Jodi Jackson’s Hollywood

Seeing this show makes you just feel like you are transported into a simpler time when music really made a difference in people’s lives. It leads you down a road that is fraught with hardships and abuse but reminds us with hard work and faith that you can overcome all obstacles.

Tina Turner, from humble beginnings in Nutbush, Tennessee, to her transformation into the global Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Tina Turner didn’t just break the rules; she rewrote them. This new stage musical reveals the untold story of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of her age, gender, and race. One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner, has won 12 Grammy Awards and her live shows have been seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history. This show originally opened on Broadway on November 7, 2019, and was nominated for 12 Tony Awards including Best Musical. Featuring her much loved songs, TINA: The Tina Turner Musical is written by Olivier Award-winning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyllida Lloyd. Presented in association with Tina Turner.

Who’s Who:

Tina Turner & Erwin Bach

Executive Producers

Katori Hall

Book

Frank Ketelaar & Kees Prins

Book

Phyllida Lloyd

Director

Anthony Van Laast

Choreographer

Mark Thompson

Set & Costume Designer

Nicholas Skilbeck

Original Music Supervision, Arrangements, and Additional Music

Sharika Niles

Associate Director

Janet Rothermel

Associate Choreographer

Sordelet, Inc.

Fight Direction

Murnane Casting

Casting

Alvin Hough Jr.

Tour Music Supervisor

Ethan Popp

Orchestrator

Shane French

Music Director/Conductor

John Miller

Music Coordinator

Bruno Poet

Lighting Designer

Nevin Steinberg

Sound Designer

Jeff Sugg

Projection Designer

Campbell Young Associates

Hair, Wigs & Make Up Designer

Gloria Bontrager-Thomas

Production Stage Manager

Brian Cedric Jones

Company Manager

An uplifting comeback story like no other, TINA – The Tina Turner Musical is, to put it mildly, simply the best! It’s an electrifying sensation that brings the essence of her stunning stage presence to life, set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, including Let’s Stay Together, Better Be Good to Me, I Want to Take You Higher, River Deep – Mountain High, Private Dancer, Proud Mary and What’s Love Got to Do With It? When she was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in October, 2021, Tina became one of only three women in the institution’s history to be inducted twice (first in 1991 alongside Ike Turner).

Tina – The Tina Turner Musical is brilliantly written as a stunning tribute to the trailblazing Queen of Rock and Roll by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Katori Hall. The current tour is directed to stunning perfection by Phyllida Lloyd with creatively energetic choreography by Anthony Van Laast with music direction by Daniel Mollett.

Before her passing on May 23, 2023, at the age of 83, Tina was deeply involved with the development of the Broadway musical that shares her inspiring journey from cotton fields in the South to a woman who broke barriers and became the Queen of Rock n’ Roll. The hardships she endured that range from a cold-hearted mother and drunken father, her abusive relationship with Ike Turner who discovered Tina (then Anna Mae Bullock) in St. Louis at age 17, to record executives who would not sign her simply due to the color of her skin, are left behind once she found the courage to stand up for herself and what SHE wanted to do with her life. From that point forward, there was no stopping Tina from becoming a worldwide sensation, working her way up the ladder as a single mother with two sons. With each step being told with brilliantly written and staged clarity to make you weep tears of both joy and heartbreak.

The cast is led by Supreme Belter and extraordinary dancer, Darilyn Burtley, who totally captivated the audience with her sincere portrayal of Tina’s hardships and impeccably stunning stage presence stepping into Tina’s performance shoes and sparkling costumes that were worn by the beloved singer. Each time she took to the stage singing, it felt just like seeing Tina in person again. This is especially true during the show’s big production numbers that add the required brassy and flashy staging the Queen of Rock and Roll deserves. Some of the strong supporting cast is the young Claire Davy (alternating with Auset Jones as young Anna Mae and young Alline), energetic and spritely in her portrayal of young Anna Mae learning to share her voice from revival meetings as a child through her early years. Other cast standouts include Monty Kane as Ike Turner who is portrayed honestly including all his faults, with K. Bernice as Zelma Bullock, Eva Ruwé as Gran Georgeanna and Eleni Kutay as Rhonda Graam, who is Tina Turner’s manager for ten years before Tina ventured to Europe to find her own way as a Rock and Roll singer like David Bowie and Mick Jagger, both of whom she performed with after her solo career took off.

What a great show, filled with wonderful music, glitz, and glamour. It really covers all of the nuances that created this superstar.

The Hollywood Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA. 90028

*Some content was taken off of their website.

This is the most iconic neighborhood bakery café ever in Los Angeles, created by previous owner Jane herself. They now have 8 locations, so you really have no excuse to not try their magical bounty! They have lunch, including salads, soup, sandwiched, brunch, and of course many sweet items. I went to the one in West Hollywood, which is walking distance from my home office. I remember, back in the day, walking over here on any given morning and having a wonderful coffee press with a big, huge croissant. Always a great way to start my morning. I have been in this fabulous neighborhood for 35 years, so Sweet Lady Jane was always a way to bring the comforts of home into my very refined palate.  It’s all one big happy experience no matter what you try at Sweet Lady Jane.

When you go to someone’s party and they see you coming in with a Sweet Lady Jane Bag and cake box, you immediately become the most popular person at the party. This highly recognized staple in the greater So Cal area is thought as major prestige.  Knowing that, the host will go crazy for your very thoughtful gift. Plus, the fact that the cakes and other bakeries items are the highest quality.

Owners, Matthew Clark and Julie Ngu, were customers before. When Matthew heard on the local news that Sweet Lady Jane was closing, Julie said, “Wouldn’t it be crazy if we bought this store?’ The closure was in Feb 2024; and in 3 weeks they managed to get their permits along with everything else needed to purchase the business, starting process of reopening the original Melrose store and 7 others in the Los Angeles area.  They also have a few newly purchased food trucks that are for street fairs and farmers markets. Mathew believes that Sweet Lady Jane was meant to bring neighborhood people together in a happy environment with great food and wonderful baked goodies, that treat the mind, body, and soul to a lovely experience. Mathew is very hands on. He manages to get out to every location weekly and he has hired the best managers, seeing that all of them are keeping to their original mission statement. He is very proud that his staff loves their jobs and that they continue with the glorious history that Sweet Lady Janes food and baked goods have to offer. They are going to start adding homemade gelato soon, and the first store to have this will be their downtown store.

Matthew has had many promotional deals, the most recent is buy 1 lunch item, get the second one free. He says that he does that just so their customers can try different food items and not have to pay full price. Their busiest time is for lunch. Sweet Lady Jane also does many catering jobs along with getting lots of online orders for the major studios in the area.

What else can I say, this is just the best way to spend a morning, afternoon, or evening. It’s in a busy West Hollywood shipping area, seconds away from Melrose place. They have free parking behind the building.

Here’s What I tried.

Fresh Squeezed Orange Juice

Cappuccino

Cold Brew Coffee

Iced Mache Latte

All of the beverages were just perfect.

Salads:

Caprese Salad, with fresh mozzarella, Himalayan Sea Salt, freshly cracked pepper on a bed of arugula threshold, and basil served with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. Lots of fresh cheese and lovely tomatoes, making this salad a real keeper.

SLJ Salad with baby lettuce, jicama cucumber, kidney beans tomatoes, Gorgonzola cheese olives, green onions hearts of palm, and quinoa served with lemon olive oil vinaigrette. This is a great filling salad with lots of great ingredients.

Triple Berry Salad with dried apricot caramelized, walnuts, strawberries, raspberries, on a bed of mixed greens with a balsamic vinaigrette dressing. The dried caramelized apricots set this salad apart, its really great.

Soups:

Tomato Basil Soup, with fresh basil, and as a grilled cheese baguette, with cheddar cheese and grilled tomatoes. This very special combination; it was just so luscious, I would order this every time.

Sandwiches:

Chicken Curry Sandwich, with all white meat, chicken, and a light curry dress seasoning with scallions, fresh tomato, and lettuce. This is a must have sandwich, the curry flavor is light and wonderful. The best part is the raisin bread that they put it on.

Albacore, Tuna Sandwich, with white albacore tuna, lemon juice celery, scallions, tomato, and lettuce. A straightforward healthy sandwich.

Brunch:

The Scramble, with three eggs scrambled, chives, bacon, a freshly baked baguettes, butter, and orange marmalade preserve. The bread with the eggs really makes this so amazing.

Triple Berry Challah French Toast with fresh seasonal berries, powdered sugar, and maple syrup. Oh my, I could not get enough of this dish.

Side:

Egg Salad, egg salad can be easy to screw up, but Sweet Lady Jane really makes the perfect egg salad. When I was a child, my dad would always get me this sandwich for lunch near his business in Beverly Hills. This sandwich was great and brought back lots of wonderful memories for me.

Cakes:

Heavenly Dark Chocolate Cake – Layers of decadent chocolate cake with a divine chocolate buttercream and lush chocolate ganache, this is every chocolate lover’s dream. Unapologetic and heaven-sent, you won’t regret it.

The New Beverly Cake – The Beverly – A customer favorite! Yellow cake layered with Cordillera chocolate mousse, vanilla cream and rich ganache wrapped in Divine chocolate glaze and decorated with cocoa nibs, buttercream flowers, with an edible gold leaf.

Proper Carrot Cake – Nice and spiced, our carrot cake is a cozy crowd-pleaser. Made with our special blend of warming spices, walnuts and raisins, our walnut-caramel filling adds a touch of sophistication to the cream cheese. Every bite takes you a bit further in your reverie.

The Waldorf Red Velvet Cake – Sumptuous red velvet cake like you’ve never had it. Bittersweet cocoa and elegant vanilla notes mingle with luscious cream.

Triple Berry Cake – Our world-famous Triple Berry Cake. Fresh blueberries, strawberries and raspberries layered between lightly

Chocolate Cake Pop, their chocolate cake pop is built on a foundation of rich, fudgy cake — dense with cocoa flavor — then hand-dipped in a glossy dark chocolate shell that snaps just right. Indulgent without being over the top and deeply satisfying in every single bite. One is never quite enough. This one’s for the chocolate devotee.

Vanilla Cake Pop, some flavors just never fade. Their vanilla cake pop is made with pillowy, fragrant vanilla cake — warm with floral notes and a gentle sweetness — hand-shaped and finished in a pristine white candy coating that gives way to something impossibly soft inside. Refined, timeless, and the kind of thing you keep thinking about long after the last bite

*Disclaimer: Sweet Lady Jane lovingly crafts all of our baked goods on shared equipment that also handles tree nuts, milk, eggs, soy, and wheat.

Every single cake and cupcake I tried were just the best thing you would ever put in your mouth. It’s just so worth going there for a slice of your favorite cake or a cupcake, or any of their baked items. It’s a real treat that you just have to experience. I was also able to try a nice array of cupcakes, each was otherworldly.

Chef Bernie has been with Sweet Lady Jane for 20 years; everything is homemade from original recipes. Whatever your culinary pleasure is, Sweet Lady Jane has it all, with the best most wonderful cake assortment ever. It’s a neighborhood spot, come relax, good food and the best desserts in town. You just got to walk in those famous doors, and you will see what I am talking about.

“TODAY IS THE SWEETEST DAY”

Locations;

Melrose, Downtown Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Larchmont, Studio City, Calabasas, Encino, Santa Monica, San Fernando – cakes pick-ups only.

Sweet Lady Jane

8360 Melrose Avenue

West Hollywood, CA. 90069

(323) 653-7145

Sun – Wed: 8:00am – 12:00am Thur – Sat: 8:00am – 1:00am

Cafe Service 8:00am – 5:00pm

https://sweetladyjane.com/

It you want to laugh your derrière off, go see this fantastic musical romp. It is so hilarious, and you will just laugh until your face hurt.

Spamalot is a Tony-winning musical comedy “lovingly ripped off” from the 1975 film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. It follows King Arthur and his knights on a surreal, music-filled quest for the Holy Grail. Ultimately parodying Arthurian legends and Broadway tropes, the musical comedy features taunting Frenchmen, killer rabbits, and the Lady of the Lake.

My favorites actors and characters:

King Arthur – Major Attaway.

Sean Bell played many roles and he nailed each one.

Amanda Robles – The Lady of The Lake.

Leo Roberts – Sir Galahad, The Black Knight, Prince Herberts Father.

There were many other standouts, but these were my stellar performers.

The Quest Begins: King Arthur, accompanied by his coconut-clapping servant Patsy, recruits Knights of the Round Table (Bedevere, Robin, Lancelot, and Galahad) to join him in Camelot, a place resembling a Las Vegas resort.

Divine Mission: God instructs Arthur to find the Holy Grail, a mission supported by the Lady of the Lake, who acts as a diva-like romantic interest.

Absurd Challenges: The knights encounter ridiculous obstacles, including flatulent French soldiers, the Knights Who Say Ni, a killer rabbit, and “Not Dead Fred”.

Resolution: After various chaotic adventures, the Grail is found under a seat in the audience (or a designated spot on stage). The play concludes with Arthur marrying the Lady of the Lake (who reveals her name is Guinevere), Sir Lancelot marrying Prince Herbert, and everyone following the advice to “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life”.

Like the film, it is a highly irreverent parody of the Arthurian Legend, but it differs from the film in many ways, especially in its parodies of Broadway theatre. Eric Idle, a member of the Monty Python team, wrote the musical’s book and lyrics, and collaborating with John Du Prez on the music. Running since March 17, 2005, it was directed by Mike Nichols and won three Tony Awards, including the Tony Award for Best Musical of the 2004–2005 season.

Idle explained the title in a February 2004 press release about the musical: “I like the title Spamalot a lot. We tested it with audiences on my recent US tour, and they liked it as much as I did, which is gratifying. After all, they are the ones who will be paying Broadway prices to see the show. It comes from a line in the movie which goes: ‘we eat ham, and jam and Spam (food) a lot.”

Tagline: A new musical (lovingly) ripped off from the motion picture.

The show that set Broadway back 1,000 years…returns!

Peter Marks of The Washington Post exclaims, “It’s UNFAIR to make me laugh this much! SPAMALOT is a tightly packed clown car speeding to musical theater nirvana!”

SPAMALOT, which first galloped onto Broadway in 2005, features a book & lyrics by Eric Idle and music by John Du Prez and Eric Idle. The original Broadway production was nominated for fourteen Tony Awards and won three, including Best Musical.

The musical comedy lovingly ripped off from the film classic, Monty Python and the Holy Grail, has everything that makes a great knight at the theatre, from flying cows to killer rabbits, British royalty to French taunters, dancing girls, rubbery shrubbery, and of course, the Lady of the Lake. SPAMALOT features well-known song titles such as “Always Look on the Bright Side of Life,” “The Song That Goes Like This,” “Find Your Grail” and more that have become beloved classics in the musical theatre canon.

SPAMALOT is 2 hours and 30 minutes, including a 15-minute intermission.

Spamalot

6233 Hollywood Boulevard
Los Angeles California 90028

(323) 468-1770

March 24 – April 12 – 2026

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/

Some Content Was Taken off of their website.

What a nice surprise, a new Thai place right down the street from my vacation house. With its fantastic attention to really great Thai food, with a large wonderfully curated menu, I am a real fan of this new spot.

Owners David and Joy Holcomb had a food truck and a food stall before opening this brick-and-mortar business. They were at Morongo in the desert outlets. This restaurant was a Thai place – Yuthaipa – before David and Joy took it over.  They completely remodeled the patio by adding new paint, and canopy’s, new kitchen, and many other details. David says he met Joy while he was a dealer at Morongo and they really hit it off. So much so that when it was her time to go back to her homeland of Thailand, he told he not to go and they got married 2 weeks after meeting. That was 13 years ago, now with 2 daughters and Joy’s Mom living with them, it is a real family affair. Joy loves that she can test out all of her amazing recipes that she learned from what she calls “her mentor – drunk chef – back in Thailand”. She fondly remembers how he would have her taste many kinds of Thai herbs and seasonings to create most of these spectacular dishes. She tests out most of her recipes on her husband and he says he has gained some weight since this whole food project started, but he really doesn’t mind. Chef Jorge Barrios came from the previous business but is happy to guide both David and Joy into many new and exciting recipes. David truly loves his business, his kids, and above all his wife. He even told me that they had a celebrity come in for the tiger tacos all the way from Hollywood, Anthony Anderson. Yes, they are worth the drive.

Here’s What I Tried:

Drink:

Thai Tea with Blue Milk, this is just a beautiful rendition of the ever-popular Thai tea, except for the top layer is blue, which is called Butterfly Pea.

Salad:

Papaya salad, this salad is both tangy and sweet, with the great peanut crumbles, but it does pack a heated punch.

Rice:

Mala Fried Rice with Beef, the color of this rice is very appealing, and the flavor will blow your hair back.

Noodles:

Pad Thai with Shrimp. One of my favorite Thai dishes and this one did not disappoint. There is not sugar or msg in any of their menu items. This dish is healthy and super flavorful. The shrimps are also plump and delicious.

Drunken Noodle, with chicken. Another great flavor profile, great balance with super tender chicken, a delicious choice.

Krapau Noodles with ground beef. This is new and the noodles are the main reason to order this delectable menu item.

Curry:

Green Curry with Chicken. This is a very fragrant curry dish, it is sweet and spicy, just a very soothing curry.

Tacos:

Tiger Tacos with Beef. This taco is very simple. The meat is really tender with the nice well-rounded balance flavors; it is just off the charts.

Red Wine Tacos with Beef. The meat here is sweet with it being super tender, this one made me a fan.

Tom Yum Taco with Shrimp. I love shrimp in anything, the Tom Yum is what you would find in a Tom Yum soup, so it is just the best taco.

Joy also gave me her Devil Spice and Spice Bomb to take home. That was so kind of her, I can’t wait to try it!

They play good music; they will get misters installed for summertime dining. Now they have bench tables with fans canvas canopy to keep the heat out. Joy is an architect by trade, so she knows great design. She took what was a not-so-great environment and turned into clean crisp lines, with lots of attention to detail.

They really want their customers to know that when you come to Thai Street Food Yucaipa BKK78 you are treated like family. Good clean Thai food, great music, and good vibes in the heart of Uptown Yucaipa. In the short time they have been at this location, they have had many repeat customers. Many customers just can’t get enough of their wonderful recipes and menu items; it just keeps them coming back for more. I personally know from what I tried that this restaurant will catch on quick. Soon there will be lines around the block, so come and try their delicious food while you don’t have to wait. You too can enjoy great natural Thai food that is good to the last bite.

Thai Street Food Yucaipa BKK78

35134 Yucaipa Blvd.

Yucaipa, CA. 92399

909-654-0245

https://o.spoton.com/BL-1EA4-9ADE-2988

The Wow Creations Oscar Gift Suite is always something that I really look forward to. I see so many of my Hollywood friends and enjoy schmoozing with the best of them. The gifts are a great attraction as well, but for me it is always the sense of community that I get when I am there. I am always made to feel comfortable and at home, for sure in my element.

Here is who was there:

Raconteuse

Tracy Doyle Ife Storms

Esthetica-La

Art Lewin Bespoke

Bailin Botanicals

Maika Cenju

Dr. Mincas Natural Beauty

Unshakable Sonya Mcdonald

Invanti

Relax Far Infrared

Brain Juice

Flows Tasty Treats

Ungun

Courageous Woman Carmen K. Maendel

James Tobin Champagne

Made With Love Lemonade

MB Implants

Italian Pizza

There was so much fun and love in the room, getting ready for the Oscars every year is always a pleasure. Where else can you visit with Joe Mantegna, brilliant actor and Kato Kaelin, world’s most famous house guest, in the same room, just saying. Winding down from award season for me in a bit of a letdown, but hey there is always next year!

Wow Creations

www.wowcreationsmedia.com

This fun outdoor Mexican spot is right in the heart of West Hollywood, a new taqueria from a team that includes the owner of Tu Madre, is celebrating its grand opening in West Hollywood. Guac Daddy’s owners describe it as a Mexico City-inspired restaurant that serves a menu of mesquite-grilled meats in tacos, burritos, vampiros, and quesadillas. They play great Tejano music, the outdoor area is a great communal gathering spot.

At Guac Daddy you are made to feel like you could be in any tropical place in the world when enjoying their very delicious Mexican creations on the outdoor patio. Manager Jennifer Valencia gave me some nice suggestions and offered me a credit to sample some great menu items.

Here’s What I tried:

Drinks:

Straws Guava Lemonade Berry Drink, a very refreshing drink with lots of great strawberry flavor. It is bright, bold, and beautifully balanced. Sweet strawberries and tropical guava meet tart lemonade for the ultimate fruity refresher. Sunshine in a cup.

Food:

Deluxe Box – When one bite just won’t cut it.

2 Tacos, 1 Koreano Taco, served with thin slices of sirloin marinated in soy sauce garlic and peppers, served with onion, cilantro, guaca-salsa and salsa Roja.

1 Carne Asada Taco, Mesquite grilled steak, Monterey jack cheese, served con-todo w/ onion, cilantro, guaca-salsa and salsa Roja.

1 Quesadilla, 1 Quesadilla, Cheese and an extra grilled Chicken, with Monterey jack cheese, served con-todo w/ onion, cilantro, guaca-salsa and salsa Roja.

1 Vampiro, Birria, soft tortilla grilled to crunchy and smothered with melted Monterey jack cheese and topped with adobo chuck steak, served con-todo w/ onion, cilantro, guaca-salsa and salsa Roja.

1 Mulita, Carne Asada Mulita, Mesquite grilled steak, Monterey jack cheese, served con-todo w/ onion, cilantro, guaca-salsa and salsa Roja.

Totopos and Guac, spicy guac and totopos, creamy, chunky, and packed with fresh lime, cilantro, and just the right hit of jalapeño — their house spicy guac is made fresh daily and served with crunchy, golden totopos. They have 2 kinds of salsa, and the guacamole was thick and delicious.

Fish Baja Taco, with cod battered in masa tempura (gf) and fried, cabbage, garlic crema, hibiscus pickled onion on each, served con todo. flour tortilla. Delicious cod deep fried with cabbage and lime. The fish is moist and the crunchy cabbage adds another layer; this would be my go to for this menu.

Shrimp Baja Taco, with grilled shrimp, cabbage, garlic cream and hibiscus pickled onion on each served con todo, flour tortilla. I just loved the very big plump shrimps, and the accompaniments are truly perfect.

The design is just adorable, they will be opening another Guac Daddy on Fairfax where Oki-Dog used to be, I am sure that location will be equally as fun. With strewn lighting and a cool tin roof type wall siding, its all very hip and exciting. When you’re in the mood for quick and easy Mexican food with great namesake guacamole try Guac Daddy.

Guac Daddy – West Hollywood 

7401 Santa Monica Blvd.
West Hollywood, CA 90046

(323) 250-0326

Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 am – 10:00 pm

Friday – Saturday: 11:00 am – 11:00 pm

https://www.guacdaddy.com/

What a wonderful romp into the world of Tim Burton’s original film and story. What a great triumph, to adapt this super fun world into a musical.  You have got to go see this very imaginative, wonderfully executed musical.

Here’s the cast:

Beetlejuice – Ryan Stajmiger, Lydia – Leianna Weaver, Barbara – Kaitlin Feely, Adam -David Wilson, Charles -Jeff Brooks, Delia – Bailey Frankenberg, Priest – Dan Mason.

Music & Lyrics By Eddie Perfect, Book By Scott Brown And  Anthony King Based On The Geffen Company Picture, With A Story By Michael Mcdowell & Larry Wilson, Ryan Stajmiger Leianna Weaver, Kaitlin Feely, David Wilson, Jeff Brooks, Bailey Frankenberg,  Alessandra Casanova, Mai Caslowitz , Adam Fields, Da’zaria Harris, Dan Mason,  Justin Baret Neftali, Benitez Mathew Blasio Ian, Dembek Carly, Natania Grossman, Haley Izurieta, Sterling Nelson, Jones Michael,  P. Korner, Catie Leonard, Nick Signor,  Jillian Worthing, Nicole Zelka, Scenic Design David Korins, Costume Design William Ivey Long, Lighting Design Kenneth Posner, Sound Design Peter Hylenski, Projection Design Peter Nigrini, Exclusive Tour Direction The Road Company, Tour Marketing & Press Allied Global, Marketing Digital & Social Media Spotco, Casting Geoff Josselson, Casting Musical Supervision, Orchestration & Incidental Musical.

Based on Tim Burton’s dearly beloved film, this hilarious musical tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager whose whole life changes when she meets a recently deceased couple and a demon with a thing for stripes. With an irreverent book, an astonishing set, and a score that’s out of this Netherworld, Beetlejuice Is “Screamingly Good Fun!” (Variety). And under its uproarious surface (six feet under, to be exact), it’s a remarkably touching show about family, love, and making the most of every Day-O!

The ghost-with-the-most is coming to life on stage in this original musical based on Tim Burton’s wonderfully demented film of the same name. Directed by Alex Timbers, BEETLEJUICE tells the story of Lydia Deetz, a strange and unusual teenager obsessed with the whole “being dead thing.” Lucky for Lydia, her new house is haunted by a recently deceased couple and a degenerate demon with a thing for stripes. When Lydia calls on Beetlejuice to scare away anyone with a pulse, he comes up with the perfect plan involving exorcism, arranged marriage and the biggest sandworms Broadway has ever seen.

Summary:

The musical starts with everyone attending the funeral of Emily Deetz, Charles Deetz‘s wife and Lydia Deetz‘s Mother, where Lydia Deetz sings about how seeing her mother made her extremely upset (Prologue: “Invisible”). Beetlejuice enters, and talks to the audience (“The Whole “Being Dead” Thing“). He explains to the audience that he is a demon from hell and needs someone alive to say his name three times, so he can be seen by everyone and spread fear.

After this, we are introduced to Adam and Barbara Maitland, a perfectly normal, slightly boring couple who are considering having a baby and starting a family. However, they fear the consequences and worry they’ll regret their decision. As they discuss plans for their future, they fall through the creaky floorboards of their house and die, with Beetlejuice gleefully watching. (“Ready, Set, Not Yet“) Beetlejuice finds the Handbook for the Recently Deceased, and throws it away to hide it from the Maitlands. When Adam and Barbara reappear as ghosts, Beetlejuice offers to be their guide (“The Whole “Being Dead” Thing, Pt. 2“). The Maitlands are hesitant, but want their house back, so they accept Betelgeuse’s offer (“The Whole “Being Dead” Thing, Pt. 3“). The three see Charles and his new mistress Delia moving into their house, and evacuate into the attic. Delia and Charles wish to keep their affair a secret from Lydia. Lydia enters and is angered about them moving houses, but Charles answers that they are “moving forward” and that he wants Lydia to stop wearing black and stop mourning, in time for a business dinner in two days. Delia attempts to “life coach” her, but gives up, leaving Lydia to mourn her mother (“Dead Mom“).

In the attic, Beetlejuice tries teaching the deceased couple to scare the new residents; but when they prove reluctant, Beetlejuice leaves the attic for the roof. (“Fright of Their Lives“) Barbara encourages Adam to haunt the newcomers whilst covered in bed sheets, as they can’t be seen otherwise, (“Ready, Set, Not Yet Reprise“). Delia continues trying to teach Lydia to recover from her grief but is rebutted. (“No Reason“) After Delia leaves, Lydia stumbles upon a shrouded Adam and Barbara, and follows them to the attic, where they conspire with her to scare Charles and Delia out of the house. Lydia rushes into Charles’ room and discovers Delia in Charles‘bed, and Charles explains that he has now proposed to Delia. Lydia storms out of the room. Beetlejuice, on the roof, sees Lydia, and is shocked when he learns that Lydia can hear and see him. (“Invisible Reprise“). He persuades Lydia to say his name three times, so he can help her scare Charles. Lydia does not trust him, and Adam and Barbara concur, despite Beetlejuices forcing them to praise him. Lydia pushes Beetlejuice off the roof and persuades Barbara and Adam to possess Charles, Delia, and their dinner guests. (“Say My Name“) At the dinner, later on, Adam and Barbara force the guests to sing (“Day-O (The Banana Boat Song)“), but the guests, to Lydia’s dismay, are intrigued by the genuinely haunted house. Charles and Delia are excited at the idea of making a fortune. Lydia becomes desperate, and summons Beetlejuice, who chases everyone except Lydia out of the house and Adam and Barbara back into the attic.

“Broadway is about to Get a Little Weirder”

Run, don’t walk to this outrageous, fantastic, musical, you will be glad you did.

Hollywood Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA. 90028

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/

• Note some content taken off of their website.
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This truly is the neighborhood I grew up in. When I was a kid, I used to walk to La Cienega Park to go swimming. There used to be an art gallery house that inhabited this property when I lived around the corner. They tore that house down and built a mini strip mall. There have also been quite a few fast-food incarnations in this exact spot. However, I believe that Sup’s Chicken will be the first successful business in this already established location.

Sup’s Chicken is a great way to try Korean fried chicken for the first time. Owner Joseph S. Cho told me that everything is house made, from their dynamic signature hot sauce and their spicy chicken honey sauce to their wonderful pineapple salad dressing. I tried many delicious items and some really stood out. I am confident that pretty much everything you try at Sup’s Chicken will make your taste buds sing, just like it did mine.

Here’s What I tried:

Drinks:

They have some very yummy drink selections. They do not serve anything with alcohol, just fresh squeezed juices and great recipes.

Sparkling Blueberry Ade: This one will for sure cool your palate from all of what is served up with spice at Sup’s Chicken.

Real Fruit Milk with Mango, this was luscious and rich with great pieces of mango, a real winner.

Misutgaru Oat Latte – With this drink, you really do not need coffee. It’s got a great coffee flavor but more appealing and healthier.

Menu Items:

Crispy Chibap, with fried chicken, rice, spicy creamy corn with kimchi, a signature sauce, and soy honey sauce. The chicken itself is so tender, but the outside of the crust is Golden. It is really terrific.

Signature Fried Chicken Sandwich, with arugula and coleslaw. It is such a perfect combination of additions to this very addictive sandwich. I just couldn’t get enough. Their sandwiches are served on French bread roll; and many of their product’s come from The Restaurant Depot. The bread is equally a crowd pleasure, just an amazing sandwich.

Crispy, Juicy Chicken Tenders Combo, which  includes rustic potato cubes, golden toasted bread, and house-made Sup’s Mayo. The best and most tender honey wings ever. You just got to try these little delicate wonders. A perfect trio of crunch, comfort, and flavor in every bite.

Fried Chicken Cesar Wrap, with fried chicken and romaine lettuce. You really get all the nuances of a true Ceasar salad in this very large wrap. This is another great menu item.

Chicken Salad, with kale, romaine lettuce, tomatoes, parmesan cheese, walnuts, and pineapple dressing. This is an extremely healthy salad, if you’re going here with a friend that doesn’t have any health concerns, but you want to get some good nutrition into your body then this salad is for you.

Joseph was in the cosmetic industry with his family before this, kind of when K-Beauty first became a thing. He and his wife wanted to start a chicken business. They tried hot sauces around the world and knew they could out do anything prior that was meant to be eaten with chicken. It was a passion business that was inspired by their family. Having 2 daughters that live on the East Coast, one of their daughters designed the very whimsical logo. He and his wife thought this business would be all of their own. The name Sup’s is a slang for ‘What’s Up”, and Joseph’s God given Korean name. It is very catchy. Their Gardena location took off and it has been opened for two years. Having their La Cienega spot seemed to be very a logical idea that inspired them to show off this adored Korean fried chicken. Yes, fried chicken in many forms is all the rage in many cities across America. Korean being a unique experience was bound to be a very trendy idea. A trend that turned into dollars and the rest is history. If you want to try something that is delectable with an Asian flair and can be spicy, then look no further to Sup’s Chicken. Joseph says,” This is the best Korean American chicken that is always hot and tasty”. Sup’s fried chicken is prepared with the freshest cuts, lightly battered and fried to golden perfection. Each flavor brings its own character. Original Style, Pure and timeless that showcases the natural taste of premium chicken. Salt and Vinegar, Bright and zesty while adding a crisp tang with every bite. Soy Honey: Sweet and savory that is glazed with a delicate balance of soy and honey. Sweet & Spicy [LV3]: A bold harmony of heat and sweetness, that is balanced and memorable. Garlic Parmesan: Rich and aromatic that blends roasted garlic with aged Parmesan for a creamy finish.

This restaurant is unique; it will absolutely become a staple for many people in this neighborhood and beyond. They have an automated machine when you first walk in that takes your monies and starts your order. This has become the new model for many fast-food type small places in Los Angeles. With their already existing track record, their first location in Gardena has already proven to be quite the hit in the neighborhood. That location is in a pretty industrial area; but that does not stop people from going in to try this very wonderful food. So now we have a location very close to all of the action near Beverly Hills. All the more reason to hop in your car and go try some!

Sup’s Chicken

1080 S La Cienega Blvd. #110

Los Angeles, CA. 90035

(424) 278-1085

https://supschicken.com/

I have been coming here for the last 4 years; and when owner’s Sam and Marsha Gao allowed me to come in to do a full tasting, I was really thrilled. I was taken on a tour by Sam, to see more features that the restaurant has to offer. With rooms that I never saw before that include 2 large size party rooms, a whole other dining area, and a sushi bar. So, no matter what you are trying to accomplish at Rui’s Shanghai Bistro, you will get the service and the attention to detail you will need to have a successful party, meeting, or night out.

This location is a relatively new venture, having a smaller location previously in Redlands. Sam said that they wanted to expand and let people know that it is still family-run and operated. The food is always the best highest quality Chinese cuisine in the area.

The décor is very beautiful which includes Koi Fish flying on the ceiling in the dining room, and many Chinese artifacts. It is a delightful experience for your eyes and your palate.

There is a whole new resurgence in this area with The Arrow train it so easy to get here. Coming in from Los Angeles, Union Station is just a breeze. I did some reviews on The Redlands Public Market, which is close by and across the street from the train. Many new establishments are making their way here because it’s a fun accessible area that has live music and many delectable spots to eat and drink for locals and tourists alike.

Here’s What I tried:

Wine:

Collier Creek Chardonnay, a nice fruity Chardonnay. It went great with any of the seafood dishes ordered.

Kendall Jackson Chardonnay, a rich, buttery, smooth consistency, that is delightful with any of the seafood dishes as well.

Light Cocktails:

Cosmo with Cranberry Juice, lime juice, Triple Sec, and Klir Red Fermented Vodka. A gorgeous color that is thirst quenching. This is just the perfect way to start my glorious tasting.

Mai Tai with Rhumbero fermented Rum, Triple Sec, lime juice, orange juice, almond syrup, and sugar syrup. This drink will make you feel like you are on a deserted tropical island with your loved one. It is super sexy and tantalizing.

Sex on the Beach, with Klir Red fermented Vodka, peach syrup, orange juice, grenadine, and cherry. Each of these ingredients go down very smoothly, it is a wonderful experience.

Lemon Drop with Klir Red fermented Vodka, Triple Sec, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If you are a lemon lover like me, then this cocktail is for you.

Sushi:

A gorgeous sushi combination platter served on a wooden bridge, was presented to me. Sushi Chef Chuan created this dish. I told him to make me whatever was fresh and available. It was beautiful and so delicious. It had Tuna Sashimi, Salmon Sasami, Uni, Sweet Shrimp, and a Special Salmon California Roll.

Soup and Salad:

Hot and Sour Soup, a vegetarian soup with soft tofu, fungus, egg, bamboo shoots, and mushrooms. It was not too spicy: so it really sets you up for the full enjoyment of the rest of your dining experience.

Egg Drop Soup, a vegetarian soup with egg and corn. This is a very delicate soup with great rich flavors, a must have starter.

Cucumber Salad, this salad is nice and light, with great Asian dressing.

Appetizer:

Assorted Appetizer Platter, with beef skewers, fried shrimps, crab rangoon, cream cheese wontons, pot stickers, sliced BBQ pork, vegetable spring roll, and fried wontons. You really get to try all of there appetizers, so enjoy!

Dim Sum:

Shrimp Shumai, it was just what you would want from a shrimp shumai, fresh shrimp with a light wonton outer layer.

Entrees:

Crisp Orange Beef, with lovely small slices of orange peel. This really sets the tone for the flavor profile. It is similar to orange chicken but with beef.

Honey Walnut Shrimp, this is always one of my favorite menu items. This one did not disappoint.

General Tso’s Chicken. The chicken is breaded with a wonderful smoky brown sauce, it hit the spot.

Sauteed Chinese Broccoli, it has tons of garlic, and the broccoli is cooked al dente. This is a great accompaniment and is very healthy.

Chow Mein with Vegetables, with chicken, beef, pork, and shrimp. It has a very nice fragrant flavor that is filled with tender meats and vegetables.

Yang Chow Fried Rice, with beef, chicken, shrimp, egg, and vegetables. I just love the Chinese sausage in this delectable fried rice.

Steamed Whole Fish, the presentation alone will make you come back for more. It has a very lovely nuance with lots of fresh onion and ginger. If you’re looking for a show-stopper then this menu item is for you.

Assorted Hot Pot, a great alternative to a meat dish. It is very flavorful, with lots of tofu and mushrooms, with a thick brown sauce.

Dessert:

Brûlée Cheesecake, with a wonderful crispy top like a crème brûlée with creamy cheesecake perfection.

Blueberry Cheesecake, lots of yummy blueberries and super delicious cheesecake, make for one delectable dessert.

This is just the best of the best Chinese cuisine in this area and beyond. There are so many choices and everything you order here – you will love. I was able to try many menu items, so I really got a great sampling of everything Rui’s Shanghai Bistro has to offer. It is just that good. Russell Huan was my server; and he did a great job! Next time you’re on your way to Palm Springs or on the Arrow train, stop here for lunch or dinner. You will be so glad you did.

Serving some of the finest Chinese & Shanghainese Cuisine in the Inland Empire. Experience dining in a beautifully adorned setting that blends art and comfort seamlessly. Dine-in, Take-out. Delivery Family-owned local business.

Rui’s Shanghai Bistro

https://ruisshanghaibistro.com/

405 West Stuart Avenue

Redlands, CA.

(909) 335-6770

I try to describe this show, it’s like Motown meets a Las Vegas review, but with an historical twist. How ever you label it, it’s a fun romp between the Six wives of Henry The 8^th, with lots of great competition and bitchiness.

SIX Wikipedia:

Six is a musical with music, book, and lyrics by Toby Marlow and Lucy Moss. It is a modern retelling of the lives of the six wives of Henry VIII, presented in the form of a singing competition/pop concert. In the show, the wives take turns telling their stories to determine who suffered the most from their shared husband but ultimately seek to reclaim their individual identities and rewrite their stories.

The musical premiered at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017, where it was performed by students from Cambridge University.  Six premiered in the West End at the Arts Theatre in January 2019, and has since embarked on a UK tour. It premiered in North America in May 2019 and on Broadway in February 2020. Following a hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, it officially opened at the Brooks Atkinson Theatre on 3 October 2021 and has since launched additional touring companies.

A filmed stage production titled SIX The Musical Live!, featuring the original West End cast, was released in UK & Ireland cinemas by Universal Pictures on 6 April 2025. An international release date is set to be announced.

The six queens consort introduce themselves through biographical pop songs and explain that their band’s lead singer will be whoever they determine had the worst experience at the hands of their shared ex-husband, Henry VIII (“Ex-Wives”). Catherine of Aragon recounts how Henry wished to annul their marriage and place her in a nunnery when he began pursuing Anne Boleyn, despite her loyalty to him (“No Way”). The queens introduce Anne Boleyn (“The One You’ve Been Waiting For”), who boasts about how Henry wanted her instead of Catherine, but then complains of Henry’s infidelity, which led to Anne’s own flirtations with other men, which were the grounds for her beheading (“Don’t Lose Ur Head”). Jane Seymour steps up to take her turn, but is ridiculed for having had an easy time with Henry. However, while admitting she may have been the only wife Henry truly loved, Jane claims that Henry’s love was conditional, only guaranteed because she produced a male heir, and that she stood by him despite his many faults (“Heart of Stone”).

In late 2016, Toby Marlow was selected by the Cambridge University Musical Theatre Society to create and write a new musical that would be presented at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe in 2017. Marlow, who was in their final year at Cambridge University, created a concept for a musical that would involve re-telling the story of King Henry VIII’s ex-wives.^[7] They partnered with another student, Lucy Moss, who began working on a concept for the musical together.

As they began working on the musical, Marlow researched the ex-wives stories by reading Antonia Fraser‘s The Six Wives of Henry VIII, while Moss viewed a documentary series, Six Wives by Lucy Worsley. They also watched and drew inspiration from the 2011 Beyoncé concert and story-telling performance, Live at Roseland: Elements of 4.^[8] The foundation for the musical was written over the course of approximately 10 nonconsecutive days.^[9]

In developing the characters, Marlow and Moss were inspired by several real-life pop stars who were used as a composite and musical inspiration for the characters. The six ex-wives and their corresponding pop star inspirations are:

Catherine of Aragon: modelled on Beyoncé and Jennifer Hudson

Anne Boleyn: modelled on Avril Lavigne and Lily Allen

Jane Seymour: modelled on Adele, Sia, and Celine Dion.

Anna of Cleves: modelled on Nicki Minaj and Rihanna.

Katherine Howard: modelled on Britney Spears and Ariana Grande.

Catherine Parr: modelled on Alicia Keys and Emeli Sandé.

This was my second time seeing this fantastic show, next time its back run don’t walk to see this amazing spectacle.

The New York Times says SIX “TOTALLY RULES!” (Critic’s Pick) and The Washington Post hails SIX as “Exactly the kind of energizing, inspirational illumination this town aches for!”

The Hollywood Pantages Theater

6233 Hollywood Blvd.

Los Angeles, CA 90028

https://www.broadwayinhollywood.com/