Latest news with #MartialArtsHistoryMuseum
Associated Press
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Martial Arts Museum Gears Up for Grand Opening Event
( NewMediaWire ) - June 06, 2025 - Glendale, CA — This Saturday, May 7, 2025, the Martial Arts History Museum is thrilled to announce its official grand opening celebration. This landmark event will take place at 11 am at its brand-new Glendale location, bringing together martial arts enthusiasts, historians, and families for a day of cultural discovery and celebration. The Martial Arts History Museum is the first of its kind, dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich heritage, traditions, and global impact of martial arts. Visitors will be immersed in a world of history, from the ancient warriors of Asia to the martial arts icons of film and television. The museum aims to educate and inspire, highlighting the contributions of martial artists from around the world and honoring the diverse cultures that gave rise to these time-honored traditions. Grand Opening Highlights Include: · Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony with special guests and martial arts legends · Live Demonstrations from various martial arts disciplines · Cultural Performances, including traditional music and dance · Exhibits, showcasing rare artifacts, memorabilia, and multimedia presentations 'This museum is more than a collection of exhibits,' says museum founder Michael Matsuda. 'It's a tribute to the values of discipline, respect, and perseverance that martial arts teach us. We're proud to open our doors and share this experience with the world and especially to be in a significantly larger location here in Glendale.' The museum is located at 201 N. Brand Blvd., B100, Glendale, CA 91203. Doors will open at 11 am and the celebration will run until 1 pm. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for kids. For more information, visit
Associated Press
02-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Museum Announces Official Grand Opening June 7
( NewMediaWire ) - June 01, 2025 - GLENDALE, CA – The wait is over! After months of anticipation, the Martial Arts History Museum is thrilled to announce its official Grand Opening at its new, expansive location in Glendale. This momentous occasion marks a new chapter for the internationally recognized institution, inviting the community to a vibrant celebration of Asian art, culture, and the enduring impact of martial arts on the world on June 7, 2025. The grand festivities are scheduled for this upcoming kicking off at 11:00 am with a dazzling display of traditional Chinese lion dancing. The energetic performance will begin in the Olive Garden courtyard and majestically lead the way across the street into the museum itself. Attendees will be treated to captivating kung fu demonstrations, inspiring speeches from esteemed city dignitaries and special speakers, and a celebratory ribbon-cutting ceremony. The Martial Arts History Museum's journey has been one of passionate dedication, spanning over 26 years. From its humble beginnings as a traveling exhibit, to its previous homes in Santa Clarita and Burbank (where it thrived for over 16 years), the museum has now found its magnificent new home at the prominent intersection of Brand Blvd. and Wilson in Glendale. This move to a significantly larger facility allows for an even more immersive and comprehensive visitor experience. Inside, visitors will discover a treasure trove of hundreds of authentic artifacts, priceless gis from the martial arts' greatest pioneers, iconic movie props, and a cutting-edge 122-seat theater for film screenings and book signings. The museum offers a unique educational journey, exploring how Asian history and tradition have intricately woven themselves into the fabric of American culture through the martial arts. As a non-profit charity, the museum extends its impact beyond historical preservation. It actively hosts a variety of humanitarian events, providing solace and engagement for patients suffering from dementia, and offering uplifting opportunities for individuals with physical and mental challenges. These initiatives reflect the core values of martial arts: discipline, respect, and community empowerment. Michael Matsuda, the visionary founder and president of the museum since 1999, expresses his profound excitement: 'Our Grand Opening in Glendale is a testament to the power of perseverance and the universal appeal of martial arts. My goal has always been to not only highlight the incredible benefits of these arts but to meticulously preserve their history and showcase the profound influence they continue to wield globally. The museum is a unique gateway to understanding diverse cultures, traditions, art, and music – it truly offers so much more than just the punch and kick.' Join us in celebrating the dawn of a new era for the Martial Arts History Museum, a place where history comes alive and the spirit of martial arts inspires all. Event Details: About the Martial Arts History Museum: The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and showcasing the rich history, culture, and traditions of martial arts worldwide. Through its extensive collection of artifacts, engaging exhibits, and diverse community programs, the museum aims to educate and inspire audiences of all ages about the profound influence of martial arts on global society and culture. For more info, email [email protected].
Globe and Mail
28-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Globe and Mail
Martial Arts History Museum to Host
(NewMediaWire) - May 27, 2025 - GLENDALE, CA – In a continuing tradition of celebrating Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) Month with unique and impactful events, the Martial Arts History Museum is proud to announce a special screening of 'The Real Miyagi.' This compelling documentary written by Kevin Derek, delves into the life of Fumio Demura, the legendary martial artist who served as the inspiration for Pat Morita's iconic Mr. Miyagi character in The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series. The event will take place on Friday, May 31, 2025, at 4:00 PM at the museum, with complimentary entrance for the public. The evening will be hosted by Museum Hall of Famer, celebrity personality and talk show host, author, and one of the most prominent figures in the Hawaiian Lua art, Michelle Manu. Joining her will be special guest William Christopher Ford, an actor from both The Karate Kid and Cobra Kai series, offering unique insights into the beloved franchise. 'Each year we attempt to do something different to pay our respect to the Asian American community,' says Michael Matsuda, President of the Martial Arts History Museum. 'The previous year we handed out free stun devices in our combat against Asian-Hate. The following year we hosted self-defense workshops, and this year I think it is appropriate to take a glimpse of the positive contributions of the Asian American community through film.' Michelle Manu, who also serves as an advisory board member of the museum, will provide an in-depth look at the creation of "The Real Miyagi" documentary, shedding light on its origins and the significance of AAPI Month to her personally. Attendees will have the unique opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the film's production and its powerful message within the context of Asian American heritage. "This documentary was a project to not only feature the role of the Miyagi character, but it provides a wonderful look at one of the great icons in martial arts history, Fumio Demura. This is a man who helped usher in karate in America and changed the world forever," adds Matsuda. This event offers a rare chance to honor the contributions of the Asian American community through the inspiring story of Fumio Demura, whose influence extends far beyond the realm of martial arts into popular culture. Event Details: Join us for an evening of inspiration, education, and celebration of Asian American Pacific Islander heritage.
Associated Press
15-04-2025
- General
- Associated Press
Martial Arts History Museum Launches Crowdfunding Campaign for Outdoor Signage
( NewMediaWire ) - April 14, 2025 - Glendale, CA – The Martial Arts History Museum, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and community engagement, today announced the launch of a crowdfunding campaign to secure funding for the installation of new, prominent outdoor signage. The signage, slated for installation on Brand Boulevard in May, will enhance the museum's visibility and accessibility to the public. The museum seeks to raise $20,000 to cover the costs associated with permits, design, and installation. Entering its 26th year, the Martial Arts History Museum has established itself as a vital resource, not only for martial arts enthusiasts worldwide, but also as a haven for community outreach. The museum provides humanitarian efforts, including specialized tours and visitation for groups of individuals facing dementia, Alzheimer's, and mental disabilities, as well as offering free admission to children and adult groups with mental disabilities. 'We believe it is crucial to be an integral part of our community,' states Museum President Michael Matsuda. 'By offering specialized tours and complimentary admission to those groups, we open doors and potentially unlock memories and experiences for individuals who may benefit from them. I recall a visitor with dementia who, upon seeing a photograph of his old instructor, was able to converse in detail about his past. When people discuss underserved populations, these are the individuals we are referring to. In our own modest way, we offer a beacon of hope.' For over 15 years, the museum has provided specialized programs for the underserved, offering a supportive environment for individuals facing mental health challenges. This initiative provides a platform for expression and personal growth, demonstrating the museum's commitment to making a positive impact on lives. Beyond its role as a repository of martial arts history, the museum serves as a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the arts and the sacrifices made by those who brought them to America. 'The martial arts and the Asian American community deserve a place in history,' adds Matsuda, 'a place where their contributions are acknowledged and preserved for future generations.' The museum's fundraising goal of $20,000 will address the substantial costs incurred for permits, design, and installation. 'We faced significant bureaucratic hurdles, including the need for variances and additional permits,' explains Matsuda. 'Despite being a non-profit, we received no discounts. We are committed to bringing inspiration and hope to the city of Glendale. While we have not received any waivers, we are determined to move forward.' The Martial Arts History Museum invites community members, martial arts enthusiasts, and supporters of cultural preservation to contribute to this important initiative. Donations can be made through About the Martial Arts History Museum The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history of martial arts and its cultural significance. Located in Glendale, California, the museum features exhibits showcasing the diverse origins and evolution of martial arts from around the world. It also serves as a community hub, offering educational programs and outreach initiatives.
Associated Press
14-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Associated Press
Record Crowd Celebrates Lady Lallaine Reed at Martial Arts History Museum Event
( NewMediaWire ) - April 13, 2025 - Glendale, CA – The Martial Arts History Museum witnessed an unprecedented turnout for the book signing and screening event honoring the remarkable life of artist and martial arts icon, Lady Lallaine Reed. The event, held on April 12, 2025, drew a record crowd of enthusiastic attendees who were treated to a captivating evening celebrating Reed's extraordinary journey. The highlight of the evening was the screening of the museum's latest biographical film, chronicling Reed's life story, a tale of resilience and triumph over adversity. Attendees were deeply moved by her narrative, which included surviving a childhood kidnapping and later navigating the harrowing experience of her own child's abduction. Reed's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the healing force of martial arts, which she credits with helping her overcome profound personal challenges. Following the screening, Lady Lallaine Reed engaged with the audience in an insightful lecture and Q&A session, sharing her experiences and insights on the profound impact of martial arts on her life. The event also featured a book signing, where attendees had the opportunity to meet Reed and acquire copies of her nearly dozen published works. Museum president Michael Matsuda expressed his delight at the event's success, stating, 'We are thrilled with the overwhelming response to Lady Lallaine Reed's event. Her story is a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of the human spirit. We believe it is crucial to document and share the stories of martial arts pioneers and significant achievers who have made noteworthy contributions to both Asian and American history. The museum's growing library of biographical films, now totaling nearly 30, which can be seen on Roku and other media outlets, is a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating these important legacies.' Matsuda further emphasized the importance of these biographies, noting, 'While major networks like A&E and History Channel highlight the lives of industry pioneers and historical figures, the contributions of martial artists are often overlooked. Our museum is dedicated to filling this gap and ensuring that their stories are told.' Lady Lallaine Reed's life story, as depicted in the museum's film, showcases her multifaceted achievements as a veteran martial artist in Tang Soo Do and Tai Chi, a certified massage therapist, and a valued Advisory Board Member of the museum. Her dedication to the martial arts extends beyond personal achievement, encompassing a deep commitment to its transformative power and its ability to heal and empower individuals. The Martial Arts History Museum continues to expand its collection of biographical films, offering viewers a unique glimpse into the lives of remarkable individuals who have shaped the world of martial arts. These films serve as an invaluable resource for martial arts enthusiasts, historians, and anyone seeking inspiration from stories of courage, perseverance, and the indomitable human spirit. About the Martial Arts History Museum: The Martial Arts History Museum is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting the rich history and cultural significance of martial arts. Through its exhibits, educational programs, and biographical films, the museum aims to inspire and educate visitors of all ages about the profound impact of martial arts on individuals and society. To view the museum's biography library, visit or email [email protected]. The museum is located in Glendale, CA.
