A Night to Remember! SPNA Night Out at The Belasco
The community support was overwhelming. More than 215 people attended the South Park Neighborhood Association (SPNA) event held on Thursday, Feb 16 at The Belasco. Residents representing 29 South Park residential buildings mingled with each other and South Park businesses. The richness of South Park was evident in both the historic Belasco and the warmth of the community.
Standing at the balcony of the majestic Belasco Theater, one can’t be anything but awed. This old gem theater with Moorish stone decorations leading to a magnificent domed ceiling is the downtown history that draws so many of us to the neighborhood.
Greg Franklin said this was his first time at The Belasco and the docent tour (by LA City Historical Society) by Tiffany, David, Carley, and Martin was “incredible.” Others shared stories of the Belasco Brothers building The Belasco in 1926 for vaudeville shows. More recently the Belasco was a church. Franklin learned, “the original theater floor is still intact under the existing main theater floor.” Others commented on the transformation with major renovations since Live Nation bought The Belasco prior to the pandemic.
In addition to the building and tours, the vibe included live music by the talented solo, performing artists Jadea Kelly and Daniel Blake. You can enjoy their music here:
https://open.spotify.com/artist/3ro4f3VnPO6PiAah0POgwD?si=dg8NNC1PRgyl3K4vT1sJWA
https://open.spotify.com/artist/18gQyw6wiofO2h9SLSktcW?si=BQyhwhb_SlqiTc6gIX53aA
People feasted on Greek appetizers, skewers, moussaka by Florina Greek Kitchen, and later in the evening amazing baklava and sugar free cake donated by Hope Street Bakery. Elegant flowers were donated by Otero Inc Florist. Keri Freeman remarked how the colorful cotton candy reminded her of her youth.
SPNA was appreciative and honored to have wonderful South Park sponsorship and participation from Throw Clay, MedBeautyLA, HiDef Brewery, Lagree 213, Kennedy Wilson, andMichael Robleto of Compass. Michael did double duty as the evening’s MC as well as running the raffle. The business owners were thrilled to see the community turnout and the positive energy.
A special shoutout to the staff, security, and tremendous support from The Belasco including their General Manager Danielle Rubio whose expertise was invaluable to SPNA.
Ricky Ka Hyong Lee, a first time SPNA event attendee said the event exceeded his expectations. “I will definitely be attending future SPNA events.”
This was truly a community wide event from promotion by residential buildings and businesses and the dedicated work of SPNA volunteers.
Look for more memorable events from the South Park Neighborhood Association.
By Marty Goldberg