Calendar Picks and Clicks: Jan 12–18. 2013

Celebrate the New Year of the Trees with live musical performances by local favorites Moshav and Israeli rock band Ram2, an eco fair, tree planting activities, a zip line, a petting zoo and a reptile show as well as arts and crafts. Organized by Big Jewish Tent and sponsored by more than 40 synagogues and nonprofits, this annual celebration of nature takes place at the Shalom Institute’s Malibu campus and features fare for all ages.

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Ryan Torok

January 9, 2013

SAT JAN 12

“GANGSTER SQUAD”

A small crew of LAPD outsiders leads a fight against Brooklyn-born mob boss Mickey Cohen (Sean Penn), whose L.A. operations are protected by police and politicians under his control. Directed by Ruben Fleischer (“Zombieland”), this big-screen period drama also stars Josh Brolin, Ryan Gosling, Nick Nolte and Emma Stone. Based on the book “Gangster Squad” by Paul Lieberman. Sat. Various times, prices and locations. gangstersquad.warnerbros.com.

SUN JAN 13

TU B’SHEVAT NATURE FEST

BIKUR CHOLIM BLOOD DRIVE

At a time of increased need and extreme shortages of blood, Bikur Cholim is stepping up to help patients at Children’s Hospital Los Angeles. Join the leading health care and social support organization at this community event. Sun. 8:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Free. Shaarey Zedek Congregation, 12800 Chandler Blvd., Valley Village. (323) 852-1900. bikurcholim.net.

“PATTERNS, SYMBOLS, CODES/UNDERSTANDING CULTURE & IDENTITY”

Featuring artwork by Edith Hillinger, Irene Abraham and Bruce Barton, this new exhibition at American Jewish University explores human community through different modes of visual language. Hillinger uses geometric forms inspired by furniture from her childhood home; Abraham, a research biologist, draws inspiration from the aesthetics of scientific phenomena as shown in alphabets, codes and numerical data; and Barton uses computer-generated drawings to examine ancient cave drawings, which he considers an elementary form of writing. Sun. 3-5 p.m. (meet-the-artists reception). Exhibition runs through May 13. Free. American Jewish University, 15600 Mulholland Drive, Los Angeles. (310) 476-9777, ext. 201. ajula.edu.

DODGERS DAY

Shomrei Torah hosts a community day with the Boys in Blue as Stan Kasten, the Dodgers’ new president and CEO, and legendary team manager Tommy Lasorda appear in person at the West Hills synagogue to answer questions and share stories. Admission also includes a variety of sports-themed games, activities for fans of all ages, ballpark food, beer and other stadium snacks. Sun. 3:30-7 p.m. $20 (children, 5-13), $40 (adults), $200 (VIP ticket). Shomrei Torah Synagogue, 7353 Valley Circle Blvd., West Hills. (818) 346-0811. shomreitorahsynagogue.org.

TUE JAN 15

MICHAEL OREN

Israel’s ambassador to the United States speaks about Israel’s challenges and successes, focusing on the U.S.-Israel relationship. An American-born Israeli historian, author and diplomat, Oren was named one of the world’s most influential Jews by the Jerusalem Post and is a key player in the future of the State of Israel. Co-sponsored by the Consulate General of Israel in Los Angeles, The Jewish Federation of Greater Los Angeles and Temple of the Arts. Tue. 6 p.m. (security line opens), 7 p.m. (program begins). Free. Saban Theatre, 8440 Wilshire Blvd., Beverly Hills. (323) 655-0111. templeofthearts.org.

FRI JAN 18

“LET MY PEOPLE GO!”

A fusion of gay romantic comedy, Jewish family drama and French bedroom farce, “Let My People Go!” follows the travails and daydreams of the lovelorn Reuben, a French-Jewish mailman living in Finland with his gorgeous Nordic boyfriend. When the two have a quarrel just before Passover, heartbroken Reuben returns to Paris, where his zany family awaits. Fri. Various times. $11 (general), $8 (children under 12, seniors). Laemmle’s Royal Theatre, 11523 Santa Monica Blvd., Los Angeles. Laemmle’s Town Center 5, 17200 Ventura Blvd., Encino. Laemmle’s Playhouse 7, 673 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. (310) 478-3836. laemmle.com.