Tag: GrandPerformances

Music Under the Stars: Circa’s Soundtrack for Summer

One of the most anticipated rites of summer is music under the stars! The Hollywood Bowl has announced their summer season, with programs ranging from pop, to rock, multicultural, cool jazz, and more. Los Angeles Historic State Park and KCRW Summer Nights have great line-ups all summer long, not far from Circa. And many outdoor concerts are free, such as Grand Performances and The Music Center’s Dance DTLA. Major museums such as LACMA and The Getty Center are hosting free concerts as well. Come for the concert, stay for the art. So pack a picnic, bring your blanket, and celebrate Circa’s summer soundtrack with music under the stars.

Los Angeles Historic State Park music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Los Angeles Historic State Park 1245 N Spring St. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Get ready to party in the park! Los Angeles State Historic Park provides an extraordinary opportunity for recreation in the heart of Los Angeles. All summer long, the park is offering an exciting program of events including outdoor concerts & movies, Art in the Park, wellness activities, and more. Within its 32 acres of open space directly adjacent to Chinatown, park visitors can wander pathways and enjoy a view of downtown, as well as discover and celebrate the natural and cultural heritage of Los Angeles. 

KCRW Summer Nights music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

KCRW Summer Nights Various locations, including Union Station & Chinatown

KCRW Summer Nights is BACK! Your favorite radio station has teamed up with some of the best cultural hotspots around Southern California to throw excellent summertime parties. These nights are free, all-ages, outdoors, and feature your favorite KCRW DJs, bands, exhibits, and more. So mark your calendar, put on your dancing shoes, and plan to party!

Hollywood Bowl music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 9006

Since its opening in 1922, the Hollywood Bowl has been the premier destination for live music in Southern California, hosting everyone from Billie Holiday to The Beatles and Yo-Yo Ma under the iconic silhouette of its concentric-arched band shell. The Summer 2024 Season is jam-packed with performances by acclaimed artists, including John Williams with the LA Phil, Mozart Under the Stars, Barbie The Movie: In Concert, Herbie Hancock, The Gispsy Kings, and the ever-popular Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks.

Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

June 15-16 The Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival returns for a music-filled two-day celebration driven by top acts in jazz and more. Come hang out in Kagan Patio for the Jazz Village Experience: A Tribute to Jazz/Art Fusion. Explore the rich history and relationship between jazz and art with special vendors, exhibitions, and art/photography displays.

Grand Performances music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Grand Performances California Plaza 300 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Grand Performances returns to DTLA for its 38th season of summer concerts at Historic California Plaza in downtown Los Angeles. Hailed as the “Best Free Outdoor Summer Concert Series” by Los Angeles Magazine, Grand Performances is the longest running presenter of free outdoor concerts, poetry, theater and dance in downtown Los Angeles, with the mission to inspire community, celebrate diversity, and unite Los Angeles through free access to global performing arts.

Dance DTLA music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Music Center’s Dance DTLA Jerry Moss Plaza 135 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Join the thousands who love the chance to learn new dance styles and dance the night away under the stars. The Music Center’s Dance DTLA returns this summer for eight Friday nights of free in-person beginner dance lessons, starting with Bollywood on June 21, with easy-to-follow steps so guests can hit the dance floor to practice some new moves. Other dances include Salsa, Reggaeton, Colombian Cumbia, Samba, Hip Hop and more. No dance experience necessary!

Jazz at LACMA music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Jazz at LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

Celebrate L.A.’s finest jazz musicians with Jazz at LACMA! Enjoy evenings of live music, picnicking, and community on the LACMA grounds. The free concerts are presented Friday evenings from May through October. Jazz at LACMA has featured such legends as Wayne Shorter, The Yellowjackets, Quincy Jones All Star Orchestra with John Clayton, Arturo Sandoval, Jeff Lorber, and many more. 

OFF THE 405 Getty Museum music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

OFF THE 405 Getty Center 1200 Getty Center Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90049

OFF THE 405 is the Getty Center’s annual free outdoor summer concert series, bringing some of today’s most exciting bands to the stage for a memorable experience amid stunning architecture and breathtaking sunset views. The concerts will take place from 6-9PM on selected evenings, and begin with various live DJ sets in the museum courtyard. Food and beverages are available for purchase before the show begins. The concerts are free to attend, but attendees need to RSVP for passes in advance.

Michael Feinstein Pasadena Pops music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pasadena Symphony & POPS LA Arboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Pasadena Symphony & POPS has announced their 2024 Rusnak Summer Pops Series at Los Angeles County Arboretum. The six-concert series runs from June 24 to September 9 with a stellar line-up of guest artists celebrating the American Songbook, plus Principal Pops Conductor Michael Feinstein in concert. Gates open at 5:30PM for picnicking. Concerts begin at 7:30PM.

The Ford music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Ford 2580 Cahuenga Blvd E. Los Angeles, CA 90068

For sheer beauty and intimacy, it’s hard to beat The Ford for summer entertainment under the stars. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, the open-air amphitheater is relatively intimate at just under 1,200 seats; no patron is more than 96 feet away from the stage. Purchase your meal from the new Bodega at The Ford or local curated offerings in the Grab & Go Market. You can also bring your own food and drinks and grab a table on the Zev Terrace, the entryway gardens, or in your seats.

The Greek Theatre music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Greek Theatre 2700 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Located within Griffith Park, the historic Greek Theatre stands as one of the nation’s most beloved and recognized outdoor entertainment venues. Throughout its history, the Greek has played host to some of the biggest legends in music, including Sir Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Carlos Santana and many more. The Greek Theatre features a variety of food options to satisfy even the most selective of palates. So leave the cooking behind and enjoy fresh delicious food options, including the North & South Concession Stands and the Mango Cart Beer Garden.

Descanso Gardens music under the stars near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

Live outdoor performances and music add extra magic to the idyllic garden ambiance. Experience a synergy of culture and nature with Shakespeare, opera, puppet performances, global music, jazz, classical, and more. Some performances are included in the price of membership or admission. Others are ticketed events. Food and drinks are available for sale at two concession locations in the Courtyard: The Market and Jones Coffee at Descanso. Outside food and beverages, except for water bottles, are not allowed in the Gardens.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #2: Los Angeles Historic State Park

Photo #3: KCRW Summer Nights

Photo #4: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #5: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #6: Grand Performances

Photo #7: The Music Center

Photo #8: LACMA

Photo #9: Getty Museum

Photo #10: Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Photo #11: The Ford

Photo #12: The Greek Theatre 

Photo #13: Descanso Gardens

Celebrate Summer with Music Under the Stars 

One of the best things about summer is enjoying music under the stars! LA’s favorite outdoor venues have announced their summer season, with line-ups ranging from classical programs to pop, rock and cool jazz. Many outdoor concerts are free, such as Grand Performances and The Music Center’s Dance DTLA, not far from Circa. Major museums such as LACMA and The Getty Center are hosting free concerts as well. Come for the concert, stay for the art. So pack a picnic, bring your blanket, and celebrate summer with music under the stars.

Hollywood Bowl outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

Since its opening in 1922, the Hollywood Bowl has been the premier destination for live music in Southern California, hosting everyone from Billie Holiday to The Beatles to Yo-Yo Ma under the iconic silhouette of its concentric-arched band shell. The Summer 2023 Season is jam-packed with performances by acclaimed artists, such as John Williams and Dudamel conducting the LA Phil, and special events like the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festival, Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows™ Part 2 Concert, July Fourth Fireworks Spectacular with The Beach Boys, and A Live Presentation of 2001: A Space Odyssey. 

Pasadena City Hall outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Concert Under the Stars Pasadena City Hall 100 Garfield Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101

June 10 Join the Pasadena Symphony & POPS for a free concert under the stars. Sing and dance to the best of Broadway, celebrating the music of Jerry Herman, Andrew Lloyd Webber, Cy Coleman, Stephen Schwartz and more. The concert is performed on the plaza in front of city hall, so bring a lawn chair and/or blanket. Folding chairs may be rented for a small fee. This concert is free to the public, no tickets or reservations required. Gates open for food trucks at 7PM. Concert begins at 8PM.

Michael Feinstein Conductor of Pasadena Pops outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Pasadena Symphony & POPS LA Arboretum 301 N Baldwin Ave. Arcadia, CA 91007

Pasadena Symphony & POPS has announced their 2023 Rusnak Summer Pops Series at Los Angeles County Arboretum. The six-concert series runs from June 24 to September 9 with a stellar line-up of guest artists celebrating the American Songbook, plus Principal Pops Conductor Michael Feinstein in concert. Gates open at 5:30PM for picnicking. Concerts begin at 7:30PM.

Grand Performances outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Grand Performances California Plaza 300 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Grand Performances returns to DTLA for its 37th year of free summer concerts at California Plaza. Hailed as the “Best Free Outdoor Summer Concert Series” by Los Angeles Magazine, Grand Performances presents world-class music, dance, theater, and more, in the heart of DTLA. Every Saturday from June to September 2023.

Dance DTLA outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Music Center’s Dance DTLA Jerry Moss Plaza 135 N. Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

Join the thousands who love the chance to learn new dance styles and dance the night away under the stars. The Music Center’s Dance DTLA returns this summer for nine consecutive Friday nights of free in-person beginner dance lessons, starting with HipHop on June 23, with easy-to-follow steps so guests can hit the dance floor to practice some new moves. No dance experience necessary!

OFF the 405 at Getty Museum outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Off The 405 Getty Center 1200 Getty Center Dr. Los Angeles, CA 90049

Getty Museum announces its free Off The 405 annual outdoor summer concert series, bringing some of today’s most exciting bands to the stage for a memorable experience amid stunning architecture and breathtaking sunset views. The concerts will take place from 6-9PM on selected evenings, and begin with various live DJ sets in the museum courtyard. Attendees are encouraged to arrive early and can bring in their own picnic items. Food and beverages will also be available for purchase before the show begins. The concerts are free to attend, but attendees need to RSVP for passes in advance.

The Ford outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Ford 2580 Cahuenga Blvd E. Los Angeles, CA 90068

For sheer beauty and intimacy, it’s hard to beat The Ford for summer entertainment under the stars. Nestled in the Hollywood Hills, the open-air amphitheater is relatively intimate at just under 1,200 seats; no patron is more than 96 feet away from the stage. Purchase your meal from the new Bodega at The Ford or pick up some local curated offerings in the Grab & Go Market. You can also bring your own food and drinks. Grab a table on the Zev Terrace or the entryway gardens, or eat in your seats.

Rose Bowl outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Re:SET Concert Series Rose Bowl 1001 Rose Bowl Dr. Pasadena, CA 91103

June 2, 3, 4 Re:SET, a fresh take on the multi-artist outdoor concert, comes to Los Angeles at Brookside at the Rose Bowl Stadium, featuring headliners Steve Lacy, boygenius, and LCD Soundsystem. Re:SET was conceived as an artist and fan friendly alternative to the standard summer concert experience. The venue will feature food and drinks from local restaurants, bars, and breweries, including HomeState, Broad Street Oyster Co., Goldburger, and more.

The Greek Theatre outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Greek Theatre 2700 N Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90027

Located within Griffith Park, the historic Greek Theatre stands as one of the nation’s most beloved and recognized outdoor entertainment venues. Throughout its history, the Greek has played host to some of the biggest legends in music, including Sir Elton John, Aretha Franklin, Frank Sinatra, Bruce Springsteen, Carlos Santana, and many more. This iconic venue has also served as a site for numerous high school graduations, community events and backdrops for television shows and motion pictures.

Jazz at LACMA outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Jazz at LACMA 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90036

Jazz at LACMA is back! Enjoy evenings of live music, picnicking, and community on the LACMA grounds. The free concerts are presented Friday evenings from April to November. Jazz at LACMA is a celebration of L.A.’s finest jazz musicians and has featured such legends as Wayne Shorter, The Yellowjackets, Quincy Jones All Star Orchestra with John Clayton, Arturo Sandoval, Jeff Lorber, and many more. Concerts are broadcast on KJAZZ (88.1 FM) every Sunday evening from 7–9 PM and include interviews with featured performers. 

Descanso Gardens outdoor concerts near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Music in the Gardens Descanso Gardens 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge, CA 91011

For three Fridays this July, enjoy the sound of live music wafting through the garden as you enjoy the summer blooms. Music in the Gardens is included in the price of admission. No reservations are required. Please note that chairs, blankets, outside food, and picnics are not permitted.

Photo Credits:

Photo #1: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #2: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #3: Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Photo #4: Pasadena Symphony and POPS

Photo #5: GrandPerformances

Photo #6: The Music Center

Photo #7: Getty Museum

Photo #8: The Ford

Photo #9: Rose Bowl

Photo #10: The Greek Theatre 

Photo #11: LACMA

Photo #12: Descanso Gardens

Just the Ticket: Live Performances Are Back

All around LA, your favorite concert halls and theaters are welcoming audiences back with exciting new live performances. This fall, LA Phil, LA Master Chorale and LA Opera are returning to their respective homes at Walt Disney Concert Hall and Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, not far from Circa. And at last, Hamilton has returned to the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. The Geffen and Pasadena Playhouses also have entertaining line-ups in store for you. Or enjoy Shakespeare under the oaks at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum. Please note that live venues have safety protocols in place. Check their websites for details.

Hollywood Bowl performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hollywood Bowl 2301 N Highland Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90068

The Hollywood Bowl continues their season with an eclectic program including Marvel Studios’ Black Panther in Concert accompanied by the LA Phil, Yo-Yo Ma | The Bach Project, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince™ In Concert accompanied by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, KCRW’s World Festival featuring Brittany Howard, Mozart Under the Stars with Dudamel, Andrea Bocelli and more. Tickets & schedule HERE

LA Opera performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Opera Dorothy Chandler Pavilion 135 N Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

LA Opera begins its live performance season on September 16, featuring beloved favorites such as Il Trovatore, Tannhäuser, Alcina, Cinderella and more. Created in 1986 by a team of visionaries, LA Opera has become a leader in artistic innovation, while honoring the great historical legacy of opera. Through this powerful art form, LA Opera celebrates the diversity and pioneering spirit of our great city. Tickets & schedule HERE

LA Master Chorale performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Master Chorale Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

LA Master Chorale’s long-anticipated return to Walt Disney Concert Hall begins September 25, featuring music from Nilo Alcala, Shawn Kirchner, Reena Esmail, and Morten Lauridsen. Other highlights of the season include Rachmaninoff’s All Night Vigil, Festival of Carols, and Handel’s Messiah. Led by Grant Gershon, the Los Angeles Master Chorale is widely recognized as the leading professional choir in the United States, hailed for its powerful performances, technical precision, and artistic daring. Tickets & schedule HERE

LA Phil Dudamel performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

LA Phil Walt Disney Concert Hall 111 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90012

LA Phil returns to Walt Disney Concert Hall on October 9 with Homecoming: A Special Concert & Fundraiser, which sees Gustavo Dudamel and the LA Phil taking the stage for the first time in 572 days, with special guests Cynthia Erivo and Seong-Jin Cho. Led by Music & Artistic Director Gustavo Dudamel, this internationally renowned orchestra harnesses the transformative power of live music to build community, foster intellectual and artistic growth, and nurture the spirit. Tickets & schedule HERE

Hamilton performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Hamilton Hollywood Pantages Theatre 6233 Hollywood Blvd. Los Angeles, CA 90028

Hamilton, the beloved sung-and-rapped-through musical by Lin-Manuel Miranda, is back at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre. Hamilton tells the story of America’s Founding Father Alexander Hamilton, an immigrant from the West Indies, who was George Washington’s right-hand man during the Revolutionary War and became the nation’s first Treasury Secretary. Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, blues, rap, R&B, and Broadway, Hamilton is the story of America then, as told by America now.

Grand Performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Grand Performances California Plaza 300 & 350 S Grand Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90071

Grand Performances, the longest running presenter of free outdoor concerts in Los Angeles, has returned to the newly renovated California Plaza in DTLA for its 35th season. On September 24, KCRW’s Summer Nights and LA’s iconic Grand Performances are teaming up for a special night featuring indie electronic singer, percussionist and activist, Madame Gandhi, in a full band performance, along with DJ sets from KCRW’s Anne Litt and Valida. Concert schedule HERE

Geffen Playhouse performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

The Enigmatist Geffen Playhouse 10886 Le Conte Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90024

Can you solve the enigma? From the creator and performer of the hit virtual production Inside the Box comes an immersive experience of puzzles and cryptology. Following a sold-out New York City run in 2019, renowned magician and New York Times crossword constructor David Kwong brings his popular in-person show The Enigmatist to the Geffen Playhouse. Clues are everywhere, so keep your eyes open and be ready for surprises behind every multi-layered illusion.

Will Geers Theatricum Botanicum performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum 1419 N Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga, CA 90290

Enjoy Shakespeare under the oaks at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum. Founder Will Geer, noted for his work on the New York stage, in film, and on radio, established the theatre on his property in Topanga in 1973. Because he held a degree in botany, the theater was named for a landmark botany text book, Theatricum Botanicum, which means, quite literally, “a garden theatre.” Today, under the creative supervision of his daughter, Artistic Director Ellen Geer, Theatricum Botanicum has blossomed into a vital creative force that has been recognized internationally for its interpretation of Shakespeare’s work. Tickets & schedule HERE

Pasadena Playhouse Head Over Heels performances near Circa residences in downtown Los Angeles

Head Over Heels Pasadena Playhouse 39 S El Molino Ave. Pasadena, CA 91101

Coming November 9, the music of The Go-Go’s fuels Head Over Heels, a non-stop, dance-filled joyride though magic, merriment and mischief. From the first notes of We Got the Beat to the final rapturous curtain call, you’ll be whisked away through a world of whimsy and wit. This jubilant celebration follows a royal family in search of a purpose, lovers in search of each other and a whole kingdom in search of a beat.

Photo credits:

Photo #1: Geffen Playhouse

Photo #2: Hollywood Bowl

Photo #3: LA Opera

Photo #4: LA Master Chorale

Photo #5: LA Phil 

Photo #6: Broadway in Hollywood/Hollywood Pantages Theatre

Photo #7: Grand Performances

Photo #8: Geffen Playhouse

Photo #9: Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum

Photo #10: Pasadena Playhouse