Category: entertainment

entertainment, Events, Performing Arts

Dita Von Teese’s Valentine’s Day Burlesque Show

by Jennifer Vasquez12 Comments on Dita Von Teese’s Valentine’s Day Burlesque Show
Vamp Jenn at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles
Vamp Jenn at The Orpheum Theatre in Los Angeles

It’s been more than two years since the last time I’ve seen Dita Von Teese perform. After her 2019 New Year’s Eve show that ushered the crowd into 2020, she and her crew had to cancel all upcoming performances due to Covid. I’m ecstatic to share that she’s back in action, and her recent Valentine’s Day event marked her return to the stage!

Now, this revue was slated to happen this past December 31st, but the date was pushed back due to world circumstances. I must say, however, I feel February 14th was the perfect occasion for a burlesque extravaganza. Dita was accompanied by her Vontourage, as well as a slew of gifted performers who showcased new and exhilarating acts. Here’s my recap of the soiree.

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entertainment, Events, Lifestyle, Nightlife, Travel

Odd & Macabre Events 2022

by Jennifer Vasquez8 Comments on Odd & Macabre Events 2022
Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
Vamp Jenn at Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights

It’s the start of a new year, which means it’s time to release my annual Odd & Macabre Events Calendar for 2022! Unlike the past two years, there are quite a few venues that have already announced dates for upcoming festivities. My fingers are crossed that these will all take place. As always, I’m going to attend as much as I can. Activities are slowly popping up, and I’ll continually be updating this post, so make sure to check back for new additions.

Although I’m based near Los Angeles, I’m doing my best to include things that are happening in other parts of the globe. Who wouldn’t want to discover spooky adventures occurring in their neck of the woods? Some of what you’ll find here include the first-ever Satanic convention, vampire soirees, immersive shows, dark art exhibits, virtual gatherings and more. Cheers to another year filled with chills and thrills!

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entertainment, Events

Enter Delusion: An Immersive Horror Theatre Experience

by Jennifer Vasquez11 Comments on Enter Delusion: An Immersive Horror Theatre Experience
Me at Delusion: Reaper's Remorse at Phillips Mansion
Me at Delusion: Reaper’s Remorse at Phillips Mansion

Have you ever wanted to play a part in a horror story? To experience the thrills and chills of immersing yourself in a twisted plot unfolding right before your eyes? My answer to both questions is “yes,” and I had the chance to have such an experience when I attended Delusion. This attraction is not simply a maze or Halloween haunt. It’s dark theatre that requires guests to do more than just watch—they want them to join in on the action.

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Dining & Drink, entertainment, Events, Nightlife

Welcome to House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée

by Jennifer Vasquez8 Comments on Welcome to House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soirée
In front of the giant Ouija Board at House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soiree
At House of Spirits: A Haunted Cocktail Soiree

You are cordially invited to take a peek behind the doors of the House of Spirits. It was my first time experiencing this mysteriously macabre event, and I loved every minute of it! As the name states, it is a Haunted Cocktail Soirée, offering a variety of adult libations on the grounds of a beautiful estate—but that’s not all that was offered. The property held secrets only to be revealed to attendees. There were hidden rooms, eerie characters lurking down hallways and magical performances.

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entertainment, Events, Nightlife

My Frightful Time at Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween Horror Nights

by Jennifer Vasquez9 Comments on My Frightful Time at Universal Studios Hollywood: Halloween Horror Nights
At Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights
At Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights

I kicked off the first weekend of October checking out one of the biggest Halloween events in Los Angeles—Universal Studios Hollywood Halloween Horror Nights. I’ve been going to this event for several years as part of my birthday festivities. However, I didn’t attend the last two years, so it felt good to return! I thought it’d be fun to share some details and photos from that spooky evening.

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entertainment, Events, Performing Arts

The House of Red Velvet Returns With “A New Baptism”

by Jennifer Vasquez11 Comments on The House of Red Velvet Returns With “A New Baptism”
The House of Red Velvet at Pico Union Project (Photo credit: Meredith M. Carlson)
Pico Union Project stage (Photo credit: Meredith M. Carlson)

It’s been nearly two years since The House of Red Velvet last opened its doors to patrons, and it returned for one night only with the debut of “A New Baptism.” The latest incarnation of the show invited guests to witness a string of performances tied together by forbidden, ethereal forces that culminated in an entrancing ceremony. When I exited the building, I was absolutely struck by the visceral energy that had been generated that evening.

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entertainment, Performing Arts

Spotlight On Samantha Parks: The Artist Behind Bullsdaughter

by Jennifer Vasquez5 Comments on Spotlight On Samantha Parks: The Artist Behind Bullsdaughter
Samantha Parks, aka Nebula Noir of The Black Veils
Samantha Parks, aka Nebula Noir of The Black Veils

The performing arts is built into the DNA of Samantha Parks who at the age of two started dance, a time when most toddlers are still learning to walk. As she grew, so did her artistic pursuits, eventually branching out into singing and yoga. After several years maturing as an artist and creator, her vision has culminated into the creative brand Bullsdaughter—a name inspired by her late father Jamell “Bull” Parks and her own life journey.     

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entertainment, Events, Nightlife, Performing Arts

The Burlesque Series: Introducing Coco Noir, Founder of The Black Veils

by Jennifer Vasquez5 Comments on The Burlesque Series: Introducing Coco Noir, Founder of The Black Veils
Aerial performance by Candace Small, aka Coco Noir (Photo credit: @omgsogood)

“Someone has to entertain them.”

The Black Veils

This is the maxim professed by The Black Veils, and the cabaret troupe definitely practices what they preach. The group recently put on their first performance in more than a year at Harvelle’s in Long Beach, California. I had the opportunity to see them live for a night of enticing revelry!

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entertainment, Events

Inside Midsummer Scream: Awaken the Spirits!

by Jennifer Vasquez12 Comments on Inside Midsummer Scream: Awaken the Spirits!
Midsummer Scream: Awaken the Spirits!

This past weekend, Halloween cheer was alive and well during Midsummer Scream’s Awaken the Spirits gathering at the Pasadena Convention Center in California. For the last two years, the horror convention has had to cancel its original event in Long Beach due to the pandemic. However, the crew managed to put together a smaller version that was absolutely spooktacular.

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entertainment, Events, Lifestyle, Travel

100 Days ‘til Halloween Guide

by Jennifer Vasquez10 Comments on 100 Days ‘til Halloween Guide
Halloween decorating

The 100-day mark to Halloween is a magical occasion, and that milestone is happening on July 23rd. If you haven’t started planning for spooky season, now is the time. I decided to create a special blog post to help you prepare. View it as an All Hallows Eve guide if you will.

Here’s a snapshot of what I’ll be sharing:

  • Where to shop for Halloween goods
  • My costume predictions
  • Halloween events & more

Let the Halloween countdown festivities begin!

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