Beat the blahs of May grey turning into June gloom with this slate of inspiring, fun, and educational activities this week. No matter what’s happening outside, inside these rooms are chances to hear from actors and experts on the craft, knowledgeable teachers and pros—along with catching some of the most buzzed-about films and TV out there right now.
Get an inside look at two TV series.
For two nights at the Paley Center, join showrunners, producers, actors, and more as they give a behind-the-scenes look at two series: one long-running and iconic, the other a future classic currently in its second season. “Creating Great Characters: Dick Wolf & Mariska Hargitay in Conversation” (June 4) pairs the infamous “Law & Order” creator with Olivia Benson herself, while “An Evening with Dear White People” (June 5) features many of the Netflix series’ cast members. Don’t miss either evening. (Tickets: $8-30)
Catch a glimpse of L.A.’s future in “Hotel Artemis.”
Jodie Foster makes her long-awaited return to the big screen in the upcoming sci-fi thriller “Hotel Artemis.” See the new film on June 4 along with a Q&A with Foster and fellow co-stars Jeff Goldblum, Sterling K. Brown and filmmaker Drew Pearce in what is one of L.A.’s most gorgeous old theaters, the Theatre at the Ace Hotel. Beyond the sure-to-be-amazing panel, it’s a great chance to witness how this cast of who’s who tackles this futuristic vision of our fair city. (Tickets: $5)
Explore the world of Patrick Melrose.
Though Benedict Cumberbatch might play the titular character in Showtime’s “Patrick Melrose,” it’s Jennifer Jason Leigh, portraying Melrose’s mother, who gives the show added depth and context to deeply troubled Patrick. Catch a screening of this limited series at SAG on June 4 and join Leigh for a Q&A afterward to explore the nuances of character and the process of translating Edward St. Aubyn’s novels to screen. (Free)
Discover what it takes to work in voiceover.
If you’ve ever debated a career in voiceover, explore your options with one of the best in the biz, Melanie Ehrlich, who’s voiced many projects in addition to her work as an actor and producer. Check out Ehrlich’s voiceover course for free on June 4 and find out the truth about choosing this field as an actor, along with what opportunities lie ahead and what the industry expects from upcoming hopefuls. (Free)
Check out Backstage’s Los Angeles audition listings!