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Summer Entertainment Guide 2015 Events Calendar

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Some of the world’s premier cultural attractions find their way to Southern California — not only in L.A. proper but from areas as far north as Santa Barbara and stretching south to Orange County. Let this compilation inspire your fun, then go and make summer your own.

—Will Robinson, Tribune Content Solutions Writer

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JUNE

5th Annual Playhouse Block Party FREE

Colorado Boulevard in Pasadena shuts down so you can pick from two new food trucks each week while enjoying live music and libations.

Thursdays ongoing, Zona Rosa Caffe and Monopole Wine, www.zonarosacaffe.com

Game Night at Grand Central Market FREE

Need a reason to head to the downtown market weekly? With hours extended until 9 p.m., partake in Cards Against Humanity, cornhole toss, Scrabble and more while enjoying your favorite local eateries.

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Thursdays ongoing, Grand Central Market, www.grandcentralmarket.com

Dinosaur Encounters

The popular show, organized by paleontologists and performed by puppeteers, gives the crowd insight into how dinosaurs once roamed the Earth.

Weekends and holidays, Natural History Museum, www.nhm.org

Swing Out Saturday Night!

Whether you’re an expert at moving to big-band tunes or you just rewatched “Swingers” and felt inspired, all skill levels are welcome at the weekly Pasadena exhibition. Saturdays, Grace Hall, www.pasadenaballroomdance.com

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“Cinderella”

Feed your child’s love of the new Disney film and see a production aimed at kids ages 3 to 9 — along with an interactive element within the classic fairytale. Produced by Theatre West with Storybook Theatre.

Ongoing through July 11, Theatre West, www.theatrewest.org

Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution

Graham, the seminal rock promoter, gets an entire Skirball exhibit to recognize his work with Led Zeppelin, the Rolling Stones, the Grateful Dead and more.

Ongoing through Oct. 11, Skirball Cultural Center, www.skirball.org

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A Living Legacy: The Collections of Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden

If you enjoy San Marino’s Huntington Library, go farther east to experience this spell of nature in the heart of the Claremont Colleges.

Ongoing through June 28, Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden, www.rsabg.org

Ancient Luxury and the Roman Silver Treasure from Berthouville FREE

The result of four years of conservation and research of this collection will be showcased, making its first appearance outside of Paris.

Ongoing through Aug. 17, Getty Villa, www.getty.edu

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“Death of a Salesman”

Long Beach Playhouse puts on its take of Willy Loman in Arthur Miller’s Pulitzer Prize- and Tony Award-winning play.

Ongoing through June 20, Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage Theatre, www.lbplayhouse.org

“Waterfall”

Set in Tokyo and Bangkok in the early 20th century, “Waterfall” is a musical tale of forbidden love.

Ongoing through June 28, the Pasadena Playhouse Main Stage, www.pasadenaplayhouse.org

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“Murder for Two”

This hilarious, family-friendly murder mystery musical boasts two actors – both pianists – playing a combined 13 parts.

Ongoing through July 5, Audrey Skirball Kenis Theater, www.geffenplayhouse.com

“Matilda”

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The beloved Roald Dahl-novel-turned-Tony-winning-musical centers on the precocious titular character who pines to improve her life.

Ongoing through July 12, Ahmanson Theatre at the Music Center, www.centertheatregroup.org

“Bad Jews”

A family feuds over a prized heirloom in the play that the New York Times dubbed the “best comedy of the season” in fall 2013. West Coast premiere.

June 9 to July 19, Gil Cates Theater, www.geffenplayhouse.com

Fire and Water FREE FROM AFAR

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Hear selections from Vivaldi and Wagner set to a visual accompaniment produced by Academy Award-nominated cinematographer Gregory MacGillivray. It will be simulcast outside the hall for the public to watch free.

June 11 to 13, Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall, www.pacificsymphony.org

LA Opera: “Dog Days”

Catch the West Coast premiere of the critically acclaimed contemporary opera, which follows a family trying to stay united after a tragedy. Mature themes, not recommended for children.

June 11 to 15, Walt Disney Concert Hall, www.laopera.org

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“The Phantom of the Opera”

Cameron Mackintosh’s invigorated production of the classic Andrew Lloyd Webber musical, which sold out in the U.K., stops at the Pantages for a seven-week residency.

June 11 to Aug. 2, Pantages Theatre, www.hollywoodpantages.com

Eifman ballet of St. Petersburg – Rodin

The legendary Boris Eifman and his Russian troupe bring his production focusing on the life and creations of sculptor Auguste Rodin.

June 12 to 14, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, www.dorothychandlerpavilion.net

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LA Pride 2015

The three-day event is Southern California’s largest jubilee. The famous parade is the centerpiece of the weekend, along with big-time concerts.

June 12 to 14, West Hollywood Park, www.lapride.org

Magnificence and Minerality: Art and Wine from Northern Italy

Learn about Italian art from the Renaissance from a curator Bryan Keene and indulge in the finest wines with the guidance of Cicerone-certified sommelier Mark Mark Botieff.

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June 13, Getty Center, www.getty.edu

Beachside Summerfest FREE

An all-day event featuring the best of Christian music along with vendors and a skateboarding exhibition with professional riders.

June 13, Huntington Beach Pier, www.calvarybeachside.com

The 37th Annual Playboy Jazz Festival

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This year’s iteration is headlined by Herbie Hancock and Wayne Shorter with the Monk Institute Ensemble, Snarky Puppy and Aloe Black. Presented by the L.A. Philharmonic.

June 13 to 14, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

A Pandemonium of Parrots in Pomona, Stan Klausner

This new collection at the American Museum of Ceramic Art highlights Klausner, who sought to personify the birds “to give a humorous look at our lives.”

June 13 to July 4, AMOCA, www.amoca.org

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“Cock”

In this edgy contemporary play, protagonist John questions his sexuality in the wake of a past relationship with his boyfriend – and a new one with an intriguing woman.

June 13 to July 18, Long Beach Playhouse Studio Theatre, www.lbplayhouse.org

Downtown Pomona Art Walk FREE

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Escape the city for your Saturday night and head east to explore the streets and galleries of this college town.

June 13, July 11 and Aug. 8, Downtown Pomona, www.downtownpomona.org/events-calendar/art-walk/

SoundShoppe FREE

Musicians of any level can come out for this freeform workshop, a place for artists to meet, collaborate and expand their horizons.

June 14, July 12 and Aug. 9, Center for the Arts Eagle Rock, www.cfaer.org

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The Legend of Zelda: Symphony of the Goddesses — Master Quest

The video game franchise’s distinct score comes to life. Fans can hear songs from the latest game, “A Link Between Worlds,” with other never-before-performed compositions.

June 14, Walt Disney Concert Hall, www.musiccenter.org

Andell Family Sundays – Happy 50th, LACMA!

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To commemorate LACMA’s golden anniversary, attend this class that will assist you in creating your own artwork.

June 14, 21 and 28, LACMA, North Plaza, www.lacma.org

“Motown: The Musical”

Learn about one of the most influential record labels and rejoice in hearing your favorite classic pop hits like “My Girl,” “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough” and more.

June 16 to 28, Segerstrom Hall, www.scfta.org

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Boots

Garnering attention for his work with Beyoncé, the hip-hop singer-producer has since released a mixtape and EP, “Motorcycle Jesus,” and accompanying short film of the same name.

June 16, The Echo, www.theecho.com

The Lone Bellow

Brooklyn’s folksy trio seeks to rock and soothe. The group’s last album, “Then Came the Morning,” was produced with help from The National’s Aaron Dessner. Odessa joins as the opening act.

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June 16, El Rey Theatre, www.theelrey.com

“How to Be a Rock Critic”

Lester Bangs, the influential writer of the ’60s and ’70s, comes to life with Jessica Blank’s direction and Erik Jensen starring as the late scribe.

June 17 to 28, Kirk Douglas Theatre, www.centertheatregroup.org

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Shakespeare in Grand Park: California: “The Tempest” FREE

Cornerstone Theatre Company presents their adaptation of the William Shakespeare play downtown on the final stop of their California tour.

June 18 to 20, Grand Park, www.grandparkla.org

Partch: LSD/Dementia

The musical ensemble presents new pieces from composer Anne LeBaron, while adding works from the catalog of the group’s namesake, Harry Partch.

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June 19 and 20, REDCAT, www.redcat.org

L.A. Beer Week

All over the city, for the seventh year, restaurants, brewers and more celebrate local craft beer. Kickoff event is on June 20 at Exposition Park.

June 20 to 28, various locations, www.labeerweek.com

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Coyotes, Cows, Carp, and Coral Trees: 300 Years of Nature in Los Angeles

With a panel full of professors, learn about the native Angeleno nature that surrounds the concrete jungle and never-ending freeways.

June 20, The Autry in Griffith Park, www.theautry.org

Brian Wilson featuring Al Jardine and Blondie Chaplin

Three former Beach Boys, led by the enigmatic Wilson, play in the summer air — an ideal setting for their warm-weather beach classics.

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June 20, Greek Theatre, www.greektheatrela.com

Opening Night at the Bowl with Journey

The ’80s rock band officially kicks off the 2015 season at the Bowl, concluding with a stellar fireworks show.

June 20, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Thai Film on the Beach

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Various films by Kantana Production Group will be shown. But stay for the Thai massages, food and live music.

June 20, Santa Monica Pier, www.santamonica.com

Big Band Swing

The Pasadena Pops will regale you with an evening of hits from the ’30s and ’40s starring soloists Marilyn Maye and Michael Andrew.

June 20, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org

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Summer Solstice Festival FREE

Soak up the sunlight on the longest day of the year and the official start of summer in a day full of music, food and multicultural offerings.

June 21, Muckenthaler Cultural Center, www.themuck.org

Father’s Day Brunch at the Autry

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Celebrate the paternal figure in your life with a Western day in Griffith Park and barbecue food that will save you from a day of sweating over the grill.

June 21, Crosswords West Café, www.theautry.org

Black Powder Shooting Expedition

Head to a shooting range to live out your fantasy of firing Western revolvers and other firearms from your favorite cowboy flicks.

June 21, The Autry in Griffith Park, www.theautry.org

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REDCAT: Studio

This quarterly program focuses on the cutting edge and new wave of L.A. artists on display at the Roy and Edna Disney/CalArts Theater.

June 21 and 22, REDCAT, www.redcat.org

Andrea del Sarto: The Renaissance Workshop in Action FREE

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In this new exhibit coming to the Getty, Sarto’s realism is on full display, as is his mastery of red chalk, along with some rare works.

June 23 to Sept. 13, Getty Center, www.getty.edu

The Los Angeles Conservancy Presents: “Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory”

The beloved Roald Dahl children’s story came to life thanks to Gene Wilder’s performance. Now it’s back on the big screen for one night only.

June 24, The Orpheum Theatre, www.laorpheum.com

Ed Sheeran
English singer/songwriter Ed Sheeran plays two shows at the iconic outdoor venue.

June 24 and 25, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

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The BET Experience Presented by Coca-Cola: Kevin Hart

The ubiquitous comic kicks off BET Experience weekend.

June 25, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Sing-a-Long “Sound of Music” Celebrating the Film’s 50th Anniversary

Another year, another summer night with crowds belting out their favorite Julie Andrews and Christopher Plummer standards.

June 26, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

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Venice Symphony Orchestra Hosts Last Fridays FREE

The orchestra and musical educational organization congregate each month. Beer provided by Santa Monica Brew at the retro-looking establishment.

June 26, July 31 and Aug. 28, Danny’s Venice, www.venicechamber.chambermaster.com/events

SAM Presents Dancin’ in the Streets FREE

With summer still in its first week, celebrate in the refreshing beach air with music from local acts.

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June 27, Pine Avenue between 6th and 7th, Long Beach, www.downtownlongbeach.org

The BET Experience Presented by Coca-Cola: Nicki Minaj with Ne-Yo and Rae Sremmurd

“The Pinkprint,” Minaj’s most recent album, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard 200 album chart. R&B veteran Ne-Yo and newcomers Rae Sremmurd open.

June 26, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Nature Festival

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The debut two-day event looks at the wildlife found in our varied Los Angeles ecosystem.

June 27 and 28, Natural History Museum, www.nhm.org

Riviera Village Summer Festival FREE

37 years strong, this event still makes for a great Redondo weekend. Sample new foods, browse hundreds of arts booths and soak in bands performing both days.

June 27 and 28, Redondo Beach, www.rvsummerfestival.com

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Mariachi USA Festival

Top mariachis band together for the 26th year with featured acts like festival creator Rodri J. Rodriguez, Mariachi Nuevo Tecalitlán and Mariachi Cobre.

June 27, Hollywood Bowl, www.mariachiusa.com

The Ciro Hurtado Band FREE

Catch the Peruvian, who’s plied his trade since the ’70s, live in action.

June 27, LACMA, Hancock Park, www.lacma.org

Corps at the Crest – Los Angeles

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Returning to the Rose Bowl after five years, this even highlights the best youth marching bands from as far away as Rockford, Ill., and as close as Long Beach.

June 27, Rose Bowl, www.rosebowlstadium.com

William Pope.L: Trinket

Take in the latest work from the Chicagoan artist, the featured piece being Pope.L’s largest work to date: a giant American flag that deteriorates as the day progresses.

Ongoing through June 28, the Geffen Contemporary at MOCA, www.moca.org

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The BET Experience Presented by Coca-Cola: Kendrick Lamar, Ice Cube and Snoop Dogg

Two West Coast rap icons and the hottest lyricist in the game complete the lead-up to the BET Awards. Lamar recently released “To Pimp a Butterfly” to critical acclaim. ScHoolboy Q, Jay Rock, Ab-Soul will also be featured.

June 28, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Basement Jaxx, Bootsy’s Rubber Band Featuring Bootsy Collins

Get ready to groove with two different flavors of music. Basement Jaxx boasts an electronic taste, while iconic bassist Bootsy Collins will funk up the joint. Part of KCRW’s World Festival.

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June 28, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

“Back to the Future” – In Concert 30th Anniversary

Great Scott! Enjoy a nostalgia-filled adventure with the L.A. Philharmonic to remember one of best blockbusters in history. Alan Silvestri’s score, plus 15 minutes of new music, will be performed.

June 30, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

JULY

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HoneyHoney

Local folk duo HoneyHoney plays a hometown show in Miracle Mile.

July 1, El Rey Theatre, www.theelrey.com

The Overstreets New Orleans Jazz Band

Traditional New Orleans jazz feels anything but retro when invigorated by performances from the seven-piece group.

July 2, Muckenthaler Cultural Center, www.themuck.org

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July 4 Fireworks Spectacular with Smokey Robinson

Celebrate Independence Day with the Motown crooner, the L.A. Phil and the yearly fireworks display.

July 2 to 4, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Abbot Kinney First Fridays FREE

This Westside institution rallies on through summer. See the boulevard lined with enough food trucks to overwhelm the senses with delicious choices.

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July 3, Aug. 7 and Sept. 4, Abbot Kinney Blvd., www.abbotkinneyfirstfridays.com

July 4 Spectacular: Tribute to Journey

Orange County’s Pacific Symphony performs this ode to the California rockers with cover band Faithfully in tow.

July 4, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, www.pacificsymphony.org

Laguna Niguel Summer Concert Series FREE

Southern Orange County brings together a host of cover bands to relive the past, starting with Woodie & The Longboards (Beach Boys) and Heartache Tonight (Eagles). Country pop group River Road also performs.

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July 4, 17 and 31; Aug. 14 and 28; Sept. 4, Crown Valley Park, www.cityoflagunaniguel.com

Outdoor Session: Photography for Teens

Kids 13 to 17 work with photographer and artist Loretta Ayeroff over a week to learn photography basics with some inspiration from LACMA’s diverse works and concluding with a final presentation.

July 6 to 10, LACMA, www.lacma.org

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Harry Connick Jr.

Top-selling artist Harry Connick Jr. and his band bring the Big Easy to the City of Angels for their weekend stint.

July 10 and 11, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

South Bay Greek Festival

Music, dancing, fresh Mediterranean food and $2 admission mark the 50th anniversary.

July 10 to 12, St. Katherine Greek Orthodox Church, www.sbgreekfestival.com

BalletNow

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The final performance of a world premiere designed by guest artistic directors and American Ballet Theatre principals Roberto Bolle and Herman Cornejo boasts three separate productions.

July 10 to 12, Dorothy Chandler Pavilion, www.dorothychandlerpavilion.net

Classical Mystery Tour

A mix of favorite Beatles songs by the Pasadena Pops returns, featuring “Let It Be,” “Yesterday” and many more.

July 11, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org

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Street League Skateboarding Nike SB World Tour

Escape the heat for the 5-year-old league’s pit stop at USC — the first ever for the professional street skateboarders.

July 11, Galen Center, www.galencenter.org

Jesus Christ Superstar

This rock opera centering around Jesus’ last days is Andrew Lloyd Webber’s third musical and one of his most emotional.

July 11 to Aug. 15, Long Beach Playhouse Mainstage Theatre, www.lbplayhouse.org

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Manhattan Beach Summer Concerts in the Park FREE

Ten shows to wrap up your weekend include Beatles and Elvis tributes – Hard Days Night and Scot Bruce – and Afro-Cuban fusion via Ricardo Lemvo.

Sundays, July 5 to Sept. 6, Polliwog Park, www.citymb.info/city-services/parks-and-recreation/special-events/concerts-in-the-park-2014

“Girlfriend”

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Based on Matthew Sweet’s critically acclaimed 1991 record of the same name, this musical explores the relationship between two teenage Midwesterners as it evolves over the summer after high school graduation.

July 12 to Aug. 9, Kirk Douglas Theatre, www.centertheatregroup.org

German Heritage Day FREE

Bratwursts, traditional music and folk dancers, and dachshund races take center stage for the 38th year of the festival. The first 500 guests will receive free food.

July 12, Old World Village, www.oldworld.ws

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Alfresco Movie Mondays FREE

Head to Costa Mesa to see screenings of beloved movies such as “The Sandlot,” “Pitch Perfect” and “Little Shop of Horrors,” among other classics. Bringing your own food is permitted, but there will be food trucks on hand, too.

Mondays, July 13 to Aug. 10, Segerstrom Center for the Arts, www.scfta.org

Ryn Weaver

Last summer, Weaver’s “OctaHate” was a breakthrough song for the on-the-verge pop starlet from Encinitas.

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July 13, El Rey Theatre, www.theelrey.com

Death Cab for Cutie

Fresh off releasing their eighth studio album, “Kintsugi,” the Seattle trio returns to L.A. for the first time in over three years. Tune-yards will open.

July 12, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

L.A. Phil Plays Rachmaninoff

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The orchestra runs through the Russian composer’s work.

July 14, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

“Bent”

Catch this notable revival of the 1979 Broadway play — a love story exploring the trials and tribulations of gay men in Nazi Germany.

July 15 to Aug. 23, www.centertheatregroup.org

John Fogerty: His Songs From 1969 and More

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Creedence Clearwater Revival’s frontman delves into his discography, especially the music released in1969 — the year the band produced three multiplatinum records.

July 15, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

L.A. Phil Plays Beethoven

The orchestra plays Violin Concerto and other favorites from Beethoven’s vast collection.

July 16, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Orange County Fair

Costa Mesa is the site for the 125th year of family-friendly events, from rides to competitions to an impressive concert lineup.

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July 17 to Aug. 16, O.C. Fair & Event Center, www.ocfair.com

David Gray and Amos Lee

This double billing of distinctive musicians incorporates some of their music with the L.A. Phil.

July 17 and 18, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

22nd Annual Glendale Cruise Night FREE

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Have an old-school car you want to show, or would you just like to take a look at some pre-1980 rides? Head to Glendale for one of Southern California’s largest car shows and catch live music and an epic fireworks show.

July 18, Brand Boulevard in Glendale, www.glendaleca.gov

J. Cole

The Grammy-nominated artist embarks on his “Forest Hills Drive” accompanied by rapper Big Sean and L.A. native YG.

July 19, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Cirque Musica

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Prepare to be dazzled by jaw-dropping feats of athleticism partnered with spellbinding music provided by the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.

July 19, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

An Intimate Evening with Art Garfunkel

One half of ’60s folk-pop duo Simon and Garfunkel looks back on his life and opens up in front of the Santa Barbara crowd.

June 20, Lobero Theatre (Santa Barbara), www.lobero.com

Sinatra’s 100th Birthday Celebration

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Celebrate the extraordinary life and career of Frank Sinatra. Guests slated to appear include Seth MacFarlane, Kurt Elling and Luciana Souza.

July 22, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Culture Club

Boy George and his band hit the States after canceling their North American shows last autumn.

July 24, the Greek Theatre, www.greektheatrela.com

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Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks

Music director Gustavo Dudamel conducts select pieces from Tchaikovsky, such as “1812 Overture” and songs from the “Nutcracker.” USC’s marching band, the Spirit of Troy, joins the celebration.

July 24 and 25, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

“Little Shop of Horrors”

The Actors’ Repertory Theatre of Simi tackles the rock musical about a florist who gets a Venus flytrap-like plant that grows and feeds on humans.

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July 25 to Aug. 30, Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, www.simi-arts.org

Shakespeare’s R&J

An adaptation of the classic Shakespeare play of star-crossed teen lovers examines the trials faced by four Catholic schoolboys. Joe Calarco penned this adaptation.

July 25 to Aug. 22, Long Beach Playhouse Studio Theatre, www.lbplayhouse.org

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Beethoven’s Emperor and Scheherazade

Relive the Beethoven classic and Rimsky-Korsakov’s “Scheherazade,” the 19th century poem based on “The Arabian Nights,” in a musical journey led by conductor Alejandro Gutiérrez and pianist Rueibin Chen.

July 25, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, www.pacificsymphony.org

Grand Park’s Sunday Sessions FREE

Angelenos of all ages can show up for summer Sundays with premier deejays — and select food offerings — to dance in downtown’s respite from the city.

July 26 and Aug. 16, Grand Park, www.grandparkla.org

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Power and Pathos: Bronze Sculpture of the Hellenistic World FREE

Take a glimpse at works from the period after Alexander the Great to when Augustus seized power.

July 28 to Nov. 1, Getty Center, www.getty.edu

Steve Miller Band

Jamming since 1966, the artists known for “The Joker” and “Fly Like an Eagle” invade Rancho Mirage to please crowds with a bevy of hits.

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July 31, Agua Caliente, www.hotwatercasino.com

Juanes

Accompanied by Ximena Sariñana, the Grammy Award-winning singer-songwriter has a two-evening engagement to make the L.A. Live crowd groove.

July 31 and Aug. 1, Nokia Theatre, www.nokiatheatrelive.com

WWE LIVE

World Wrestling invades Los Angeles for some wild family fun.

July 25, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

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A Midsummer Night with Dudamel

Feed your Shakespeare craving on a midsummer night with a little help from the L.A. Phil.

July 28, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Monty Python’s “Spamalot”

A dream cast takes on the musical adaptation of the iconic film “Monty Python and the Holy Grail” in a show sure to have the crowd in stitches.

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July 31 to Aug. 2, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

AUGUST

Downtown Burbank Car Classic

Register your own sports car made before 1974 or simply admire others’ mint retro vehicles — all amid a fair-like atmosphere.

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Aug. 1, Downtown Burbank, www.downtownburbankcarclassic.com

Aretha Franklin

The Queen of Soul visits the Nokia Theatre on the heels of her release “Aretha Franklin Sings the Great Diva Classics,” featuring covers of Adele, the Supremes and Etta James.

Aug. 2, Nokia Theatre, www.nokiatheatrelive.com

“Hershey Felder as Irving Berlin”

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In a review for The Times, David C. Nichols hailed Felder’s performance as songwriter as “richly entertaining and ultimately touching.”

Aug. 4 to 16, Gil Cates Theater, www.geffenplayhouse.com

End of Summer Spectacular/Concert FREE

Latin funk group Original Sacrifice Band closes out Riverside’s summer events with a night in the park.

Aug. 5, Villegas Park, www.riversideca.gov/calendar

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Wilco

Jeff Tweedy and friends play L.A. for the first time since their 2012 Hollywood Bowl visit, when The Times wrote that they “offered moments of beauty that seemed to transcend critique.”

Aug. 5, Greek Theatre, www.greektheatrela.com

Ribs, Pigs & Watermelons – Pro BBQ Competition & Beer Festival

Breathe in the aroma of delicious barbecue against a backdrop of ocean breezes. This enticing event also features a kids’ burger and steak cooking contest. All proceeds benefit American Family Housing.

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Aug. 7 to 9, Huntington Beach State Beach, www.rpwbbq.com

LA Weekly Burger Festival

Once and for all, decide for yourself who makes the best burger in the city, while also enjoying live music and, of course, beer.

Aug. 8, The Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum, www.laweekly.com/burgers

Art Crawl Experience FREE

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A quarterly event, ACE takes over Downtown Anaheim to show off the best of the Orange County arts scene. Grab a bite from participating food trucks and hear some new music, too.

Aug. 8, 201 Center Street Promenade (Anaheim), www.downtownanaheim.com/artcrawlexperience

Hot Latin Nights Featuring “Bolero”

Dance the summer night away in Irvine with guest stars JT & Friends, who will play “West Side Story’s” “Mambo” and more.

Aug. 9, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, www.pacificsymphony.org

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Swingin’ on the Promenade

A summer staple for Orange County residents (and Angelenos) to learn swing basics from the OC Swing Team and test out new moves to Adam Tunney & The 5 Punch Combo, featuring Dean Mora.

Aug. 9, Lemon Street at Center Street Promenade in Anaheim, www.downtownanaheim.com/swinginonthepromenade

Boys of Zummer: Fall Out Boy, Wiz Khalifa, Hoodie Allen, DJ Drama

The final stop for the nationwide tour, led by the Centuries playing quartet and “Black and Yellow” rapper.

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Aug. 10, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Warner Bros. presents: Bugs Bunny at the Symphony — 25th anniversary

An evening of fun for the whole family honoring the mischievous cartoon rabbit.

Aug. 14 and 15, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Reggae Night: Bob Marley’s Roots Rock Reggae — A 70th Birthday Celebration

Ziggy Marley and Stephen “Ragga” Marley pay homage to their father and legendary reggae musician. Inner Circle and the Skatalites will perform, too.

Aug. 16, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

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Kahlil Joseph: Double Conscience

“m.A.A.d City,” scored by rapper Kendrick Lamar’s debut record, is shown on two screens. The film turns an eye to the complexities of African-American life in Los Angeles.

Ongoing through Aug. 16, MOCA Grand Avenue, www.moca.org

Burbank Comedy Festival

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This year’s festival is headlined by Adam Carolla, Tom Green, Kel Mitchell and Mary Lynn Rajskub and boasts top-notch classes about the craft and shows.

Aug. 17 to 22, Flappers Comedy Club, www.burbankcomedyfestival.com

Lindsey Stirling

The YouTube star and former “America’s Got Talent” contestant is blowing up: The electronic-music-influenced violinist’s second album, “Shatter Me,” debuted at No. 2 last year.

Aug. 17, Greek Theatre, www.greektheatrela.com

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Lisa Haley & The Zydekats

Equipped with her signature blue violin, Haley and her band get the crowd out of their seats with original compositions out of the Bayou.

Aug. 20, Muckenthaler Cultural Center, www.themuck.org

To Ella & Nat with Love

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Ann Hampton Callaway and Denzal Sinclaire spend the night re-creating the best songs from Ella Fitzgerald’s and Nat King Cole’s catalogs.

Aug. 22, Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden, www.pasadenasymphony-pops.org

“Star Trek” (2009) with the Pacific Symphony

Watch the remake of the beloved sci-fi story as Michael Giacchhino’s score is performed live with Richard Kaufman conducting.

Aug. 22, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, www.pacificsymphony.org

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The Singing Posters: Poetry Sound Collage Sculpture Book

The Allen Ruppersberg exhibit honors beat poet Allen Ginsberg and his opus “Howl,” making use of the center’s space to reimagine the 1950s work for a contemporary crowd.

May 7 to Aug. 23, Skirball Cultural Center, www.skirball.org

Kelly Clarkson

Clarkson, the first “American Idol” champion, released her third No. 1 album, “Piece by Piece,” in February. Pentatonix and Eric Hutchinson will open.

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Aug. 19, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Shania Twain

One of country’s all-time top-selling female artists launches her first tour in over a decade with “Rock This Country.” Gavin DeGrad is slated to open.

Aug. 20, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

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Taylor Swift

Swift’s “1989” and its Grammy-nominated “Shake It Off” took the music world by storm upon its release last September. L.A. rock trio Haim and Vance Joy are slated to open.

Aug. 21 ,22, 24 and 26, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

Heart

The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame Wilson-sister-led group keeps rocking into its fifth decade. Liv Warfield accompanies.

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Aug. 21 and 22, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

Taste of Downtown Long Beach (Waterfront)

Sample signature dishes from notable restaurants over two nights, accompanied by live music.

Aug. 26 and 27, Waterfront Area at Pine Avenue Pier of Long Beach, www.downtownlongbeach.org

Erykah Badu

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In what should be a special evening, allow Badu and her unassumingly powerful pipes to soothe. Part of KCRW’s World Festival.

Aug. 30, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

SEPTEMBER

Long Beach Indie International Film Festival

The 2014 festival boasted 91 films from 24 different countries.

Sept. 2 to 6, The Cinemark at the Pike Theaters, Long Beach Convention Center and Renaissance Long Beach Hotel, www.longbeachindie.com

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“E.T. The Extra-Terrestrial” in Concert

What better way to end summer than with a family classic in high definition? The introduction will feature John Williams, who composed the score for the film.

Sept. 4 to 6, Hollywood Bowl, www.hollywoodbowl.com

L.A. County Fair

As summer ends, delve into classic carnival fun and games, big concerts and exhibits detailing the area’s vast history at one of the country’s largest fairs.

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Sept. 4 to 27, Pomona Fairplex, www.lacountyfair.com

Tchaikovsky Spectacular

Orange County fans can catch the Russian composer’s classics performed by the Pacific Symphony.

Sept. 5, Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, www.pacificsymphony.org

Chayanne
The Latin pop sensation hits the road for his first tour in four years, playing hits from his new album “En Todo Estaré.”

Sept. 5, Staples Center, www.staplescenter.com

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Butterfly Pavilion

The spring-and-summer-only habitat features over 30 North American butterfly species, letting you surround yourself with hundreds of the peaceful insects.

Ongoing to Sept. 7, Natural History Museum, www.nhm.org

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