Japan Benefit at Kona Gallery in SC

It's been a month since the devastating 9.0 earthquake and deadly tsunami hit Japan. The fallout is still being felt worldwide. International Medical Corps, ZUMA Press, DOUBLEtruck Magazine, plus over two dozen merchants in San Clemente area have teamed up with the KONA Gallery and Photojournalism Workshop Center to throw a benefit for the victims. The benefit will auction and raffle off over $100,000 worth of goods and services.

This Saturday, April 16th, Kona Gallery in San Clemente is hosting a silent auction and raffle to raise money for the victims of the Sendai area earthquake and tsunami. The event will be from 6p.m. until 9p.m. All are welcome to participate in this cause and to be apart of a silent auction/raffle and general event to remember and benefit the victims.

Scott Mc Kiernan, owner of The KONA Gallery and Photojournalism Center, has generously donated all of the Limited Edition DOUBLEtruck Magazine prints in the current exhibition of 29 Seeing Double Exhibition, the 20x30 prints are framed in museum frames, valued at $1,500 each, to be auctioned off, totaling over $43,000.

Some awesome San Clemente companies have contributed to the silent auction: Del Mar Beauty Supply/Salon Bamboo, Chin’s Acupuncture, 5 Elements Spa, Sonny’s Pizza, The Cellar, Peligroso, Pizza Port, Bliss Boutique, San Clemente Wine Co, Beachfire, Skullcandy, Rainbow, Casa Tropicana, Nick’s, Hobie, Asana Fit, First Team Real Estate, Runmore, OltreMare, OC Tykes, Beach City Florist and St. Roy at Vine.

100% of the proceeds will go to Japan, through International Medical Corps and ZUMA Press's Tokyo Bureau.

For more information about the silent auction and The KONA Gallery, contact Rebekah Colby at (949) 481-3747 or email Rebekah@TheKONAGallery.com.

-Blythe

on my grooveshark: The Shivers' "Beauty"

Tuesday Nights at Forest Lanes

Forest Lanes in Lake Forest has a reputation for offering all sorts of fun- from their karaoke nights to beer pong nights to cosmic bowling to Friday nights with a live DJ. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, their Quartermania Special (after 8 pm) involves a $7 entrance fee and then each game is only 75 cents. Not only that, but pizza slices are 75 cents, and beer is $2.

Also, every Tuesday night, from 5pm to 9pm, various food trucks gather at the Forest Lanes parking lot.

"On the night I went the following trucks were present: Calbi, Seabirds, Crepes Bonaparte, Barcelona on the Go, Taco Dawg and a few others I can't remember off the top of my head," says Riche of Laguna Beach. "The great thing about this event are the short lines, the ability to bring your food into the bowling alley to dine on their tables (even in the bar where they have drink specials), the overall choice of various trucks and the fact that there's plenty of free parking."

Enjoy this veritible rolling food court while it lasts!

Also, visit this link to fill out a short form to receive two free bowling passes!

Forest Lanes is located at
22771 Centre Drive
Lake Forest 92630

Call (949) 770-0055 for more information.

-Blythe
on my iTunes: Death Cab's "Different Names For the Same Thing"

A Midsummer Night's Dream at South Coast Repertory

Lovers in the woods, the mischief of fairies, a royal wedding, and the tragicomic play of labor workers. All this and more is bundled up in South Coast Repertory's production of Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.

"Led by the wildly inventive director Mark Rucker, off go four young lovers into The Woods on a midsummer evening—when strange and wonderful things are likely to happen.  This shimmering Shakespearean fantasy features the antics of supernatural creatures—the fairies led by Oberon and Titania and, of course, the impish Puck, who creates chaos in the night.  But what fun to join in the dream, knowing that by daylight all will be well in a mystical, moon-drenched masterpiece."


The main action of the play revolves around four lovers who suffer, in various way, from the perils of I love him, but he loves her, and she loves another him, and he loves me. We've all been there before. Things get really murky (and hilariously so) when the fairies of the forest (here portrayed as a band of gypsy-like pajama party-ers looking to cause mischief and steal clothing off the lovers one article at a time) meddle in the humans' affairs with potent love potion from a flower struck by Cupid's arrow. This results in a scantily clad group of befuddled young people trying to make sense of the sudden changes in affections. What fickle lovers we mortals be!

[Nick Gabriel, Kathleen Early, Dana Green and Tobie Windham in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare.  Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Meanwhile, the fairy king and queen, Oberon & Titania, are experiencing a relational dilemma of their own. Oberon is angry with Titania for taking possession of an Indian boy whom she refuses to give up to be Oberon's henchman. Queen or not, to defy the king is not kosher in this fairy kingdom. To get back at her, Oberon has his assistant, Puck, put the aforementioned love potion into Titania's eyes, setting her up to fall in love with the first beast or animal she sees when she wakes.

[Elijah Alexander and Susannah Schulman in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

While all this heavy love and fairy action is taking place, a group of common laboring men are rehearsing a play to present to the Athenian king and queen- Theseus and Hippolyta- at their upcoming wedding reception. This ragtag group of dudes provides much (but certainly not all) of the comedic relief of the play. Keep your eyes out for Hal Landon, Jr., who you should recognize as Scrooge from SCR's annual production of A Christmas Carol.

[(l. to r.) Hal Landon Jr., Richard Doyle, Patrick Kerr, William Francis McGuire, Michael Manuel and John-David Keller in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

[(l. to r.) John-David Keller, Patrick Kerr, Michael Manuel, Richard Doyle, Hal Landon Jr., and William Francis McGuire in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Back to the fairy king and queen's marital tiff: Puck comes upon the rehearsing laborers and transforms the central actor, Bottom, into a donkey. Well, he turns his head into the head of a donkey. Many jokes regarding asses ensue. Titania awakes and falls for Bottom, who has the head of an ass, and Oberon's plan to humiliate her is well underway.

[(clockwise from bottom left) Dylan DoVale, Ryan Jones, Jaycob Hunter, Jordan Bellow, Rudy Martinez, Emmett Lee Stang, Susannah Schulman, Jennifer Stang and Patrick Kerr in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Without giving away much more of the story, I'll simply say that what follows is nothing short of hilarious and well-played by all involved. At the end of the play, when most play-goers settle into a comfortable lethargy at the story's resolution, this story stirs its viewers into fits of laughter for the funniest scene of all.

[Richard Doyle and Patrick Kerr in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

Also, in this unique and intriguing production of the classic play, the fairies at times burst into dance and song set to psychedelic soul music. And why shouldn't they? I'd do the same thing if I were a fairy, methinks.

[Susannah Schulman in South Coast Repertory's 2011 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream by William Shakespeare. Photo by Henry DiRocco/SCR.]

All that to say, you simply won't want to miss this one. Each actor shines in his/her own right, and the individual charms and quirks of each fit swimmingly into the play's action, making it a stunning production overall.

For tickets or further info, visit SCR's website.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Feist's "1 2 3 4"

Little Red Dress Cocktail Party

The only thing better than a great night out with girlfriends or your main squeeze is a great night out in honor of an incredible cause. Tomorrow, February 4th, The St. Regis Monarch Beach is celebrating with a Little Red Dress Cocktail Party at Michael Mina's Stonehill Tavern featuring a selection of delicious and heart-healthy menu items and the newly unveiled, exclusive Rose Petal Martini. A portion of proceeds from the signature Go Red For Women items will benefit the American Heart Association (AHA). And the best part is that all attendees who wear any piece of red clothing in honor of National Wear Red Day will receive a complimentary Rose Petal Martini!

Guests and locals are invited to continue the celebration in the Lobby Lounge and to make a night of it with A Time for Pleasure, offering 20% off stays. Rate code: PLEASURE.

When:             Friday, February 4, 2011

                        6 – 10pm

                       

Where:            STONEHILL TAVERN

                        The St. Regis Monarch Beach

                        One Monarch Beach Resort

                        Dana Point, CA  92629

Admission to the Little Red Dress Cocktail Party is complimentary.  For dinner or resort reservations, please call 1.800.722.1543 or visit www.stregismb.com.

For more information about the Little Red Dress Cocktail Party, Jenn Myres, Amie Rubenstein or Courtney Geesey at Glodow Nead Communications, 415.394.6500 or jenn@glodownead.com

-Blythe

on my blip: Jenny Lewis & the Watson Twins' "Happy"

Schedule for the OC Music Awards Free Showcases & a chance to win $500 to Best Buy

For the first time ever in the ten year history of the OC Awards, fans have a say in which showcase artists advance to the finals. When fans vote online for their favorite showcase artist, they are automatically entered to win a massive prize pack from the generous Awards partners. OC Music Awards is proud to announce the 2011 anniversary Fan Vote prize pack which includes a $500 gift card from Best Buy, one year of complimentary Wahoo’s Fish Tacos, two tickets and one hotel room in Las Vegas for Red Bull’s SoundClash on March 12 (featuring Cee Lo vs. The Ting Tings), a free one year supply of pop chips, and a custom OC Music Awards guitar compliments of Ernie Ball.

Tonight, the OC Music Awards Showcase Series makes its fifth stop of the season at Tiki Bar in Costa Mesa for the third event in the Best Live Band Showcase category. All the OC Music Awards partners will be onsite. Bud Light will feature a special pour, team pop chips will be distributing tasty chip snacks and have their fan photobooth out in action, the Wahoo’s Fish Taco truck will again be giving away 50 free tacos to the first 50 takers and serve tacos throughout the event and KROQ’s favorite personality, Beer Mug, will play host to all the madness.

There are only two weeks left before the Showcase Series Finals! Fans can visit OC Music Awards FANVOTE online NOW through February 15 and enter to win the huge prize pack and help one artist in each category with the most votes automatically move onto the Showcase Series Finals.

2011 Showcase & Awards ScheduleTues. 2/15, 7:30pm – The Slidebar, Fullerton (Best Live Band, FREE, 21+)
Echo Echo (Santa Ana)
Stereofix (Costa Mesa)
Fiction Reform (Orange County)
We Are the Arsenal (Costa Mesa)
BLOK (Costa Mesa)

Event: 2011 OC Music Awards Best Live Band Showcase
Date: Tues. 2/1/11
Time: 7:30 – 12pm
Location: Tiki Bar
Address: 1700 Placentia Ave., Costa Mesa, CA 92627
Details: FREE, 21+
Artists to Perform: She Screams Remedy (Anaheim), Entice (OC), Railroad to Alaska (OC), Pistolero (Costa Mesa), Seedless (Orange)
RSVP: FACEBOOK

Tues. 2/08, 7pm – The Gypsy Den, Santa Ana (Best Live Acoustic, FREE, All Ages)
Justin Soileau (Orange County)
Micah Brown (Dana Point)
Parker Macy Blues (Costa Mesa)
Danny Maika (Huntington Beach)
The Foxx & Da Hound (Tustin)

Thurs. 2/24, 6pm – Fullerton Museum - (Listening Wall Exhibit Opening, FREE, All Ages)
Thurs. 2/24, 7:30pm – Fullerton Museum – (Best Live Acoustic Finals, FREE, All Ages)
Fri. 2/25, 7:30pm – The Galaxy, Costa Mesa - (Best Live Band Finals, FREE, All Ages)
Sat. 3/5, 7pm – Grove of Anaheim - (OC Music Awards, $25, All Ages)

Visit OC Music Awards online by clicking here.

-Blythe
on my blip: Feist's "Sealion"

Kelly Mac at the OC Marketplace this weekend!

"Be fit and think fabulous." These are the encouraging words chosen by Kelly Mac in regard to your fitness goals for 2011. Think fabulous! We all know January is the time to make fitness resolutions, and almost everyone makes one, in some form or another; but beyond making the resolution, what have you done to work toward accomplishing it? Sometimes, Most of the time, we need a helping hand. That's where Kelly steps up to the plate. Her passion is helping individuals get fit and meet their fitness goals for themselves. She wants you to look and feel like a fabulous version of yourself in 2011!

Kelly heads up Back 2 Basics Fitness Boot Camp, a boot camp that meets locally. This weekend, Kelly Mac will be at the OC Marketplace (formerly- or casually- known as the swap meet)- come out and meet her! She'll be there to talk to you about her commitment to you and your commitment to yourself.

Whether you've been thinking about joining a boot camp, thinking about amping up your exercise routine, or just want to make a new friend, come our and meet Kelly this Saturday and/or Sunday! To sweeten the deal, mention The OC Gazette to cash in on this sweet deal:

Read more about Kelly in the January issue of The OC Gazette.

-Blythe
on my iTunes: "My Sweet Lord" by George Harrison

Tips for this Valentine's Day from the Bra Whisperer

With Valentine's Day a little over two weeks away, we went to Susan Nethero, the Bra Whisperer herself (featured on Oprah, The Today Show, The Tyra Banks Show, and founder of Intimacy Boutique), and asked for some tips for creating an intimate occasion.

OCG: What are the current lingerie trends people can expect for Valentine's Day and going into the spring season?

SN: The colors this year are exquisite! Lots of purple, red, fuchsia, electric blue and turquoise. This was evident on the red carpet during the golden globes.  White is also being considered as a color trend in bras.

These same colors also hold true in sleepwear. We are seeing that bust support is still the order of the day, with silhouettes that fit a little looser around the middle.

For gifts later in the spring season, the "it" bra colors are more mutely toned taupes, creams, and peaches.

OCG: Any hot new brands/bras and personal current favorites to look out for ?

-Aubade’s Etreinte Polynesienne bra and panty set really sets the mood for the perfect romantic getaway:

-Chantelle’s new Africa tie die bra in gorgeous hues of navy and electric blue is just stunning for valentine’s day and into the spring season:

-Love Love Curves Eva  is a darling chemise with a built in bust perfect for girls who need a little extra va-va-voom up top. 

-Else Bra Sized chemise, in contrast, is the ideal silhouette for the fuller bust as the bra sized silhouette has a gorgeous and flattering fit for the fuller busted gal.  

-And the Cosabella satin & lace because it’s just so sexy… provides the perfect baby doll silhouette!

OCG: Any fun/new accessories?

SN: We have a new really cute hanky panky called ‘etched rose’ that just arrived. It’s adorable- light pink a soft gray etched rose pattern:

OCG: Can you give us four tips for male Valentine's Day shoppers?

1) Don’t be afraid to ask for help! Men can get a little freaked out and embarrassed, but most men will find that our staff is extremely professional and very eager to help him choose the perfect gift.

2) Take a peek in her lingerie drawer when she isn’t looking. Pay attention to colors she’s drawn to, as well as sizes and fabrics so that you have a good idea of what she likes.

3) Pick something out that you like too! After all, even if it’s a little out of her comfort zone, she is going to want to look attractive for you.

4) Lingerie pairs well with soft candle light, romantic music, maybe a bubble bath and some champagne? Take the time to create a romantic space for your honey! Women can feel insecure about their bodies, and setting the mood can really help to uplift her confidence!

Intimacy also tries to make it extremely easy for male shoppers whose wives/girlfriends/friends have been in before.  Each customer has a profile in our customer system, where they can keep track of what styles and sizes have been purchased.  This profile system allows men to be able to come in and look up their significant other's bra track record for tips, ideas, and even see if they have anything on their wish list!

Visit Intimacy's website and Facebook for more tips and secrets about how the right bra can make you look and feel your sexiest! 

-Blythe

on my iTunes: The Shins' "New Slang"

Call for Entries

Are you a high school senior into graphic design? Maybe you know someone who fits that description?


The Art Institutes and Americans for the Arts (the nation’s leading nonprofit organization for advancing the arts) announced a call for entries for their 8th annual Poster Design Competition. High school seniors from the U.S., Canada (excluding Quebec), and Puerto Rico are invited to submit entries. The national winners will earn up to a full-tuition scholarship to one of The Art Institutes schools.

This year’s competition challenges entrants to submit a poster that addresses the theme “Life is better with art in it.” The deadline to submit entries is February 4, 2011. Full entry requirements can be viewed at http://www.artinstitutes.edu/postercompetition.

According to Gregory J. Marick, president of The Art Institute of California – Orange County, “Industries today are fueled by creativity. We are privileged to educate students with the talent and the drive to enter a design field. The Poster Design Competition is a platform for students to channel their talent and turn it into something tangible.”

“The Poster Design Competition brings out and showcases a diverse pool of remarkably talented high school students,” says Robert L. Lynch, president and CEO of Americans for the Arts. “The entry pieces are not only vibrant and exciting, but also a great reminder of how much art can touch us in our everyday lives.”

To learn more about The Art Institutes and Americans for the Arts Poster Design Competition, visit http://artinstitutes.edu/postercompetition or contact Hope Adams, Associate Director of Admissions at The Art Institute of California – Orange County at hadams@aii.edu.   


Happy designing!


-Blythe


on my blip: Simon & Garfunkel's "El Condor Pasa (If I Could)"

iSanctuary Training Meeting

Interested in social justice? Stopping human trafficking on both a local and global level? International Sanctuary is an Irvine-based nonprofit organization that goes to great lengths in the fight against human trafficking. For one, their online boutique offers an array of fabulous jewelry made by women rescued from the sex trade. Purchasing a product from iSanctuary provides a foundation for survivors futures; proceeds offer rescued girls vocational training, education, and monetary savings upon their transition from the aftercare home.

If you're interested in these issues, in learning more about iSanctuary, or in offering your time to volunteer, attend the free Interest & Advocacy Training Meeting tonight in Irvine.

Tuesday, 1/18, from 6:30-8pm at

17777 Main St. C-2
Irvine, CA 92416

For more info, call (949) 752-7788

By attending, you are not automatically offering your time in the future; however, if you are interested in volunteering, attending a training meeting is mandatory.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Beirut's "Nantes"

Bruxie in Orange

Last week, I ventured out with some friends to try out Bruxie, the new-ish little Belgian waffle sandwich restaurant stand in downtown Orange.

The restaurant is a walk-up-and-order kind of place; like a taco stand. The main difference is that instead of greasy fast food, this stand delivers gourmet, handcrafted waffle sandwiches. There is a little side patio that is covered and enclosed with canvas hangings and warmed with heating lamps, which all adds up to make quite a cozy dining experience.


"Bruxie is a new take on the authentic Belgium Waffle. The 'Bruxie' is unlike any waffle offered: the Bruxie is light, crisp, yeasty and not sweet. It's street food that's perfect for breakfast, lunch, mid day snack as well as a dessert or late night treat."

Honestly, I don't even like waffles. My friend picked our dinner spot, and I was a bit nervous about her choice. I'm perhaps a little too adventurous with food and new dining spots though, so my curiosity took over. I tried a "Cheesey Bruxie" (grilled cheddar and gruyere) with avocado and waffle fries:

In a word: DELICIOUS.

One of my friends got the special- some sort of roast beef, potato, horseradish, french dippy concoction:

Another friend tried a Bruxie Burger:

Then, as planned, I tried a dessert Bruxie with Nutella & Bananas.

SOOOOO TASTY!

Bruxie is located two blocks from the Orange Circle/Plaza on the corner of Glassell and Palm. All items are under $8, and most Bruxie sandwiches are around $6. See the menu here.

Happy waffling!

-Blythe

on my iTunes: The Shins' "Phantom Limb"

A Tribute to the Gypsy Lounge

Below is a photo essay/documentary that Amy Kaplan made about The Gypsy Lounge. We thought we'd share it with you as a way of remembering one of OC's gems that will be closing its doors in the very near future.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Devotchka's "Along the Way"

The January issue is OUT!

"Here at last, it is here at last!"

If Martin Luther King, Jr. were alive today, he might well be a fan and follower of The OC Gazette magazine. It's hard to say, since The OCG is still a fairly young mag (in our 4th year!), and MLK, Jr. is no longer with us, God rest his soul. 

In just a couple Mondays, on Jan. 17th, we'll celebrate a man who made a lasting impact on our nation- and on the world (U2 even wrote about this influential man, and they're from Dublin). He is what you might call a titan of history. 

Along with celebrating the life and impact of this extraordinary man, we're currently celebrating the very recent release of The OCG's January issue. This is our biggest issue yet, and is chock-full of goodies, like: Kelly Mac's Back 2 Basics Fitness Boot Camp- a boot camp that is actually effective and fun, Q&A with OC Mountain Bike and BMX Hall of Famer Brian Lopes, a Day in the Life of local musician Rocco Deluca, a History of Stand Up Paddle Boarding, the Art of Surfboard Shaping, a Spotlight on a great local nonprofit, Sports Gift, that provides underprivileged kids with sports equipment and jerseys, an up close review of Roger Waters (of Pink Floyd)'s recent show at Staples, a list of over 25 great local events, and plenty more!

All that to say, Happy Martin Luther King, Jr. Day (soon), and happy reading (now)! 

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Florence and the Machine's "Dog Days"

Reign Poker Tournament Results

You might remember last week's post about the Reign Poker Tournament Fundraiser? Well, it happened and it was a success!

There was a whole slew of fighters in attendance, who signed autographs, including: Mark Munoz, Krzysztof Soszynski, Urijah Faber, Chad Mendes, Fabricio Werdum, Jason "Mayhem" Miller, Jay Silva, and Joe Henle. There was a group of professional dealers (many of which were fighters!): Joe Henle, Krzysztof Soszynski, Mark Munoz, King Mo Lawal, Brett Cooper, and Raphael Davis.

The event raised almost $2,000 to benefit Team Reign Kids! The winner of the tournament was Todd Norman, who won two tickets to UFC 125 in Las Vegas on January 1st. Over 40 people played in the tournament, and over 30 people donated baked goods for the bake sale. It was a great turn out with great return!

The proceeds from the event will be used to pay for Reign kids gear (shirts, shorts, hats, singlets, and coaches fees).

Thanks to all who made it out and made it a great success!

-Blythe

This Weekend in OC: 12/10-12

Hey guys! I know you've probably been on the edge of your seat, waiting for this week's edition of "Things to Do This Weekend in Orange County," right? You're probably looking at your blank planner or iCal, just itching to fill in this weekend's time slots with fun and festive things to do locally, yes? Ah, good. You're in luck! There's fun-o-plenty this weekend! See for yourself:

Thursday, 12/9 at 10:15pm: Rocco Deluca at The Gypsy Lounge. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

Friday, 12/10 at 8:30 pm: Benefit for Orangewood Children's Home at The Gypsy Lounge, with performances by Honeypie, Jameson, Melanoid, and The Trade. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

Friday, 12/10, from 6-8pm: Tustin Tree Lighting at Tustin Civic Center/Library Plaza. Special Guests: Santa, Mayor, the ELF, Grinch, and Frosty the Snowman. Free photos with Santa, and  performances by local non-profits: Kids Corner, Foothill Carolers, Pioneer Middle School, Guin Foss Junior Girl Scout Troop 194, Guin Foss Brownie Troop 1584, Loma Vista Girl Scout Troop 122, Ballet Folklorico, Tesoros de Mexico, Academy of Dance and HBP Dance Extreme. There will also be a holiday boutique at the Community Center from 4-8pm. FREE.


Friday, 12/10 from 7-9:30pm: Soka University Student Music Recital at Soka's Founder's Hall (3rd floor Meeting Room) in Aliso Viejo. An evening of musical performances by students. Call (949) 480-4000 for more info. FREE.

Saturday, 12/11 at 10am: Laguna Niguel Holiday Parade. On Crown Valley between Nueva Vista and Crown Valley Community Park. The theme for this year's parade is "Celebrate America." Come watch the largest and most creative display of community in the City’s history! The parade will be filled with beautiful equestrian units, patriotic and inspirational military tributes, spirit filled youth groups, classic auto clubs, talented marching bands, and more! FREE. Call (949) 425-5100 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 10 & 11:30am: Hot Chocolate with Santa & Friends at Bowers Museum in Santa Ana. Free with museum admission. Call (714) 567-3600 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 12:30-4pm: Nutcracker for Kids at Segerstrom Hall in Costa Mesa. A condensed version of a Christmas classic for children. Tickets are $24 and up. Call (714) 755-5799 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 2pm: Winds and Brass at Chapman University's Salmon Recital Hall, in Bertea Hall. FREE. Call (714) 997-6815 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 from 5-7pm: Holiday Music Celebration, at Mason Regional Park in Irvine. Sing along, Santa, and more. Come and see performances by our local high school’s performing arts department. Bring a thick blanket to sit on. Dress warmly. If it rains, event is canceled. A special story will be read with audience involvement. FREE. Call (949) 923-2220 for more info.

Saturday, 12/11 at 5pm: Strings and Piano at Chapman University's Salmon Recital Hall, in Bertea Hall. FREE. Call (714) 997-6815 for more info.


 Saturday, 12/11 at 8:30 pm: Live Music at The Gypsy Lounge, with performances by Plastick, Sean Murphy and the Rubber Band, Hell and Half of Georgia, and The New York Ninjas. Call (949) 206-9990 for more info.

 Saturday 12/11 and Sunday, 12/12 from 5:30-8:30pm: Candlelight Tour at Heritage Hill park in Lake Forest. Stroll through restored 19th century buildings adorned in period decor and listen to Victorian carolers, live entertainment and storytellers in each building. Refreshments and Santa will also be around! 1,000 luminaries, entertainment, snacks, and more. Call (949) 923-2230 for more info. $3 for kids, $4 for adults.

Just a handful of ways to make it a great weekend! Have fun, folks!
See a whole month-full of great local events on our December calendar page!

-Blythe

on my Pandora: "Maps" by The Yeah Yeah Yeahs

The Gypsy Lounge

The Gypsy Lounge is one of Orange County's musical gems. In a county overflowing with shopping and dining venues is an unfortunate 'underflowing' of music venues. The Gypsy Lounge is like a small bright light in an otherwise dark, semi-deserted 'musicscape.' It would be a sad, sad day indeed for local bands and music lovers alike, should the Gypsy Lounge ever close its doors.

We give the GL plenty o' blog lovin', but it's been awhile since we've done so; so, we thought we'd give you a healthy dosage right now:
"One of the greatest venues in Orange County, in our humble opinions, is the Gypsy Lounge in Lake Forest. It's personal with a bohemian feel, and there is no shortage of great OC bands on the monthly bill." 
[That quote is from us, btw, about a year and a half ago, on this blog]

Now's the part in this post when you're halfway out the door with your reignited enthusiasm about the Gypsy Lounge, right? But slow down turbo, you'll need to know what's going on there in the next few days before jumping on board- otherwise, how will you know whether to wear your studded wristlets for a metal show or your plaid shirt + suede vest for an acoustic show?

Coming this weekend:
Thurs, 12/9 - Rocco Deluca
Fri, 12/10 - Honeypie, Jameson, Melanoid, and The Trade
Sat, 12/11 - Plastick, Sean Murphy and the Rubber Band, Hell and Half of Georgia, The New York Ninjas
Tues, 12/14 - AJ DeGrasse

[Rocco Deluca]

[Honeypie]

 [Jameson]

There you have it- more than a couple reasons to get out of your house, drive down the street (or what, one exit down the 5?), and see some fine local (and not-so-local) talent. The Gypsy Lounge hosts local, growing talent as well as traveling acts from across the country. Local bands The Union Line and Local Natives, along with non-natives Dr. Dog and Golden Animals have all graced the Gypsy Lounge's stage. Additionally, the Gypsy Lounge has hosted shows for the OC Music Awards' showcase nights for years, bringing in a healthy serving of some of the best of local talent. They'll be hosting one such showcase next month (find out more info here).

If you've never been yet (or even if you have), I strongly encourage you to check out the Gypsy Lounge for a great night of live music, drinks, and friends. Say hi to owner Mike Concepcion for us!

Go with the suede vest.

-Blythe

on my iTunes: Golden Animals' "Try on Me"

This Weekend in OC

I realize it's only Tuesday, and this post is coming a little earlier in the week than most of our "Things To Do This Weekend in OC" posts, but I also know that with December comes a flurry of holiday parties, prep, shopping, wrapping, etc etc etc, so I want to give you as much time as possible to make room in your schedule for these cool upcoming events.

The first weekend in December promises to be a good one: we've got boat parades, tree lightings, concerts, Santa, candle dipping, pier lighting, and more! Check it out, in date order:

Friday, 12/3, from 4-8 pm: Holiday in the Harbor at Dana Point Harbor. Frosty the Sno-Man, Heebie & Jeebie, Holiday crafts tables, "people painting"- glittery paintings on hands, arms, and faces, Santa's workshop puppet show, and Jolly old Saint Nick will be in his sleigh out in front of Harpoon Henry's, ready for pictures and a visit with the kids. There will also be appearances by Dickens Carolers, Abbitt the Average, The Jack Straws, Zany Shoppers, and Balloon guy Andrew! Free admittance. Call (949)923-2255 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4, 10am-7pm: Tree Lighting & Holiday Village in Anaheim at Center Street Promenade and Lemon Street. Free holiday crafts for kids, free train rides, holiday music, free picture with Santa, free snow play (bring mittens and boots), international food fair, and unique gift shopping!

Saturday, 12/4, 4:15-9pm: San Juan Capistrano Tree Lighting at Historic Town Center Park. San Juan Hills & Capistrano Valley High School Orchestras and our City's very own Ballet Folklorico dance group will perform on stage.   Students from a local Conservatory of the Arts have designed a stage production filled with song and dance.  The official lighting of our Christmas Tree takes place at 5:45pm after which a candle light procession will lead guests out of the park and over to the San Juan Capistrano Mission and downtown area for more festivities.  Additional activities taking place throughout the downtown area will include a free mechanical "Holiday Train" ride for the kids, photos with Santa in Los Rios Park, activities at the San Juan Capistrano Mission, Live Nativity, Pony Rides, Petting Zoo & Hayrides at ZOOMARS on Los Rios & River Street.  For more information call (949) 493-5911.

Saturday, 12/4, from 11am-3pm: Victorian Christmas at Heritage Hill Historic Park in Lake Forest. the park’s historic buildings will be adorned in turn-of-the-century holiday finery with costumed docents hosting. The Bennett House and the Serrano Adobe will feature quilt displays and weaving and spinning demonstrations. There will be handicraft vendors, festive holiday entertainment, free children's crafts, living history demonstrations, historical exhibits, tours through the decorated, historic buildings and visits with Santa Claus. Children can participate in old-fashioned, hands-on activities, including churning butter, candle dipping, decorating cookies with Mrs. Claus and making ornaments and crafts. Children of all ages can visit with Santa in the arbor area. Call (949) 923-2230 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4 & Sunday 12/5: Feast of Lights. A festive program just in time for the holidays brings together the chorale ensembles, under the direction of Dr. Scott Farthing, and the Symphony Orchestra, under the direction of Carmen Dominquez, for a presentation of music of the season. Tickets are $20 general admission, or $18 for students and seniors. Call (949) 582-4656 for more info.

Saturday, 12/4 & Sunday 12/5, from 10am-2pm: Boat Rides with Santa at Dana Point Harbor. Free boat rides with Santa! Bring your camera and take a free picture with him. Call (949)923-2255 for more info.

Sunday, 12/5, from 4-7pm: Pier Lighting and Holiday Parade at Huntington Pier. Activities will include a children’s parade on Main Street, entertainment at Pier Plaza, Taste of Main Street and a snowflake lighting ceremony at the pier. The parade will start at Orange and Main St. and will end at the Pier Plaza. After the parade, the entertainment will begin at the Pier Plaza. While at the Plaza, Mr. & Mrs. Claus will be available for children to take pictures! Call 714-842-6600 for more info.

 

Sunday, 12/5, from 4:30-7:30pm: Winter Holiday Event in Aliso Viejo at Grand Park. Celebrate the arrival of Santa & Mrs. Claus, the official Lighting of the Tree, live entertainment, complimentary cookies & hot chocolate, and visits with Santa after the formal program. Bring your camera to capture your child's special moment with Santa!Call 949-243-7750 for more info.

 

 

Sunday, 12/5, from 3:30-7pm: Orange Tree Lighting at Old Towne Orange Plaza. Festivities begin with Orange non-profit food booths and childlren's activities at 3:30 p.m. Then, the official musical program, inclduing a 350-voice choir and 60-piece orchesra led by Music Director Michael Short, begins promptly at  5;15 p.m. This year's program narrator is Dr. William Hall, Dean of Performing Arts at Chapman University. Please contact the Community Services Department's Special Event Hotline at 714-744-7278 for more information.

Sunday, 12/5, from 3pm: Menorah Lighting at Fashion Island in Newport. Celebrate Hanukkah with singing and festive traditions at the Menorah Lighting Ceremony, to be held at 3pm in the Atrium Garden Court near the lower level of Barnes & Noble. For more information, please call the Chabad Jewish Center Newport Beach at (949) 721-9800.

What did I tell you? So many great events! Happy planning! :)

-Blythe
on my blip.fm: Camera Obscura's "If Looks Could Kill"