected, many firms are stepping up to help.

The Broadcasters Foundation of America is offering emergency grants to Los Angeles broadcasters affected by ongoing wildfires. "We have set aside emergency grant dollars to provide financial assistance to broadcasters in LA who are in need," BFOA President Tim McCarthya announced.

The Recording Academy and MusiCares have launched the Los Angeles Fire Relief Effort to support music creators and professionals impacted by the crisis, making a pledge of $1 million to kick off the efforts.

For many in the music community, disasters like this can disrupt even the most basic needs. MusiCares is here to provide support. If you or someone you know in the music industry is affected by these wildfires, please reach out by calling 1-800-687-4227. Residents in Los Angeles County who’ve been ordered to vacate their homes can get a credit from Uber to get to an evacuation site. The $40 will only be valid for trips to an active shelter and by using the code WILDFIRE25. Lyft announced it will be offering $25 vouchers, valid for two trips, to 500 customers from now until midnight on January 15. Use the code CAFIRERELIEF25 to get the promotion.

The average house price in the northern LA area is $4.5 million, per Realtor.com data.

Homes turned into ash include those of Tina Knowles, the mother of Beyoncé and Solange Knowles. Houston rapper Fat Tony also lost his home as did Reality TV star Spencer Pratt and wife Heidi Montag. Sandra Lee revealed her "house is gone. I'm at a hotel. I don't have a house anymore."

Billy Crystal lost the home he and his family had lived in since 1979.

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Billy Crystal and his wife, Janice Crystal, said they are mourning the loss of their family home.

"Words cannot describe the enormity of the devastation we are witnessing and experiencing," the couple said in a joint statement. "We ache for our friends and neighbors who have also lost their homes and businesses in this tragedy. Janice and I lived in our home since 1979. We raised our children and grandchildren here. Every inch of our house was filled with love. Beautiful memories that can't be taken away. We are heartbroken of course but with the love of our children and friends we will get through this."

Other celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon, Michael Keaton, Adam Sandler, Miles Teller, Mel Gibson and Eugene Levy also lost homes as did Oscar-nominated actor James Woods.

Adam Brody is homeless. This Is Us actor Milo Ventimiglio whose wife Jarah Mariano is nine months pregnant, lost their home. Jurassic World star Daniella Pineda lost her home, only able to escape with her dog and her laptop.

Reese Witherspoon lost her home.

Ricki Lake is homesless. Soap star Cameron Mathison lost his home only able to escape with passports, birth certificates and photo albums. However, this is a reminder that importance personal and legal papers should always be kept in a handy location.

Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Bozoma Saint John confirmed on Instagram that her home had burned. The Malibu home that Jeff Bridges shared with his family was destroyed as was Anna Faris' home.

Melissa Rivers lost her home. Managed to save her mother, Joan Rivers' Emmy, a photo of her dad and a drawing that he mother had done of Melissa and her son. Model Carolyn Murphy's home went up in flames. The songwriter Diane Warren, a 15-time Oscar nominee, shared on Instagram that her beach house of nearly 30 years was now only a memory.

Actress and singer Mandy Moore said in an Instagram post: "Honestly, I'm in shock and feeling numb for all so many have lost, including my family. My children's school is gone. Our favorite restaurants, leveled. So many friends and loved ones have lost everything too."

Top Gun: Maverick star Miles Teller's wife Keleigh Teller posted that she is sorry she wasn't able to save her wedding dress. YouTube Creators Colin and Samir lost their home. Both of their wives are pregnant. Staud Founder Sarah Staudinger and husband Ari Emanuel no longer have a home. Celebrity Hairstylist Jen Atkin lost home to fire but is thankful that "a good person" saved her dog's gravestone.

Actor John C. Reilly's home was destroyed in the fire. Jennifer Grey's home was "burnt to the ground." Dog Winnie was saved. Anthony Hopkins' home was lost.

Los Angeles Lakers Coach JJ Redick home is ash. Jamie Chung and Bryan Greenberg are homeless. Swimmer Gary Hall Jr. lost his home and his 10 Olympic Medals.

Brad Paisley and wife Kimberly Williams-Paisley's house is gone. Jhené Aiko's home no longer exists. Star Trek actress Denise Crosby posted that the only house she has never own is "now ashes." Kate Beckinsale heartbroken over loss of her home.

Without exception, all celebrities who lost homes either saved items with significant memories or are suffering because they didn't have that opportunity. Nobody is carping that they didn't save a designer handbag.

Local theatres weren't spared. Theatre Palisades, housed within Pierson Playhouse, has been completely lost to the fire, just days before the company was scheduled to begin performances on a new production Jest a Second!

"For the immediate future, all operations at Theatre Palisades, Pierson Playhouse are suspended until further notice by the Board of Directors owing to the serious damage sustained in the Palisades Fire," reads a statement on the theatre's website.

The company was founded in 1963 by TV writers Ken Rosen, Sheldon Stark, and Jacquie Chester, with the aim of producing new works. Since 1967, the company has operated as a community theatre with an active community of subscribers. The theatre opened this most recent venue in 1988, as the company celebrated its 25th anniversary. The group typically performs five shows a year, plus two youth productions, and also hosts presentations from Palisades Historical Society.

Tinsel Town as the city is called, honoring its love of and dependence upon the entertainment community, has once again been forced to postpone productions. Just when workers were getting back on their feet after the COVID shutdown, this happened.

While Hollywood is noted for the studios and celebrities, people forget that thousands of workers, in a variety of capacities, are employed. They, too, have families, homes and possessions they love.

Sets for the following TV productions which have gone dark include:
Doctor Odyssey – Paramount Lot, Santa Clarita
Grey’s Anatomy – Prospect Studios LA
NCIS – Santa Clarita
NCIS Origins – Paramount lot
Hacks – NBCUniversal Lower Lot at Universal Studios
Happy’s Place – NBCUniversal Lower Lot at Universal Studios
Loot – NBCUniversal Lower Lot at Universal Studios
Suits LA – NBCUniversal Lower Lot at Universal Studios
Ted – NBCUniversal Lower Lot at Universal Studios
Fallout – Santa Clarita – Prime Video pushed production already set to start after holiday break.
Abbott Elementary – Warner Bros. Lot in Burbank
All American – Warner Bros. Lot in Burbank
The Pitt – Warner Bros. Lot in Burbank
George & Mandy’s First Marriage – – Warner Bros. Lot in Burbank
Leanne Morgan upcoming project table reads and rehearsals

Late-Night shows were immediately affected. Jimmy Kimmel Live on ABC and game show After Midnight from CBS went into reruns.

"The LA County Fire Department has specifically instructed that all permits issued for filming in the communities of Altadena, La Crescenta, La Canada/Flintridge and unincorporated Pasadena are withdrawn. Other permit revocations are possible,” FilmLA said in a statement.

So many other residents work in the neighborhoods in which they live. They have suffered a double whammy - losing not only their homes but their employment.

Events postponed include:
The Writers Guild said it is postponing the release of its annual WGA Awards nominations from January 9 to January 13.

The AARP Movies for Grownups Awards, which were set to take place January 11 at the Beverly Wishire in Beverly Hills, has been postponed. The ceremony has not yet been rescheduled.

Donna Langley Celebratory Toast a celebration of film hosted by Donna Langley and Universal Film Entertainment Group set for Friday, January 10 at Sunset Tower was canceled.

The 2025 Critics Choice Awards set for Sunday, January 12, has been postponed. The 30th annual ceremony would have taken place at the Santa Monica Airport Barker hanger with Chelsea Handler as host for the third consecutive time.

Two major events of Hollywood's awards season have been disrupted.

The Critics' Choice Awards, an annual star-studded ceremony honoring the best in cinema, has been postponed to January 26 after its 2025 edition was scheduled to take place on Sunday, January 12th.

Jean Smart

Jean Smart is pushing TV networks not to air Hollywood award shows, donate the money to fire relief instead.

"This unfolding tragedy has already had a profound impact on our community," CCA CEO Joey Berlin said in a Wednesday statement to USA Today. "All our thoughts and prayers are with those battling the devastating fires and with all who have been affected."

The premieres for Wolf Man and Unstoppable, scheduled for Tuesday, were canceled.

The annual glitzy British Academy of Film and Television Arts Tea Party has also been canceled. It was originally set to take place Saturday, January 11 at the Beverly Hills Four Seasons Hotel.

American Cinematheque’s Tribute To The Crafts Awards postponed it’s awards show, which was scheduled for Thursday, January 9 at the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood.

Due to extreme winds and fire conditions, the performance of Wicked canceled this week's shows which are at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre.

In addition, theme park Universal Studios Hollywood and shopping complex Universal CityWalk were closed.

Similarly, Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood, a top tourist attraction, closed. Ticket holders received refunds.

Cultural establishments, including the famed Getty Villa in Los Angeles' Pacific Palisades neighborhood have also been affected by the wildfires. Though the building is "safe and intact" according to a statement from the museum, the institution will be closed through early next week. Getty said that vegetation on the property burned but that structures are unaffected and its collections and staff are safe.

The raging Palisades fire destroyed the Palisades Charter High School which was featured in multiple Hollywood films including Carrie;Freaky Friday; Project X, and MTV's Teen Wolf TV series.

The National Hockey League announced it would indefinitely delay a game between the Los Angeles Kings and Calgary Flames that had been set to take place Wednesday night at Crypto.com Arena in downtown Los Angeles.

Food is another necessity of life. It should come a no surprise that the global humanitarian aid organization spearheaded by celebrity chef José Andrés, is operating in three locations in Los Angeles to provide meals for first responders and families affected by the Southern California fires.

Andres' team has partnered with L.A. chefs and restaurants including Susan Feniger and Mary Sue Milliken of Socalo and Border Grill, Roy Choi’s Kogi BBQ and Nate ’n Al’s chef Tony Leitera. Meghan and Harry are also working with José Andrés and World Central Kitchen.

Five star Chef Jose Andrés

The Duke and Duchess arrived at Andres' World Central Kitchen (WCK) on Friday. Having previously made monetary donations to the relief efforts via their Archewell Foundation, Meghan and Harry donated clothing, children’s items, and other essential supplies to the main donation center. Then the pair began serving meals alongside volunteers from chef Jose Andrés’ World Central Kitchen (WCK) outside the Convention Center, accompanied by the First Partner of California, Jennifer Siebel Newsom. Inside the center, the pair took time to connect with elderly individuals and families affected by the crisis.

Meghan and Harry later returned to the Pasadena Convention Center to again meet with José Andrés, with Harry shaking hands with Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo.

Gordo spoke with local reporters after his visit with Meghan and Harry, dispelling any thoughts that their visit was one of self promotion.

"They didn’t come out here for publicity; they came out here to work," Gordo stressed. "We went to visit some of the families in the impacted area and view first hand some of the impacted area," he added. "And then they wanted to go visit the first responders and personally thank them for their efforts to help our families and our neighbors. They really buoyed the spirits of the first responders.”

Help For pets:

American Red Cross of Greater Los Angeles is also overseeing a shelter and aid for pets. "If you are under evacuation orders, please take your pets with you. Prepare now. Pack a 'go bag' with your pet’s food (at least five days worth), water, dishes, toys, and any medications. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag in case they get lost,"the organization said

Pasadena Humane Society is working to ensure all pets are also evacuated from impacted areas while providing emergency services to those who need it.

Jamie Lee Curtis who flew from Los Angeles to New York to promote her new film The Last Showgirl on Jimmy Fallon's Tonight Show was totally distraught when discussing the horrific fire. As an Ambassador for the American Red Cross she emphasized the Red Cross instructions about packing a "go bag" something citizens have been requested to have nearby ever since Hurricane Katrina.

"If you are under evacuation orders, please take your pets with you. Prepare now. Pack a 'go bag' with your pet’s food (at least five days worth), water, dishes, toys, and any medications. Ensure your pet is wearing a collar with a current ID tag in case they get lost," the organization said.

Curtis has also donated $1M to aid the fire relief fund.

"As the fire still rages on and (the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection and the Los Angeles Fire Department] and all the available first responders and agencies involved in fighting fire and saving lives are still hard at work and neighbors and friends are banding together to save each other, my husband and I and our children have pledged $1 million from our Family Foundation to start a fund of support for our great city and state and the great people who live and love there," the Freaky Friday actor wrote in a Thursday post on Instagram.

The 66-year-old Academy Award winner said she was "in communication" with public officials, including California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D), Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass (D) and Sen. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), regarding "where those funds need to be directed for the most impact."

"This is literally where I live — everything. The market I shop in, the schools my kids go to. Friends — many, many, many friends now — have lost their homes," she said, her voice cracking with emotion.

"Our beloved neighborhood is gone. Our home is safe. So many others have lost everything. Help where you can. Thank you to the first responders and firefighters," she wrote in a Wednesday post, with video of buildings burning along a street.

"Neighbors have taken care of neighbors. We ALL take everything for granted because we are all living our lives but when it hits your community, it’s particularly shocking" she wrote.

At the time of this Broadway To Vegas column launching, there are 12 dead and 13 missing. More than 12,000 structures have been damaged or destroyed. More than 150,000 people remain under mandatory evacuation orders.

Economic losses from the L.A. wildfires could near $50 billion.

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This is not your typical, totally boring textbook.

In the pages of How To Earn A Living As A Freelance Writer (the first to be lied to and the last to be paid) you'll find sex, celebrities, violence, threats, unethical editors, scummy managers and lawyers, treacherous press agents, sex discrimination; as well as a how-to for earning money by writing down words.

ART AND ABOUT

THOMAS DEMAND - THE STUTTER OF HISTORY After three years of planning, The Taipei Fine Arts Museum is delighted to present the first solo exhibition of German conceptual artist Thomas Demand from January 18, 2025 to May 11, 2025.

Born in Munich in 1964, Demand primarily works in Berlin and Los Angeles and is renowned for his large-scale photographic and film works.

Demand's work often draws inspiration from reported images and footage of significant historical or social events.

He meticulously recreates these scenes using paper models before capturing them through the lens, using careful angles and composition. This replication process aims to revisit the so-called 'truth' and connect the viewer's history and memories.

The exhibition, curated by independent curator Douglas Fogle, brings together approximately 60 large-scale photographic works, wallpaper installations, and two moving image pieces. It showcases Demand's exploration of the complex interplay between photographic images and the real world, his interrogation of ingrained image culture, and the paradoxes of perception within contemporary society.

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SWEET CHARITY

TIDE LOADS OF HOPE brings laundry trucks to areas right after a natural disaster to provide free laundry service and clean clothes when they are needed the most.

Natural disasters like floods, fires and hurricanes can devastate communities and impact their access to basic resources like electricity and clean water.

That’s why Tide Loads of Hope’s mission is to clean clothes for families in need and give them a sense of normalcy. Because after a disaster, you don’t just want something new. You want what’s yours back.

Tide Loads of Hope has done over 68,000 loads of clean laundry and now they are committed to expanding the impact of clean clothes tenfold by 2030.

To power the trucks and deliver the items, Tide partnered with Matthew 25: Ministries, an international humanitarian aid and disaster-relief organization. The trucks are equipped with high-efficiency washers and dryers donated by Whirlpool and can do up to 300 loads of laundry per day for communities in need.

During the COVID-19 Pandemic, Tide launched Tide Loads of Hope Powered by Tide Cleaners making it possible for Tide to offer free laundry services to the immediate families of front-line responders. The service was visited over 100,000 times by those responders.

SPREADING THE WORD

THE POWER OF ARTISTIC VOICES How do artists leave lasting impressions, deepen our sense of empathy, and spark movements for social and structural change? That is the subject of an " an insightful and important community conversation as we explore how the arts impact our lives, deepen our sense of empathy, and spark movements for social change," presented Wednesday, January 15, by Hartfort Stage. A reception and welcome with light refreshments followed by the panel discussion & Musical Performance by HSO String Quartet followed by an audience Q&A.

Collaborating Orgs: Hartbeat Ensemble, Hartford Public Library, Hartford Stage, Hartford Symphony Orchestra, & TheaterWorks Hartford. The event takes place at the Hartford Public Library - The Center for Contemporary Culture in Hartford, CT.

Collaborating Orgs: Hartbeat Ensemble, Hartford Public Library, Hartford Stage, Hartford Symphony Orchestra, & TheaterWorks Hartford. The event takes place at the Hartford Public Library - The Center for Contemporary Culture in Hartford, CT.

OSCAR WINNER BRENDAN FRASER 56, who had been announced to co-star as Jerry opposite Brian J. Smith in Grandville the new play, written by Samuel D. Hunter and directed by Jack Serio , has dropped out of the production "due to unforeseen circumstances," read the Instagram statement posted by New York City’s off-Broadway Signature Theatre.

Replacing Fraser is Paul Sparks, 53, known for his performances in Boardwalk Empire, and Lost on a Mountain in Maine.

Signature Theatre’s synopsis of Grangeville reads, “"cross a void of thousands of miles and oceans of hurt, two half-brothers tentatively reconnect over the care of their ailing mother. Grangeville is a new play about the fallibility of memory, the stories we tell to make sense of our suffering, and the complexity of forgiveness."

The show is still scheduled to premiere on February 4 and run until March 16, 2025.

RODEOHOUSTON'S 2025 CONCERT LINEUP has been announced.

Nine newcomers, a returning country music legend and a genre-hopping superstar highlight the 2025 RodeoHouston lineup. The lineup includes:
Reba McEntire
Bun B
Lauren Daigle
Journey
Grupo Frontera
Post Malone
Brad Paisley
Luke Bryan
Brooks & Dunn

RodeoHouston runs March 4-23 at NRG Stadium.

OTHER PEOPLE'S MONEY

THE LATIN GRAMMY CULTURAL FOUNDATION has n announced the first Emerging Artist Scholarship, in partnership with Berklee College of Music, toward a bachelor’s degree at the college for the 2025 fall semester. Through a series of scholarships, the institution furthers its commitment to advance the Foundation’s mission to provide educational opportunities that advance Latin music and its heritage, pledging $825,000 over the next three years for future music creators.

The Emerging Artist Scholarship is valued at $275,000, and covers a bachelor’s degree and room and board at Berklee, as well as wrap around services and ongoing mentorship and learning opportunities provided in partnership with the Foundation.

The Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation is now accepting applications for all 2025 scholarships until April 10, 2025, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. . The application includes two audition videos, two letters of recommendation, two essays, and an acceptance letter from an accredited university. Materials can be submitted in English, Spanish or Portuguese.

To date, the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation has awarded 427 scholarships, investing more than $10 million over the last decade in scholarships, grants, educational and mentorship programs.

WARNER BROS. has pulled out of a deal with Birtcher Development on a 34-acre site that would feature film and television sound-stages in Las Vegas in an $8.5 billion project, as first reported by The Nevada Independent.

Birtcher had announced the partnership with Warner Bros. in August, with the studio pledging to invest $8.5 billion in the state over 17 years contingent on lawmakers expanding the film tax credit program.

The studio confirmed it was no longer working with Birtcher but stressed: "We remain committed to creating Warner Bros. Studios Nevada, and excited about the opportunity to bring great jobs, workforce and economic development, and educational opportunities to the state," a Warner Bros. Discovery spokesperson stated on Thursday.

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PLAYHOUSE ON THE SQUARE in Memphis, Tennessee has announced the winners of the 2024 NewWorks@TheWorks Playwriting Competition>br>
"These remarkable works stood out among hundreds of submissions and will take center stage during Season 57."

Winner #1: i always find the rain by Hank Rion.
When Henry travels to Florida to help his gay, alcoholic father settle into the country’s largest retirement mecca, the reunion quickly becomes anything but peaceful. With the arrival of Henry’s brother, pregnant sister-in-law, and estranged mother, the Robbins family gathers in the same room for the first time in 15 years. What follows is a caustic and uproarious unraveling, as long-buried truths rise to the surface.

Winner #2: Tragedy Sound by Karen Saari.
Three young women set out on a daring canoe trek through icy waters, confronting nature’s perils and their own personal struggles. As the challenges mount, the journey forces them to reckon with the choices that have defined their lives and the constraints of their small-town roots.

GIBSON GUITARS which has shaped sound across generations and genres of music, as as part of Gibson’s commitment to an artist-first culture and elevating new music from emerging musicians around the world, established Gibson’s Artist Spotlight highlighting a group of future global superstars in the music industry.

Gibson’s Artist Spotlight debuts a new artist each month connecting them with Gibson’s global audience through Gibson.com, social media channels, advertising campaigns, Gibson Garage events, as well as features in the Gibson Gazette and other music media outlets helping their music reach a wide international audience.

Introducing the Gibson Artist Spotlight musicians for 2025: AfroDiziac, Angel White, ARXX, Asaka, Charli Adams, Kapali Long, Nana Ouyang, Piao, Sarah Julia, The Saint Cecilia, Warren Muton - Ko Ko Mo, and Yasser Tejada.



THE MERCHANT OF VENICE by William Shakespeare.

Directed by Arin Arbus.

Featuring John Douglas Thompson as Shylock.

Shakespeare’s perennially contested play about corrosive bigotry and blinding vengeance is poised at the radioactive intersection of race, class and religion in Arin Arbus’s production.

As Arbus observes, "The Merchant of Venice depicts a divided society saturated with hate and inequity. The world boils with anti-Semitism, racism, xenophobia, misogyny, classism, and homophobia."

The show’s uniquely diverse company evoke a deeply stratified Venice. Its connections to our own grievously fractured world are vivid, stark and startling.

The Shakespeare Exchange is the exchange of two productions between Royal Lyceum Theatre, Edinburgh, and Theatre for a New Audience (TFANA), New York.

The Royal Lyceum Theatre Edinburgh presents the Theatre for a New Audience production, January 18 - Saturday, February 15, 2025.

SIX MEN DRESSED LIKE JOSEPH STALIN by Dianne Nora.

Directed by Tony Isbell.

Set in a neglected part of the Kremlin, this abstract play follows two actors as they prepare for their most significant role yet: Joseph Stalin. The play offers a fictional narrative inspired by the real lives of Alexei Dikiy and Felix Dadaev, two of Stalin's body doubles.

A play about the recruiting and training of a double and the emotional challenges for both the double and his trainer as they considered the potential outcomes.

Featuring Koba played by Michael Gravois. Soso played by Chase Ring. Benny McCluskey serves as the swing.

The Circuit Playhouse in Memphis, Tennessee, Ohio with performances through January 26th.

DECEMBER: A LOVE YEARS IN THE MAKING by Marisela Treviño Orta.

Directed by Marcela Lorca.

"A must-see for romance lovers, especially of May-December, friends to lovers and slow-burn tropes."

Follow the friendship between a creative writing professor and her former student as it blossoms into romance over two decades of exchanged letters, writings, and beloved poems. Let the lyrical dialogue and touching moments transport you through the years, as you witness the power of connection and the beauty of love that endures against all odds.

The cast includes Maggie Bofill as Carolina (mayor/older), Patricia Duran as Carolina (menor/younger), Leandro Salazar as Benjamin (menor/younger), and Luis Vega as Benjamin (mayor/older). The creative team includes Scenic Designer Regina García, Costume Designer Sarita Fellows, Lighting Designer Carolina Ortiz Herrera, Music & Sound Designer David R. Molina, Fight Director & Intimacy Specialist Adam Noble, Stage Manager Debs Ramser, and Assistant Stage Manager Laura Pilar Gutierrez.

World Premiere January 17-February 2, 2025 at the Hubbard Theatre in Houston, Texas.

KOWALSKI a new play by Gregg Ostrin.

Directed by Colin Hanlon.

The production stars Robin Lord Taylor as Tennessee Williams and Brandon Flynn as Marlon Brando with Alison Cimmet as Margo Jones, Ellie Ricker as Jo and Sebastian Treviño as Pancho Rodriguez.

"Kowalski is a gripping play that transports audiences to a pivotal moment in theatrical history, exploring the tangled relationships and creative tensions surrounding Tennessee Williams (Robin Lord Taylor) as he crafts his masterpiece, A Streetcar Named Desire.

"Set in a 1947 Provincetown beach house, the play unfolds over one sultry night, blending sharp wit and emotional depth to unravel the dynamics between Williams, the fiery director Margo Jones (Alison Cimmet), the tempestuous Pancho Rodriguez (Sebastian Treviño), and a young, enigmatic Marlon Brando (Brandon Flynn). Kowalski offers a behind-the-scenes look at the raw forces that birthed one of the 20th century's greatest works, weaving memory and myth into a haunting exploration of ambition, artistry, and desire."

The creative team includes costume design by Lisa Zinni, scenic design by David Gallo, lighting design by Jeff Croiter, sound design by Bill Toles, movement specialist Nancy Renee Braun, casting director Stephen DeAngelis, and general management by Aaron Grant Theatrical. Kowalski is produced by Helm Capital/Jeffrey Sherman, Nathan Hughes, Karl E. Held, Willette & Manny Klausner and Faried Assad.

Delving deep into the mind of one of America’s most iconic playwrights, Tennessee Williams, as he meets Marlon Brando for the first time will get its New York Debut beginning January 13, 2025 in advance of its opening night on January 27, 2025, and will run through February 16, 2025 at The Duke on 42nd Street at New 42 Studios in New York City.

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FINAL OVATION

PETER YARROW Grammy-Winning musician of Peter, Paul and Mary died January 7, 2025 of bladder cancer at his Upper West Side apartment after a month in hospice care. He had battled the illness for four years. He was 86.

The group helped stir the folk music revival in the 1960s by popularizing songs of protest and social change, including Blowin’ in the Wind and If I Had a Hammer. Yarrow co-wrote the hit Puff, the Magic Dragon.

He was also a political activist and supported causes that ranged from opposition to the Vietnam War to school anti-bullying programs.

Yarrow’s reputation came under scrutiny after he entered a a guilty plea on charges that in n 1970 he molested a 14-year-old girl, for which he was pardoned in 1981 by President Jimmy Carter.

Yarrow acknowledged being an alcoholic and sought treatment for the disease. He considered himself in recovery.

While campaigning for 1968 presidential candidate Eugene McCarthy, Yarrow met McCarthy's niece, Mary Beth McCarthy, in Wisconsin. He was 31 at the time and she was 20. They were married in October 1969 in Willmar, Minnesota. Paul Stookey wrote Wedding Song (There Is Love) as his gift for their wedding and first performed it at St. Mary's Church in Willmar. They had two children, son Christopher and daughter Bethany. but later divorced. Yarrow and McCarthy remarried in 2022 and were together until his death.

SAM MOORE half of iconic soul duo Sam and Dave, died Friday, January 10, 2025 in Coral Gables, Florida, due to complications while recovering from surgery. He was 89.

Moore had surgery for a spinal compression on Tuesday, three days earlier. He was recovering and was to start rehabilitation Friday morning, his wife Joyce said. But as the rehab center called Joyce about Sam’s appointment, she had to interrupt the caller to break the news from a Coral Gables hospital room. Moore wasn’t going to rehab this day. He had died.

Moore sang for six United States presidents — Jimmy Carter, George H.W. Bush, Bill Clinton, George W. Bush, Barack Obama and Donald Trump.

He and Joyce were invited guests for the state funeral for the senior President Bush at the Washington National Cathedral in 2018. The Moores and George and Barbara Bush were friends for more than 30 years, exchanging personal letters and invitations, after Moore sang at Bush’s inauguration in 1989 at an event his wife co-produced.

Moore, who with his late partner Dave Prater - who died in a car accident in 1988 - cut some of the best-known records of the genre with hits like Soul Man and Hold On! I’m Comin’

The trailblazing black artists were known for their high-energy live performances and became in the 1960s one of the top acts on the legendary Memphis-based Stax Records.

Their enduring signature tune, 1967’s Soul Man won a Grammy as the duo gained crossover appeal that saw the song not only top the R&B charts but rocket to No. 2 on the pop charts, according to the New York Times.

Moore also performed before six presidents.

He is survived by his wife and longtime manager, Joyce Moore.

GUY SUSSEX beloved Beagle dog has died of old age.

Meghan Markle, The Duchess of Sussex shared a video with memories of the beloved dog on her Instagram account Tuesday, along with details of how he first came into her life. "In 2015, I adopted a beagle from a dog rescue in Canada," she wrote. "He had been at a kill shelter in Kentucky and given a few days to live. I swooped him up….and fell in love."

She explained that he had been referred to as "the little guy" due to him being so small, and so consequently she named him Guy.,br>
"And he was the best guy any girl could have asked for," Meghan wrote.

"He endured a terrible accident shortly before I moved to the UK which had him undergoing surgeries for several months and unable to leave the clinic," she also shared. "Doctors said he would never walk again, but Dr Noel Fitzpatrick said he could do it. H (Prince Harry) and I would drive late at night, after hours, to see Guy as he recovered in Surrey for months on end."

"I have cried too many tears to count - the type of tears that make you get in the shower with the absurd hope that the running water on your face will somehow make you not feel them, or pretend they’re not there,' she also wrote. "But they are. And that’s okay too."

She ended by thanking Guy.

"Thank you for so many years of unconditional love, my sweet Guy,' she wrote. 'You filled my life in ways you’ll never know."

In addition to his human parents he is survived by two adopted siblings.

Next Column: January 19, 2025
Copyright: January 12, 2025 All Rights Reserved. Reviews, Interviews, Commentary, Photographs or Graphics from any Broadway To Vegas (TM) columns may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, utilized as leads, or used in any manner without permission, compensation and/or credit.
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Laura Deni