Co-presented by Metro Art, Zócalo Public Square, and Grand Performances
Moderated by Moira Shourie, Executive Director, Zócalo Public Square
Arts and culture built Los Angeles, this hub for the journeying, creative spirit. And great art connects Angelenos to each other. We roar with laughter at comedians, thrill at a poetic turn of phrase, shed a tear when our favorite restaurant closes down. And when L.A.’s people and values come under attack, we turn to culture to stay strong. Angelenos find power in murals, mariachis, and mouth-watering cuisine served up by street vendors —a fiery fusion of forms that makes us who we are.
And yet, while music, comedy, art, and food bind us together, punchlines and platforms can also push us into camps, reflecting bitter culture wars across the country. How does art connect, and when does it divide like a knife? Can art be the secret to keeping the soul of a city alive, even in the most challenging times? And where do we find inspiration and connection in a town where so many cultural, artistic, and social forces collide?
Zócalo invites “art rap” rapper and comedian Open Mike Eagle, improviser and Dynasty Typewriter co-founder Vanessa Ragland, Da Poetry Lounge Co. president Jasmine Williams, and comedian, actress, and writer Sasheer Zamata to Union Station to discuss how art helps Angelenos feel connected today.
Part of LAte Night Train of Thought, with improv performances presented by Dynasty Typewriter, featuring Eugene Cordero, Colton Dunn, Lauren Lapkus, Ify Nwadiwe, Gil Ozeri, and Sasheer Zamata; spoken word interludes by Nate Lovell and RAVINA from Da Poetry Lounge; and a closing musical set by “art rap” artist Open Mike Eagle. Guests can also enjoy complimentary sweets from Little Tokyo’s iconic Fugetsu-Do Confectionery (while supplies last) and bites available for purchase from the Kogi BBQ food truck.
This program is part of California 175 — What Connects California?, a suite of free Zócalo events and essays, bringing together leaders and thinkers from all walks of life to envision California’s next 175 years.
