Posted on by James Kampas

Mozart’s Requiem at the Hollywood Bowl

Sept. 4, 2025 - LA Philharmonic and LA Master Chorale on stage.
Sept. 4, 2025 – The LA Philharmonic and LA Master Chorale.

Last night’s concert at the Hollywood Bowl was an unforgettable evening. The Los Angeles Philharmonic, led by guest conductor James Gaffigan, delivered an awe-inspiring performance of Mozart‘s “Requiem in D Minor,” featuring the celebrated Los Angeles Master Chorale. The first half of the program was also impressive, with a new LA Phil commission by Ellen Reid titled “Body Cosmic” followed by Brahms‘s moving “Schicksalslied” (Song of Destiny). It’s a truly amazing venue for a concert under the stars, and it brought back great memories of my summer working there back in 1993. Nights like these are what make the Hollywood Bowl so special.

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Paul Taylor Dance Company

Paul Taylor Dance Company
June 20, 2021 – Paul Taylor Dance Company in a striking sunset lift.

I’ve seen the Paul Taylor Dance Company a few times before, but last night felt special. It was the first public event we’ve attended since the COVID outbreak. The performance took place outdoors on the Music Center plaza, with seats spaced out so we all felt reasonably safe. The Paul Taylor Dance Company is one of America’s most influential modern dance troupes. Founded in 1954 by legendary choreographer Paul Taylor, the company is known for its dynamic blend of lyrical movement, athleticism, and theatrical flair. It was comforting to do something that felt normal again.

Posted on by James Kampas

An Exotic Encounter in San Marino

July 13, 2020 - A Red-whiskered Bulbul at Huntington Gardens.
July 13, 2020 – A Red-whiskered Bulbul.

While wandering through Huntington Gardens in San Marino today, I spotted an unexpected guest among the tropical foliage—a Red-whiskered Bulbul. With its striking black crest, white cheeks, and unmistakable red patch behind the eye, it was a vivid splash of color and character. These birds aren’t native to California—they come from Asia—but a small population has made a home in the Los Angeles area.

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Greystone Mansion

Greystone Mansion
March 8, 2011 – Exploring one of Beverly Hills’ best-kept secrets.

Tucked away in the hills of Beverly Hills, the grounds of Greystone Mansion and Gardens are a quiet gem—a serene escape where manicured lawns, stately architecture, and trickling fountains offer a rare sense of calm. When we lived nearby, I’d often find myself wandering its peaceful courtyards and shaded pathways. It quickly became one of my favorite respites from the noise and rush of the city below.

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The La Brea Tar Pits

La Brea Tar Pits
March 4, 2011 – Columbian Mammoths in the La Brea Tar Pits.

LACMA was closed when we went there on Wednesday, but there are interesting things to look at on the museum grounds, including the La Brea Tar Pits.

The La Brea Tar Pits are one of the world’s most famous Ice Age fossil sites, where natural asphalt has bubbled up from the ground for tens of thousands of years. Over time, the sticky tar trapped animals like mammoths, saber-toothed cats, dire wolves, and even ancient camels—preserving their bones in incredible detail. Visitors can explore active excavation sites, see fossils up close at the Page Museum, and stroll past life-sized replicas of prehistoric creatures caught in the tar. It’s a fascinating mashup of science, history, and a little bit of Hollywood drama right in the middle of L.A.

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An Extraordinary Sunset Strip Experience!

This show easily ranks among my all-time greatest rock & roll memories: Chester Bennington, Perry Farrell, Slash, Robbie Krieger, Ray Manzarek, and other phenomenal musicians came together at the iconic—and intimate—Whisky a Go Go in November 2006 to celebrate the 40th anniversary of The Doors. A legendary lineup in a legendary venue, it was an unforgettable night of pure musical magic.