Power, Pio Pico and the Beginning of Los Angeles Live on Stage
What becomes of the strong and stoic who try to preserve the old ways while the winds of change swirl all around them? Pio Pico was California's last Mexican governor before the territory was ceded to the United States in 1848. Pico lived large in his day, partying and gambling and building lavish monuments around Los Angeles, but died nearly broke. After he died, his tomb was vandalized and his wife's body stripped of her jewels. When his name is spoken today, it's mostly to curse the traffic on his namesake boulevard.The new stage production California Story shines a wildly contemporary light on this ancient L.A. origin story. During Pico's lifetime, Southern California (or as he would have called it Alta California) transformed from a dusty pueblo of maybe 300 to a burgeoning mini metropolis of 55,000 Americans. Everything Pio knew was uprooted and changed as the old traditions and social hierarchies of Spain and Mexico were superseded by cold, hard Yankee capitalism encroaching from the east. East L.A. native Peter Mendoza plays Pico with a ferocious intensity and much wailing and gnashing of teeth, flailing as his empire crumbles around him. He plays the part with such an indignant madness that I could see why he was cast as Night Stalker Richard Ramirez in an upcoming film.
As Pico descends into a righteous rage and passionate denial of the new world falling atop him his little brother Andrés (played with elegant coolness by Davi Santos, perhaps best known for playing a refined knight on TV's Power Rangers) attempts to talk some sense into the ex-governor, hobbled by bad luck and bad loans. Blonde-haired and blue-eyed Sawyer Shine practically twirls his moustache in devious delight as he topples the old empires while his long-suffering wife, played by Camila Arteche, suffers some more. Playwright Roger Q. Mason (Lavender Men) spent years developing the story as part of the Califas Trilogy, three productions about 'land, power and dreams' and the past, present and future of our state. California Story joins Hide & Hide and Juana Maria on L.A. stages through June. Mason's surrealist staging shifts back and forth through three centuries with the aid of the Legendary Children, a roller-skating Greek chorus inspired by Disney's Hercules, that pops in and out of the dream. The innovative staging, lighting and special effects are almost overpowering, but then you realize you're sitting around the campfire, listening to stories of those who were here before you.
Outside In Theatre presents California Story Caminito Theater at Los Angeles City College855 North Vermont Ave. Los Angeles, CA 90029
Now through June 3
Hashtags
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Yahoo
2 hours ago
- Yahoo
Donald Trump's Favorite Breakfast Is A Simple Classic
Donald Trump is as American as it gets, especially when it comes to his food preferences. When you're President of the Unites States with a full staff of top-tier chefs working in The White House kitchen, pretty much any kind of prepared meal is at your disposal. However, for Trump, what he prefers to eat day to day doesn't look much different from what most average Americans are eating, including his favorite breakfast: bacon and eggs. In fact, bacon and eggs is the favorite breakfast of many an American president. Harry S. Truman had his eggs and bacon with a side of bourbon while John F. Kennedy preferred his bacon baked and his eggs boiled. Barack Obama sometimes accompanied his eggs, toast, and potatoes with bacon. As for Trump, "bacon medium and the eggs over-well" is what he told People Magazine in 2015. The only breakfast that might be more of an American classic than bacon and eggs is cereal, which Trump has also proclaimed a liking for, though he favors seriously specific kinds of cereal. "Made in the USA. Has to be made in the USA. You know the cornflake type stuff, Raisin Bran. Has to be right out of the fields of Iowa" (via Politico). However, if Trump isn't enjoying either of these options, during his campaigning in 2016, Trump's mornings were said to be fueled with McDonald's Egg McMuffins. Read more: The 14 Most Unhealthy Canned Soups You Can Buy At The Store As quintessential as fast-food is in American culture, it shouldn't come as a surprise that Trump loves himself some takeout (we can't blame him). Specifically, he has an affinity for McDonald's. In a 2016 interview on The Dr. Oz Show (via Buzzfeed), Trump stated that he usually skips breakfast and prefers to eat fast-food because "at least you know what they're putting in it." What Trump meant by this statement is since everything on the menu of fast-food chains is consistently prepared with the same ingredients or made in advance, it alleviates his fear of being poisoned. In truth, that's barely scratching the surface as to why Donald Trump loves McDonald's so much. If he's skipping breakfast, one might assume he's at least sipping on a coffee or tea, but no; not exactly. Trump prefers Diet Coke and lots of it. Apparently, Donald Trump can drunk upwards of a dozen cans of Diet Coke every day. It's was been reported he fell asleep during his hush money trial in 2024 due to not drinking enough Diet Coke. His preferred breakfast of bacon and eggs could use a healthy source of fiber in some form (any of his go-to breakfast options could, honestly), but it appears to be working for him. At 78 years old, he continues to have enduring energy despite being in the public eye. For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more! Read the original article on The Takeout.
Business Insider
2 hours ago
- Business Insider
Why spiritual shopping is the new wellness trend you didn't see coming
It's 2025, and wellness isn't just about green smoothies and fitness trackers anymore. Americans are reaching for something deeper—something that touches the soul. And in this quiet cultural shift, spiritual shopping is becoming the unexpected bridge between modern self-care and ancient tradition. The Quiet Rise of Sacred Objects For many, surrounding themselves with meaningful symbols like rosaries, saint medals, and devotional candles is no longer solely a matter of religion. It has become a way to express identity, to create a sense of grounding, and to live with greater intention. These objects offer a form of presence in spaces often dominated by screens and noise. As spiritual curiosity grows—particularly among Millennials and Gen Z—religious items are appearing in unexpected places. No longer limited to churches or family altars, they're now found on nightstands, tucked into bags, or featured in TikTok videos that explore faith and spirituality. A cross necklace might be worn as a symbol of protection, while a small statue of St. Joseph could take on new meaning as part of a personal ritual in a first apartment. These items are resonating in ways that go beyond aesthetic or trend. They speak directly to the human need for connection, stability, and purpose. The Vatican's Lasting Cultural Footprint At the heart of this movement is the enduring presence of the Vatican, which for centuries has shaped the aesthetic and devotional traditions of Catholicism worldwide. From the grandeur of Michelangelo's frescoes to the simplicity of a hand-carved crucifix, the Vatican has long influenced how faith is expressed visually and spiritually. But its influence isn't just historical—it's deeply relevant today, especially in a time when many are searching for meaning, rootedness, and continuity. The recent election of Pope Leo XIV, the first American pontiff in Church history, has further energized interest in Catholic identity across the United States. Charismatic, intellectually grounded, and pastorally engaged, his leadership has brought a renewed sense of global unity to the Church. For American Catholics, in particular, the connection feels more personal than ever—bridging continents and generations, and awakening a new wave of interest in the symbols, rituals, and heritage of the faith. From the stunning art of the Vatican Museums to the sacred rituals that continue to draw thousands to St. Peter's Square each week, the Holy See remains a central source of spiritual inspiration. Its influence reaches far beyond theology, extending into the realms of craftsmanship, culture, and everyday devotion. Religious artisans—many of whom work in small, family-run workshops in and around Vatican City—still create devotional objects using time-honored techniques passed down through generations, preserving a legacy that spans centuries. Many religious items available today—such as rosaries, crucifixes, saint medals, and icons—are made just steps away from the Vatican. But their significance goes beyond geography. These objects carry with them the legacy of centuries of faith and tradition. For many believers, they're not just keepsakes or souvenirs, they represent a real connection to the Church's spiritual and cultural heritage. In a time when much of life feels disposable or digital, these pieces offer something lasting: a sense of meaning, beauty, and belonging. Influencers Bringing Faith Into the Feed A major driver of this trend? Catholic content creators who are reimagining how faith is expressed online. Take Leah Darrow, a former fashion model who now shares her journey of spiritual transformation with hundreds of thousands of followers. Her blend of authenticity and devotion has inspired many to explore their own faith—starting with a single rosary or saint medal. Then there's Fr. Mike Schmitz, whose 'Bible in a Year' podcast has ranked #1 on Apple Podcasts, proving that deep faith content can thrive in digital spaces. Other figures like Emily Wilson and Jackie Francois Angel have turned platforms like YouTube and Instagram into communities where Catholicism meets everyday life—joyfully, honestly, and often with a devotional in hand. Where Meaning Meets Craft Retailers rooted in religious tradition are seeing renewed interest—not because they've changed, but because the world has. As modern life grows more chaotic and digital, people are seeking something tangible, timeless, and intentional. There's a desire to reconnect with slower values—heritage, faith, and craftsmanship—and this is where spiritual artisanship thrives. One example is Savelli Religious, a family-run company based in Vatican City since 1898 that offers handcrafted religious items deeply rooted in Catholic tradition. With over a century of experience, the company has become a trusted name for those seeking objects that combine spiritual meaning with artistic craftsmanship. Their catalog ranges from classic rosaries and saint medals to intricate crucifixes and devotional gifts, each one reflecting the care of skilled Italian artisans and the spiritual heritage of its surroundings. What sets Savelli apart is not only its longevity, but its location—just steps from St. Peter's Basilica—where faith and history converge. For many who shop there, especially American Catholics discovering or rediscovering their roots, owning a rosary or sacred item crafted so close to the heart of the Church isn't simply a transaction. It becomes a way to stay connected to something timeless, to carry a piece of the Vatican's legacy into everyday life, and to find meaning in objects that are made to last. Finding Stillness in a Tangible Way You don't have to be particularly devout to feel a connection to symbols of peace, protection, or meaning. Increasingly, people of all backgrounds are incorporating items like crucifixes, saint pendants, and devotional candles into their homes—not necessarily as expressions of religious practice, but as quiet reminders of something greater than themselves. For some, it's about starting a personal ritual; for others, it's simply a way to bring intention or calm into their space. This trend reflects a broader cultural shift. As modern life becomes faster and more fragmented, there's a growing interest in objects and habits that offer a sense of permanence. Spiritual symbols—regardless of religious affiliation—can provide that. They represent continuity, identity, and values that transcend the present moment. In that sense, reaching for something timeless isn't about nostalgia or dogma; it's about finding balance in a world that rarely slows down.
New York Post
4 hours ago
- New York Post
Fanatics Sportsbook promo for Day 10 of the French Open: New users get $1,000 no sweat first bet
New York Post may be compensated and/or receive an affiliate commission if you click or buy through our links. Featured pricing is subject to change. We are getting down to the wire at the 2025 French Open. There are just eight players remaining on both the men's and women's side of the draw, and there's a mix of star power and surprise packages in the quarterfinals. Carlos Alcaraz, Jannik Sinner, and Novak Djokovic headline the men's quarterfinals, while Coco Gauff, Aryna Sabalenka, Iga Swiatek, and Madison Keys are the heavyweights in the women's draw. The promo offers are also available for the NBA and Stanley Cup Playoffs. Fanatics Sportsbook promo for the 2025 French Open The offer is valid for new users in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Washington, D.C., Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, North Carolina, New Jersey, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, and Wyoming. You must place at least a $1 bet with odds of -500 or longer for 10 straight days to be eligible for the No Sweat Bet. How to sign up at Fanatics Sportsbook Select your bonus offer. Choose your state Fill out your login details Enter the promo code Make a deposit What our Post expert thinks about Day 10 of the 2025 French Open Tuesday's men's matches should be box office. There are two Americans, Tommy Paul and Frances Tiafoe, in action in Tuesday's quarterfinal action, but both players are underdogs. Paul will need his A-game to beat Carlos Alcaraz, while Tiafoe will have to deal with the in-form Lorenzo Musetti. New customers in AZ, CO, CT, DC, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, LA, MA, MD, MI, NC, NJ, OH, PA, TN, VT, VA, WV, or WY only. Must apply this promotion in your bet slip and place a $1+ cash wager with odds of -500 or longer each day for 10 straight days. Your 10 days begin the day you establish your account. Wager must settle as a loss to qualify for Bonus Bets. Bonus Bets will equal the amount of the losing wager(s) (up to $100 in Bonus Bets per day) and expire 7 days from issuance. This offer is not available in NY. Terms apply- see Fanatics Sportsbook app.
