Exploring Los Angeles beyond its Hollywood allure reveals a vibrant city rich in culture, wellness, and artistic expression, as experienced through the eyes of a visiting parent.
For the past two years, I have made several trips to Los Angeles, initially drawn in as a tourist by its glamorous exterior. The iconic Hollywood sign, perched on a hillside, and the sidewalks adorned with star names captivated my attention. However, my recent visits have shifted in focus. Now, I stroll along the Hollywood Walk of Fame not to memorize celebrity names, but to visit the Hollywood Farmers Market, one of the city’s finest. I also attend performances at the LA Opera, where productions like *West Side Story* have recently premiered, and shop at Erewhon, a trendy market known for its celebrity clientele and wellness products. On occasion, I even bump into familiar faces like Robin Wright at my wellness studio, where we both enjoy the benefits of infrared saunas.
This article serves as a guide to experiencing Los Angeles beyond its well-known clichés. While the Hollywood thread is ever-present in the city, there is much more to discover in this sun-soaked metropolis, which is deeply invested in holistic wellness, outdoor activities, and fitness trends like Pilates.
One of the highlights of my visits has been attending performances at the LA Opera. I first met Maestro James Conlon, the principal conductor, when we were neighbors in New York City during the late 1990s. Since taking the helm at the LA Opera in 2006, Conlon has made this final season particularly memorable by selecting performances that resonate with his personal and professional journey. During my September visit, I was fortunate to witness the opening of *West Side Story*, reimagined as an opera. This timeless tale reflects Los Angeles’s diverse cultural influences, encapsulated within a poignant love story.
Another unique experience I sought out was a Candlelight Concert. These events have gained popularity and are now a franchise. While I have enjoyed similar performances in Bangalore, my first Candlelight Concert in LA was a long-awaited experience. Organized by Fever, the concert featured a selection of classical music pieces from renowned composers such as Mozart, Vivaldi, and Beethoven. The venue, the historic Biltmore Theater, holds a special place in Oscar history, as it was here that the Oscar statue was first sketched in 1927. Listening to Vivaldi’s *Four Seasons* in such a storied location was a surreal experience, underscoring the inescapable connection to Hollywood that permeates every facet of life in LA.
For a different kind of entertainment, I attended *The Magic Hour* at Black Rabbit Rose. This venue offers a unique twist on magic shows, presenting them in an intimate, plush setting. As I entered the bar, I was greeted by a glamorous atmosphere. The show featured a trio of talented magicians who captivated the audience with their charm and skill. From card tricks that left me bewildered to daring feats involving fire and metal, the performance was a delightful blend of artistry and entertainment.
Another gem I discovered was Jiji’s Jazz Club, orchestrated by Tida Norasingh. This venue evokes the spirit of underground music spots where emerging talent often performs before achieving fame. On the night I visited, the atmosphere was electric, with a mix of music and poetry that resonated with the youthful, idealistic crowd. The lively sets and quality sound system made for an unforgettable evening.
Visiting Los Angeles as a parent adds a unique dimension to the experience. As a mother, I often find myself in the role of caregiver, bringing along my spice box to cater to my adult child’s needs. However, my recent explorations have allowed me to see the city through my daughter’s eyes. She is a modern woman with distinct tastes, and together we have ventured to Malibu to explore vineyards, attended art gallery openings, and participated in intimate performances that showcase LA’s creative spirit beyond the glitz of the film industry. This journey has been nothing short of a revelation, revealing a cosmopolitan city that is warm, welcoming, and bursting with creativity.
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