HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 1

2 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 3
 CONTENTS

ON THE COVER:

Heather
Locklear
and
daughter
Ava Sambora
with
Mikey Koffman

November 2010
COVER
08 L.A. Fashion Weekend
at Sunset Gower Studios
Email: [email protected].
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ENTERTAINMENT or Online at: www.hollywoodweekly.net

21 Melissa Anne Smed PUBLISHER, DIR. OF MARKETING PHOTOGRAPHY

Not Just A Small Town Girl EDITOR IN CHIEF Launy Rhem Irwin Jazmines
Prather Jackson
25 Cat Limket LIFESTYLE EDITOR PRODUCTION
Down Home Charm VICE PRESIDENT Niki Shadrow MANAGER
Bernice Harris Hector Santacruz
38 La Theatre Beat SENIOR EDITOR
Down Home Charm OPERATIONS Pamela Spyrs CONTRIBUTORS
Erskine D. McSwain Anthony Calderon
(1991-2000) CREATIVE DIRECTOR Leah Michele
FASHION VP MARKETING
Autumn Hawarden Yananton
Sarah Klegman
14 Valiant Mastermind Behind Michael D. Coxson DISTRIBUTOR
NEWSWAYS
Adam Freeman
Pockross
La Fashion Weekend VICE PRESIDENT Rachel Stuhler
Mikey Koffman OF INTERNATIONAL STAFF WRITER Leah Yananton
AFFAIRS Toria Gaylord Rayne Sieling
19 Red Carpet Ready Parandis Khalili Steve Zall
Singer Christina Milian ASSISTANT EDITOR Sid Fish
ASSOCIATE EDITOR Jenny Werth Lauren Selman

ARTICLES Anthony Calderon

WEBMASTER
Autumn Hawarden
Zoi Patra

28 Voda Spa
A Creative Synthesis for the New Century
Hollywood Weekly is a monthly publication wholly owned by
32 Giving Thanks for Globalization Jackson Publishing Company. ©2010 All Rights Reserved. Re-
production of any content without written permission of the
Dr. Laura Wilhelm
Publisher is expressly prohibited. Letters to the Editor may be
34 RUNGLISH sent to: Hollywood Weekly, 4221 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 290-06,
Los Angeles, CA 90010.
Is a Multi-Cultural Hit

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 5
 JENNy WERTH
Editor

Editor’s Note
November 2010

Somehow summer arrived quite late to LA

this year... it’s been in the 80s and 90s in
October and November while the actual
summer months were quite mild. That’s
just one reason it was such a delight to
see some fabulous spring fashions saunter
down the catwalk during the Los Angeles
Fashion Weekend held at the legendary
Sunset Gower Studios in Hollywood. Plus,
now that it’s beach weather, I have some
bikini fashions that will help me remember
why it is I can’t gain 10 pounds over the
holidays! Enjoy yourselves at you get a
sneak peek at some of LA’s most talented
designer’s fashions. Plus, get ready for a
one-on-one exclusive interview with fash-
ion weekend’s producer, Mikey Koffman. It
was quite the star-studded event! Enjoy!

6 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
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 FASHION

L.A. FasHiON WEEkENd

at sunset gower studios

CapTuREs
WORld-W
B aTTENTiONi d E
!
ikinis made out of
real water bottles, handmade
Written
fashions using natural or re- By Jenn
y Wert
h
cycled materials, bold prints
and edgy styles captivated the Mikey koffMan
sizzling cat walk during L.A.
Fashion Weekend october 15-
Produced the thrilling
17 at Sunset Gower Studios in fashion show with its
Hollywood.
The producer of the show, The Real
L Word’s Mikey Koffman welcomed the celeb-
usual incredible style!
filled, fashion-forward bash that started with a

8 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
sexy performance by singer Christina work perfectly. She says she gave
Milian, who also debuted her innova- bamboo a shot first, but found the
tive line of sunglasses. In a mat- fabric was too flexible while the water
ter of moments, a palpable electricity bottle bikinis don’t sag when they get
filled the air as pieces of glittery pa- wet. The designs are fun and easy to
per showered down on the audience mix and match. Bottoms and tops
and the first model strutted down the are $50 each. www.teekilove.com
cat walk. Fashion lovers watched with
anticipation as bikini-clad bodies de- The final catwalk of the day
buted swimwear lines by a.Che, Kooey by Kooey heated up the runway by
and teeki. starting the show off with a few en-
thralling men banging on drums! The
Friday evening’s first show, ‘SWIM Australian-landscape inspired swim-
at LA Fashion Weekend,’ commenced suits were made of vivid bright colors,
with the eclectic line by a.Che. The combining orange, whites and plums.
showcase gave the audience their first The line offered high waist styles, two
peek at the gorgeous models that piece bikinis and sultry one pieces
commanded the catwalk all weekend, along with lovely cover-ups. Kooey
complete with beautiful makeup by also featured clothing for men, such
David Klasfeld and Katie Pellegrino of as comfy, yet stylish and hot white
Obsessive Compulsive Cosmetics and pants. It never fails to amaze that
many whimsical curly, long hair looks a brand such as Kooey can make
thanks to Ginger Boyle and Dean ‘grandma-style’ high-waisted bottoms
Roybal of Planet Salon. a.Che’s col- look captivating! www.kooey.com
lection thrilled the audience with two
piece bikinis and bright colored one Off the catwalk, attendees min-
piece suits, animal prints with match- gled each day before and after the
ing head pieces, along with some shows in a beautifully decorated party
bold black and maroon suits. www. lounge decorated by HStudio and
acheswimwear.com. filled with bottomless cocktails from
White Trash Beautiful design team the open bar courtesy of Domenico
Next up was teeki who surprised of Richie sambora and Nikki lund Winery, 360 Vodka, Six Rivers Brewery,
the audience by sending a beauti- Tequila Mar Azul, Vita Coco Coconut
ful 8-year-old blonde show-stopper real water bottles. Designer Lindsay Water and Premier Label Water
down the runway! Teeki’s bikinis are Hemric says it took trial and error to Company. Party-goers also munched
truly amazing as they’re made out of find out that recycled water bottles on delicious hors’d’oeuvres from

White Trash Beautiful design team of Richie sambora and Nikki lund. and Terri Melkonian, Vice president of
sales & Marketing at sunset Gower studios

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 9
L.A. Fashion Weekend redcarPet

Heather locklear and

daughter ava sambora
actress Charlotte Ross who walked the runway in
on the Red Carpet of la dad Richie’s White Trash
Tatiana ali Fashion Weekend. Beautiful designs.

singer and
television
host kimberly
Caldwell

ken davitian from

Borat and Get smart

singer Christina Milian

introduced her eye-
wear line at the show

ava sambora who

walked the runway in
actress Brenda strong and White dad Richie’s White Trash
Trash Beautiful designer Nikki lund. Beautiful designs.

10 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 as with many of the ‘green’ attendees in
the audience.

Starting off the show were the or-

ganic fabric designs by Kristinit. The
collection by designer Kristina Lenss
was both glamorous and casual with a
feminine flair. Many free-flowing dresses
along with lovely pant and top outfits
graced the runway. “(I like to) bring
out the natural beauty of women… sen-
suality and nature,” Kristina said. She
added that her collection was a working
wardrobe with lots of pieces that can be
mixed and matched. www.kristinit.com

Next up was KeoKjay by 24-year-old

designer Rachel Faller. The line is both
sexy and sweet. Lovely neutral shades
including nudes, grays, creams, black
and a pop of color with bright orange
accents cruised the catwalk. KeoKjay is
an environmentally friendly, fair trade so-
cial enterprise that employs HIV-positive
Cambodian women to make uniquely de-
signed clothing. www.keokjay.org

Following were the genius designs

Right to Left is Terri Melkonian, Vice President of Sales and Marketing of Sunset
of jonano by Scandinavian eco-designer
Gower + Bronson Studios: Chris Barton, Executive Vice President of Hudson Pacific
Bonnie Sefers. The collection also fea-
Properties (parent company of the studios), Betty Flores Executive Assistant to CEO
tured hues of nudes and greys, some
of Hudson Pacific Properties.
cool and comfy cotton sweatsuits, along
with some whimsical pale pink dresses
Crustacean Beverly Hills. Also in the children of today learn how to make a – a joy to watch indeed. www.jonano.
lounge were pop-up boutiques such as “green” world second-nature for them. com
Morning Glory Jewelry by Melanie Howitt. It’s an essential message that strongly
Ending the show was Emily Factor
Her jewelry designs include recycled ma- resonates with Mikey Koffman’s goal at
who uses only organic and eco-friendly
terials from wire, vintage beads and an- her full service marketing and event pro-
fabrics and production practices. Her col-
tique chandelier crystals to scrap met- duction company, The Gallery LA; as well
lection was just dazzling with a rustic red-
al. www.mornglorycreations.com Also
featured were the original designs such
as studded snake bracelets by Wishcraft
jewelry by Joanna Settoo, and the Mia
Milano Collection. Creative T-shirts and
baseball caps were screen printed on the
spot by Matt Geiger’s FSP Designs. They
are a printing, manufacturing, design and
promotional company that create one-of-
a-kind items including business cards, key
chains and decals. info@naturesmistake.
net The evening wrapped up with a
fabulous after-party at Crustacean Beverly
Hills. The vibe at Crustacean was lively
while party goers and models brushed
elbows in the famous restaurant. www.
houseofan.com

Day two of L.A. Fashion Weekend

had the crowds in eager anticipation
during ‘The Green Initiative Humanitarian
Fashion Show’ sponsored by the Green
Youth Movement (GYM). An inspiring line-
up of some fabulous ‘eco-friendly’ sleek
silhouettes, intricate designs and swirls
of colors commanded the catwalk. The
fashions featured for Spring/Summer
2011 included Kristinit, jonano, KeoKjay
and Emily Factor. An inspiring video by
GYM started off the killer show. The
video explains that the movement’s mis-
sion is to not only educate kids on eco- Elizabeth An and Mikey Koffman
conscious living, but to also have the
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 11
 and-orange-colored print featured on numerous romantically
flowing dresses and skirts. The designer also showcased a
magical collection of sheer fabrics, floral prints, elaborate
ruffles and sleek profiles. www.emilyfactor.com As a repeat
to the Friday and Sunday night festivities was the Saturday
evening after-party held again at Crustacean Beverly Hills.
Fashion-savvy party-goers munched on scrumptious appetiz-
ers and sipped on martinis while glancing around the crowd
to spot any VIPS.

L.A. Fashion Weekend’s finale featured White Trash

Beautiful by Richie Sambora and Nikki Lund. The col-
lection show of Spring 2011 was the most well-attended,
celebrity-studded event of the weekend, perhaps because
fashion-savvy attendees were keyed up to watch Heather
Locklear and Sambora’s 13-year-old daughter, Ava walk the
show. The White Trash Beautiful collection featured light
colors and bold prints, long flowy dresses, floral tunics and
sharp black designs. The audience watched on eagerly as
the gorgeous models (who owned the catwalk all weekend)
showed off each outfit’s detail-oriented designs.

Among the celebrities in attendance were Heather

Locklear, Richie Sambora, Mikey Koffman, Raquel Castaneda,
Christina Milian, Bridget Marquard, Kimberly Caldwell,
Natasha Henstridge, Tatyana Ali, Janet Montgomery, Jodi
Sweetin, Naturi Naughton, Kimberly Quinn, Brenda Strong
and Charlotte Ross. In must be noted that the fashion-
forward weekend couldn’t have run as smoothly as it did
without the tireless help of Terri Melkonian from Sunset
Gower Studios, music from DJ Dominic Carter and stylists,
Kelly Williams and Jessica Loria. Now it’s just a matter of
waiting for the next extravaganza at the legendary Sunset Nikki Lund trying the appetizers served by
Gower Studios. And we can’t wait! Crustacean restaurant from Beverly Hills

12 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
White Trash Beautiful Design
Ava Sambora modeling a design by White Trash
Beautiful
LA Fashion Weekend held outside of Sunset
Gower’s Stage 7.

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 13
 L.A. Fashion Weekend at Sunset Gower Studios

THE VALIANT
MASTERMIND
BEHIND
LA FASHION WEEKEND
Mikey Koffman Written By Jenny Werth

launching LA Fashion Weekend at the legendary Sunset

Mikey Koffman is ensuring that Los Gower Studios. And by doing so, she’s ultimately created
a whole new genius of fashion acclaim and recognition in
Los Angeles. But, Mikey, 35, had extensive experience and
Angeles’ talented fashion designers the one thing essential for growing into a success in this
“cutthroat” town: determination.
will continue to be an essential part of “After completing LA fashion week events under
the celebrated fashion week line-ups Smashbox for years, it was important for me to keep the
event going when they left this market,” recalls Mikey.
that light up star-studded catwalks Indeed, Mikey is NOT one to ‘give up.’ So, after
in cosmopolitan cities throughout the Smashbox studios ended the Mercedes Benz LA fashion
week that she had helped establish and produce for many
world. years, she recalls, “at that point I knew I had to keep it
going…. and I felt like the only person who could make
Her incredible fashion influence has quickly diverted it work… (who had) the tenacity and balls to do it was
fashionista’s experienced eyes directly to the West Coast; myself.”
specifically Los Angeles where fashion columnists, their
loyal fashion-savvy apprentices and a fashion-forward audi- Lucky for us, it is simply in her blood to create as-
ence has been taking notice! Hollywood not only gives tounding fashion shows that leave our eyes staring at the
birth to a mind-blowing number of blockbuster movies; but catwalk. “It’s like having a baby,” she says of producing LA
also holds an imperative influence on amazing fashions. fashion weekend. One ‘baby’ she doesn’t intend on letting
Indeed, Hollywood has a history of debuting fashion-state- go. Clearly, simply ‘stopping’ the shows was not in Mikey’s
ments with the star-studded extravaganza that’s called the plans. Instead, she took the reins in her capable hands and
red carpet. But now, the newest “IT” fashion trends have moved the high profile event to the Sunset Gower Studios
become increasingly influential on the Los Angeles fash- in Hollywood creating what’s become an LA spectacle- both
ion weekend’s (LAFW) catwalk. During the October 15th for the fashion attendees and the energized media.
to 17th LAFW show held at the acclaimed Sunset Gower
Studios in Hollywood, each model’s sultry strut down the But then again, it’s not surprising that someone as
catwalk had most of the packed audience jotting down the unique and strong-minded as Mikey has come out on
newest “must-have” items for their closets. And they have top. She’s constructed her life a lot like her prized Harley
Mikey to thank. Davidson Mortorcycle; piece by thoughtful piece. She
gained enough knowledge and experience to create her
Like most of Tinseltown’s remarkable “real life sto- own flourishing company and revolutionize LA’s spot in the
ries;” Mikey wanted to be a cop when she was growing up. ever-extraordinary world of fashion. With an amazing work
She certainly had enough practice; she played with G.I. Joe ethic, she’s created a mini-empire by following her heart
action figures as a child; protected the kids in her school and branching off on her own.
who were being teased by bullies; survived the relentless
violence of the LA projects where she was raised and, And while doing so, Mikey’s found her freedom from
naturally, became a marksman by the age of ten. Well, a a childhood filled with the insecurity that comes from living
‘markswoman.’ in a very tough neighborhood. What sometimes destroys
one person can catapult another into great success. THIS
This being said, it’s really no surprise that this fierce- is the story of Mikey Koffman. She recalls there was a lot
ly independent and self-proclaimed “bad-ass” became the of violence where she grew up. She explains that, “having
producer of Los Angeles Fashion Weekend. It’s also not had that experience, I got the drive to never want to go
a shocker that Mikey’s full service marketing and produc- there again.” The once ambitious girl who literally put out
tion company called The Gallery LA has flourished since fires from discarded Christmas trees in her neighborhood,
she opened it in 2005. Naturally, she had no hesitation has created her own flame throughout Los Angeles and the

14 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 world. The smoke from her
personal fire is powerful. In
fact it’s almost surreal.
Keeokjay Designs
And it doesn’t stop
there. From Mikey’s debut
on the hit-reality show The
Real L Word to her sup-
port of multiple foundations
such as numerous eco-
conscious fashion design-
ers and groups to cancer
foundations, she’s rapidly
becoming Hollywood’s “IT”
girl. Sunset Gower’s VP of
Marketing, Terri Melkonian,
sums it up beautifully.
Beth Talbert Test Driving Volt “Mikey’s very charismatic…
there’s something from
within that draws people to
her. She’s very comfortable
with who she is and she
exudes that.” Her qualities
are amazing; she’s honor-
able and has an amazing
work ethic – just fantastic
to work with.” Without
question, since Mikey
started the first LAFW only
three-years-ago, it’s grown
into a red-carpet spectacle
packed with tons of sup-
porting celebrities, A-listers
and VIPS. This year’s LAFW
show was yet another hit in
what promises to be a long
The Chevy Volt career in producing memo-
rable fashion shows. Much to the audience’s delight, the show opened with a
fantastic performance by Christina Milian on Friday. And every day during the
exciting LAFW was filled with amazing fashions shows by some of LA’s most
talented and eco-friendly activists. The weekend ended with Richie Sambora
and Nikki Lund’s White Trash Beautiful fashion show collection on Sunday
evening where his daughter, Ava strutted the cat walk! Plus, this year LAFW
proudly had its first auto sponsor: Chevy’s Electric car, VOLT. Chevy’s exciting
new electronic car, VOLT, could be seen zipping around Sunset Gower’s lot
for attendees’ to test. The VOLT even goes up to 50-miles on only electric-
ity! Naturally, the VOLT’S ‘eco-friendly’ message supported the LA fashion
week’s crucial concept to ‘Go Green,’ and its proud Green Youth Movement
Sponsor (GYM).

Mikey feels “blessed” to be part of something as creative and popular as

LAFW. But, it’s all par for the course for Mikey- she keeps things fresh and
exciting through her various accomplishments. Let it be known that she will
not be returning for the second season of The Real L Word as she’s learned
the hard way that people can edit scenes to suggest she was saying or doing
things that she did not. She will be sorely missed. But without the show,
she will have more free time to do what she does best: create. Create and
move forward. She may be a “bad-ass” but if that’s so, then let it be noted
that she’s one unique bad-ass wrapped up in sweetness, humility and honesty.
Three unusual words to describe a rising star in a town where people tend
to lose themselves before they’ve even arrived. Fortunately for fashion-lovers
and reality-TV-show enthusiasts, Mikey has a firm grasp on herself and her
intentions. We just have to wait and see what she creates next. But, there
is a bit of gossip… first up, she’s turning LA Fashion Weekend into LA Fashion
Week at Sunset Gower Studios from March 13th through the 19th at Sunset
Gower Studios. The week long event will encompass a killer kick off affair
and end with a LA Fashion Week Awards Ceremony! And keep your eyes
on KTLA 5, her broadcast partner for LA Fashion Week. After hosting on air
fashion segments during LA Fashion Week, one never knows when Mikey will
pop up on the air again. The only thing certain is that we’ll be seeing a lot
more of her very soon.

For more information on The Gallery LA please visit thegalleryla.com

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 15
LA Fashion Weekend’s

16 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
Friday Night’s Swimwear Show

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 17
 White Trash Beautiful Design

Jonano Design
18 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 Mini-
red

KittO
ur M
carPet

AKEup
BAg
rEADy

$200.
Every
Woman’s
Must-Have!
Singer and actress Christina
Milian who opened Los Angeles Fashion *Jet Setter Deluxe Travel
Train Case- This is the only cosmetics
Weekend with a dazzling performance
case any woman should use while traveling!
and launched her own sunglass line at The high-end travel kit just makes sense; it
the event tells us how she gets ‘red car- contains empty bottles, jars, and more for you
pet ready!’ Here, you’ll find an inside to transfer your favorite products into that are
look at some of Christina’s fave products, all airline security approved. Say goodbye to
along with similar products that are more throwing out any of your favorite products be-
affordable! So, if you’re looking for a cause airline security say their bottles are “too
large” for carry-on luggage! Plus, it’s a per-
new “look” then go to your mirror and
fectly fashionable and functional cosmetic case
try some of these fab products! Keeping that even comes with dual-sided brushes for all
in mind, of course, that the most impor- your beauty items. The perfect carry-on case
tant rule for a gorgeous face is a smile! MACAdAMiA hEAling Oil sprAy for each woman’s important beauty products!
$200 www.minikittour.com
Christina’s a fan
CHEEKS: Christina likes using of extensions, especially
rosy colors on her cheeks. A favorite of when she’s going out
and wants a really full
OBsEssivE COMpulsivE
hers is MAC’s Chesnut blush.
‘wild’ look. She also likes COsMEtiCs “lip tAr.”
products that add a bit
of body such as Redken Christina really likes ‘lip
tar’ by Obsessive Compulsive
BEtsEy JOhnsOn twEEzErs products. Plus, her sis-
ter just introduced to Cosmetics. The one she wore
Every Woman’s Moroccan Oil. She says for her opening performance was
it gave her hair a nice ‘Memento Lip Tar’ with ‘Clear Lip
Must-Have!
shine but didn’t weigh it Tar’ on top. She says one little
*Betsey Johnson down. dab of the gloss fills your whole
Tweezers- Fashion Icon lips. “And lately I’ve been doing
Betsey Johnson partnered *Another amazing color, and I’ve found that it has
with Tweezerman to cre- hair product for shine been a way of expressing myself
ate some killer designs on and manageability is Macadamia and adding a pop of color to my
every woman’s must-have Natural Oil Healing Oil Spray. It’s a outfits.” In fact, she thinks the lip tar
item! Think roses and light oil that heals, shines and protects is “almost like a can of paint in a
skulls. Designer Series your hair and offers a frizz-free finish! little tube.” $12.50 www.occmakeup.com
Slant Tweezer Collection $24 www.macadamiahair.com
www.sephora.com $25 each.
hidE And glOw ChEEK
rs
inE

*For a more af-

El

Opi nAil pOlishEs fordable option try Hard

Ey

Candy’s Hide and Glow

Christina’s a fan
&

Cheek, duo cheek stick. $7

of Chanel eye shadow.
lip

www.walmart.com
She especially favors Like the
is

the brown tones that

rd

rest of the
pE

go deep into the crease planet, Christina

n

of the eye. Her per- likes OPI nail

lEA

fect Chanel palate napoleon polishes. She

pO

is one of peach, perdis high says the blue

nA

brown, champagne precision lip liner from the

and beige. But, she is a true treat for the Shrek col-
also likes Obsessive lips, the ideal partner to lection looks
Compulsive Cosmetic’s either a full coverage lip- incredible
eye shadows as well. The colors stick or a shiny gloss. Pro- on her nails.
used on her at LAFW opening per- tip for using a lip liner: apply Plus she says
formance were a gorgeous blend liner after-not before-you apply “there’s a can-
of Dope and Brasstacks Loose lipstick. The liner will glide on dy apple red
Colour Concentrates. The Dope smoothly, leaving a more natural *For a most affordable
that’s really sexy.”
was used on Christina’s lid and outline, and still prevent the col- lip-gloss try Hard Candy’s
www.ulta.com
blended into the crease where it or from bleeding. Their remark- Plexi Gloss, Glossy Lip Shine
prices vary
was mixed with Brasstracks for a able lip liners and exqusite eye $5 www.walmart.com
darker, smokier look. Loose Colour liners. $18 at Ulta Stores and
$12.50 www.occmakeup.com napoleonperdis.com
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 19
 TALENT

aCTREss
MElissa aNNE sMEd
NOT JusT a sMall TOWN GiRl
photo Credit: Henry Czuprinski

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 21
 Simply being “noticed” does happen to some famous actors
and models. We all have heard of the stories where people get
“discovered” eating an ice cream cone in a nonchalant way, walking CROESUS
RE A LTY
down the sidewalk, browsing the aisles of your local supermarket,
or just sitting on a park bench. And while, this may seem like the
ideal way to go about a career in the industry I can also think
of so many other stories of people living out of their cars and
eating at soup kitchens all across L.A., and NYC who came hop-
ing to strike it big just by being “noticed”. The reality is however,
that the much more efficient way of getting there is by having a Realtor
Jenny Werth
backup plan. Just like you would backup the hard-drive on your
computer or your impractical college degree – why wouldn’t you
want a backup plan in life?

Melissa Anne Smed has the idea. Born November 11, 1987 in
Waukon, Iowa, Melissa graduated from graduate school in Minnesota
with a Masters degree in acupuncture. However, always loving the

310.278.9422
spotlight, Melissa has long had dreams of one day being able to be
a famous actress. She recalls many high school plays and com-
munity theater opportunities she was given at as young as 6 years
old. “I grew up in a really small town” Melissa says, “and because
it was so small we didn’t have the same opportunities available to
us that you would in a city. But my parents were great. They sup-
ported me in everything, if I wanted to take up playing the violin or
619.871.9422
vocal lessons they would find ways for me to accomplish this. As
they did with acting, my mother used to ask around to my aunt and
older cousins to see if there was an opportunity for me to be in
the upcoming high school musical or the community play. If there
was she would make sure she was available to drive me to all of
the practices, help me with my costumes, and just generally sup-
8960 Cynthia St. #116
port me.” This love of theater continued and Melissa was actively
involved in drama as a junior high school and high school student.
She says, “I did every play possible. I was in Oklahoma, Grease,
West Hollywood,
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, MASH, The Sound
of Music, as well as so many more and I loved every second of it.”
CA 90069
She continues, “When I’m acting, I feel like I’m complete, like I am
free, and truly happy. I feel like it helps me complete a piece of
the puzzle. I don’t know how to explain it. Since I’m from a small
town, we didn’t have a big drama club, we had two productions a
year. But, we did have speech, and I was able to fulfill my need for
acting off season by participating in and winning many monologue
contests.” Melissa is a true thespian.

As for now, Melissa is talking with various agencies looking at

getting signed, and says acting is her long term career goal. She
also has just auditioned for an upcoming sitcom and continues to
do print work. She says “This is my lifelong dream, but I know
that having a college degree is good for me because it gives me
something to fall back on.”

Melissa continues, “Acting is a way for me to creatively and

passionately express myself, and it helps me deal with the day to
day hustle and bustle of life. I enjoy reading scripts and develop-
ing the character. I am and have always been a huge nerd. I love
reading fiction or non-fiction, it doesn’t matter. But, I think my
love of books has contributed to my love of acting as well.” When
I ask her who her favorite author is she replies, “Kurt Vonnegut.”
She is cerebral and curious, and yet these are the traits that make
Christina Ricci and Natalie Portman so intriguing. When I ask her
about moving to L.A. she says, “I know I have to make the move
soon and I am taking my dog Jimi with me. He is a rescue shep-
herd mix, named after one of my biggest idols Sir Jimi Hendrix.”

Contact info:
Melissa anne smed “One Call
uEM Management Does It All”
(310)836-2446
Email:[email protected]

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 23
24 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 there are certain peo-
ple you meet who possess
that “it” quality and celebri-
ty factor--people who have
that effervescent, natural
way about them who you
immediately want to get to
know. i had the pleasure of
encountering one of those
people in the muse of ac-
tress cat limket. the gor-
geous 22-year-old texas
beauty has that rare com-
bination of a humor, wit
and tons of magnetic ap-
peal. the multicultural ac-
tress who is part hawaiian
spanish, filipino and Polish
shares her story with
hollywood weekly. we

aCTREss discuss her growing suc-

CaT liMkET
cess and what keeps her
grounded and happy.
thank you for speaking

down Home Charm

with hollywood weekly. it is
a pleasure to be here.

Written By Toria Gaylord

HW: i uNdERsTaNd yOu So because of my culture, I am a bad

driver and can whip up a great luau
WHEN did yOu Fall iN
COME FROM a VERy di- (laughs).
lOVE WiTH aCTiNG?
VERsE BaCkGROuNd. When I was a little, I was that kid

I was born and raised in Dallas,

HW: i kNOW yOu HaVE who was annoying with adults (laughs).

my mother is Hawaiian/Spanish/ BEEN dOiNG pROFEs- For instance, when I went shopping with
my mother, I would go up to complete
Filipino/Thai, and my father is Polish.
siONal plays siNCE strangers and start to make up stories.
I guess that was my first introduction

HW: WHaT Was iT likE THE aGE OF 14 suCH into acting. I had an active imagina-
tion. Because of this, I performed in

FOR yOu GROWiNG up? as Guys aNd dOlls, many plays when I was a kid. In middle
school, I was rebellious and always get-
FiddlER ON THE ROOF, ting into trouble. I had a lot of energy
so a drama teacher suggested I try
I was really lucky. I grew up with
an innate respect for other cultures OuR TOWN, aNd THE out for a school play and I really en-
joyed it.
and it opened my eyes to the world.
BEVERly HillBilliEs.
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 25
HW: You also start- wrote about his experience. My charac-
ter is Nutty Nancy who is smart-ass with
I would have to say the remake
of Alfred Hitchcock with Tippi Hedren
ed modeling in high a ton of issues. I call this movie Sex in
the City for men.
in, “The Birds.” That movie is a classic
and you know Tippy was not the typical
school. Can you talk They are all ex military guys deal-
helpless woman, she was a take-charge
kind of woman and I love that.
about that experi- ing with their love lives.

ence? HW: What was your

At 17, I was walking through a mall HW: You are set to most challenging
in Texas and a scout approached me
and asked if I was interested. My very play a large sup- role?
first job was an ad for a JC Penny’s.
Then when I turned 19, I had the oppor- porting role in a I did a movie called, “A River
tunity to go to New York and live in a
model house for about six months. dramatic feature, Runs Red,” which was about a group of
friends from a small town and I played
which is to be set the leader of this girl group who was
schizophrenic. I really had to push my-
HW: Was it like the and filmed in New self to get into my character.

house on America’s York in the next few

Next Top Model? months. HW: What do you do in
It was a little like that but we also Yes, it is a movie called, “Fondest
your spare time?
had guys who lived in the house too. Memories.” It is a great script. I play
a girl who is the main characters best I love to work out and I am anal
It was the best time of my life but the
friend. I am really happy and excited with organization, especially with my
lifestyle was crazy. I mean you are so
because it has been my dream to film a closets. I love outdoorsy things. I love
young and have a lot of access and
movie in New York. going to Runyon, going to local fairs
money in New York City. So we would
and going to the beach. I love to cook! I
spend our days going to fashion go-
watch Rachel Ray and get my cook on.
sees and the nights partying.
HW: Whom do you
HW: How did you admire? HW: Where do you see
transition from Well I love Cate Blanchett and
yourself in 5 years?
modeling back into Anna Farris. Mila Jovovich is hot and
can kick butt too. Meryl Streep is so I want to be able to make a living
in this industry. I want to get that Oscar.
acting? amazing and classic and I love Angelina
Jolie. I admired these women because of I would love to start my own organiza-
tion working with animals. I want to be
their diversity. For me, I do not want to
My modeling agent in New York be type casted in this industry. able to bring my Mom and brother here
would send me on commercial audi- in LA. If I can have a sustainable career
tions and met a girl who turned me on here and have my family close by, I will
be happy.
to Stella Adler, so I studied with Stella
for a while. However, for me, the whole HW: How much do you
New York acting scene was more theater
and I wanted to do film and felt like I
draw on your own
needed to live in Los Angeles.
experiences when
you act?
HW: Your first lead- I base so much of my acting on
ing role is in a fea- my own experiences. I think that acting

ture called “A Para- is being able to convince people you are

that person.

dise of Bachelors”
which is set to debut HW: If you could star
November 2011. Can in a re-make of a
you tell us about classical film, who Contact Info: Ms.Cat Limket

the film? would you want to UEM Management (310)836-2446

email:[email protected]
It is the brainchild of James play?
Bretney who served in the military and

26 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 actress/Model:

sHaR MONROE

Contact:uEM
Management:(310)836-2446
email:[email protected]
[email protected]

photo Credit: patrick Bastien photography

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 27
Voda Spa
A Creative Synthesis
for the New Century
“I
for creating Voda Spa has been to
f you can do it in West combine the best of what he has seen
Hollywood, you can do it anywhere.”  with the best of what he hasn’t.
This statement uttered by Glenn
One innovation is Voda’s cafe
Dellimore, former COO and Director
and fully licensed bar, where clients
of Business Development for Voda Spa
often linger for many hours.  The ca-
(7700 Santa Monica Boulevard), reflects
fe’s American and Russian dishes are
a sentiment commonly held in a city
equally delicious, while the juice bar
known for the diverse and demanding
serves up some of the finest smoothies
nature of its consumers.  But for Leon
this writer has yet tasted in Southern
Shparaga, one of Voda’s six Russian
California.
owners, the unique challenges posed
by his US clientele are just business Food and drink quell the raven-
as usual. ous hunger and thirst sometimes expe-
rienced by clients who choose the spa’s
Mr. Shparaga emigrated to
signature banya platza treatment, which
America in 1980 at the age of nine. 
is modeled on practices going back to
Like so many West Hollywood resi-
the time of Tsar Peter the Great.  In
dents, he and his family appreciate
combination with visits to the sauna
the chance to grow with our young
and pool, leafy oak branches imported
community.
from Russia (venik) are soaked in water
Shparaga’s enthusiasm for the and gently applied to the body.  The
city is matched by his extensive knowl- euphoric process is said to draw out
edge of spas, which he has visited all impurities, improve circulation, and re-
over Europe and the USA.  His method fresh the spirit.

28 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 Additional services include fa-
cials, massages, salon treatments,
and scrubs and wraps.  The deep
tissue “Russian Bear” massage re-
stores strength to forearms, wrists,
necks, and shoulders. 

For a $50 fee one may use

the 15,000-square-foot Voda facility
for up to four hours.  The outdoor
sun patio, lounge/meeting room,
and VIP suite may be rented for
a variety of purposes.  The spa is
open for service 365 days per year. 
A sophisticated blend of ancient
traditions and modern trends, Voda
Spa is a luxurious sanctuary that
surrounds the client in an oasis of
comfort.

Voda Spa has a cosmopoli-

tan ambience that reflects cultures
from across the globe. The concern
and respect for the individual rarely
encountered during these difficult
times permeate the spa’s atmo-
sphere like the therapeutic steam
from its four specialty saunas. The
spa wipes all traces of Mayakovsky’s
Soviet-era banya philistines from
memory. Born during a time of cri-
sis in true Russian fashion, Voda
Spa embodies a timeless American
vision of quality and value.

30 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 WORLD

yotam solomon (Native american Collection)

photo Courtesy of The salon by Maxime salvador for

“the language
of friendship
uganda Family is not words
but meanings.”
photo Credit: april davis

-Henry david Thoreau

Giving Thanks
Written by dr. laura Wilhelm
lauraWil intercultural
for Globalization
32 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
T
hanksgiving has always been earth and our elders.  For several years provided entertainment in the form of 
one of my favorite holidays.  This my father’s grandmother made it her “Hava Nagilah” and other world clas-
classic model of intercultural col- mission to fly out from her home in sics played on the acoustic keyboard.
laboration suggests endless new the frozen Northern Midwest to spend
applications for today’s globalizing Thanksgiving with my free-wheeling On Thanksgiving many Americans
economy. Southern California family. make it a tradition to give donations
of food and funds to global families
Most American school chil- Great Grandma enjoyed sharing much like our own.  Groups such as
dren have participated in pageants her family Thanksgiving recipes with us Designers 4 Africa work year round
dressed as Pilgrims and Indians sit- all and proudly spent hours assembling to alleviate hunger and other poverty-
ting down together at an autumn feast elaborate centerpieces made with dried related conditions.  In LA charity of-
of Thanksgiving in 1621.  The Pilgrim gourds and Indian corn combined with ten begins in our own back yard with
colony was nearly devastated until the fresh berries and greenery from our holiday donations to homeless shelters
Indians arrived to assist it through the back yard.  The pairing of the old with and other community organizations.
long first winter. the new is what makes Thanksgiving
such a meaningful holiday for most of On October 19th a lively group
The Native Americans’ welcoming us. gathered for an intercultural feast
committee included English translators at the RUNGLISH book signing co-
named Samoset and Squanto who had Bicultural director Gurinder hosted by my company with author
mastered the language through living Chadha’s film WHAT’S COOKING?  Nina Naydenova at West Hollywood’s
and working with white settlers. (2000) insightfully portrays Thanksgiving Russian/American Voda Spa.  The
Day as filtered through the diverse per- guests on our list boasted descent
Furthermore, the Native Americans ceptions of four families in Los Angeles’ from Africa, Asia, and the Middle East
taught the new Americans to fish, hunt, Fairfax District.  I have had even more as well as Russia and Eastern Europe. 
and plant using sustainable methods uproarious Thanksgiving experiences in America has branched out in so many
that made the most of precious natural this city. fascinating directions since that mo-
resources.  All parts of both plants and mentous Thanksgiving Day in 1621.
animals were used for clothing, hous- At one Thanksgiving potluck
ing, and implements as well as food.  I was greeted by the Iranian securi- In these times of transition we
I know eco-friendly fashion designers ty guard at the mid-Wilshire campus are all pilgrims whose lives may depend
who have based entire collections upon of LA ORT where I sometimes teach upon our dealings with the natives. We
these timeless Native American styles. ESL.  “It’s a good thing to be friendly, can all survive if we trust each other
obviously,” he observed while adding enough to pay it forward and pool our
Our American Thanksgiving feast some kebabs to the sumptuous inter- skills and resources. Global conscious-
is based upon age-old harvest tradi- national feast spread out in the stu- ness is always something to be thank-
tions that respect the wisdom of the dent lounge.  One of his countrymen ful for.

Photo Credit: Nina Naydenova

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 33
 LITERATURE

The West Hollywood Book Signing of

RUNGLISH
Is a Multi-Cultural Hit!! Written By Jenny Werth

W e all know there’s a portion of West Hollywood

referred to as “little Russia.” But what many of don’t know
is the fascinating way the Russian and English language has
been combined to create a “new” language called Runglish.
The book offers a fascinating peek into the Russian commu-
nity and the way it’s being transformed. Author of Runglish,
Nina Naydenova and co-host for the book signing, Laura
Wilhelm from the famed Laura Wihelm Intercultural business
development services, both took some time out to chat
about the book and the story behind it.

The book is making quite an impact throughout the

world. And that point was made clear at the October
book signing held at Voda Spa in West Hollywood where
there were two distinguished guests: David Zucker of the
renowned Hollywood Zucker family and George Luchiri
Wajackoyah, 2012 candidate for the presidency of Kenya.
Watch the Runglish video at http://www.youtube.com/
watch?v=g9p5pX7XXFg. For more information visit www.
NinaNaydenova.buildlastingsuccess.com or www.NYSE.com

Q & A with the author Nina Naydenova Nina Naydenova

in one book called RUNGLISH. It’s fascinating to know that

HW: What inspired you to create only among the Russian population can Runglish be used as
a funny and humorous element in communication. Some
this book? countries actually ban the use of mixed languages, but in
Russia it is very popular and entertaining.
The English language and cultural differences between
America and Russia have always interested me. I was al-
ways curious about language development and its cognition.
Since becoming a translator I have noticed how cultural
HW: How do you hope the public
differences impact the translation from English into Russian will receive the book?
and vice versa.
I hope it will bring about awareness of what’s tak-
When I moved to America it was hard not to notice ing place right now and how Runglish impacts the Russian
how Russian people really speak English, in Russian commu- language and its development. We really need to work on
nities especially. I started to do some research and came being more proactive about preserving our culture and lan-
across the term “Runglish.” This became the official term in guage. Being a parent of a two-year-old daughter, I’d like
outer space between Russian and American astronauts for to address my book to parents as well with the message to
the first time back in 2000 to ease their communication on teach their kids their native language. It’s the biggest gift
board the spacecrafts. you can give them. Never forget where you came from.
The misuse of English and Russian mixed together and I don’t deny the fact that the use of Runglish can be
abuse of Runglish was obvious. I was surprised to find that really funny. I’m not presenting myself as an idol of a per-
there was a lot of information out there on Runglish but that fect Russian-speaking individual and can appreciate laughter
nobody had written anything about it in one book. and humor. However, I also care about the Russian lan-
All I did was document the Runglish phenomenon, guage and its development and progression in opposed to
which is a fact in America and Russia, by putting everything regression with the help of Runglish at some point.

34 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
Q & A with Laura Wilhelm
HW: How did you be-
come interested in the
Russian language?
I have been a voracious bibliophile
practically since birth and read the clas-
sics of Russian literature early in life. I
actually wanted to major in French when I
took it in high school, but Russian seemed
like a more versatile field of study when
I entered Reed College in 1983. I gradu-
ated with honors from the U of Kansas in
Laura Wilhelm and Nina Naydenova
1994 with a doctorate in Russian language
and literature and now run a global busi-
ness development company for speakers
of Russian and English called LauraWil
Intercultural. I have therefore been work-
ing with Russian in one way or another
since the 1970s and the RUNGLISH pro-
motion is one of the most enjoyable of
these by far!!

HW: How did you meet

Nina?
I met Nina when the City of West
Hollywood’s Russian community liaison
sent me a notice about her first RUNGLISH
book signing at the Pacific Design Center
on August 14th. I attended this event
and arranged with Nina to help promote
her book since we share so many inter-
ests concerning Russian language, litera-
ture, and culture

HW: How do you feel

about the book?
I love everything about this book
and that is why I am working so hard to
promote it. Some of my favorite subjects
in grad school were stylistics and applied
sociolinguistics, but there is much more
to this than that. My neuroscientist fa-
ther was a product of the Russian space
race when the former Soviet Union was
still the Evil Empire, and the Cold War
continued to my generation of Russian
scholars. The genesis of “Runglish” in
outer space by Russian and American
NASA cosmonauts at the turn of this cen-
tury is a perfect example of how people
are able to transcend perceived barriers
when joined to a higher purpose. If I
had met little Nina when I started study-
ing Russian in the 1980s we would have
automatically been enemies, yet now we
have found it so easy to become friends.
Enough said.

www.facebook.com/pages/West-Hollywood-CA/LauraWil-Intercultural/80551218508 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 35

 60 beers | full bar | kitchen
6683 hollywood blvd | 323-460-6608 | www.essexhollywood.com 7 days 11:30am-2am

36 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
 Shaun Twiddy

New Talent
Aloha, meet 10-year-
old Shaun Twiddy
from Hawaii

He is an actor, model,
singer, ukulele player,
bowler and aspiring
director.

By the first grade, he

had already gotten
a role as an extra on
“Lost.” Shaun was
very curious about
how television shows
are produced, and how
the cameramen and
Hair color: black director work.
Eye color: brown Shaun’s agent believes
Height: 4’ 6” Shaun will be the next
Ron Howard because
Weight: 62 lbs of this. He also likes
being in front of the
camera and meeting
Cell: (808) 368-7993 new friends.

[email protected]

email: [email protected] (310) 836-2446 Beverly Hills (773) 973-1251 Chicago

ADVERTISE WITH HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY!

(32 3 ) 9 6 5 - 0 5 5 5
HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 37
 THEATER

la THEaTRE BEaT
We’re all still drying off from the un-
BY STEVE ZALL AND SID FISH

seasonably wet weather we have “night of January 16” is a gripping courtroom

drama loosely based on the career (and death) of Ivan
been having lately, but don’t put away Kreuger, the Swedish “Match King” who made and lost a
those umbrellas just yet, because out fortune in business. It leaves the answers of the mystery
up to the jury chosen each night from the audience who
local theatres are about to unleash a selects the ending of the play. Written by Ayn Rand and
directed by Charles Picerni, it runs through November 14
deluge of new shows, such as: at the Odyssey Theatre in West Los Angeles. For tickets
call 310-477-2055 or visit www.odysseytheatre.com.
“Annie” is the musical story of a spunky Depression-
era orphan determined to find the parents who abandoned “pippin” young prince Pippin longs to discover the
her on the doorstep of a New York City orphanage. In ad- secret of true happiness and fulfillment, seeking it in the
venture after fun-filled adventure, Annie, along with Sandy, glories of the battlefield, the temptations of the flesh and
her trusty canine companion, foils Miss Hannigan’s cruel the intrigues of political power, after disposing of his fa-
machinations, befriends President Franklin Delano Roosevelt ther, King Charlemagne the Great. Based on two real-life
and finds a new family in the home of billionaire Oliver individuals of the early Middle Ages, this musical is surreal
Warbucks. Written by Thomas Meehan and directed by and disturbing, sinister and modern, and invites you to
Steven Glaudini, it runs through November 14 at the Long take part in a voyage that is the dark side of your mind
Beach Center for the Performing Arts in Long Beach. For and self-awareness. Music and Lyrics by Stephen Schwartz,
tickets call 562-856-1999 or visit www.musical.org. and directed by Hallie Baran, it runs through November
21 at the Hudson Backstage Theatre in Hollywood. For
“diving normal” edgy and explosive comedic drama tickets call 323-960-5773 or visit www.plays411.com/
that explores friendship and love between three twenty- pippin.
somethings as they swim from stability to recklessness,
and back again, in a time ruled by temptation and indif-
ference. Their dark histories of abandonment, accident,
and sexual deviation surface as they struggle toward the
comforting uniformity of traditional relationships. Written
by Ashlin Halfnight and directed by Neil H. Weiss, it runs
through November 14 at SFS Theatre in Hollywood. For
tickets call 323-960-5521 or visit www.plays411.com/
divingnormal.

“hyperbole: Origins” a celebratory theatrical event

that examines ancient and modern stories of origin as
myths and science collide with masks, puppets, music
and cutting-edge technology to create an exhilarating ex-
perience. SEE the amazing Origin Machine© and experi-
ence the fantastic Origin-torium©! It’s the birth of the
universe - live on stage. Directed by Sean T. Cawelti, it
“Becky shaw” A newly married couple finds their runs through December 12 at [Inside] the Ford Theatre in
own relationship on the rocks after they set up their friends Hollywood. For tickets call 323-461-3673 or visit www.
on a date from where Becky, a needy, down-on-her-luck Fordtheatres.org.
college dropout whose one date with mean-spirited Max
sets off shockwaves in the lives of her colleague Andrew “the Ohio 4th” an up and coming theater company
and his bride, Suzanna. Further complicating matters is has relocated to Marion, Ohio to produce a play celebrat-
Suzanna’s say-anything mother, Susan, who may be dat- ing the life and legacy of hometown hero and 29th U.S.
ing a con artist. Written by Gina Gionfriddo and directed President Warren G. Harding. Despite romantic tensions
by Pam MacKinnon, it runs through November 21 at the among the cast, opening night is shaping up to an unex-
South Coast Repertory in the Folino Theater Center in pected success, that is, until the company members find
Costa Mesa. For tickets call 714-708-5555 or visit www. themselves with an unwieldy dilemma and discover the first
scr.org. problem of the night is by no means the last. Written by

38 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY
Daniel Shoenmann and directed by Annie McVey, it runs by Lorraine Hansberry and directed by Lou Bellamy, it runs
through November 21 at the Hudson Mainstage Theatre in November 17 through November 21 at L.A. Theatre Works
Hollywood. For tickets call 323-960-7714 or visit www. at the Skirball Cultural Center in Los Angeles. For tickets
plays411.com/ohio4th. call 310-827-0889 or visit www.latw.org.

“watson” is the story of a good man trapped in the

shadow of a great man - a funny, moving and theatrically
innovative take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s heroes and
“the Autumn garden” in a guest house on the villains. Written and directed by Jaime Robledo, it runs
Gulf, a hundred miles from New Orleans, old friends gather November 5 through December 11 at the Sacred Fools
in a summer home to rediscover connections, rekindle Theater in Hollywood. For tickets call 310-281-8337 or
lost relationships, and find peace - only to find that they visit www.sacredfools.org.
can’t rewrite the stories of their past. Written by Lillian
Hellman and directed by Larry Biederman, it runs through
December 19 at The Antaeus Company at Deaf West
Theatre in North Hollywood. For tickets call 818-506-
1983 or visit www.Antaeus.org

“laughing with My Mouth wide Open” Actress/

musician Gwendoline Yeo (Desperate Housewives) in a
sharply observed and riotously funny celebration of her
“Bloody red heart” Real L.A. teens explode the cultural journey from Singapore to America, and from
puffy pink heart stereotype in a stage adaptation of the family identity to self-identity and womanhood, during
bestselling book of essays, “RED: Teenage Girls in America which she accompanies herself on the Chinese long zither
Write on What Fires up Their Lives Today” with additional . Written by Gwendoline Yeo and directed by Mark St.
personal stories from L.A. public high school students. Amant, it runs November 20 through December 19 at the
Every word is written by real teenagers: the girls in the El Centro Theatre in Hollywood. For tickets call 800-838-
book, ages 13 to 19, and local students. Based on the 3006 or visit www.brownpapertickets.com
book “RED: Teenage Girls in America Write On What Fires
Up Their Lives Today” by Amy Goldwasser, adapted for the
stage by Tom Bryant and Amy Goldwasser, and directed
by Leslie Ferreira, it runs November 4 through November
21 at the Odyssey Theatre in Los Angeles. For tickets call
310-477-2055 or visit www.Odysseytheatre.com.
so go out and enjoy some real
“A raisin in the sun” is the gripping and explosive life singing in the rain tonight
tale of one family living and learning together on the
South Side of Chicago in the 1950s, as the Younger fam- with all of the family, and have
ily searches for a way to grab their piece of the dream,
even in the face of prejudice and discrimination. Written a happy Thanksgiving!

HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY 39
40 HOLLYWOOD WEEKLY