STUDIOS FOR RENT
MADILYN CLARK STUDIOS
10852 Burbank Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 506-7762
www.madilynclarkstudios.com
R. Five studios: Studio A: 30'x60'. Studio B: 20'x40'. Studio C: 16'x24'. Studio D: 15'x20'. Studio E: 20'x40'. Each studio equipped with piano, sound system, mirrors with curtain, wood floor, refrigerator, tables, and chairs. Garden for lunch and breaks.
Contact: Madilyn Clark
DUARTE DANCE CENTER
2084C Central Ave.
Duarte, CA 91010
(626) 256-6994
www.duartedancecenter.com
R, H&R, W. Studio A: 600 sq. ft. Studio B: 1,000 sq. ft. There are also 50 folding chairs.
Contact: Rosemary Wright
So you've got the space, and the play's in great shape. Want anyone other than your mom and your agent to know about it? And how about programs, tickets, fliers, posters? You should have thought of all that. We've done some of that thinking for you. Of course, if your main goal is to reach industry folks (and how dare we suggest such a thing), Breakdown Services offers good agent and CD flier deals; call (310) 276-9166 for more info.
TICKETS
LAStageTIX
644 Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90039
www.lastagetix.com
LA Stage Alliance provides comprehensive online show listings, with more than 600 performing-arts events (plays, musicals, concerts, and more) included annually, covering six counties. Half-price tickets to many shows available for online purchase. Tickets and listings are available to the general public without membership, but organizational membership is required to list productions and sell tickets.
Plays 411
(323) 965-9996
www.plays411.com
Email: info@plays411.com
Production service company and ticket agency for plays, 24/7 telephone and online reservations. Graphics and printing, marketing, publicity, insurance, websites, casting, accounting. Competitive prices.
Seat Advisor Inc.
1810 State St.
San Diego, CA 92101
(877) 732-8627
www.seatadvisor.com
Seat Advisor offers powerful box office software with integrated Internet sales. It is designed to be intuitive and easy to learn for live event venues of all shapes and sizes.
Theater Mania
www.theatermania.com
Provides box office, telephone, and online ticketing services to clients across the nation through its proprietary ticketing systems.
PUBLICITY
While anyone can put on a play, getting audiences and critics to come see your show is not an easy task. A publicist handles everything from sending out press releases about your production, to inviting critics, to strategizing your advertising and marketing.
Aldrich & Associates Inc.
Larry Aldrich or Sandy Smith
65 Pine Ave., Ste. 320
Long Beach, CA 90802
(562) 436-5156
Fax: (562) 435-8204
www.AldrichPR.com
Email: larry@aldrichpr.com
Aldrich & Associates is a full-service public-relations and marketing-communications agency. Founded in 1984 and serving some of the nation's largest corporations, it also provides PR and marketing services for Boston Court Performing Arts Complex, Zebulon Projects, Theatre@Boston Court, and many independent theatrical productions.
Baker Winokur Ryder
9100 Wilshire Blvd., 5th fl.
West Tower
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
(310) 550-7776
Fax: (310) 550-1701
www.bwr-pr.com
A public relations firm with 20 years of experience, Baker Winokur Ryder typically handles mid- to higher-end theatets, as well as A-list clients, film, and television accounts.
Creative PR
(888) 233-5650
Fax: (323) 651-0320
www.creativepr.org
Email: Kathy@creativepr.org
This is a boutique firm, in business for more than 20 years, that specializes in theatrical and cultural events and is known for reasonable rates and individual attention to each client. Kathy Gronau heads a team of four, with extensive backgrounds in public relations and marketing. Clients have included theatrical productions ranging from 99-Seat Plan to national tours, dance and music performance groups, and art galleries.
Davidson & Choy Publicity
4311 Wilshire Blvd., Ste. 202
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(323) 954-7510
Fax: (323) 954-7520
Davidson & Choy Publicity (press representatives) is one of this region's leading firms specializing in publicity for the performing arts and has a history of representing Broadway musicals from the original "Evita" at the Shubert Theatre to the current "Wicked" at the Pantages Theatre. The firm represents Cirque du Soleil, "Spamalot" in Las Vegas, "Dance" at the Music Center, Opera Pacific, the El Capitan Theatre in Hollywood, Richmark Entertainment at the Wadsworth and Brentwood Theatres, Disney Parks, and "Walking With Dinosaurs: The Live Experience," currently on a national arena tour. Recently the firm represented Los Angeles engagements of "The Lion King," "Hairspray," "The Producers," "Mamma Mia!," and "The Vagina Monologues." The company has also represented American Ballet Theatre, Alvin Ailey American Dance, New York City Ballet, Kirov Ballet, and Kodak Theatre attractions.
Demand PR
David Elzer Marketing and
Public Relations
(818) 508-1754
E-mail: davidelzer@me.com
Demand PR specializes in the marketing and publicity of Los Angeles theatre. Current clients include: Antaeus Theatre Company, Apartment A, Celebration Theatre, Cabrillo Music Theatre, Colony Theatre Company, Furious Theatre Company, Havoc Theatre Company, La Mirada Theatre for the Performing Arts, NoHo Arts Center, Open Fist Theatre Company, San Diego Musical Theatre, Rubicon Theatre Company, Theatre Tribe, Third Stage Company, and West Coast Ensemble.
Ecco! Public Relations, etc.
(323) 876-0227
Email: dianahale@earthlink.net
Diana and Bernadette Hale have done publicity for Theatre 40 for 30 years and started Ecco! Public Relations, etc. six years ago. They have handled publicity for Eclectic Company Theatre, the Interact Theatre Company, and dozens of other production companies. They take productions of any size.
Forrest & Associates
(818) 760-0964 (Toluca Lake)
(818) 508-0281 (North Hollywood)
Cell: (818) 693-0964
Fax: (818) 508-9698
Email: rnfrst@aol.com
Pegge Forrest has 25 years of public relations and publicity experience. Her two offices—located in Toluca Lake and North Hollywood—are a full-service public relations and marketing firm. Forrest & Associates has multilayered experience in nonprofit and 99-Seat theater, with a specialty in hands-on image building. Current clients include Civic Light Opera of South Bay Cities, Redondo Beach Performing Arts Center, Hermosa Beach Playhouse, El Portal Theatre, Valley Musical Theatre, and Weddington Street Productions. Forrest Associates also includes Jay Irwin and Debbi Swanson Patrick.
Long Pine Communications
Gail Matsunaga
(310) 597-4049
Email: LongPine@BigFoot.com
Gail Matsunaga has 15 years' experience publicizing small theater in L.A. She provides her clients with hands-on, personal service, and for this reason she doesn't take many clients at a time. She has publicized productions at the Odyssey, Company of Angels, Hudson, as well as for "12 Angry Men," "Bad Seed," "Ernest in Love," and the Ziggurat Theatre Ensemble. Projects include NoHo Theatre and Arts Festival and Virtual Theatre Project.
Lucy Pollak Public Relations
(818) 887-1499
Fax: (831) 536-1656
Email: lucy@lucypr.com
With a background in producing, Lucy Pollak is able to provide personal service with an understanding of a theatre producer's needs. She has worked in L.A. theatre since 1980. Some of her clients include the Actors' Gang, The Antaeus Company, L.A. Theatre Works, International City Theatre, Padua Playwrights, the L.A. County Arts Commission, the Powerhouse Theatre Company, The Fountain Theatre, and Theatricum Botanicum.
Michael Sterling & Associates
An Entertainment Public
Relations Company
11684 Ventura Blvd., #858
Sherman Oaks, CA 91604
(818) 623-7300
Email: msterling@msapr.net
A full-service, high-end public relations firm, Michael Sterling & Associates offers local, regional, and national exposure and complete service to its clients. While it deals mainly with higher-end clients, it is flexible. Among current clients are Olympic champion and figure skating icon Scott Hamilton, Broadway World TV, State of the Arts Radio Series/LATalkRadio, SeaGlass Theatre of Los Angeles, and the Cancer Alliance for Education, Research and Survivorship at the Cleveland Clinic. Since June 2006, Sterling has produced Sterling's Upstairs at Vitello's in Studio City, an elegant supper club dedicated to presenting the best of Broadway performers and nightclub artists in concert.
Patty Onagan Publicity
3940 Laurel Canyon Blvd., #405
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 464-3706
Fax: (818) 464-3766
Email: ponagan@aol.com
Patty Onagan has more than 10 years of theatrical publicity, marketing, special events, and producing experience. Current and past clients: Pasadena Playhouse, Theatre League at Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza, "City Kids: The Musical," "Pussycat Dolls Live at the Roxy," "bare, the Pop Opera," "Maybe Baby It's You" (starring Tori Spelling), "Star Wars Trilogy in 30 Minutes," "Hedwig and the Angry Inch," the Cañon Theatre, and the Geffen Playhouse. She also works for nonprofit theater companies such as the Elephant Theatre Company, Camelot Artist Productions, and TheSpyAnts. Special rates are available for nonprofit theatre organizations.
Philip Sokoloff
P.O. Box 94387
Pasadena, CA 91109
(626) 683-9205
Fax: (626) 683-9172
Email: showbizphil@yahoo.com
Philip Sokoloff offers his own writing skills and reasonable rates along with his 16 years of experience in publicity. He handles public relations for, among others, Theatre West, the MET Theatre, the Sierra Madre Playhouse, Robey Theatre Company, Eclectic Company Theatre, Fremont Centre Theatre, Latino Theatre Company, Los Angeles Theatre Center, Edgemar Center for the Arts.
Racquel Lehrman,
Theatre Planners
(818) 342-4319
www.theatreplanners.com
Email: racquel@theatrplanners.com
Lehrman graduated from NYU's Tisch School of the Arts 10 years ago and has been producing and publicizing theater ever since. Her organization is a production-publicity firm that specializes in 99-seat-and-under productions. The company has worked with the LA Weekly–nominated Meta Theatre Company, Meadow's Basement, and numerous other acclaimed individual productions. She is also the owner of the Lounge Theatres on Theatre Row in Hollywood.
RMH Media
1037 S. Orange Grove Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 934-9248
www.rmhmedia.net
Rita Hollingsworth has been doing publicity for more than seven years and currently works with her business partner, Jeff. While they mostly handle independent-film clients, they also publicize theatrical productions such as "Laughing Matters" at the Geffen Playhouse, "Repeat W/Madeline" at FIX, "Texas" at the Secret Rose, and "The Whiskey Sisters" at the Showcase Theatre.
R.S. Bailey, Tz Entertainment
(323) 466-3134
Email: TzEntPR@aol.com
R.S. Bailey is the former marketing and communications director of the Los Angeles Theatre Center and the press relations director of the Los Angeles Actors' Theatre. He has been involved in publicity for theater in Los Angeles since 1980. He has an extensive background in 99-Seat theater, representing productions of original plays. He has regularly represented Theatre/Theater, San Quentin Drama Workshop, Theatre Tribe, and numerous independent productions. Extended services also include photography, graphics, full production support, and lighting equipment for rent. He is a subscription marketing specialist and worked closely with subscription guru Danny Newman.
Selfman & Others PR
P.O. Box 641831
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(323) 653-4555
Email: floself@aol.com
www.wordsalamode.com
Selfman & Others PR (Flo Selfman) handles PR and marketing for theater productions, events, festivals, books, and authors. Shows range from big musicals to solo shows, comedy, drama, world and regional premieres. Theaters include: the Coast Playhouse, the Court Theatre, the Stella Adler, Hudson Mainstage, and Odyssey Theatre. Projects: West Coast Brecht Centennial Festival, LAMEC Festival
Up and Running
137 N. Larchmont Blvd., Ste. 149
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(323) 733-7073
Email: jerrycharlson@yahoo.com
In the "biz" side of showbiz for more than 15 years, the arts consultants at Up and Running have extensive experience, especially in theater publicity. Clients have included individual producers and solo performers, as well as established theaters from 99-Seat to Los Angeles Theatre Center. Prices are reasonable and the first consultation, with an evaluation of client needs, is free.
Virginia Schneider
Email: vss12@sbcglobal.net
Schneider began her publicist career doing press for Actors Theatre of Louisville. She graduated from Columbia College with a degree in arts marketing and communications and received a grant to publish a book on marketing and PR for nonprofit theater. She was a press representative for the International Theatre Festival of Chicago, where she worked with such luminaries as Kenneth Branagh, Alan Ayckbourn, and the Gate Theatre of Dublin. Besides doing publicity for more than 16 years, she is an experienced journalist and producer. Over the last six years she has worked exclusively for select 99-Seat theater companies such as Circle X and Theatre Neo.
Wayne McWorter
6233 Holywood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 468-1743
wayne@nederlander.com
This prominent publicist has more than 25 years of experience and handles publicity for Broadway/L.A. engagements at the Pantages Theatre and other venues. He infrequently takes on outside projects.
PRINTERS
The Actor's Photo Lab
13223 Ventura Blvd., Ste. A
Studio City. CA 91604
(818) 789-9809
Email: info@theactorsphotolab.com
www.theactorsphotolab.com
Americas Printer
6910 Aragon Circle
Buena Park, CA 90620
(714) 521-1100
Fax: (714) 521-5650
www.americasprinter.com
Argentum Photo Lab
6550 Sunset Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 461-2775
Fax: (323) 790-0459
Email: custservice@argentum.com
www.argentum.com
Certified Printer
1525 Cahuenga Blvd.
Hollywood, CA 90028
(323) 465-5411
Fax: (323) 467-9100
Email: cp@certprint.com
www.certprint.com
Charlie Chan Printers
7402 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 850-5407
Fax: (323) 850-5426
www.charliechan.com
Henry Printing & Copying
6110 W. Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 464-7228
Fax: (323) 464-5805
Email: henryprinting@sbcglobal.net
Isgo Lepejian Digital Services
933. N. Highland Ave.
Hollywood, CA 90038
(323) 876-8085
Email: kiosk@isgophoto.com
www.isgophoto.com
Minuteman Press
600 W. Ninth St., Ste. 135
Los Angeles, CA 90015
(213) 627-2604
Fax: (213) 627-4022
Email:
customer.service@laminutemanpress.com
www.la.minutemanpress.com
Miracle Offset
16654 Soledad Canyon #221
Santa Clarita, CA 91387
(661) 257-3555
Email: print@miracleo.com
www.miracleo.com
Plaza Printers
Hyatt Regency
Century Plaza Hotel
2055 Avenue of the Stars, Plaza Level
Los Angeles, CA 90067
Aman Esfandiary
(310) 553-0402
Email: info@plazaprinters.com
Rabbit Lithographics
1333 W. Temple St.
Los Angeles, CA 90026
(213) 250-9062
Fax: (213) 250-9170
Email: josie@rabbitlitho.com
www.rabbitlitho.com
Reproductions
3499 Cahuenga Blvd. West
Los Angeles, CA 90068
(323) 845-9595
Fax: (323) 845-0188
Email: information@reproductions.com
www.reproductions.com
West L.A. Print & Copy
11577 W. Olympic Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90064
(310) 473-5620
Fax: (310) 478-1532
Email: service@westlaprint.com
www.westlaprint.com
STAGE COMBAT
You don't hire only actors when you do a play. What if the script calls for a fight scene?
The Academy of Theatrical Combat
Swords Fencing Studio
2115 Glenoaks Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91504
(818) 364-8420
www.theatricalcombat.com
David Lea's Stunt Fights
Stunt Action Choreography
(818) 603-9696
Email: davelea7@earthlink.net
www.davelea.com
Samurai Action Studio
310-849-1466
Email: info@samuraiaction.com
www.samuraiaction.com
Swordplay Fencing Studios
(818) 566-1777
www.swordplayla.com
INSURANCE
Producing theater isn't just an art, it's a business. And as with any business, there are legal and financial dimensions that should be addressed sooner rather than later. The following listing should help you on your way.
C&S International Insurance Brokers Inc.
Debra Kozee
19 Fulton St., Suite 308A
New York, NY 10038
(800) 257-0883; (212) 406-4499
www.csins.com
www.documentary-insurance.com
Email: staff@csins.com
C&S Insurance Brokers Inc. is an independent insurance brokerage that specializes in arts, entertainment, and media. It offers national insurance programs for theatres and performing arts companies.
Johnsonese Brokerage
3660 N. Lake Shore Dr.
Suite 2602
Chicago, IL 60613
(773) 857-0242
www. johnsonese.com
E-mail: info@johnsonese.com
Licensed in California , Johnsonese Brokerage insures organizations involved with all aspects of the performing arts, including production companies, theatres, theatre companies, and dance companies.
Schweickert & Co.
Valcourt Insurance Services
15 Peters Canyon Rd.
Irvine, CA 92606
(800) 748-6293; (714) 436-6400
www.schweickert.com
Schweickert & Co. insures more than 100 performing arts organizations throughout the U.S., including theaters, opera and dance companies, and orchestras. The company has a great deal of experience with nonprofit groups in particular, although it's capable of handling the insurance needs of any performing arts group. The company is also actively involved with theater and understands the needs of theater companies, and can handle groups of any size. Coverage includes property, casualty, liability, and workers' compensation. Call for rates.
LEGAL AID
California Lawyers for the Arts Inc.
1641 18th St.
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(310) 998-5590
Fax: (310) 998-5594
www.calawyersforthearts.org
Email: UserCLA@aol.com
California Lawyers for the Arts Inc. is a nonprofit, tax-exempt service organization that provides lawyer referrals, dispute resolution services, educational programs, publications, and a resource library to artists of all disciplines and arts organizations. Members receive a 30 percent discount on all referrals; a 20–66 percent discount on educational programs; a 10 percent discount on all publications available through CLA, and free use of the art law library. Membership fees run $20–$1,000, depending on situation, with most fees running $20–$100. Membership is not necessary to use its services, but members receive discounts.
VALET
If you are renting from a theater without a parking lot or its own valet service, you may opt to hire a valet service. Most companies provide valets at a rate of $13–$18 per hour per attendant—that's for free valet parking for your guests. If you decide to let your patrons pay for valet service, then those fees are deducted from your prearranged price. Negotiate that in advance, as some companies do not charge parking guests.
The number of attendants will depend on the number of patrons you expect: typically one attendant for each 15 cars. In either case, make sure the company is insured. Also, when you call, have as much information as possible regarding not only your needs but an idea of the area around the theater: If you can make the attendants' job easier by finding a nearby lot for them to park in, they will often give you a discount on the hourly rate. Some companies need three weeks' or more advance notice; many need only a few days. It is always a good idea to check with the theater owner to see if he or she can recommend a valet service company.
Arrow Parking
(323) 461-8548
Express Valet
(800) 522-8156
KEI Parking Management
(800) 559-7275; (323) 850-3325
Parking Company of America
(562) 862-2118
Precision Valet
(818) 241-5011
Premiere Valet Services
(323) 876-5816
Z Valet & Shuttle Service
(323) 954-3700
TECHNICAL SUPPORT
Obviously we can't list every stage manager, set builder, lighting technician, etc. in Los Angeles. But we offer—as part of our weekly publication—a service to any theater to list any stage tech job openings it has for a $20 fee per notice. So remember, if you are going to put on a show and you have a need for a cast member or a technical person, be sure to get your information to us by 1:30 p.m. Friday for the following Thursday's issue. Job notices calling for cast and/or crew can be posted online or mailed, faxed, or brought in person to the West Coast offices of Back Stage in Los Angeles, CA.
For the Back Stage Casting Department’s current contact info and additional assistance, please visit http://tinyurl.com/ContactBackStageCasting or http://backstage.com/castinghelp. To post a notice, visit http://backstage.com/findtalent.
When you've got witches who need to boil and toil and trouble, you'll need a cauldron, some dry ice, and probably some good wax noses and warts. Eerie lighting and a blasted heath will help—and the sound of howling banshees wouldn't hurt.
You get the idea. Here's a list of places to go in the L.A. area to rent the right set piece, light instrument, sound setup, natty period threads, etc. Some of the companies below could fit into multiple categories, but we don't double- or triple-list them.
The list was compiled with a preference for businesses that regularly cater to local theaters and sometimes even offer theaters a price break. And that's a special effect anyone would like to brew up.
LIGHTS
Angstrom Stage Lighting
837 N. Cahuenga Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(866) 275-9211
www.angstromlighting.com
This company has full lighting equipment for rent or sale, including expendables, projection systems, and special effects. The company also delivers.
Astro Audio Video Lighting
6615 San Fernando Rd.
Glendale, CA 91201
(818) 549-9915
www.astroavl.com
Email: craigm@astroavl.com
This company specializes in club, DJ, dance, and theatrical lighting and sound rentals.
Entertainment Lighting Services
11440 Sheldon St.
Sun Valley, CA 91352
(818) 769-9800
www.elslights.com
ELS rents and sells stage and film/TV lighting: rigging, staging, truss, power distribution, automated lighting, special effects, and expendables. It also offers full production support.
Hollywood Rentals/
Olesen Lighting/ESS
12800 Foothill Blvd.
Sylmar, CA 91342
(800) 233-7830
www.hollywoodrentals.com
Olesen has for sale or rent any lighting equipment you need, and their inventory is constantly updated. It also carries set supplies: paint, fabric, etc. (The paint is not for rent.)
Norcostco/California Costume, Stage Lighting, and Makeup
3606 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91505
(818) 567-0753; (800) 220-6915
www.norcostco.com
Norcostco sells or rents everything you need for your productions, including lighting, costumes, wigs, makeup.
PROPS AND SETS
Note that a great resource for props and set-dressing needs is the printed guide Debbie's Book, which you can sample at www.debbiesbook.com.
Alley Cats
7107 Case Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 982-9178
Email: Alleycatsprops@gmail.com
As the name promises, this place specializes in "alley dressing"—i.e., newspaper kiosks, Dumpsters, trash cans. It also has theater seats in rows of four or two—some red and some purple.
Art Models & Props
7668 San Fernando Rd.
Sun Valley, CA 91352
(951) 206-9156
www.artmodelsandprops.com
Email: modelsandprops@msn.com
Art Models & Props specializes in custom building and special effects lighting (black lighting, lasers, fiber optics), as well as robotics and puppeteering, and is also a production company.
EC Prop Rentals
11846 Sherman Way
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 764-2008
www.ecprops.com
E-mail: ecprops@aol.com
The specialty here is industrial props, the sorts of things you'd need for a locker room, a factory, a police squad room, a loading dock, etc.
Hand Prop Room
5700 Venice Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90019
(323) 931-1534
www.hpr.com
Email: info@hpr.com
As the name suggests, you don't go here for furniture but for things to put on the furniture: luggage, cameras, sporting goods, pictures and lamps, silver, china, guns, and lots of desk-dressing office materials. HPR also has larger items like bicycles, rowboats, telephone booths, and neon signs. If they don't have what you're looking for, they can find it or custom-make it.
Independent studio services
9545 Wentworth St.
Sunland, CA 91040
(818) 951-5600
www.issprops.com
ISS specializes in set decorations from period to contemporary furniture, fixtures, appliances, equipment, art, and hand props. It has almost 150,000 square feet of inventory, including one of the largest assortments of large and small bronzes, complete silver and crystal collections, and fitness equipment.
Lennie Marvin Prop Heaven
3110 Winona Ave.
Burbank, CA 91504
www.propheaven.com
Email: sales@propheaven.com
Prop Heaven has props to outfit any indoor location you can think of, from a casino to a coffeehouse to a dry cleaners. They also have a large collection of jukeboxes.
Omega/Cinema Props
5857 Santa Monica Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90038
(323) 466-8201
www.omegacinemaprops.com
Omega/Cinema Props has four warehouses filled with props. The company specializes in interior furnishings and set decorations, from furniture to rugs to linens, and in outfitting restaurant and office sets.
Pinacoteca Picture Props
5735 W. Adams Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
(323) 965-2722; (323) 965-9901 (second warehouse)
www.pinacotecaprops.com
The specialty here is framed art pieces, from painting to mixed media, as well as custom frame work. All the art they offer is cleared for use on camera and on stage
Santa Fe Wrecking Co.
720 E. 18th St.
Los Angeles, CA 90021
(213) 623-3119
www.santafewrecking.net
Santa Fe Wrecking sells a great deal of architectural salvage and used building supplies perfect for set pieces. It has a lot of doors, toilets, windows, bathtubs, and other items. But don't go there expecting to find furniture; it's a salvage yard.
Woody's Electrical Prop Rentals
7255 Clybourn Ave.
Sun Valley, CA 91352
(818) 503-1940
As the name suggests, Woody's has props with lights and switches and other electrical props.
COSTUMES
Costume Alley
31139 Via Colinas, Ste. 302
Westlake Village 91362
(805) 444-1012
www.costumealley.com
Email: info@costumealley.com
Glendale Costumes
746 W. Doran St.
Glendale, CA 91203
(818) 244-1161
International Costumes
1423 Marcelina Ave.
Torrance, CA 90501
(310) 320-6392
www.platinumcostumes.com
Make Believe
3240 Pico Blvd.
Santa Monica, CA 90405
(310) 396-6785
www.makebelieve.to
Email: makebelievecostumes@gmail.com
Shelly's Dance and Costume Wear
2089 Westwood Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90025
(310) 475-1400
Sales only. No rentals.
The Theatre Company
1400 N. Benson Ave.
Upland, CA 91786
(909) 982-5736
www.theatreco.com
Email: info@theatreco.com
Total Fabrication
13136 Saticoy St., Unit P
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 765-0091
www.totalfab.com
Creators of creatures, specialty costumes, armor, walkarounds, mascots, puppets, makeup effects, and props.
Valentino's Costumes
7324 Greenbush Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 508-9933
www.valentinoscostumes.com
Email: valentinoscostumes@sbcglobal.net
Western Costume Co.
11041 Vanowen St.
North Hollywood, CA 91605
(818) 760-0900
www.westerncostume.com
E-mail: wccmail@westerncostume.com
MAKEUP & HAIR
For most makeup needs, the following shops should suffice. You may also want to check with the Milton Agency, an agency repping hairstylists, makeup artists, and costume designers for theater, film, and TV. 6715 Hollywood Blvd., Ste. 206, Hollywood, CA 90028. (323) 466-4441. Many modeling agencies also represent hair and makeup artists, so check the extensive listings in Call Sheet.
The Ben Nye Co.
3655 Lenawee Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90016
(310) 839-1984
www.bennyemakeup.com
Cinema Secrets
4400 Riverside Dr.
Burbank, CA 91505
(818) 846-0579
www.cinemasecrets.com
Email: info@cinemasecrets.com
Frends Beauty Supply
5270 Laurel Canyon Blvd.
North Hollywood, CA 91607
(818) 769-3834
Beauty supplies, theatrical special effects, wig rental, wig styling.
His & Her Hair Goods Co.
5525 Wilshire Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(800) 421-4417
www.hisandher.com
Custom-made wigs, wig- and facial-hair making supplies.
sound rentalThere are more
There are more than 100 companies in Los Angeles that rent and sell sound systems, from wireless microphones to amplifiers and speakers. Most have the ability to support theater productions, but not all have experience with theater spaces. Make sure to ask. Sound companies are listed under the heading "Sound Systems & Equipment" in the L.A. County Business-to-Business Yellow Pages. (They are not, however, listed in the regular Los Angeles County Yellow Pages—don't ask us why.)
SCRIPT/PLAYWRIGHT
RESOURCES
What's all this about producing? Say you're a playwright looking for as many mail slots as possible in which to deposit your polished gem of a script, and/or as many groups of like-minded scribes with which to gather and complain—er, share information about your craft—as well as find out about lucrative opportunities to practice that craft. Go ahead, say it: "I'm a playwright ... "
In short, this list is for you.
Academy for New Musical Theatre
5628 Vineland Ave.
North Hollywood, CA 91601
(818) 506.8500
www.anmt.org
Email: academy@anmt.org
The Academy for New Musical Theatre supports workshops, readings, studio productions, and collaboration opportunities for writers, composers, actors, directors, producers, and audience members who share a love for musical theater. The company's mission is to foster the highest quality of musical theater writing, and to advance the future of musical theater production. The workshop offers a forum for writers to study the specific crafts of music theater, book writing, composing, and lyric writing, culminating in staged readings and showcases. The application deadline for the workshop, which meets monthly September–June, is in late summer; placement is by interview.
Contact: John Sparks, artistic director
Alliance of Los Angeles Playwrights
7510 Sunset Blvd., Ste. 1050
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 957-4752
www.laplaywrights.org
Email: info@laplaywrights.org
ALAP is a support and service organization for Southern California playwrights. Events include a biennial Playwrights Expo, an annual Playreading Festival, symposiums, and social gatherings. Publications include a bimonthly newsletter, an annual membership directory, and an online script catalogue. ALAP is all-volunteer. Dues: $40/20 student (tax-deductible).
Beyond Baroque
Literary/Arts Center
681 Venice Blvd.
Venice, CA 90291
(310) 822-3006
www.beyondbaroque.org
Beyond Baroque promotes reading, writing, and publication of contemporary literature through regular readings, free and tuition-based workshops in literature and performance, a magazine, and an archive of small-press publications. Free workshops in fiction, poetry, and nonfiction.
Coronet Writers Lab
130 S. La Brea Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90036
(310) 487-3758
www.coronetwriterslab.com
Email: tjay3@aol.com
The Coronet Writers Lab is a group of committed actors and writers working together to help the writers make their scripts—full-length stage plays and screenplays—the best they can be. Each week several writers receive readings, then positive and constructive feedback on their works-in-progress. It is a dynamic forum in which actors and writers derive creative fulfillment from lab sessions that meet every Monday at 7 p.m. For further information or to audit a class, please contact moderator T. Jay O'Brien at the above-listed number.
First Stage
6817 Franklin Ave.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 850-6271
www.firststagela.org
Email: FirstStageLA@aol.com
First Stage works for the development of new work for the screen and stage. It offers staged readings, writer and actor workshops, and general support for the playwright. It is a membership organization, $200 per year, but you don't have to be a member to have your work read.
Contact: Dennis Safren, literary manager
New Playwrights Foundation
608 San Vicente Blvd., Ste. 18
Santa Monica, CA 90402
(310) 393-3682
www.newplaywrights.org
Email: dialogue@newplaywrights.org
Since 1969, New Playwrights Foundation has worked to develop and disseminate new works for theater and other media written by local nascent and lesser-known writers. Writers, actors, directors, producers, and composers are welcome to visit workshops free of charge. Meetings are held in Santa Monica on alternate Thursday evenings for readings, critiques, and exchange of information.
Contact: Jeff Bergquist, artistic director
Playwrights Ink
3425 W. First St.
Los Angeles, CA 90004
(213) 385-4562
Email: tom.jacobson@sbcglobal.net
Playwrights Ink works to develop stage-worthy plays with individual and culturally diverse viewpoints. It fosters relationships with acting ensembles, individual artists, and theaters.
Contact: Tom Jacobson
Samuel French Theatre
& Film Bookshops
7623 Sunset Blvd.
Los Angeles, CA 90046
(323) 876-0570
Open Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–5 p.m., closed Sun.
11963 Ventura Blvd.
Studio City, CA 91604
(818) 762-0535
Open Mon.–Fri. 10 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m.–6 p.m., Sun. 12 p.m.–5 p.m.
www.samuelfrench.com
Samuel French has the largest collection of books and publications on theater, film, and television this side of the Chattahoochee.
Writers at Work
4022 Fountain Ave., Ste. 202
Los Angeles, CA 90029
(323) 661-5954
www.writersatwork.com
Email: wtrsatwork@aol.com
Writers at Work offers workshops and other services emphasizing freedom of the imagination, rigorous standards of craft, commitment to one's work, and a supportive environment honoring diversity of voices, styles, and concerns. While committed to serving all writers, it has a particular interest in those whose stories have not been widely recorded: women, lesbians, gay men, and people of color.
Writers Boot camp
2525 Michigan Ave., Bldg. I
Santa Monica, CA 90404
(800) 800-1733
www.writersbootcamp.com
Email: info@writersbootcamp.com
Writers Boot Camp provides intensive coursework, free script evaluation, and ongoing educational and creative support as well as networking opportunities to its members. Its goal is to help members use their time effectively to produce a large volume of writing while keeping their day jobs.
Writers Guild of America, West
7000 W. Third St.
Los Angeles, CA 90048
(323) 951-4000
www.wga.org
The Writers Guild was established in 1933 and is the union for writers in the fields of motion pictures, broadcast, cable, and new technology industries. It represents members in collective bargaining and other labor matters.
The Writers Store
3510 W. Magnolia Blvd.
Burbank, CA 91505
(310) 441-5151
www.writersstore.com
Sells books, software, DVDs, and anything else that a screenwriter might need to hone his or her craft.
SUPPORT ORGANIZATIONS
Finally, no Theater Guide would be complete without a list of the organizations and institutions whose job it is to spread information, support, advocate, and counsel with and among the members of a theater community that seems to grow every year. If we may be so bold, Back Stage considers itself a member of this elite group of community resources. We'll keep you posted throughout the year.
Until next year's Theater Guide: Go forward, theater makers, in the name of great art and decent parking.
And don't forget to invite us!
Actors' Equity Association
6755 Hollywood Blvd., 5th Fl.
Los Angeles, CA 90028
(323) 978-8080
www.actorsequity.org
Actors' Equity Association, founded in 1913, represents more than 48,000 actors and stage managers in the United States. Equity seeks to advance, promote, and foster the art of live theater as an essential component of our society. Equity negotiates wages and working conditions, providing a wide range of benefits, including health and pension plans. AEA is a member of the AFL-CIO and is affiliated with FIA, an international organization of performing arts unions. Equity is governed by its own members through an elected council, representing principal actors, chorus actors, and stage managers living in three regions: Eastern, Central, and Western. Members at large participate in Equity's governance through a system of regional boards and committees. Equity has 24 designated area liaison cities with more than 100 members each.
California Community Foundation
445 S. Figueroa St., Ste. 3400
Los Angeles, CA 90071-1638
(213) 413-4130
www.calfund.org
The California Community Foundation provides grants to Los Angeles County nonprofit service agencies, including arts organizations. It makes a limited number of fellowship grants to individual artists. It holds and manages more than 1,300 individual charitable funds, with a combined asset value of more than $760 million.
Contact: Leslie Ito
Center for Nonprofit Management
1000 N. Alameda St., Ste. 250
Los Angeles, CA 90012
(213) 687-9511
www.cnmsocal.org
The Center for Nonprofit Management assists boards and staffs of nonprofit organizations with improving management effectiveness in order to better fulfill their missions in the community. It provides information through its publications and Helpline, training through its quarterly Seminar Series, and consulting through its short- and long-term consulting programs. It also houses a nonprofit resources library.
Community Arts Resources (CARS)
3780 Wilshire Blvd, Ste. 1020
Los Angeles, CA 90010
(213) 365-0605
Fax: (213) 365-0702
www.carsla.net
Email: mail@carsla.net
Community Arts Resources manages Southern California's only publicly available cross-disciplinary database containing some of the best lists for theater, literary events, performance art, community festivals, and dance. Begun in 1987 and updated daily, the CARS database includes 80,000-plus artists, arts organizations, venues, and audiences. Lists are available in almost any format for a small fee to nonprofit organizations and individual artists, as well as at a commercial rate for the general public. CARS presents large- and small-scale festivals for a variety of museums and nonprofits in Los Angeles and consults on the role of the performing arts in public spaces. CARS also provides other important services to the field, including two publications: Doing It Right in LA: Self Producing for the Performing Artist and Southern California Performing Arts Venues.
Fractured Atlas
248 W. 35th St., 10th Fl.
New York, NY 10001
(888) 692-7878
www.fracturedatlas.org
Email: support@fracturedatlas.org
Fractured Atlas is a nonprofit organization that serves a national community of artists and arts organizations. Our programs and services facilitate the creation of art by offering vital support to the artists who produce it. We help artists and arts organizations function more effectively as businesses by providing access to funding, health care, education, and more, all in a context that honors their individuality and independent spirit.
LA Stage Alliance
644 S. Figueroa St.
Los Angeles, CA 90017
(213) 614-0556
www.lastagealliance.com
Email: NSpinler@LAStageAlliance.com
Formed in 1975 and currently serving more than 325 organizations annually, L.A.'s largest nonprofit performing arts service organization is dedicated to building awareness, appreciation, and support for the performing arts in greater Los Angeles through community building, collaborative marketing and audience development, professional development to strengthen operations for members, and advocacy. LAStageAlliance.com offers information about LASA's programs and services including the Ovation Awards (LA's only peer-evaluated awards program celebrating excellence in theatre production), LAStageTIX (an online comprehensive list of currently running productions and half-price tickets), LA Stage Times (a discounted co-op advertising program in the Los Angeles Times), National Arts Marketing Project (marketing workshops for arts administrators), MetLife Foundation National Arts Forum Series and the Next Stage workshops (to help facilitate business development for performing arts producers), and the Free Night of Theatre.
Society of Stage Directors
and Choreographers
1501 Broadway, Ste. 1701
New York, NY 10036
(800) 541-5204
www.ssdc.org
Email: info@ssdc.org
Valley Theatre League
18034 Ventura Blvd., Ste. 291
Encino, CA 91316
(818) 623-0040
Edmund Gaynes is the president of this association of theaters that bring live performances to the San Fernando and adjacent valleys. VTL produces the annual Artistic Director Awards and shares resources with member theaters.
Western States Arts Federation
1743 Wazee St., Ste. 300
Denver, CO 80202
(303) 629-1166
www.westaf.org
Email: staff@westaf.org
WESTAF is a nonprofit arts service organization dedicated to the creative advancement and preservation of the arts. For the most current information on the organization's activities, visit its website.
ONLINE RESOURCES
Mayday Productions
www.americanmusicals.com
The American musical theater reference library.
Playbill Online
www.playbill.com
The Web page for the ubiquitous Playbill magazine features nationwide coverage of theater events and performances, and includes links to other theater-related websites.
Play Rehearsal Scheduler
www.onsetsoftware.com
A theater production database for stage directors, technical directors, stage managers, and producers. Generates more than 60 predesigned reports to create rehearsal schedules, scene breakdowns, cast, prop, costume, crew lists, and more.
LOCAL, CITY, and
COUNTY RESOURCES
Beverly Hills Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Bureau
(310) 248-1000
www.beverlyhillschamber.com
California Arts Council
(916) 322-6555
www.cac.ca.gov
Hollywood Arts Council
(323) 462-2355
www.hollywoodartscouncil.org
Long Beach Area Convention
& Visitors Bureau
(800) 452-7829
www.visitlongbeach.com
Los Angeles Chamber of Commerce
(213) 580-7500
www.lachamber.org
Los Angeles Convention
and Visitors Bureau
(213) 689-8822
www.seemyla.com
Los Angeles County
Arts Commission
(213) 202-5858
www.lacountyarts.org
Los Angeles Cultural Affairs Department
(213) 202-5500
www.culturela.org
Los Angeles Works: Mayor's Office of Economic and Business Policy
(213) 978-0781
www.losangelesworks.org
Santa Monica Convention
and Visitors Bureau
(310) 319-6263
www.santamonica.com
West Hollywood Convention and Visitors Bureau
(310) 289-2525
www.visitwesthollywood.com