7 Days In Arts

Saturday, July 21

Cinematography has come a long way from “The Great Train Robbery” to “The Matrix.” The modern mind-boggling special effects techniques can’t begin to compare to the old methods devoid of computer-generated images. The Getty Museum and the UCLA Film and Television Archive have compiled a series of documentaries and classic films from the early 1900s to the present, highlighting these photographic transformations. The series pairs a documentary about visual techniques such as “Let Us Now Praise Famous Men,” (1979) with classic a film that relates to it like “The Grapes of Wrath” (1940). 7:30 p.m. Films play on Fridays and Saturdays through Aug. 4. The Getty Center, 1200 Getty Center Drive, Suite 400, Los Angeles. For reservations or more information, call (310) 440-7300.

Fruits are portrayed in their most delectable and plump light on canvas in Paulette Rochelle-Levy’s exhibition. Her collection of these natural delights bursts with vibrant shades of red, orange and purple, and their textures help bring the subjects to life. Opening reception: 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Restaurant hours: Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Sat., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Through Aug. 31. Renee’s Cafe and Market, 10022 Venice Blvd., Los Angeles. For more information, call (310) 558-3287.

Sunday, July 22

Sally Roisman survived the same concentration camp in which Anne Frank perished. Similar to the way Frank’s legacy lives through movies and literature, Roisman uses painting to express her account of the Holocaust. Instead of emphasizing the negative aspects of the experience, she brings to light the beauty of being Jewish during that time. The work at her one-woman show, ranging from portraits of important Jewish figures to still lifes, portrays her hopeful and optimistic outlook on life after the war. Opening reception: 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Through Aug. 31. Westside Jewish Community Center, 5870 W. Olympic Blvd., Los Angeles. For more information, call (323) 938-2531 ext. 2225.

Monday, July 23

You can’t help but feel sorry for the characters in Ed Simpson’s play”The Battle of Shallowford.” Set on Halloween night, the play traces the trials of leading a simple life in a small North Carolina town. When news of an alien invasion in New Jersey hits, chaos and havoc spread, creating drama and sidesplitting comedy. $12 (general admission). Mon.-Wed., 8 p.m. Through Aug. 8. Theatre 40, Beverly Hills High School, 241 Moreno Drive, Beverly Hills. For reservations or more information, call (323) 936-5842.

Tuesday, July 24

Pulitzer Prize winner Sam Shepard’s story of two brothers, one a
conservative scriptwriter, the other a criminal, who are forced to unite after a
family comes to life “True West.” Starring Alfred Molina (“Chocolat”) and
Charlotte Rae (“Facts of Life”), this dark comedy -drama is part of a live radio
theater series presented by L.A. Theatre works. $34-$38 (student discounts
available). Tues.-Fri., 8 p.m.; Sat., 2 p.m.; and Sun., 7:30 p.m. Through July
29. Skirball Cultural Center, 2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd., Los Angeles. For tickets
or more information, call (310) 827-0889.

Wednesday, July 25

It’s hard to avert one’s gaze from a drawing by Czechoslovakian artist Oldrich Kulhanek. His sketches of the human figure prompt one to wonder the meaning behind the man or woman’s stance. Is the subject experiencing a breakdown, is he in ecstasy or is he just in the process of showering? Through Sept. 1. Opening reception: Sat., July 28, 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Gallery hours: Tues.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. and Sat., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m. 464 N. Robertson Blvd., Los Angeles. For more information, call (310) 657-9843.

Thursday, July 26

What’s better than combining drinks, food and music with some laughter? 360, the bar and club in a penthouse with the spectacular view of the city, has implemented a new comedy night. Sponsored by Kissy Dugan, every Thursday night features some of the best comedians in Los Angeles. Also, Fridays, bust out your platform shoes and bell bottoms and reminisce with the oldies of the 70s played by DJ Victor Rodriguez. 8 p.m. 6290 Sunset Blvd., Hollywood. For reservations or more information, call (323) 871-2995.

Friday, July 27

The enchanting musical”Oliver!” is back to charm the audience with the poignant antics of a little British boy who is searching for love and a real family. Classic song favorites bring back memories such as “Food, Glorious Food” and “Who Will Buy?”. Oliver’s adventure begins on the streets of London, where he encounters thugs and gangsters who lead him with humor, love and thrills. $15 (general admission); $12 (seniors and students). Fri.-Sat., 8 p.m. and Sun., 2 p.m. Through Aug. 12. Morgan-Wixson Theatre, 2627 Pico Blvd., Santa Monica. For tickets or more information, call (310) 828-7519.