Dinner at Bayside Restaurant, Tango, and The Spirit Of Argentina Show at Segerstrom OC

tango-buenos-segerstrom

In celebration of Tango-Buenos Aires- The Spirit of Argentina I headed to Segerstrom Center for The Arts for a tango lesson with Marcelo Ortiz. After I danced under the stars, I headed to Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach for a beautiful dinner. (check out the promotion below)

Get Your Tickets To The Spirit of Argentina!

Saturday, November 18, 2017 – Sunday, November 19, 2017

Segerstrom Center for the Arts
Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall
600 Town Center Drive
Costa Mesa, CA
(714) 556-2787
www.scfta.org

TICKETS Start at $39.

PERFORMANCES

  • Saturday, November 18, 2017 at 2 pm and 8 pm
  • Sunday, November 19, 2017 at 2 pm and 7 pm

Get your dancin’ shoes and Tango at the Party on the Plaza Saturday, Nov. 18  5:30 – 7:30 p.m.

Saturday, November 18, its time to dance at the Center’s free Tango Party on the Plaza from 5:30-7:30 p.m. just before the 8 p.m. performance by Tango Buenos Aires in the Renée and Henry Segerstrom Concert Hall.

Dinner Promotion before or after Tango Lessons!

Patrons of the show get a free glass of wine at Bistango or Bayside Restaurant with any food purchase.

bayside-restaurant-tango

The restaurant had a lovely ambiance and was dimly lit. A live a piano player filled the air with romantic music. The restaurant was idyllic, and set the tone for a perfect date night.

The food and presentation was perfectly balanced and delicious….

Here is my dinner recap at Bayside Restaurant in Newport Beach…

bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina MILD SMOKED SCOTTISH SALMON Lemon-Chive-Pepper Blini, Capers, Dill, Bermuda Onion
bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina TARTARE OF AHI TUNA Lightly Spiced with Soy, Chili and Ginger, Avocado, Ginger, Wonton
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Photo by @Queenbeelatina OVEN ROASTED RACK OF LAMB Yukon Gold Mashed Potatoes, Seasons Vegetables, Grain Mustard Port Wine Sauce

The lamb was cooked perfectly and was very tender.

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Photo by @Queenbeelatina KUROBUTA PORK CHOP Skilled Potatoes, Green Beans, “B1” BBQ Sauce

The Cabernet from Paso Robles paired with the pork chops was divine…

bayside-restaurant-tango
Photo by @Queenbeelatina BUTTERSCOTCH BUDINO Salted Caramel, Crispearls, Whipped Cream

Save room for dessert!

Restaurant Address

Bayside Restaurant 

900 Bayside Drive Newport Beach,
California, 92660

Bistango Restaurant

19100 Von Karman Avenue Irvine,
California 92612

Daddy’s Home 2 Now In Theaters Just In Time For The Holidays

The holidays can be stressful and a little family drama can create utter chaos…

Last week I screened Daddy’s Home 2 and I was taken on a fun comedy ride full of adventure, family dysfunction, and belly laughs. More daddies, more problems… The dads are back in this new sequel!

Thank you Paramount for inviting me to screen Daddy’s Home 2. All opinions are my own.

Daddy's-Home-2

Synopsis

In the sequel to the 2015 global smash, father and stepfather, Dusty (Mark Wahlberg) and Brad (Will Ferrell) have joined forces to provide their kids with the perfect Christmas. Their newfound partnership is put to the test when Dusty’s old-school, macho Dad (Mel Gibson) and Brad’s ultra-affectionate and emotional Dad (John Lithgow) arrive just in time to throw the holiday into complete chaos.

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C0-parenting can be difficult, and these dads and grandfather’s parenting styles are the complete opposite. When these blended families decide to go on a holiday getaway, things get cray cray and spin out of control.

Mel Gibson’s character is a ruthless stud, who plays the inappropriate grandfather. Dad (Gibson) and his son Dusty’s (Wahlberg) relationship is dry and disconnected. They show little or no emotion towards each other, and Dusty holds some deep grudges with his father.

Daddy's-Home-2

On the other hand…

Brad (Will Ferrell) and his father (John Lithgow), are teary and overemotional. Brad regresses when his father is around. Just imagine a middle aged man and his pops talking like babies and hugging constantly. Weird right? Yes, but sooo funny!

Mel stirs up drama and causes conflict with the two co-dads. The tension escalates, and the family vacay turns to shit…

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Family is everything, and in this film you can feel the love. These hilarious dads eventually learn to “co-dad” and make it work.

There were many unexpected surprises and twists that kept the audience laughing hysterically.  It was relatable, delightful, and heartwarming!

 Don’t miss this family comedy of the holiday season. Daddy’s Home 2 hits theaters November 10th!

Parents Note* There is some adult humor and situations.

Rated PG13 Running time: 1 hour 40 minutes.

 

Celebrate National Pasta Month At Brio Tuscan Grille at Irvine Spectrum

brio-pasta
Photo credit to Brio Tuscan Grille

Ciao pasta lovers!

It’s National Pasta month, and in celebration I headed to Brio Tuscan Grille at Irvine Spectrum to get my pasta fix.

Hosted: Thank you Brio Tuscan Grille for inviting me to celebrate National Pasta Month at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

brio-irvine-spectrum

Brio is located at the Irvine Spectrum so its perfect if you’re looking to kill time before getting seated, or if you want to dine after shopping. The restaurant is chic, elegant and ideal for a romantic dinner date…

brio-bruschetta We started off with this Sliced Steak Bruschetta. It had Gorgonzola, arugula, and charred tomato. It was a great starter before our entrée.

Our friendly waitress walked me though the menu options. She was knowledgeable and very helpful.

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The Pasta Alla Vodka has Ricotta-filled pasta, spicy tomato cream, and pancetta. It was very rich and flavorful. It was definitely a palate pleaser!

Brio has a  gluten free, vegetarian and a light calorie menu. They also have a kids menu for those bringing the kiddos out to dine.

The restaurant is family friendly and great for large parties. Patio seating is also available. The portions were generous and I had enough leftovers to take home to enjoy.

brio-pasta
Photo credit to Brio Tuscan Grille

National Pasta Month Menu

It’s #NationalPastaMonth at BRIO Tuscan Grille where two-course pasta combos are available Now through–Oct. 29. Select pasta dishes, paired with a choice of soup or salad, start at $14.95 for lunch and $17.95 for dinner.

Guests can choose one of the following pasta dishes:

  • Lobster and Shrimp Ravioli with spicy black pepper cream, spinach, and grape tomatoes ($15.95 at lunch and $22.95 at dinner)
  • Pasta Fra Diavolo, with a choice of chicken or shrimp, featuring spicy tomato cream sauce, and campanelle pasta ($14.95 at lunch and $18.95 at dinner) (can be made gluten free upon request)
  • Pasta Pesto with Chicken (light item) featuring angel hair, grilled chicken, caramelized onions, spinach, tomatoes, red peppers, Feta, and light pesto ($14.95 at lunch and $17.95 at dinner) (can be made gluten free upon request)

Guests’ choice of one soup or salad includes:

  • Soup of the Day
  • Lobster Bisque (Add $1)
  • BRIO Chopped Salad
  • Caesar Salad
  • Wedge Salad

Also starting October 10, in the spirit of the fall season, BRIO will offer two seasonal cocktails:

  • Apple Crisp Cooler –Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, apple juice, Apple Pucker liqueur, apple butter, apple wedge, cinnamon sugar rim ($8.50)
  • Caramel Apple Cider Appletini Captain Morgan Spiced Rum, apple cider, lemon juice, simple syrup, apple slice, caramel and cinnamon sugar rim $7.95)

brio-dessert

You gotta have dessert!  The creme brulee and the classic tiramisu are both classically prepared without being overly sweet. Paired with a cup of hot coffee or espresso and you have the ending to a perfect meal!

The staff was very friendly and the service was exceptional. I will definitely be back with my family…

Address:

Irvine Spectrum

774 Spectrum Ctr Dr
Irvine, CA 92618

(949) 341-0380

Bad To The Bone BBQ in San Juan Capistrano

 Bad-To-The-Bone

Friday night is family night and I generally stay out of the kitchen. By the end of the week, we are exhausted and ready for some fun. My family loves to eat out and catch up, and we recently heard about Bad To The Bone in San Juan Capistrano. This girl LOVES a juicy steak, and I was thrilled to check this place out!

Hosted:Thank you Bad To The Bone BBQ for inviting my family to dine at your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

Bad-To-The-Bone

There was a long line in front of the restaurant, so I knew this place had to be good since it appeared popular among the locals. As we walked in, the music was playing and the atmosphere had a great vibe. The decor was rustic and western. I couldn’t keep my eyes off the large plates that were being served to the guests.  The menu had a large selection to choose from, and the attentive staff walked me through the options.

We started off with these delish street tacos.  You can choose from smoked carnitas, pulled smoked chicken, brisket or fish…

Bad-To-The-Bone

We decided to split a four meat combo plate, which comes with two sides. We got chicken, brisket, tri tip, pulled pork, and baby back ribs, along with ranch beans and cole slaw. While waiting, we stocked up on the four BBQ sauces they offer – original, special, vinegar, and hot.

I also ordered a Mesquite Grilled Steak. This tender juicy Sirloin is severed with two sides.

Everything came out quickly and the food smelled heavenly. The portions were generous and the plates were easy to share.

Bad-To-The-Bone

My son ordered a hamburger and devoured it. The kids menu starts at $8.95.

There is also a great selection of sides such as cole slaw, ranch beans, garlic mashed potatoes, salads, and much more…The baked beans are just MMM!

The corn bread was fluffy and warm. It was so good, I ordered more to take home!

You cannot leave without eating dessert and trying the Chocolate Pecan Pie!

Bad-To-The-Bone

If you are looking for delicious food with plentiful portions, this is the spot! We love to support local businesses and we will definitely be back … I suggest making a reservation to avoid waiting in line. Go give it a try!

Bad To The Bone was homestyle BBQ address:

31738 Rancho Viejo Rd

San Juan Capistrano, Ca 92675

Goodbye Christopher Robin Hits Select Theaters October 13th

In a time of England’s post war, the country was filled sadness and loss.  Then a glimpse of hope came to light. The magical tales of Winnie-the-Pooh, hit book shelves all around the world.

I grew up reading the adventurous tales of Christopher Robins, and never knew the true story behind these beloved books. Recently, I screened the Goodbye Christopher Robins, and got a glimpse into the life of writer A. A. Milne and his son Christopher Robin.

Thank you Fox Searchlight for letting me screen this film. All opinions are my own.

Photo by David Appleby

This movie tells the tale of a happy boy, who through his creative play he inspires his father to write a book. But this sweet boy’s life takes a drastic turn, and takes him into a life of unwanted stardom.

Synopsis

Goodbye Christopher Robin gives moviegoers a rare glimpse into the relationship between beloved children’s author A. A. Milne (Domhnall Gleeson) and his son Christopher Robin (Will Tilston), whose toys inspired the magical world of Winnie-the-Pooh.  Along with his mother Daphne (Margot Robbie), and his nanny Olive (Kelly Macdonald), Christopher Robin and his family are swept up in the international success of the books; the enchanting tales bringing hope and comfort to England after the First World War.   But with the eyes of the world on Christopher Robin, what will the cost be to the family?

Photo by Ben Smithard

This story was both heartwarming and tragic at the same time. There were many tender moments between a father and son, that brought tears to my eyes.  It is emotionally layered and about the failures in parenting. This movie also gave me a glimpse of the author’s creative journey, that helped bring this captivating book to life.

Photo by David Appleby

This bitter sweet film was memorable, and I would definitely recommend it to moviegoers.

Go see Christopher Robins in select theaters October 13th!

Top Tech Gifts 2017

I am always for looking for the latest tech products that will save me time and money.  I strive to be more organized and efficient in my home, and I am totally geeking out on these new tech products that were recently introduced to me by CTA, MomsLA, and Techlicious Media.

Here is a list of handy gadgets I know you will love as much as I do. The holidays are around the corner, and these products will make perfect gifts!

Google Home (image above)

Let me introduce you to the newest member in my family!

Google Home is a voice-activated speaker powered by the Google Assistant. Get answers from Google, enjoy music, manage your everyday tasks, and control smart devices around the home. You can make free hands-free calls with the Assistant on Google Home! Whomever you’re calling doesn’t need aseparate device or special app. And since the Assistant on Google Home can recognize your voice (and up to six voices), when you say, call mom, it will call your mom. Right now you can shop retailers like Costco, Target, Petco and more on the Google Home. We just announced a partnership with Walmart to bring you hundreds of thousands of Walmart products—everything from laundry detergent to Legos—that you can buy through voice with your Assistant on Google Home.

Thank you CTALA, MomsLA, and Techlicious for inviting me to preview all these amazing tech products.  All opinions are my own.

tech-gifts-tile

Do you often loose your keys?  I’m always on the go, and this Tile Style allows me to track my keys when they are lost. (I admit this happens often).

Tile Style pairs elegant design with a powerful Bluetooth tracker. In addition, it’s twice as loud, has twice the range and is waterproof up to 1.5 meters for 60 minutes.

I truly enjoy cooking but my hectic schedule can interfere with cooking my meals.  This new tech precision cooker is the solution to my dilemma in the kitchen. No more overcooking, undercooking, or burning! Yippeee

Welcome to the ultimate hands-free experience in the kitchen.

I absolutely fell in LOVE with these stylish Knomo bags…

Elektronista Cross-Body Digital Organizer 

The Elektronista seamlessly incorporating technology into the constant juggle of work, leisure and travel. The Knomo Elektronista is a unique, stylish design, crafted around the technology that we use every day, and even includes a 5000mAh battery to keep devices charged on the go. Made from soft full-grain leather with a handy detachable chain/leather shoulder strap, the Elektronista magically unzips on either side to transform into a flat, practical layout of pockets and compartments. This allows for easy access and protection of devices and belongings. There’s space for just about everything the digital life demands–from up to a 10 tablet, smartphones, passports, USB sticks and credit cards to charging cables, headphones and much more.

Knomo Berlin 14” Backpack

A simple, slimline backpack with a generous amount of space, made out of ultra lightweight polyester for an edgier look and feel.

Knomo Audley Fold Down Briefcase 14”

A modern take on a classic handbag. Sophisticated in any situation and easily transformed into a cross body bag for those times you need to be hands-free.

Do you feel like you are constantly purchasing ink cartridges? My family uses our home printer on a regular basis, and ink can get expensive. This new printer by Epson with refillable cartridges blew me away!

Expression ET-2650 EcoTank wireless all-in -one offers revolutionary cartridge-free printing with innovative, easy-to-fill supersized ink tanks, including up to 2 years of ink in the box. That’s an incredible amount of ink—enough to print up to 4,000 black/6,500 color pages, and equivalent to about 20 ink cartridge sets. Delivering an unbeatable combination of value and convenience, the ET-2650 allows you the freedom to print in color. Plus, save up to 80 percent on ink with low-cost replacement bottles. The ET-2650 also offers built-in wireless printing from tablets and smartphones, a 1.44″ color LCD, and a built-in card slot for PC-free photo printing. Cartridge-free printing–comes with up to 2 years of ink in the box, equivalent to about 20 ink cartridge sets and enough ink to print up to 4,000 pages black/6,500 color Affordable, cost-saving solution–Save up to 80 percent on ink with low-cost replacement bottles, plus easy-to-fill, supersized ink tanks Quick and simple wireless printing–Printing has never been easier, whether you’re at home, on the road or even across the globe, with built-in wireless printing from computers, tablets and smartphones. Also includes one-touch copying for fast high-quality copies, and easy setup and navigation with a 1.44 color LCD screen

Cozi Family Organizer

Cozi is the surprisingly simple way to manage everyday family life. Cozi tracks everyone’s schedules in one place so the whole family knows who is picking up the kids from practice, when the next dentist appointment is, and whether you can book that girls’night out. Other features include the shared shopping and to do lists, recipe box and meal planner, and family journal.

tech-gifts-watch

The HUAWEI Watch 2 combines the connectivity of a smartphone, the smarter living applications of a premium smartwatch, and the detailed performance coaching features of a sports tracking device–all in the form of a stylish classical wristwatch. With its integrated antenna and exceptional standalone 4G connectivity, the Watch 2 allows users to leave their phone behind while still staying connected. It also comes with 10 free weeks of Google Play music and a battery that lasts for up to two days with regular use, up to 10 hours in training mode and up to three weeks in watch mode.

I seriously need this tech housekeeper in my life!

LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ is one of the quietest robot vacuums on the market, so families can enjoy listening to music, watching TV and more while it cleans.

All three LG Hom-Bot Turbo+ models feature Wi-Fi capabilities, putting total control in the user’s hands through their smartphone. The flagship model in gold (CR5765GD) also offers hands-free operation using voice command with the Google Assistant on Google Home Plus, thanks to an innovative design that absorbs vibrations and reduces noise, LG Hom-Bot is the quietest robot vacuum on the market on non-carpeted floors.

Part housekeeper, part guard dog With LG HomeView™ live-stream technology, users can view and vacuum their home from anywhere using their smartphone As LG Hom-Bot navigates through the home, it sends real- time video via the app so users can see the areas that need cleaning the most–or monitor their house and kids while it cleans.

Seasalt Woodfire Grill: Santa Maria Style Barbecue in Huntington Beach

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Living in the Central Coast was a unique and a memorable experience… I have wonderful memories of taking my children on lovely hikes at Oso Flaco Lake, picnics at local wineries, and eating delicious Santa Maria barbecue. The food and wine is like no other, and continues to be a highlight in my memory book.

On weekends, my family loved driving up Broadway street in Santa Maria. Local churches and organizations would set up on the main road, to grill and fundraise for different causes. As we drove we could smell the amazing aroma of the barbecue pits grilling up tri-tip, linguisa, chicken, and other central coast favorites.

I recently heard about Seasalt Woodfire Grill in Huntington Beach, and I was thrilled to learn that I didn’t have to drive four hours up the coast to get some authentic, Santa Maria-Style barbecue. I was curious to know if this restaurant was the real deal, and let me tell you…. It is!

Thank you Seasalt Woodfire Grill for letting me review your restaurant. All opinions are my own.

seasalt-woodfire-grill

About Santa Maria Barbecue 

Have you ever tried Santa Maria-style barbecue? If not, you MUST!

Santa Maria barbecue is unique and centered around beef tri-tip. It is usually seasoned with salt, black pepper, and garlic salt. It is grilled over coals of native coast live oak, and often referred to as “red oak” wood.

Pinquito Beans are also an important component of traditional central coast barbecue. They are a cross between small white beans and pinto beans. They grow well in the fertile soil, and in mild climate of the Santa Maria Valley.

santa-maria-huntington-beach
Photo credit to Seasalt Woodfire Grill

The ambiance is casual, yet chic. I could feel the Pacific Ocean breeze as I entered the restaurant. Patio seating is available, and surrounds a large fire pit.

Memory: This reminded me of our lazy days at Porter Ranch, when we would sit around a large fire pit, barbecue, and let the kids run free. 

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Different seasoning are brought to the table to add a little flavor to the dishes. (if desired)

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As you walk into the restaurant, there is a full service bar. The Farm Craft Rim libations added to the whole Central Coast foodie experience.

I sipped on this fresh Grilled Piña cocktail (tequila + pineapple +jalapeño). It was much like my personality, and was the perfect combination of sweet and spicy… Sooo good.

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We started out with the Tri Tip Nachos with manchego cheese sauce, cowboy cavier and Santa Maria Beans. They were tasty and we devoured them in 2.5 seconds!

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The Whole Grilled Cauliflower with manchego cheese fandue, was appetizing and melted in my mouth.

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I tried the Tri-Tip, Ribs, and Linguisa… The rustic presentation was impressive and the portions were generous. The meats were tender, juicy, and delectable.

The 12 ounce Spencer is also a great option.

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Dessert anyone?

You cannot leave without eating dessert. Omar’s OG Pudding is to die for, and the Scorched S’mores is a MUST TRY!

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The flavors at Seasalt Woodfire Grill were authentic, exquisite and reminded me of the beautiful time we lived in the Central Coast. I can’t wait to go back with family and friends… Cheers!

Urban Plates In Aliso Viejo: Food That Tastes Good and Feels Good

urban-plates

My foodie friends and I headed to Urban Plates in Aliso Viejo earlier this month.  We all share a passion for good food, and we love to try out new places. We were excited about our visit to Urban Plates in Aliso Viejo, because we had taken a glimpse at the menu online, and we knew there were several options for our diverse palates.

Hosted: Thank you Urban Plates for inviting me to your Aliso Viejo location to try your delicious food. All opinions are my own.

WARNING: The images below may cause some drooling…

urban-plates-vegetables

As I walked into the restaurant it smelled heavenly…

Everything looked colorful, fresh, and appetizing. The options were endless. I was a little overwhelmed at first, but the attentive staff walked me through the menu selection.

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Vegetarian, vegan, and gluten free options are also available.

antioxidant-urban-plates

I was craving a salad, and I made my way to the salad bar. It was prepared and tossed right in front of me.

This Antioxidant salad was fresh and crisp.. This UP salad had a lettuce blend, organic baby kale, cucumbers, celery, mint, pickled onions, raw walnuts, grapes, blue cheese, seasonal fruit, and a mint-lemongrass balsamic vinaigrette.

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The Urban Pizzettes are hand-stretched and made with organic dough. You can choose from margherita, pepperoni & cheese, bbq chicken, and portobello & pesto. Soooo good!

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My pescatarian friend raved about the Herbed Salmon Salad.

It has bibb lettuce, up lettuce blend, roasted and chilled salmon, organic tomatoes, sliced fennel, red bell peppers, garlic croutons, organic egg, green onions, and green goddess dressing.

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I indulged, but I felt guilt free because the food was fresh and made with high quality ingredients. It was wholesome, delicious, and affordable.

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kids-urban-plates

UP is casual and family friendly. They offer awesome kid options to choose from such as pizza, grilled cheese, mac and cheese, and the urban kid plate that has the choice of grilled free range chicken or grilled steak & any hot or cold side and chargrilled focaccia.

dessert-urban-plates

Dessert anyone?

The bakery section at UP is incredible. The pastries and selection of baked goods includes a variety of made-from-scratch cookies, cupcakes, tarts, brownies, layer cakes, cheesecake, cream pies and much more!

My personal favorite was the Chocolate Peanut Butter Pretzel Crunch Cupcake. This chocolate cupcake is topped with peanut butter frosting, peanut pretzel caramel crunch, chocolate and a ganache drizzle.

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I love this place so much, I went two days in a row! On day two, I ordered the Caprese Sandwich and Tomato Soup. I’m sure I will be back with my family soon…

Take out and delivery options available.

Urban Plates Address:

Aliso Viejo Town Center
26661 Aliso Creek Road, Suite B
Aliso Viejo, CA 92656

(949) 424-6160

Theater Review: A Steady Rain at The John Kirby Studio in LA

Photo credits: Adam Ikaika

The smash hit “A Steady Rain” by Keith Huff has been launched for a third run at John Kirby’s Studio in Los Angeles. This sensational play has sold out night after night, after stirring up a buzz in Hollywood.

Keith Huff’s incredible play is directed by premiere acting coach, John Kirby, the “Angel” of Hollywood. “A Steady Rain” took us on unexpected emotional ride, one that includes disfunction, betrayal, and turmoil.

Photo credits: Adam Ikaika

Huff’s play gave us a an intimate look into the complicated lives of police officers, and the temptations that can afflict them.

Synopsis

Keith Huff’s, Steady Rain is a gritty, darkly poetic duologue about two Chicago police officers whose inner need to serve and protect consumes them — and ultimately, rips them apart. RJ DeBard (The CommissionRemnantGod Shots) and Andy Hoff (Mad MenNCISNCIS LALethal Weapon,JustifiedHow I Met Your MotherA Perfect Getaway) star as partners on the police force who share a lifelong friendship that is tested after terrible decisions are made. Chaos spins their lives and careers out of control.

Joey (Hoff) and Denny (DeBard) are lifelong friends and Chicago cops who reach a career stalemate.  Joey lives in a simple apartment and has a drinking problem. Denny is married with two kids and dominates the dysfunctional friendship. His abusive tendencies, push the ones he love most emotionally to the edge.

When a domestic disturbance call takes a huge twisted turn, a severe lapse in judgement begins to unravel their trust and loyalty. Told entirely by the two characters, this story rips, seamlessly, between individual recounting and live action. It’s increasingly apparent, however, that the two sides of their story don’t add up.

Photo credits: Adam Ikaika
Photo credits: Adam Ikaika

The brotherhood and bond between these two lifetime friends is simply unbreakable…

Denny (DeBard) lives on the edge, patrols and maintains civilian peace, in the most “unethical” way. He transitions steadily and his conflicted character transcends. Denny is volatile, explosive, and unpredictable. His performance kept the audience captivated. His wide acting range was phenomenal.

Joey (Hoff) is straight laced and watches the turmoil unfold from the sidelines. He is sensible and poised, and what I would consider a “typical cop.”  He is also deeply conflicted and battles his own inner demons.  Hoff’s execution was brilliant and believable.

The direction by John Kirby and execution of this piece was exceptional…

Bravo! “A Steady Rain” is a MUST-SEE 

Be prepared to laugh, shed lots of tears, and be blown away!

The small theater seats 40. Performances of  A Steady Rain will take place this Friday and Saturday @ 8 p.m. and Sunday at 7 p.m., and has NOW BEEN EXTENDED TO AUGUST 20th!  Tickets are $20. TheJohn Kirby Studio is located at 1510 N. Las Palmas Avenue, Los Angeles CA 90028. For reservations and information, call (323) 467-7877 or go to steadyrain.brownpapertickets.com.

Written by Keith Huff
Directed by John Kirby
Starring RJ DeBard and Andy Hoff
Scenic Design by Mike Flannery
Lighting Design by Donny Jackson
Sound Design by Aaron Lyons
Produced by Andy Hoff and Nathan Nesbitt

The Beguiled Movie Hits Theaters June 23rd

Written By: Clarissa Camacho

Last week we hit the red carpet for “The Beguiled” movie  premiere in Los Angeles, California. The hashtag of the night was #VengefulBitches. It was no surprise because this new juicy thriller is disturbing, provocative, and suspenseful…

Directed by Sofia Coppola, this drama takes place in Virginia during the Civil War.  A young girl ventures out into the woods to collect mushrooms and finds a wounded Union soldier under a tree.  At first, the film feels much like a historical drama, then this hair-raising story takes unexpected twists and turns. 

This new thriller hits select theaters June 23rd.

Thank you Focus Features for inviting us to The Beguiled Movie Premiere. All opinions are my own.

About the Film

The Beguiled is an atmospheric thriller from acclaimed writer/director Sofia Coppola. The story unfolds during the Civil War, at a Southern girls’ boarding school. Its sheltered young women take in an injured enemy soldier. As they provide refuge and tend to his wounds, the house is taken over with sexual tension and dangerous rivalries, and taboos are broken in an unexpected turn of events.

Tarantino-Beguiled
Photo credit to Focus Features

Quentin Tarantino and other Hollywood celebs showed up to the premiere to support Coppola’s new film.  “The Beguiled” is a recreation of the 1971 film, originally starring Clint Eastwood. 

Beguiled Movie

Producer Youree Henley said, “It’s a really fun movie to watch especially with an audience. When people feel like they are given permission collectively to laugh, or sigh, or to feel that experience. It’s very quiet sometimes and then it gets very broad in the best sense.”

We laughed, cringed, and gasped while watching the film. The story took us on an emotional voyage, much like Henley described in our interview.

Kidman-Beguiled
Photo credit to Focus Features

Miss Martha (Nicole Kidman), is elegant and poised. She reluctantly helps the wounded solider. Kidman’s beauty and demeanor transforms as her attraction grows for McBurney.

Photo credit to Focus Features

Corporal McBurney’s (Colin Farrell) character is rugged, charming, and magnetic much like Eastwood in the original film. The attractive soldier has an thick Irish brogue. He distracts the girls from their daily routine, which causes disruption in the school.

Dunst-Beguiled

Edwina (Kirsten Dunst) portrays a quiet composed teacher who also falls hard for the Union Soldier. She is determined to be by his side.

Fanning-Beguiled

Alicia (Elle Fanning) is a young wild seductress. Things definitely heat up with Elle and McBurney, and the love triangle becomes chaotic and extremely complicated.

Emma Howard (Emily) looked gorgeous in red at the premiere. This is her first feature film.

Beguiled-Cast

As the story unfolds, these young girls reveal a dark vindictive side. Addison Riecke is sweet “Marie” in the film.

Beguiled-Party

The six pound pie baked by Chef Casey Thompson was the perfect dessert for “The Beguiled” themed dinner party.

Go see “The Beguiled” in theaters June 23rd!

This movie is Rated R

Run time: 93 minutes