Between shuttling back and forth to auditions, preparing for roles, or taking classes, make sure you treat yourself to some “off time” to recharge your batteries. This week’s slate of events will not only unwind your wired brain, they’ll also make you feel productive at the same time. That’s because each one has a special hidden feature to bolster your creativity and inspire you!
Participate in a quiet riot.
What’s your spirit animal? Bet you’ve been asked that on an audition or interview, huh? Discover yours at Animal Soul Quiet Clubbing Party at Figat7th on July 14. If you’ve never gone quiet clubbing, it’s a treat. Attendees dance the night away listening to DJs through headphones. Combined with huge, illuminated animal sculptures by artist Jason Hackenwerth, it’s the perfect way to get into character. (Free)
Watch the cast of “Fame” reunite for the first time in decades.
Reminisce about your own performing-arts-school days with the cast of “Fame,” the Emmy- and Golden Globe-winning 1980s TV show based on the musical and film of the same name, on July 13 at the Troubadour. Sing along with its soundtrack, including the iconic theme, and watch for surprise guests throughout the night. Best part? All proceeds benefit the Actors Fund, so you’re giving as much as you’re getting. (Tickets: $55-175)
Attend a live podcast taping.
Comedian Paula Poundstone’s road to happiness is zig-zaggy rather than a straight trajectory. In her latest book, she embarked on bizarre quests to reach nirvana, and now, she’s turning her “unscientific curiosity” into a podcast. Attend a live taping on July 18 at the Nerdist Showroom at Meltdown Comics and find out her latest mission, along with some trivia that could benefit you randomly in the wild. (Tickets: $10)
Snag a ticket to an intriguing new production.
Sure, we all love to watch classic plays for the thousandth time, but what about modern masterpieces? The buzz around Simon Stephens’ “Heisenberg” (through August 6 at the Mark Taper Forum) is strong for good reason. The story chronicles what unfolds after a woman (“Weeds” star Mary-Louise Parker) kisses an older British gentleman’s (Denis Arndt) neck in a London train station. The plot is enthralling and just might inspire you to seek new works for your next role. (Tickets: $45-100)
Learn all there is to know about headshots.
Living in L.A., you’ve surely heard of the Headshot Truck, a mobile unit prepared to deliver exceptional headshots for any actor. Join HT co-founder and creative director Adam Hendershott and talent agent Alan Coto on July 13 at Reproductions Los Angeles for a seminar discussing the importance of the perfect headshot and everything from retouching to makeup to common mistakes. You’ll also get to see and experience the Headshot Truck firsthand and decide if it’s right for your next shoot. (Free)
Check out Backstage’s Los Angeles audition listings!