Curfew Chaos L.A. Arts Scene Takes a Hit!

Arts Groups in Los Angeles Face Mounting Losses Amid Protests and Curfew

The vibrant arts scene in Los Angeles is facing unprecedented challenges as civic unrest and subsequent curfews take a significant toll. Following weekend protests, Mayor Karen Bass issued a curfew for downtown L.A., resulting in the cancellation of several highly anticipated performances and exhibitions.

"Hamlet" and L.A. Phil Performances Canceled

Among the casualties are performances of "Hamlet" at the Mark Taper Forum and the final night of the Los Angeles Philharmonic’s Seoul Festival, marking the L.A. Phil's season-ending performance at Walt Disney Concert Hall. The curfew, which remains in effect, has also led to the cancellation of director Robert O’Hara’s world-premiere adaptation of Shakespeare’s classic at the Center Theatre Group, featuring Patrick Ball from the hit Max show “The Pitt.”

Widespread Impact on Cultural Institutions

The ripple effects extend beyond theater and music, impacting a wide range of cultural institutions:

• Los Angeles Opera: Monitoring the situation closely, with upcoming performances of "Rigoletto" and "Renee Fleming and Friends" potentially affected.
• Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA): The Geffen Contemporary building will remain closed for the rest of the week.
• The Broad Museum: Remains open but with reduced hours, canceling its weekly free Thursday evening admission.
• Japanese American National Museum (JANM): Suffered graffiti damage and has postponed film screenings.

These institutions are grappling with the financial and logistical implications of the ongoing situation, compounded by the arrival of National Guard troops and Marines.

Financial Strain and Operational Challenges

Center Theatre Group, in a statement, expressed their heartbreak over the events, emphasizing their mission to serve as a home for all Angelenos. The cancellation of "Hamlet" performances alone results in approximately $35,000 in lost ticket sales per performance, in addition to ongoing production expenses. The potential extension of curfews into the following week could significantly escalate these losses, especially with the scheduled opening of "Parade" at the Ahmanson Theatre.

Statements from Affected Organizations

Several organizations have released statements addressing the situation:

• Center Theatre Group: "As Los Angeles’ largest theater company, located in downtown L.A., we are heartbroken by the events unfolding around us... Our mission is to be a home for everyone who calls themselves an Angeleno."
• L.A. Opera: "Our thoughts are with the greater Los Angeles community and especially with those who have been directly impacted." They are also waiving exchange fees for ticket holders who wish to avoid the downtown area.
• The Music Center: "Our hearts go out to all those who may be personally impacted by the recent events... We remain steadfast in our values, including the protection of free speech and the right to peaceful protest."
• Japanese American National Museum (JANM): "JANM is and always will be a voice for social justice. We continue to stand with our immigrant communities and with those who exercise their constitutional rights to peaceful protest."

Museums Adapt to the Changing Landscape

While most downtown museums typically close before the curfew, adjustments are being made. MOCA's Geffen Contemporary building is closed for the remainder of the week, pausing the durational performance "Police State." The main MOCA campus on Grand Avenue has reduced hours. The Broad Museum remains open but closes earlier, canceling its usual Thursday evening program. The Japanese American National Museum is working to repair graffiti damage and has postponed public programs.

Community Response and Resilience

Despite the challenges, the Los Angeles community is showing resilience. The Little Tokyo Public Safety Assn. is organizing a cleanup effort to address the graffiti at JANM. Volunteers have already begun the process, demonstrating a commitment to preserving the cultural richness of the area.

Looking Ahead

The situation remains fluid, and the arts community is navigating these uncertain times with caution and determination. While the immediate impact is significant, the long-term effects on Los Angeles' cultural landscape remain to be seen. The arts organizations are committed to ensuring the safety of their patrons and staff while continuing to provide enriching experiences to the community, underscoring the enduring power and importance of the arts even in the face of adversity.

Source: https://www.latimes.com/entertainment-arts/story/2025-06-11/la-ice-protests-curfew-cancellations-la-phil-opera-center-theatre-group