Monday, July 7

Theater review: ‘Aladdin’ offers magic carpet ride through enchanting vocals, humorous dialogue

“Aladdin” is granting audiences far more than three wishes to come true. Based on Disney’s 1992 animated film, the hit Broadway musical “Aladdin” has returned to Los Angeles, parading a fresh yet familiar approach to the Academy Award-winning comedy. Read more...

Photo: Senzel Ahmady (left) and Adi Roy (right) star as Princess Jasmine and Aladdin in “Aladdin,” respsectively. Based on Disney’s 1992 animated film, the musical will have a limited run at the Hollywood Pantages Theatre through Sept. 23. (Courtesy of Deen van Meer/Disney)



David and Mark Kaplan to honor families in music with The Da Camera Society

This father-son duo will hit new notes in September. David Kaplan, an assistant professor in the Herb Alpert School of Music, and his father Mark Kaplan, a previous UCLA professor with distinction, will play in The Da Camera Society of Mount Saint Mary’s University’s 50th anniversary season opener Sept. Read more...

Photo: Herb Alpert School of Music assistant professor David Kaplan (left) and his father Mark Kaplan (right) pose together with their instruments. The chamber musician duo will perform together Sunday as part of the 50th anniversary season opener of the Da Camera Society of Mount Saint Mary’s University. (Courtesy of Dario Acosta)


Album review: Olivia Rodrigo’s ‘GUTS’ soars with snark, self-reflection and social critique

From daringly cheeky lyrics to vulnerable vocals, Olivia Rodrigo has proved she has guts. 20-year-old pop sensation Olivia Rodrigo’s newest album, “GUTS,” presents an ambivalent picture of sarcasm and sensitivity, a mix inherent to growing up. Read more...

Photo: Lying on a purple backdrop, Olivia Rodrigo bites her thumb and displays four rings spelling out the title “GUTS” on the cover of her newest album. Released Sept. 8, the singer-songwriter’s sophomore album includes the singles “vampire” and “bad idea right?” – a power ballad and retro-inspired pop anthem, respectively. (Courtesy of Geffen Records)


Q&A: Tessa Violet conveys her hopes for the in-person tour of her album ‘MY GOD!’

Tessa Violet is connecting with her fans when the curtain falls. Singer-songwriter Tessa Violet rose to fame for her pop anthems “Crush” and “BAD BITCH” and the viral TikTok trend “YES MOM.” Following the recent release of her latest studio album “MY GOD!,” Violet will take the stage in Los Angeles at The Fonda Theatre on Wednesday as a part of her North American tour. Read more...

Photo: Tessa Violet holds her hand up to her head while donning a bedazzled, neon pink mesh bodysuit. The “Crush” singer will perform at The Fonda Theatre this Wednesday for the tour of her latest album, “MY GOD!” (Courtesy of Sarah Pardini)


Q&A: Laura Picklesimer discusses upcoming LA Greek life satirical novel

This post was updated Sept. 27 at 8:22 p.m. All is fair in “Kill for Love.” Set among the murky expectations of Greek life, satirical thriller “Kill for Love” follows a protagonist who finds release from her surrounding environment upon the act of murder. Read more...

Photo: Laura Picklesimer looks into the camera. The alumnus’ debut novel is planned to release Sept. 5. (Courtesy of Grace Fell)


How dance team ROOT[D branches out while staying true to South Asian roots

The fusion dance team ROOT[D is embracing its South Asian roots. Formed in 2019, ROOT[D is one of UCLA’s only South Asian dance groups that focuses on fusion dance styles. Read more...

Photo: ROOT[D dancers gather together dressed in traditional clothing, forming a gradient from blue to red. The South Asian fusion dance team hosts an annual Mock Mehndi on campus, which is open to all students. (Courtesy of Ilan Berdy)