PLAN AHEAD: NEXT WEEKEND

* Cinecon, the annual convention of rare silent films and early talkies, runs Aug. 31 to Sept. 4 at the Egyptian Theater, 6712 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. (323) 469-9066.

* Lula Washington Dance Theatre performs jazz suites, including the premiere of “Olm,” on Sept. 1 at the John Anson Ford Amphitheatre, 2580 Cahuenga Blvd. East, Hollywood. $12 to $20. (323) 461-3673.

* Michael Sakamoto performs a new solo, butoh-based work on Aug. 30 at Watts Towers Arts Center, 1727 E. 107th St., L.A. Free. (310) 823-6389.

* “An Evening With Bea Arthur,” Bea Arthur’s solo evening of stories and song, will be presented as a benefit for Defense of Animals on Aug. 30 at the Wadsworth Theater, 11301 Wilshire Blvd., Brentwood. $50 to $100. (213) 365-3500.

* Country singer Jo Dee Messina performs Aug. 31 with special guests Shedaisy at the Universal Amphitheatre, 100 Universal City Plaza, Universal City. $22.50 to $49.50. (818) 622-4440.

* The “Tchaikovsky Spectacular” at the Hollywood Bowl will feature John Mauceri and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Pittsburgh Ballet Theatre, USC Trojan Marching Band and fireworks. Aug. 31 to Sept. 2 at the Hollywood Bowl, 2301 N. Highland Ave., Hollywood. $3 to $85. (323) 850-2000.