All Hallows Eve, or Hallowe’en as it came to be known, marks the beginning of the Christian holiday All Saints Day. But what they don’t tell you in grade school is that the celebration is rooted in the Pagan tradition of honoring the dead. The ancient Celts believed the barrier between this world and the spirit world grew thin at summer’s end, allowing souls (both good and bad) to walk amongst the living.

The modern interpretation of Halloween is characterized by a breakdown in the barrier between our innermost desires and demons, and external displays of decorum. There’s only one day of the year when it’s socially acceptable to dress like the lead in a tacky porno, a serial killer, a superhero, or a serial killing superhero pornstar (I think I just hit on next year’s costume). And there’s no better time to indulge in Lucha VaVOOM, the hit stage show that mixes Mexican wrestling with burlesque.

Mexican wrestling is a soap opera for men. It pits the good guys (tecnicos) against the bad guys (rudos) in a battle for honor. But instead of utilizing manipulation and gossip, competitors wage war on one another with man-handling and grunts. In between matches in this macho telenovela (Lucha), show creators Liz Fairbairn and Rita D’Albert have woven sultry strip tease (VaVOOM). D’Albert hand selects dancers based on athleticism and mastery of a unique skill. Watch the videos below to get a glimpse of how the show plays out.

»continue reading What’s Halloween without a little Sexo y Violencia?

A reduction linocut by artist Dave Lefner. Studio 212, Moulton Ave.

LA is home to the largest art colony in the world. That’s right, the world. It’s one of our city’s best kept secrets. Twice a year, the Brewery Art Association near downtown LA opens its doors to art aficionados, collectors, students, curious onlookers, and those who only wish they could support themselves based solely on creative genius. I fit into those last two categories.

The following photo collection reflects my first experience at the Brewery Artwalk, which took place this past Saturday and Sunday, October 24 & 25. It is in no way a comprehensive representation of the work that was on display (the complex boasts roughly 300 work/live studios). But it’s a taste of an authentic, thriving art scene unique to LA—a must-try for all Angelenos.

»continue reading Brewery Artwalk Autumn ’09: A Free Pass To LA’s Creative Common

HEADS UP
Lucha VaVOOM @ Mayan Wed Oct 28
Lucha VaVOOM @ Mayan Thu Oct 29

Last Halloween, a friend came into work raving about a party that featured Mexican Wrestling and Burlesque. My immediate reaction: Who spiked the punch bowl?

Thus began my fascination with Lucha VaVOOM, the cult theater sensation that co-creator Rita D’Albert touts as being “unabashedly LA.” The show is back on it’s home stage at the Mayan Theatre in Downtown this Wednesday and Thursday, October 28th and 29th. Titled “Creature Feature,” this raucous brand of sexo y violencia is sure to make you think twice about the phrase trick or treat.

The playbill and tix are available at http://LuchaVaVOOM.com. Losanjealous will be on hand to witness the spooky spectacle so check back for a review, video, and photos from the show. Official show flyer after the jump.

»continue reading Lucha VaVOOM Returns to Mayan This Week