Sunny Southern California knows a thing or two about entertainment, so it’s no surprise that May’s ‘to do’ list is more of a ‘must-do’ list. This city has a knack for taking something extraordinary in its own right and upping the ante to make it truly extravagant. From an orchestral performance of Hans Zimmer’s greatest hits (in a candlelit ballroom, no less) to a Mexican wrestling-cum-burlesque themed tequila party, these are the top things to do in L.A. this month.
Hollywood Forever Cemetery Season Premiere – Se7en
Balmy LA nights are upon us, which means so is the Hollywood Forever Cemetery’s summer film screening season. What better film to open with than David Fincher’s Se7en. Led by an all star cast including Brad Pitt, Morgan Freeman, and Gwyneth Paltrow, the iconic 1996 thriller tells the story of two police officers attempting to catch a serial killer whose crimes are inspired by the seven deadly sins. The film’s brooding atmosphere alone was enough to place David Fincher on the map. For those lucky enough to experience Se7en for the first time, the twist is up there with the greatest of the silver screen.
When? 26 May, 2024
Where? The Hollywood Forever Cemetery
How much? $22
Netflix is a Joke Fest
From May 1st to May 12th, Netflix is bringing back the marathon Netflix is a Joke Festival. Of all the streaming services, Netflix has established itself as the leader of comedy specials so it’s no wonder that the lineup includes comedy’s biggest giants… and Kevin Hart. Other big hitters include Jerry Seinfeld, Tom Segura, Bill Burr, Trevor Noah, and Seth Rogen featuring Snoop Dogg, because why wouldn’t Seth Rogen feature Snoop Dogg? Out of all of the 330 comics this year, we’ve got our eye on the stylish and self-deprecating John Mulaney. Mulaney’s tales of self loathing are both hysterical and make us feel better about our own choices by comparison. “As you process and digest how obnoxious, wasteful, and unlikeable that story is, just remember… That’s one I’m willing to tell you.”
When? 1-12 May, 2024
Where? Los Angeles, California
How much? Prices vary
Candlelight Spring: The Best of Hans Zimmer
The Biltmore in downtown Los Angeles opened its doors in 1923 at the beginning of Hollywood’s Golden Age. Its opulent architecture and grandeur made it the perfect setting to host the Oscars in the 1930s and it remains an iconic venue to this day. Discover it for yourself with a special string quartet performance of Hans Zimmer’s best pieces, illuminated by thousands of candles. The setlist is expected to include crowd favourites such as the “Time” from Inception, the “Cornfield Chase” from Interstellar, and the moving, heroic theme of Gladiator.
When? 24 May, 2024
Where? The Biltmore Hotel
How much? From $50.50
Neon Brush
Neon Brush isn’t kidding itself. It’s as much a drinking party as it is a painting party. Set in a fluorescent room, the colours – and champagne – just pop. Fortunately, there are no mistakes in art, because if there were, they would be glaringly and hilariously obvious in this environment. But that’s where the liquid courage comes in handy. Whether you’re a stick figure aficionado or a resident artist at MoMA, all levels are welcome. Drinks, supplies and coaching are all provided so all you need to bring is your imagination.
When? 17-19 May, 2024
Where? Hollywood, California
How much? $44
Seth Macfarlane at Vibrato
Considering that Seth Macfarlane voices dozens of characters in several of television history’s most successful cartoons, it shouldn’t come as any surprise that he’s also achieved mastery of his singing voice. To say that he’s inspired by Sinatra wouldn’t do it justice as he actually tracked down Frank’s vocal coaches and studied with them for ten years. He and his big band will be taking the stage at Vibrato, one of L.A.’s most alluring jazz clubs complete with exemplary acoustics. In a world where so many of today’s chart topping singers try to hit every note under the sun, listening to Seth hold one beautiful and solitary note à la Frank is refreshing.
When? 3 May and 23 May, 2024
Where? Vibrato Jazz Grill
How much? From $195
Lucha VaVoom
“Warning. Despite enhanced spectator shielding measures, wrestlers still may fly into the spectator area.” While this may have come as a deterrent to some, it spurred us forward with great encouragement. To be clear, this isn’t just wrestling. This is Lucha VaVoom, the Mexican Lucha Libre and burlesque dancing spectacular. We wouldn’t blame you if the first things that came to mind were either the gimmicks of the WWE or the goofiness of Nacho Libre, but this is built from different stock. Having been around for over twenty years, one of the constants in all of the reviews is admiration for the athleticism, both in the dancers as well as the wrestlers. “Sexo y violencia.”
When? 29-30 May, 2024
Where? The Mayan
How much? From $45
Luna Luna
In 1987, Austrian Artist André Heller created the world’s first art amusement park in Hamburg, Germany. Featuring rides and attractions designed by Basquiat, Dali, Keith Haring, David Hockney, Lichtenstein, and many more, this was a marvel unlike any other. Even the musical accompaniment was unparalleled, with the likes of Miles Davis and Philip Glass providing the soundtracks for the ferris wheel and pavilion respectively. Due to a change in ownership and the ensuing litigation, the exhibit was shut and locked in shipping containers for almost forty years. The art park became the best-kept secret in art history. Until now. This “forgotten fantasy” will be open until 12th May in downtown Los Angeles featuring a collection of art by giants of the industry in their prime.
When? Until 12 May 2024
Where? Downtown Los Angeles
How much? From $30
Breathwork Ice Bath Class
In a city so consistently summery that the palm trees are wrapped in Christmas lights during the holidays, an ice bath always sounds refreshing. Although Wim Hof and cold plunges have taken the world by icy storm, Remedy Place in West Hollywood has exploded in popularity. Founder Dr. Jonathan Leary believes in educating people in order to help them heal themselves. They don’t just have a plunge pool and cryo chambers. They also offer a class that teaches holotropic breathwork before the plunge. Remedy Place takes healing practices and makes them more effective.
When? Ongoing
Where? Remedy Place
How much? $50
For more L.A. highlights, check out our pick of the city's best rooftop bars...
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