CITY TIMES COVER STORY : World Cup Events Runneth Over

World Cup mania in Los Angeles won’t be confined to the soccer field. Seeking to capitalize on the droves of soccer-crazed visitors--not to mention soccer-crazed residents--who will be swept up in Cup fever, organizations throughout Central Los Angeles have planned concerts, exhibits, shows and festivals timed to coincide with the tournament.

The most visible event will be Soccerfest, a soccer theme park with entertainment, exhibits and food at the Los Angeles Convention Center, 1201 S. Figueroa St., from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 8-17. Tickets are $10 in advance, $12 at the gate. Information: (310) 277-9494.

Other events during the World Cup include:

* Blues singer Linda Hopkins will stage a free concert at noon Wednesday at California Plaza, 250 S. Grand Ave. Information: (213) 687-2159.

* The Los Angeles County Museum will exhibit “Korean Arts of the 18th Century: Splendor and Simplicity,” 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Friday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is $6 for adults, $4 for students and seniors. The museum is at 5905 Wilshire Blvd. Information: (213) 857-6000.

* The Joffrey Ballet will perform at the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, 135 N. Grand Ave., at 8 p.m. July 1 and 2. Tickets are $15 to $55. Information: (213) 972-7211.

* Renowned tenors Jose Carreras, Placido Domingo and Luciano Pavarotti will perform at Dodger Stadium at 8 p.m. on July 16. Ticket prices are $75, $150, $300, $500 and $1,000. Information. (213) 224-1448.

* The Gene Autry Western Heritage Museum, 4700 Western Heritage Way in Griffith Park, will continue its exhibit “The Mask of Zorro: Mexican Americans in Popular Media,” an examination of media stereotypes of Mexican Americans. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, except Monday; admission is $7, $5 for seniors and students with ID, and $3 for children ages 2 through 12. Information: (213) 667-2000.