All the Bluff’s a Stage:
The curtain will rise on the LMU Theatre department’s Shakespeare on the Bluff festival once more for performances of “Othello” at Lawton Plaza amphitheater July 27 and 28 at 8 p.m. Last month, the troupe of student actors, LMU alumni, faculty and professional actors staged a production of “A Midsummer Night’s Dream,” much to the delight of the local community.
“You are under the stars, seeing these plays performed as they were back in Shakespeare’s day – outdoors, with an eclectic audience,” said Kevin Wetmore, Artistic Director. “Bring blankets, bring food – enjoy a picnic then watch the show. It’s a great, inexpensive night out.”
Wetmore describes “Othello” as one of the best thrillers ever written and finds it more timely than ever as it grapples with issues of race, power and manipulation through half-truths.
He added that he hopes these outdoor theatrical events will become something of a bluff-top tradition, saying that the 2019 summer season is already set, with performances of “As You Like It” and “Pericles” planned.
All performances are family-friendly, open to the community and 90 minutes long.
You Can’t Stop the Beat:
LMU’s KXLU hosted its fourth annual Alma Del Barrio Salsa Festival this past weekend, drawing 2,000 people to Hannon Field to dance to a lineup of hot bands. Celebrating 45 years on the air, the KXLU radio show “Alma del Barrio” was created by students Raul Villa and Enrique “Kiki” Soto and has since become a cultural touchstone, attracting a legion of fans and inspiring artists past and present.
“This festival has truly become one of the most profound and engaging highlights for us each year,” said Lydia Ammossow, KXLU Station Director. “It brings our university and local community together for an afternoon of incredible live music, culture, food, and good old fashioned family fun.
This year’s lineup of bands included The Echo Park Project, La Verdad, Rumbankete, Charangoa and the Brazilian band Eyedentity.
“Salsa music is an extraordinary gift to the world – whether you are seasoned salsero or simply a listener,” Ammossow said. “You cannot help but feel better about the world after indulging in these contagious and life-giving beats.”
“Alma del Barrio” airs from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays and Sundays, KXLU 88.9 FM.
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