Grand Performances Announces 2019 Season Plans

Grand Performances announced that the Watercourt at California Plaza, its home for over 30 years, will undergo a major redesign starting early 2019 and extending through the summer. During the renovation, Grand Performances will expand its community-based programming which currently includes LAX Presents, Grand Avenue Arts All Access, and others to be announced. Grand Performances, the longest-running presenter of high-quality free programs in Downtown Los Angeles, plans to hold a summer music festival in DTLA.

"For three decades we've presented innovative programming at the Watercourt in downtown Los Angeles," said Mari Riddle, executive director, Grand Performances. "We're using the renovation as the catalyst to augment our programming and expertise across the County and reach people in the communities where they live."

Once completed, California Plaza will offer a modern, and multifunctional space for the audience. In 2020, the goal is to invite Grand Performances new community partners and residents to the newly designed performance venue while continuing to collaborate with them to present in their respective communities.

Grand Performances community based and site-specific programming includes a collaboration with Los Angeles World Airports to present local artists to travelers at the terminals as part of LAX Presents. In 2019, Grand Performances will double the number of events at LAX to 36 performances beginning in March through November, including classical, contemporary, and traditional music, and dance. Plans are underway to include two big sing-alongs starting with love songs on Valentine's Day.

In addition, Grand Performances is planning a one-day downtown summer music festival in 2019 that concentrates the best of local and International Artists in typical Grand Performances fashion.

Furthermore, on November 3, 2018, Grand Performances and LA Chamber Orchestra have teamed up to host an unprecedented day of music, crafts and fun for all ages at the Spiral Court in Cal Plaza from 11:00 a.m. - 3:00 p.m, during Grand Avenue Arts: All Access, a festival set in the city's epicenter for the arts. Attendees will experience a variety of amazing performances brought together through a collaboration with LACO's Community Partners outreach program with music from classical and contemporary composers alike highlighted in this unique outdoor venue.

In December 2018, Grand Performances will present holiday-themed daytime performances sponsored by Plaza Commons, Inc., as part of California Plaza's celebration of the holiday season.