Hollywood Beat

Ballroom with a Twist & Valley Arts Performance Center

How would you like to get up close & personal to the dazzling dancers of Dancing with Stars? You will have the opportunity if you attend Ballroom with a Twist at the historic El Portal Theatre.  Along with Lorenzo Lamas, Julie Newmar, Dee Wallace and other celebs, we were honored to attend the opening night performance.

Louis van Amstel, Emmy nominated choreographer and one of the seasoned pros from DWTS, and his former celeb dance partner, Niecy Nash (Clean House, Reno 911) hosted the opening night gala.  The two-hour show pushes the boundaries of ballroom dance, infusing it with energy and intensity. Among the featured dancers was gorgeous Edyta Sliwinska (wearing the skimpiest costumes ever), and cast members of So You Think You Can Dance.

Every style of Terpsichore was featured including hip-hop, tango, Latin, and Broadway styles. The young and energetic cast had everyone moving and grooving in their seats – dreaming of joining them on stage. Actually, we were a bit exhausted after the non-stop performance – and now know why these dancers are in such great shape!

Also featured were finalist from American Idol, David Hernandez and Gina Glockensen, who sang their little hearts out, and proved their professionalism, after getting their start on the hit TV series. For further info, check out their website www.elportaltheatre.com

Another theatre experience is available at the $125 million Valley Performing Arts Center, the newest jewel in the crown of Southern California concert halls.  The recent two-hour star-studded opening gala featured 25 of the world’s most famous and accomplished singers, dancers, musicians and actors.  Among these were Cheech Martin, Benjamin Bratt, Jose Carreno, Gillian Murphy, Andy Garcia and Calista Flockhart.

Over 1700 audience members then were treated to tented dinner on the lawn of the Mike Curb school of Media, Arts and Communication, named for music industry icon, Mike Curb. For further information on this venue, check out their website:  www.valleyperformingartscenter.org

Who says that Los Angeles is devoid of theatre arts? Broadway may be a long way from L.A. – but we are doing our best to compete! Got to admit – it looks better on him, than me!

Calista Flockhart at Theatre Opening

Actors Steven Weber, Jane Kaczmarek & Keith David at Theatre Opening

David Hernandez & Gina Glockensen (American Idol) on stage

Louis van Amstel & Niecy Nash strutting their stuff 

Dancing With The Stars pros at Ballroom with a Twist