LA Shows To See For Valentine's Day 2013
Once a year couples young and old, new and settled, celebrate romance. It's Valentine's Day again, and these five top choices for the celebration bring together all the themes of the day of romance. From jazz to popular music, to a play or movie, these choices offer less than serious entertainment on the most serious subject of all – love.
The Gift
Gil Cates Theater
The Geffen Playhouse
10886 Le Conte Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90024
(310) 208-5454
Price: $45 to $70
www.geffenplayhouse.com
Two vacationing couples, one middle aged and successful, the other both struggling artists, meet and become friends only to collide in a moral dilemma. Australian playwright Joanna Murray-Smith imports this comedic look at parenting, social class and art to America. This lighthearted, yet serious, play is perfect for committed couples seeking new horizons. The two couples, after a life-threatening boat accident, struggle over "the gift" and its implications. In the end, few answers surface, but the wry humor gives perspective, leaving a better sense of what is truly important in life and love. The show runs from Feb. 12 through 28 except Mondays.
Backbeat
The Ahmanson Theatre
135 N Grand Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 972-4400
Price: $30 to $110
www.centertheatregroup.org
Before the British Invasion of the 60s and the musical revolution it inspired, the Beatles were five struggling musicians on the verge of defining love and romance to a new generation. Directed by five-time Tony Award nominee David Leveaux, "Backbeat" recounts the early years when the working-class boys from Liverpool struggled with life and music. Theater goers will quickly recognize the themes and beats of many early versions of the music that brought rock 'n' roll to the mainstream. The show runs from Feb. 12 through 28 except Mondays.
The Sauce – Improv Comedy
Hutch's BBQ
390 E Walnut St.
Pasadena, CA 91101
(323) 359-8588
Price: $5.00 cover charge, $7 at the door
Hours: Feb. 16, 7:30 p.m.
www.theimprovtrick.com
At Pasadena's iconic Hutch's BBQ, couples will enjoy Jamaican and traditional dishes cooked over the coals while improvisational comedy takes over the evening. Perfect for new couples or a first date, this over-the-top entertainment interacts with the audience to set the comedic tone and plot. Hosted by Bill Chott, this hour of raucous mischief with new and established comedians is sure to break the ice.
Related: Best Comedy Clubs In Los Angeles
When Harry Met Sally
Electric Dusk Drive-In
240 W 4th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90013
(818) 653-8591
Price: $10, $13 (cash only) at the gate
Hours: Feb 14, 8 p.m.
www.electricduskdrivein.com
See the 1989 romantic film comedy "When Harry Met Sally" in the all-American drive-in tradition. This soon to be classic movie is all about natural attraction and it's a perfect Valentine's Day gift. Directed by Rob Reiner, staring Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal, the story is one of friendship turned romance. Reiner deals with several concepts of popular culture. Although it is a comedy, after a night at the drive-in moviegoers will come away closer knowing not everything in love is to be taken seriously.
Fowler Out Loud: Valentine's Day With Andy Martinez
UCLA Fowler Museum
308 Charles E. Young Drive North
Los Angeles, CA 90095
(310) 825-4361
Price: Free
Hours: Feb. 14, 6 p.m.
www.fowler.ucla.edu
With the wealth of America's jazz tradition, singer Andy Martinez takes this Valentine's Day to bring back classic romance. Couples will be treated to soothing melodies ideal for this special day. Fowler Museum continues its tradition of public programming with this new and upcoming artist. The Fowler, once again, brings education and entertainment together enriching all who come.
Related: The Best Places for Live Jazz And Blues In Los Angeles
Robert Cuthbert is a freelance writer covering all things Los Angeles. His work can be found on Examiner.com.
