East West Players – Unbroken Blossoms

Through July 21/LOS ANGELAS- An idealistic family man and a cynical, aspiring filmmaker are hired as the Chinese American consultants for Broken Blossoms, Hollywood’s first onscreen interracial love story… between a white actress and a white actor in yellowface makeup. If the circumstances weren’t already questionable enough, the consultants must contend with the outsized ego of the film’s director D.W. Griffith, who is attempting to belie criticisms of racism after the release of his controversial film The Birth of a Nation.

Presented by East West Players, Philip W. Chung’s play Unbroken Blossoms is a historical reimagining of the making of a boundary-breaking Hollywood classic that shines a light on the collateral damage in the search for “authentic” representation, and asks what price we pay for our art.

Originally presented in 2015 by Visual Communications in partnership with East West Players.

https://www.eastwestplayers.org/unbroken

Pageant of the Masters Returns

Through-Aug 30/LAGUNA BEACH – Watch as art literally comes to life on stage, with people posing to look just like famous artworks. Plus, enjoy great stories, live original music, and exciting surprises. Look closely! See if you can catch them blinking– it’s a magical night under the stars.

Early ticket purchase recommended, this event is highly sought after and draws art enthusiasts from around the world. Don’t miss it!

https://foapom.evenue.net/cgi-bin/ncommerce3/SEGetGroupList?groupCode=FOA&linkID=foa&shopperContext=&caller=&appCode=

California Mid-State Fair

July 17-28/PASO ROBLES- This much-loved fair dates back to 1946 and is held in the San Luis Obispo County town of Paso Robles. Along with the rides, exhibits, and fair food, this year’s headliners include Miranda Lambert, Nate Bargatze, Brad Paisley, and Cheap Trick. >MORE

Comic-Con International

July 25-28/SAN DIEGO- The cultural touchstone returns to downtown San Diego with panels, cosplay, and star sightings. Badges are currently sold out, but anyone can soak up the energy downtown or visit the Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park. >MORE 

Or, broaden your love of geek culture by taking this Comic Book and Science Fiction Tour of California.